Chiapas, a southern Mexican state bordering Guatemala, boasts mountainous highlands and dense rainforests adorned with Mayan archaeological sites and Spanish colonial towns. It exudes an aura of mystery with its jungle ruins, rich wildlife, and diverse cultural tapestry. Despite its modest size, Chiapas, home to the indigenous Mayan population, ranks as Mexico’s sixth largest state, spanning 75,634 square kilometers. Bounded by the Republic of Guatemala to the east, the Pacific Ocean to the south, and the states of Tabasco, Veracruz, and Oaxaca to the north and west respectively, Chiapas is a land of geographical diversity.
Key attractions include the colonial city of San Cristóbal de las Casas, featuring the Templo y Ex-Convento Santo Domingo complex housing a baroque church and museum, as well as vibrant markets selling colorful weavings. Among the top ten destinations to explore in Chiapas are Canon del Corzo, Yaxchilan, Bonampak, and Laguna Miramar.
Economically, Chiapas occupies a pivotal position in the southeastern corner of Mexico, yet remains one of the country’s poorest regions due to its large indigenous population coupled with challenges such as illiteracy and inadequate infrastructure. Nevertheless, travel within Chiapas is relatively unhindered, offering access to major tourist attractions. The majority of Chiapas’ inhabitants speak the Maya language, with some being bilingual in Spanish.
Municipality in Mexico
Tapachula, a municipality in Mexico, lies in the far southeast of the state of Chiapas, adjacent to the Guatemalan border and the Pacific Ocean. Serving as the capital of the Chiapas region of Soconusco, Tapachula earns the affectionate moniker “Pearl of the Soconusco,” a title attributed to the area’s susceptibility to frequent flooding.
Comitan, Chiapas
Comitan, the fourth largest city in the Mexican state of Chiapas, serves as one of the seats of government for the municipality bearing the same name. Positioned in the east-central region of Chiapas, Comitan is situated near the border with Guatemala. Spanning an area of approximately 1,043.30 km², Comitan’s climate is consistently warm throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 49 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. Surrounding Comitan are several neighborhood cities, including Chichima, Guadalupe, and Chichima Concepcion.
Tuxtla Gutierrez, Chiapas
Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the largest city in the southeastern Mexican state of Chiapas, doubles as its capital and serves as the primary regional transportation hub. It is also the seat of the municipality sharing its name and stands out as the most developed and densely populated area in the region. Situated 530 meters above sea level, Tuxtla Gutiérrez has earned the distinction of being dubbed a “city of the future.”
At its heart lies the Plaza CÃvica, featuring the whitewashed 16th-century Catedral de San Marcos. The Museo del Café serves as a testament to Chiapas’ coffee farming heritage, while the Parque de la Marimba hosts lively marimba concerts. The instrument’s history is further showcased at the Museo de la Marimba. Tuxtla Gutiérrez boasts the Angel Albino Corzo International Airport, facilitating international travel.
Tuxtla’s climate is characterized by a tropical savanna climate, offering warmth and sunshine throughout the year. With 15 notable attractions to explore, including Parque de la Marimba, Chiapa de Corzo, and the Miradores Cañón del Sumidero, Tuxtla Gutiérrez promises a diverse range of experiences for visitors.
