San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas is a colonial highland city in Chiapas, Mexico, at 2,200 metres (7,218 feet), where the weather stays cool and spring-like all year. Average highs run 19°C to 23°C (66°F to 73°F) every month, nights drop to 8°C to 12°C (46°F to 54°F), and the year splits into a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October. It is the gateway to the Maya villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán and the Sumidero Canyon.

Welcome to San Cristóbal de las Casas

Start any visit in the Centro Histórico, where the pastel cathedral faces the Zócalo and the pedestrian andadores lead to the Santo Domingo church and its craft market. The city was founded in 1528, and its red-tiled roofs and courtyards are framed by pine-covered mountains. From here, colectivos fan out to indigenous villages and canyon boat trips, while the surrounding barrios hold the town’s cafés and boutique hotels.

Weather at a Glance in San Cristóbal de las Casas

The climate is a subtropical highland type with a mean annual temperature of 14.8°C (58.7°F) and about 2,240 mm (88 in) of rain a year. June is the wettest month at 495 mm (19.5 in), and September is a close second at 437 mm (17.2 in). February is the driest at just 11 mm (0.4 in). The month-by-month guide below has the full table of temperatures and rainfall.

Seasonal Snapshot in San Cristóbal de las Casas

• Dry season (November to April): clear days, 8 to 10 hours of sunshine, cold nights, best for sightseeing.
• Rainy season (May to October): afternoon and evening downpours, 80% to 87% humidity, mornings still clear.
• Wettest months: June (495 mm) and September (437 mm).
• Warmest month: April, with highs of 22.7°C (73°F).
• Coolest month: January, with lows of 8.8°C (48°F).

Guides to San Cristóbal de las Casas

1. Weather by month – monthly temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and humidity, with a comparison table.
2. Best time to visit – the best months for weather, festivals, lower prices and smaller crowds.
3. Things to do – Chamula, Zinacantán, the Sumidero Canyon, Na Bolom and the Amber Museum.
4. Events and festivals – the Chamula Carnival, the July 25 fiesta, Día de Muertos and more.
5. Neighborhoods – the Centro Histórico, El Cerrillo, Guadalupe and the local barrios.
6. Where to stay – hotels by area, from luxury boutique to budget hostels.
7. Travel tips and FAQ – airport transfers, altitude, tap water, tipping and safety.

Quick Facts About San Cristóbal de las Casas

• Altitude: 2,200 m (7,218 ft) in the Chiapas highlands.
• Best months to visit: December to March (dry and sunny).
• Wettest month: June (495 mm / 19.5 in).
• Nearest airport: Tuxtla Gutiérrez Ángel Albino Corzo (TGZ), 77 km away.
• Currency: Mexican peso (MXN); many markets are cash only.

Where to Stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas

Most visitors stay in the Centro Histórico, within walking distance of the cathedral and Santo Domingo, or in the quieter El Cerrillo barrio just to the north, where courtyard B&Bs and cafés sit on calmer streets. Doubles average MXN 900 to 2,800 a night depending on the season and area. The where to stay guide below breaks down the options by area.

Suggested Hotels in San Cristóbal de las Casas

Hotel Bo

Hotel Bo is a design-led boutique hotel in the historic centre with a courtyard pool and the Lum restaurant serving upmarket Mexican food. Best for couples who want a stylish, central base. Check rates and availability

Hotel Casa Mexicana

Hotel Casa Mexicana is a colonial-style hotel about 100 metres from Santo Domingo church, with rooms around a central garden and free Wi-Fi. Best for travellers who want good value in the heart of town. Check rates and availability

Rossco Backpackers Hostel

Rossco Hostel & Hotel is a seven-minute walk from the cathedral with a garden, free parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Best for backpackers and budget travellers who want dorms and private rooms. Check rates and availability