San Cristóbal de las Casas is easy to navigate once you are on the ground, but the altitude, the airport transfer and the cash-only markets trip up first-time visitors. These travel tips answer the practical questions, from how to get in from Tuxtla Gutiérrez airport to whether the tap water is safe.
San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Tips: Getting There
The nearest airport is Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (TGZ) at Tuxtla Gutiérrez, 77 km (48 miles) west, about a 1.5-hour drive. A shared shuttle van from the airport costs roughly MXN 250 to 300 per person, while a private taxi is MXN 800 to 900. Cheaper still, take an ADO or OCC bus from the Tuxtla OCC terminal for about MXN 200 to 250 and roughly 1 hour 15 minutes, but you will need a taxi from the airport to that terminal first. Villahermosa airport (VSA) in Tabasco is an alternative gateway, about 3.5 to 4 hours away by bus. Check the weather by month guide before you book, since mountain roads can close in September rains.
San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Tips: Getting Around
The historic centre is compact and best explored on foot; you can walk from the Zócalo to Santo Domingo in about 10 minutes. Colectivos to San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, the villages in the things to do guide, leave from the market area on Avenida General Utrilla and cost around MXN 25 each way. Taxis within town run MXN 30 to 50, and it is worth confirming the price before you get in, since most do not use metres. During the big events and festivals, taxis get scarce, so arrange pickups in advance.
San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Tips: Money, Tipping and Safety
The currency is the Mexican peso (MXN), and many market stalls, colectivos and small restaurants are cash only, so carry small bills. ATMs from BBVA and Santander sit around the Zócalo. Tipping is 10% to 15% in sit-down restaurants, and MXN 10 to 20 for porters or hotel staff who help with bags. San Cristóbal is generally safe, and the main risk is pickpocketing in the crowded markets, so keep your phone and wallet in a front pocket. Use registered taxis or arrange them through the hotel in your where to stay guide at night.
San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Tips: Altitude, Health and Packing
At 2,200 metres (7,218 feet), altitude is the thing most visitors notice first. Take it easy on day one, drink extra water and go light on alcohol until you adjust. The tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled or filtered water and use it for brushing your teeth. Pack layers rather than heavy coats: a fleece or jumper for the cold evenings, a light rain jacket if you travel in the wet months described in the best time to visit guide, and sunscreen for the strong high-altitude sun. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets and the walk up to Guadalupe church.
San Cristóbal de las Casas Travel Tips: Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Cristóbal de las Casas safe?
Yes, it is one of the safer cities in Mexico for tourists, with low violent-crime rates in the tourist areas. The main issues are pickpocketing in busy markets and occasional taxi overcharging, both easy to avoid with basic precautions.
Can I drink the tap water in San Cristóbal de las Casas?
No. Drink bottled or purified water only, and use it for brushing your teeth. Most hotels and cafés offer free purified water refills.
How far is San Cristóbal de las Casas from the airport?
Tuxtla Gutiérrez airport (TGZ) is about 77 km away, or 1.5 hours by road. Budget MXN 250 to 300 for a shared van or MXN 800 to 900 for a private taxi.
Do I need to speak Spanish in San Cristóbal de las Casas?
Spanish helps a lot outside the main hotels and restaurants. English is spoken at many tourist businesses in the centre, but colectivo drivers and market vendors in the outlying neighborhoods generally only speak Spanish and Tzotzil, so learn a few key phrases or carry a translation app.
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
