Calling all adventure travel junkies looking for a unique piece of Mexico… you MUST add Yaxchilán and Bonampak to your travel list. Get our complete guide for all the need to know info!
Yaxchilán and Bonampak are undoubtedly in some of the most remotest jungle of Mexico. In which case this slice of Mexico is most certainly one of the more unique travel destinations in Mexico. Perfect therefore, for off the beaten track travel lovers like myself. And maybe you too?
Yaxchilán ruins, reached only by boat, are some of the most spectacular Maya ruins in Mesoamerica. They alone are worth the trip to the southeast corner of Chiapas. Add nearby Bonampak ruins with stunning murals, the tranquility of the Lacandon jungle and you have yourself one awesome adventure from Palenque.
This trip to both Yaxchilán and Bonampak from Palenque is easily planned as a one or two day group or private tour and we share our recommendations of which tour to take. That said, we did the trip without a tour, and so this post covers all the details about how to get there on your own.
Use our step by step guide on how to get to Yaxchilán and Bonampak from Palenque. And follow our two or three day itinerary to Yaxchilán and Bonampak. We even share a full breakdown on the costs and prices on how to get to Yaxchilán and Bonampak, as well as our recommendation on where to stay.
We share our experiences of the people and the places so that you may decide how to plan your visit. Be it a self-guided tour or an organised tour, our guide and YouTube video further below can help with your visit to Yaxchilán and Bonampak.
Also Read: How to Visit the Lacandon Jungle
Table of Contents
Where are Yaxchilán & Bonampak & What Makes it Special?
But where do I begin.
We saw archaeological ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula. And I thought Chichen Itza, Ek Balam and Oxtankah ruins were incredible. But the further we travelled within Mexico, the more remote we ventured… well the more spectacular the ruins became.
It’s no wonder Yaxchilán and Bonampak are so well revered among archaeologists, because they truly are something else. Not far, 164 km to be precise, from Palenque and the Palenque ruins, Yaxchilán and Bonampak are 💯 percent off the tourist trail. They are so remote in fact that there was no-one there during our visit to Bonampak, and only a handful at Yaxchilán.
Both Yaxchilán and Bonampak are buried deep within the Lacandon Jungle. And this jungle is a unique ecosystem all on its own. Home to unique native, flora and fauna, wild-life, bird-life, fish-life and more. More than this, it’s also home to the indigenous group known as the Lacandon people. Read my post on the Lacandon Jungle to know more.
The Yaxchilán ruins are located in the jungle, which borders Guatemala via the Usumacinta river. So exclusive that you can only get there by boat. While Bonampak is found deep within the UNESCO protected Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve.
So to answer the question, what makes Yaxchilán and Bonampak special… it’s that you’ll have them more or less to yourself. No crowds, just you, the howler monkeys and Mexican nature at its best.
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Map of Yaxchilán & Bonampak
This map of Yaxchilán and Bonampak is interactive. Click to move around on the map and click the numbers to discover more about each destination. To get you started, 1 red is Yaxchilán ruins, and 2 red is Bonampak ruins, purple is transport locations, and teal is accommodation.
Guided Tour to Yaxchilán and Bonampak from Palenque
As you can see from the map above, there is a fair bit of jungle between Yaxchilán and Bonampak. Consequently it’s not a trip we would recommend doing in a day, unless you have your own transport. Even then, it would be a shame to rush through this tranquil part of Chiapas. Instead, we suggest making an overnighter of it, giving it the time and space it deserves.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one guided tour to Yaxchilán and Bonampak ruins from Palenque, I recommend you check these guided tours. If you’re looking for the trouble free option that hits all the key destinations, these are your best bet.
More specifically, the first option includes a rafting experience, a one night stay in the Lacandon jungle in an ecolodge and more.
Further below we explain what a two or three day journey might look like. And we found that many tours operated within a similar schedule or timetable. So be sure to read on for our two or three day itineraries, and our travel tips.
🌟 If you want to make the journey without a tour then read on my friend. We explain the public transport and do-it-yourself method!
How to Visit Yaxchilán Ruins
NOTE: We’ve read that the Yaxchilán ruins are currently closed due to unrest in the area. However we’ve been in touch with our friend Victor from the Lacandon and he’s confirmed that they are still open.
Below we explain both ruins separately, including how to get to each, what it costs to visit, and the main sights. Then further on, we share the best itinerary to follow for your visit to Yaxchilán and Bonampak ruins.
👇 Starting first with all the details for the Yaxchilán Archaeological Site.
Yaxchilán Archaeological Ruins
Experts say the Yaxchilán ruins date back to around 300 to 850AD. Interestingly the name Yaxchilán means “green stones” in the Maya language, a name given by explorer Teoberto Maler. However it’s thought, that it could once have been known as Pa’ Chan, meaning “cleft (or broken) sky”.
Yaxchilán, is without a doubt our family’s most memorable Maya ruins. Located 30 minutes downstream on the Usumacinta River, the only way to enter the site is by long boat or lancha. The site is set on a horseshoe shaped section of land, surrounded by the river on three sides and set deep within the Lacandon rainforest.
Although the site is small, the reconstruction of the various structures within the site is amazing. So too are the numerous intricately carved lintels and stelae that the site is known for.
Also don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled and ears open, as the site is also known for wildlife. We were lucky to see two troops of spider monkeys, numerous birds including toucans, many bats, and the intermittent roar of the howler monkeys were always close by.
🎥 Watch our video at the end of this post to hear the howler monkeys roaring in the background. It sounds just like Jurassic Park!
How to Get to Yaxchilán Ruins & the Costs
As mentioned above, the only way into Yaxchilán ruins is along the Usumacinta river by boat or lancha. Therefore, the ticket office is located at the river. However, before you get to that point, you’ll need to sort out your lancha.
About 1km before the ticket office, look for a sign for the lancha office or oficina. This is where you pay for your ride into Yaxchilán.
The cost of the lancha varies depending on the amount of people going. They set fees based on the number of passengers, which you can divide among yourselves. For example the company we used cost –
- 1,450 MXN pesos for 1 – 3 people
- 1,600 MXN pesos for 4 people
- 2,100 MXN pesos for 5 – 7 people
- 2,450 MXN pesos for 8+ people
We happened to connect with two other people at the same time. Subsequently we were 5 in total, which cost 420 pesos per person for a return trip.
Note: There are other boat companies about. We just happened upon ours and were happy with the price so didn’t bother looking any further.
Coming by Public Transport / Colectivo
The journey from Palenque takes three hours by colectivo. Therefore you need to get there at the crack of dawn… or earlier! The transport location is located just south of the ADO bus terminal and roundabout. We have pinned it on the map above. We took the earliest possible colectivo at 5am and arrived ready to get a seat 10 minutes before it departed.
Colectivo from Palenque to Frontera Corozal cost 150 MXN pesos per person and the opening timings are 5am to 5pm. But note the last colectivo departs Frontera Corozal at 2pm. The journey was comfortable enough, a mostly straight road all the way.
You’ll be dropped off at the main street in the small town of Frontera Corozal. From here, look for a taxi, or make the 15 minute walk towards the river. Frontera Corozal is gridded up into blocks, so take four blocks to the west, then seven blocks to the north.
We chose to walk and ended up getting our lancha tickets from Pajaro Jaguar IV on the roadside of Cuarta Nte. Pte.
Yaxchilán Ticket Office, Timings and Cost
The Yaxchilán ruins timings are from Monday to Sunday, 8am till 4.30pm
The Yaxchilán ticket office is on the left hand side of the main gate. So stop here to purchase your entrance tickets for the park and ruins. These were 150 MXN per person, and kids were free. We also bought a small booklet to the Yaxchilán ruins, which are available for sale at the counter.
There is plenty of parking available. As well as a small restaurant and public toilets. But there are also bathrooms at the Yaxchilán ruins should you need them.
At this point, your boat driver will point out which boat to get on. From here it’s a 30 minute ride downstream to the Yaxchilán ruins.
Get your cameras ready, because it’s a SUPER cool boat trip. Cruising down the river, Mexico is on your left and Guatemala on your right. There are large sections of rainforest on either side and a chance to see crocodiles, spider monkeys and howler monkeys on the journey.
Yaxchilán Ruins Orientation
Once you arrive at the ruins you have around 2 hours to explore all on your own! Which is our favourite way to wander an archaeological site. At the same time, it’s difficult to know how much time to spend at each point of interest. So we’ll try and help you get a better understanding of that here.
The good news is, your lancha driver waits to take you back. After exiting the boat, signing the Yaxchilán park register and using the toilets if needed it’s time to get walking.
1️⃣ The path is fairly self-explanatory, but our advice is start by following the main track towards the Labyrinth. This leads into the western edge of the Grand Plaza. Walk the Grand Plaza in a clockwise direction finishing at the Grand Stairs up to the Structure 33.
2️⃣ Climb the stairs, to Structure 33. Catch your breath and spend some time admiring the view and the ruins here, as this is one of Yaxchilán’s main attractions.
3️⃣ Follow the path behind and connect with the track that leads up towards the South (Sur) Acropolis. This track is up a hill, approximately a 10 minute walk. At the top of Acropolis Sur, explore buildings 39, 40 & 41.
4️⃣ Return via the same track back down to the main track and turn left towards the West Acropolis. Spend your last 10 minutes exploring the West Acropolis, listening for howler monkeys. Then set back, towards the entrance and lancha.
We recommend, dividing the map & your time into quarters –
- 30 minutes for the Labyrinth and Grand Plaza
- 30 minutes for the stairs and Structure 33
- 30 minutes for the walk and exploration of Acropolis Sur
- and 30 minutes for the walk and exploration of the West Acropolis
Yaxchilán’s Main Sites
Naturally, there are numerous sites within the Yaxchilán park. You’ll discover buildings, temples, decorative lintels, hieroglyphic stairs and stelae. Most of which are numbered rather than named.
It helps to know a thing or two about what makes them significant and why they’re important to Yaxchilán. So that you’re not wandering blindly, we explain them a little over the following section.
💥 We’ve loaded up on photos here, as it’s impossible to narrow it down to just a couple!
The Labyrinth
This Labyrinth is one of the first sites in Yaxchilán, if you follow our orientation description above.
The path winds through the jungle, leading to an area with a stone wall on the left, a couple of large niches and door ways on the right. Welcome to the back of the Labyrinth, now is a good time to pull out your torch!
From the rear, take a little time to look through the doors and walkways, before stepping into the darker corridor at the end of the path. Follow the passageway through to the end, warning – it’s super dark. Then turn right and continue until you see light coming from a corridor on your left. Take this passage up a set of stairs, emerging in front of the Labyrinth and into the Grand Plaza.
The Labyrinth is actually split over three levels with multiple doors, passageways and stairs interconnecting the rooms within.
The Grand Plaza
As one would expect, the Grand Plaza is a large cleared grass area which makes up the central acropolis. It once formed the main square, with multiple buildings, temples and stelae found in and around. The plaza runs parallel to the river. It’s these river facing structures, that once formed a barrier to all who passed below.
Take note of the lintels and hieroglyphics in the doorways, here at the Grand Plaza as they are very special. They are some of the best preserved we’ve seen in our travels around Mexico.
Also keep an eye out for collapsed Structure 23. These once held three significant lintels carved in limestone –
- Explorer Alfred Maudslay, cut and shipped two of these – Lintel 24 and 25, to the British Museum in London in the 1880’s, where they remain till today. While Lintel 26 is now on display at the Anthropology Museum in Mexico City.
- These lintels show the ruler of the time Shield Jaguar II, conducting rituals. For example Lintel 24 depicts a blood-letting ceremony. These carvings are considered masterpieces and important for the Late Classic Period in Maya history.
🌳 The area has several ancient, and spiritually sacred ceiba trees dotted throughout. We recommend you read up on them before your visit, as their connection to the Maya people is very significant. This in turn, I’m sure will support your appreciation of these beauties, as it did for us.
Structure 33
Stucture 33 is the building that 99% of visitors would associate with Yaxchilán, and for good reason.
It’s located at the top of a grand staircase, overlooking the central Acropolis. This prime position, means it would’ve been seen from the river when Yaxchilán was a thriving city. What’s more, Structure 33 is the most well preserved building in Yaxchilán.
The construction of Structure 33 was overseen in the late 7th Century, by ruler Bird (Pajaro) Jaguar IV. And there are several significant features that should be noted –
- The large and well-preserved roof-comb atop the building
- The ornately carved risers to the last set of steps, which depict various ball game scenes.
- The Lintels or beams over the three doors, all feature Bird Jaguar as a prominent figure.
- Within the centre door, is a niche containing a headless figure. This statue is believed to be that of Bird Jaguar, which was decapitated by treasure hunters during the 19th Century.
South (Sur) Acropolis
The South (Sur) Acropolis is at the highest point in Yaxchilán. It takes about 10 minutes to walk here from Structure 33, along a well signposted trail through jungle.
It’s worth mentioning that, it isn’t a huge section of ruins. In fact most of the time taken, is in walking to and from this section.
The South Acropolis is made up of three buildings 39, 40 and 41. All three are very similar in size, shape and design. These rectangular buildings each have three door openings, leading into a single room, with vaulted ceilings and a roof-comb. All three have been restored to some extent, with building 40 being the most advanced.
West Acropolis
The West Acropolis is made up of a combination of buildings and temples, situated on a small, possibly modified hilltop. Once again there are great hieroglyphs and lintels worth taking your time to explore. This is also where we heard the impressive howler monkeys’ roars across the jungle.
If you are the kind of traveller that loves ALL the details, we recommend this website. The writer has gone to great lengths at describing the buildings, structures and history of Yaxchilán.
How to Visit Bonampak Ruins
Well if you thought Yaxchilán was impressive, wait till I tell you about Bonampak.
This one is equally off the beaten track and surrounded by jungle. The only way to get to Bonampak ruins is by car or taxi, as public transport doesn’t go this far.
👇 But never fear, as below we’ll tell you how to get there, what you can expect to pay, as well as what you’ll see! Read on for more!
Bonampak Archaeological Ruins
Bonampak means “painted walls.” As such, what sets Bonampak apart from other ruins in Mexico are the murals. Found within one of the structures, there are incredible paintings which show detailed scenes of Maya dress, battle and ritual.
Bonampak ruins are a 30-40 minute drive directly into the Lacandon Jungle. The site is smaller than Yaxchilán, however what it lacks in size, it makes up for in detail and tranquility.
What makes Bonampak so unique, is that it was only first seen and recorded by Charles Frey and José Pepe Chambor in 1946. Essentially, Bonampak was discovered first by the Lacandon people, and it remained a secret to people outside of the Lacandon tribes. It wasn’t until 1946 when the Lacandon decided to invite outsiders to view the Bonampak ruins.
Bonampak is only 23km southwest of Yaxchilán, as the crow flies. And so historically speaking, Bonampak was frequently in conflict with Yaxchilán. However, by the end of the 5th Century, Yaxchilán had gained significant influence and power over Bonampak, which meant it became something of a satellite city to its larger neighbour.
How to Get to Bonampak Ruins & the Costs
Unlike Yaxchilán, you can’t get all the way to the ruins by public transport. Therefore getting to Bonampak requires a little more planning in terms of logistics.
Also, it is compulsory to have a Lancandon guide present when you visit the ruins. This is where having a guide will help, or at the very least a contact who can arrange a guide on your behalf. Read our post here to see who we used.
Bonampak Ticket Office, Timings & Cost
The Bonampak ruins timings are from Monday to Sunday, 8am to 4.30pm.
The turnoff for the Lacandon Jungle and Bonampak, is at the small town of San Javier, on the main road SH 307 between Palenque and Frontera Corozal. As this is the entrance to the Lacandon Jungle, pay the 40 MXN per person entrance fee at the small shed.
Then begin the 30-40 minute journey along Carr. Zona Arqueologica ‘Bonampak,’ towards the ruins. At the Bonampak ticket office pay 80 MXN per person, and then continue the drive another 5 minutes to the carpark at Bonampak ruins.
Coming by Public Transport / Collective
Following the same directions above for taking a collective from Palenque to Frontera Corozal, ask the driver to stop at San Javier. The journey from Palenque to San Javier takes about 2 1/2 hours.
Alternatively, if you are returning from Frontera Corozal after visiting Yaxchilán ruins then pick up the return collective to Palenque. This can be picked up from the same place you arrived in the centre of town. We have marked it on the map above.
Once again, ask the driver to stop at San Javier / Bonampak. It’s approximately a 40 minute drive from Frontera Corozal to San Javier by colectivo.
From here there are plenty of taxis waiting not far from the colectivo stop. The taxi can either take you through to the ruins or onto your accommodation in the Lacandon Jungle. They will also stop at the park entrance for you to pay the fee before continuing on.
Bonampak Ruins Orientation
Most of Bonampak’s ruins and visible structures, are centralised around one large plaza. Because of its smaller size, you only need around 90 minutes visiting time. For reference, we arrived at 9am and had it all to ourselves, so we really took our time. After 90 minutes exploring, we’d seen every inch of Bonampak!
When we signed the visitors book, we noticed only small groups over previous days, which we assumed were predominantly tours. So we’re really not exaggerating when we say Bonampak is secluded.
In terms of navigating your way around the Bonampak ruins it’s really very self-explanatory. After signing in at the entrance, use the toilets if needed. Then follow the dirt road, through a small section of stall holders, across a cleared airfield, towards the ruins ahead.
1️⃣ Entering the large grass plaza, we recommend walking the outer edge of the square in a clockwise direction. Cut back towards Stela 1 in the centre, located under the cover.
2️⃣ Climb up the Acropolis stairs keeping to the centre and lefthand side, view Stela 2 and 3 nearer the bottom. Then carry on to the top to explore and admire the view. Before walking down the righthand side of the Acropolis stairs.
3️⃣ Finish up at Structure 1 – Temple of the Paintings. This way you leave the best till last. Then head back out the same way you came in.
Bonampak’s Main Sites
Stela 1
Stela 1 is at the centre of the grass plaza. It stands at nearly 6 metres or 20 feet tall, which makes this Stela one of the tallest known in Maya history. As such, this very large, single, thin, piece of carved stone is an impressive feature within the Bonampak ruins.
The carving is of Chan Muwan II at the peak of his rein. He is the main figure shown with a staff in one hand, while standing on top of an earth monster. Also note that the set of hieroglyphics, on which Chan Muwan stands represent his ancestry, while the vertical hieroglyph represents the Bonampak emblem.
Unusually for the time, the carver has signed his work which can be seen to the left of the staff point.
Acropolis, Stela 2 & 3
The stepped Acropolis is built on a natural hill side and is around 45 metres, 150 feet high. The northern face has been cleared and reinstated, highlighting various terraces, independent structures and stelae.
Stela 2 & 3 are located near the base of the Acropolis on either side of the central stairs. Both feature Chan Muwan II as the main figure. Stela 2 shows Chan Muwan with his mother Skull Shield Lady and his wife Green Rabbit Lady from Yaxchilan during a ritual related to self-sacrifice. While Stela 3 shows him in a position of submission of another person.
At the upper sections of the Acropolis, you’ll find half a dozen independent temples. At the same time, providing an amazing view over the entire Bonampak.
Structure 1 or Temple of the Paintings
Structure 1 or Temple of the Paintings, is one of the most special sites within Bonampak.
This is due to the elaborate and colourful murals, covering the walls and vaulted ceilings. Storytelling through frescoes and murals, such as this, was not common in Maya History. In addition, the fact these murals were only seen by the outside world in the 1940’s makes them even more unique.
The building is a single structure, found to the righthand side of the Acropolis lower terrace. It’s around 16 metres in length, 4 metres wide and is divided into three separate rooms. Each room is adorned with carved lintel, and the four internal walls and vaulted ceilings are painted with an individual scene or setting.
Room 1 – there is a mural of a significant royal event which depicts 77 figures, including Chan Muwan II, his son and heir, his wife and mother.
Room 2 – tells a story of multiple stages of a great battle. In total 126 characters are painted participating in the battle, the victory where prisoners are taken, then the torture and final sacrifice of those prisoners.
Room 3 – shows 65 figures and represents the celebration of the battle won.
This pamphlet released by Harvard University, is definitely worth a read as it explains how murals have been used throughout Maya history. It also helps readers understand how the paintings at Bonampak have been restored and the continuing challenges around preserving them.
Note that custodians guard the Temple of the Paintings. Before you enter they will explain the rules such as no hats, glasses and so on.
Itinerary to Yaxchilán & Bonampak
Next up… we explain how to plan your visit and itinerary to Yaxchilán ruins and Bonampak!
Follow our step by step guide, adjusting your stay for a two day trip if you prefer. We had time up our sleeve, so decided to make it a three day trip. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out… as we’re always here to help. And of course I can connect you with our incredible guide and contact from the Lacandon.
Day 1 – Yaxchilán
Get ready for an early start as you leave Palenque on the 5am collective to Frontera Corozal. The pickup location is pinned on the map and explained further above in the section – Getting to Yaxchilán. The journey takes three hours in total and so arrives between 8 and 8.30am.
From the drop off point walk or taxi to the Usumacinta River, to catch the boat or lancha to the Yaxchilán ruins. We got our lancha tickets from Pajaro Jaguar IV, which is located about four blocks back from the river on Cuarta Nte. Pte.
The boat trip to the Yaxchilán ruins is around 30 minutes. You then get two hours to wander the ruins, with a 45 minute ride back.
Expect to get back to Frontera Corozal between 12.30 to 1pm.
From the boat ramp make your way back to the collective location and arrange your ride to San Javier. This is the small village on the way back to Palenque. It’s here that the road to the Lacandon jungle and Bonampak ruins begins.
🚐 Collectives from Frontera Corozal leave every hour, on the hour. Note: the last leaves at 2pm. There is a taxi provider in Frontera Corozal but the cost to La Selva is about 500 MXN.
From San Javier, you’ll see taxis waiting as you get off the collective. The National Park entrance also starts here. So depending on your preferred itinerary, you can taxi to your accommodation or to the ruins. Note: you must have a local Lacandon guide to visit the Bonampak ruins – find out who we used for our guide.
From the National Park entrance, it’s a 30-40 minute drive to the ruins or 8-10 minutes to the camping.
suggested timetable
| 5.00am | 🚐 Colectivo from Palenque to Frontera Corozal |
| 8.30am | 🚶 Walk to the Yaxchilán ticket office |
| 9.00am | 🛶 Lancha to the Yaxchilán ruins |
| 9.45am | 🧭 Explore Yaxchilán ruins |
| 11.45am | 🛶 Lancha to Frontera Corozal |
| 12.30pm | 🚶 Walk to colectivo pickup location |
| 1.00pm | 🚐 Colectivo from Frontera Corozal to San Javier |
| 1.45pm | 🚕 Taxi to accommodation |
| 2.00pm | ⛺️ Arrive at accommodation in Lacandon |
| 🌶️ Chill for the afternoon or jungle walk |
Day 2 – Bonampak
On the morning of day two, taxi to the Bonampak ruins. The journey time will depend on where you stayed.
Enjoy the early morning exploring the ruins for 60-90 minutes. Then head back to the campsite to chill for a few hours, or take a guided jungle walk or go rafting. These options can be arranged in advance with the accommodation or local guide.
We chose a jungle walk with a local guide. It included several stream crossings, waterfalls and a cenote. Our guide told us about the various trees, plants, seeds, fruits and insects of the forest. He also pointed out numerous birds including hummingbirds and toucans. It was definitely worth the trip!
suggested timetable
| 9.00am | 🚕 Taxi to Bonampak ruins |
| 9.30am | 🧭 Explore Bonampak ruins |
| 11.00am | 🚕 Taxi to accommodation |
| 11.30am | 🌶️ Chill for lunch |
| 2.30pm | 🚶 Guided Lacandon jungle walk |
| 6.30pm | ⛺️ Back to accommodation |
Day 3 – Return
The final day is a return trip back to Palenque. The journey back takes about 2 1/2 hours. However if you want, you could also arrange a jungle walk or river rafting trip in the morning before you leave.
Tip: For a collective back to Palenque. You can either make your way back to San Javier on the 307 and wave one down. Or check with your accommodation and they might be able to arrange one to pick you up within the park. This is what our guide did!
Costs to Yaxchilán and Bonampak Ruins
So now you know how we did it, let’s breakdown the costs.
| Colectivo Palenque to Frontera Corozal | 150 MXN pp |
| Boat to Yaxchilán (& return) | see price table above |
| Entry to Yaxchilán | 150 MXN pp |
| Colectivo Frontera Corozal to San Javier | 70 MXN pp |
| Entry to Lacandon National Park | 40 MXN pp |
| Taxi to accommodation | 50 MXN pp |
| Taxi to Bonampak (& return) | 150 MXN pp |
| Entry to Bonampak | 80 MXN pp |
| Guided jungle walk | 200/280 MXN pp |
| Colectivo San Javier to Palenque | 140 MXN pp |
Note: As we mentioned further above, the boat trip to Yaxchilán varies depending on how many people share the boat. We had six on ours and the girls were half price so it was 2100 MXN in total. Tip is optional, but I always like to give a tip, particularly when the boatman has waited.
Other Costs to Consider
- Accommodation – there are several campsites and cabins inside the Lacandon National Park. We stayed at Campamento Lacandones and paid 100 MXN pp per night. This price was for a tent and sleeping bags provided by our guide. We camped beside the river and couldn’t have asked for a more perfect camp location.
- Food – There are various restaurants in Frontera Corozal, we ate lunch at a roadside restaurant and enjoyed cheap carnitas, around 100 MXN pp. In the Lacandon jungle, your accommodation will most likely have a small restaurant. We paid about 100 MXN pp for breakfast and 150 MXN pp for dinner. We also travelled with snack food, as our kids are always hungry!
- Water – We were there in May so it was hot and humid. Consequently, each of us were drinking about three litres of water a day. But we travel with a LifeStraw so that we don’t use single-use plastic.
Video Highlights of Yaxchilán, Bonampak & Lacandon
Watch our short video on Yaxchilán and Bonampak so you know what to expect. But note that we are NOT YouTubers, so mind our filming flaws 📹
Travel Tips for Yaxchilán & Bonampak
- If you have torches or head torches take them with you to Yaxchilán. There are a couple of places where they come in handy.
- For visiting Bonampak and the Lacandon, we were recommended our guide by a fellow traveller. Read this post for more. As such this guide organised our campsite, took us to the Bonampak ruins, as well as a jungle walk, then arranged the collective pick up from the campground back to Palenque. In short… he was fantastic!
- If you’re in San Cristobal de las Casas and want to dive a little deeper into understanding more about the Lacandon people and the area, then visit Na Baloom museum. We thoroughly recommend it!
More on Palenque
For our family of four, slow travelling on a budget, this kind of experience is what we thrive on. We saved considerably, by doing this journey on our own. In addition, we enjoyed the feeling of independence by piecing the trip together, taking the plunge and having it come together. Add to this, the opportunity to take your time and to plan an itinerary that suits your own travel interests.
So yes, if you’re lucky enough to do it on your own then Yaxchilán and Bonampak from Palenque are definitely well worth it. And after six months travelling in Mexico, we can safely say it was one of our most memorable experiences.
If you’re looking for more awesome things to do in and around Palenque, then make sure to check out our other blogs:
- Get our self-guided tour and map to the Palenque ruins
- How to visit Agua Azul and Misol-Ha waterfalls in one day
- How to visit Roberto Barrios waterfalls from Palenque
- Things to know before you visit Aluxes Ecopark near Palenque
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Hello,
I have just recently discovered your travel writing/guides and want to thank you. They are well written, informative, and extremely helpful. We are heading to Chiapas in the next 2 days. Could I please ask for the name and information of the Lacandon guide that you referenced in your article?
Thank you!