The Agua Azul Waterfall is well connected with San Cristobal de las Casas. You can get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall by bus + colectivo, private transfer, rental car, or a guided tour!
As you venture into Mexico’s verdant Chiapas region, prepare to be captivated by the ethereal beauty of Agua Azul, a series of shimmering cascades hidden deep within the jungle!
The water’s striking turquoise hue, resulting from its rich mineral content, transforms these waterfalls into a living canvas of nature’s finest artwork. The melodious symphony of cascading waters and exotic bird calls further enhances the idyllic setting, enveloping visitors in a cocoon of serenity.
Agua Azul, which translates to “Blue Water,” is a true testament to the power and grace of the natural world. Embark on a journey to this secluded oasis, where the enchanting allure of Mexico’s hidden treasure unfolds before your very eyes!
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Mexico on this Agua Azul, Misol-Ha, and Palenque Ruins Day Tour. Immerse yourself in the stunning azure waterfalls, lush tropical jungles, and captivating ancient Mayan city.
Book now for an unforgettable adventure that will leave you captivated and yearning for more!
Traveling between San Cristóbal de las Casas and Agua Azul Waterfall is easy, and you can choose between a bus + colectivo, private transfer, rental car, or a guided tour!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall.
How far is the Agua Azul Waterfall from San Cristóbal de las Casas?
The distance from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall is 98.2 miles or 158 kilometers. It takes about 4 hours to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall.
Transportation Options from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall
The following table outlines all transportation options from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall:
Method | Travel time | Price |
---|---|---|
OCC Coach Bus + Colectivo from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall | 11 hours | ~USD 37 |
Private Transfer from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall | Custom Time | USD 150-USD 294 |
Transport + Tour | ~19 hours | ~USD 85 |
Rental Car | 4 hours | – |
Getting to Agua Azul Waterfall from San Cristóbal de las Casas
1. OCC Coach Bus + Colectivo from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall
Journey Duration: 11 hours
A popular and budget-friendly choice for making your way from San Cristóbal de las Casas to the enchanting Agua Azul Waterfalls is by combining a coach bus journey with a colectivo ride.
Start by boarding a comfortable coach bus to the ancient city of Palenque. The company OCC offers daily services from the San Cristóbal de las Casas bus terminal, with travel times of around 9 hours.
You can check out the bus schedule here and book your tickets for only USD 31!
San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque OCC Coach Bus Schedule
Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Price per Person | |
---|---|---|---|---|
12:00 PM | 09:15 PM | 9 hours 15 minutes | USD 31 | ![]() |
10:00 PM | 07:20 AM | 9 hours 20 minutes | USD 31 | ![]() |
Once you arrive in Palenque, head to the local colectivo stand near the bus terminal at the crossroad of Benito Juarez and 5a. Pte Sur. These shared vans or small buses, known as colectivos, provide a more authentic and economical travel option.
Here, board the colectivo headed for Ocosingo. Tickets cost only USD 3, and they depart every 30 minutes.
Climb aboard a colectivo, which typically takes about 1.5 hours to reach the waterfalls. However, the colectivo won’t take you directly to the entrance, so you’ll have to take a taxi for another USD 3 since walking is not recommended.
Keep in mind that colectivos run on a more flexible schedule, so it’s best to arrive early and be prepared for potential wait times.
As you traverse through the verdant landscapes of Chiapas, you’ll be rewarded with captivating views and the anticipation of witnessing the mesmerizing beauty of Agua Azul Waterfalls!

2. Private Transfer from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall
Journey Duration: Custom Time
For those seeking a more convenient mode of transportation, a private transfer from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfalls offers the ultimate comfort and flexibility!
This option allows you to travel directly to the waterfalls without any stops or transfers, making the most of your time while exploring the region.
Numerous local tour operators and travel agencies in San Cristóbal de las Casas provide private transfer services, which can be tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
You can choose from a variety of vehicles, depending on the size of your group and budget.
The journey to Agua Azul Waterfalls by private transfer takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
One of the key advantages of this option is the ability to customize your itinerary, including stops at points of interest or for meal breaks, making your trip to Agua Azul a truly memorable experience!
Check out all the transportation options and book a ride today!
Prices for a private transfer from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall:
- 1-3 passengers: USD 150
- 4-6 passengers: USD 254
- 7-9 passengers: USD 294

3. Driving with Rental Car from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall
Journey Duration: 4 hours
Embrace the freedom of the open road by choosing a rental car from San Cristóbal de las Casas to the Agua Azul Waterfalls!
This option grants you the liberty to explore the region at your own pace, stopping at fascinating sites and picturesque vistas along the way.
In San Cristóbal de las Casas, you’ll find a variety of reputable car rental agencies offering an assortment of vehicles to suit your needs. Remember to book your rental car in advance to secure the best rates and availability!
From San Cristóbal de las Casas, the drive to Agua Azul Waterfalls takes approximately 4 hours. The most common route is via Highway 199, which offers a scenic journey through the lush Chiapas countryside.
Be sure to stay alert for occasional winding roads and varying road conditions, especially during the rainy season.
Driving a rental car to Agua Azul Waterfalls allows you to create your own unique adventure, whether you prefer to take a leisurely drive or pack in as many attractions as possible!
4. Transport + Tour from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall
Immerse yourself in the diverse natural and cultural wonders of Chiapas by opting for a comprehensive day tour that not only takes care of your transportation needs but also provides an enriching guided experience!
The San Cristobal: Palenque, Agua Azul, and Misol-Ha Day Trip is a highly recommended tour that will elevate your journey from San Cristóbal de las Casas to the Agua Azul Waterfalls.
This all-inclusive tour whisks you away on a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will regale you with fascinating stories and insights into the region’s history, culture, and ecology.
After departing from San Cristóbal de las Casas, you’ll first explore the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Palenque, an ancient Mayan city shrouded in mystery and intrigue.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be led to the captivating Agua Azul Waterfalls, where you can marvel at the cascading turquoise waters and even take a refreshing dip in the natural pools.
But the adventure doesn’t end there; the tour continues to the spectacular Misol-Ha Waterfall, where you can witness the thundering waters plunge into a serene jungle pool.
While this tour option is typically more expensive than the previous options, it offers the convenience of transportation, the expertise of a local guide, and the opportunity to visit multiple attractions in a single day!
Book this tour here, embark on this unforgettable journey and let the mesmerizing sights and sounds of Chiapas leave a lasting impression on your heart!
Best day tours to Agua Azul, Mexico
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
The following widget shows some of the best tours to Agua Azul, Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul?
The cheapest way to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul is by taking a coach bus and public transportation. The coach bus tickets for Palenque cost USD 31, and the rest of the trip by colectivo and taxi will cost you only USD 6!
What is the fastest way to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul?
The fastest way to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul is by driving a car directly to the waterfalls. The journey via route 199 takes only 4 hours!
Where do I find the colectivo to Agua Azul?
Colectivos leave from the “Crucero de Agua Azul,” which is close to the ADO bus terminal and serves as Palenque’s primary transportation hub. There is no set schedule because they typically depart when they are completely full. To guarantee a seat, it is best to come early.
Is driving from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Agua Azul Waterfall safe?
Driving in Chiapas is generally safe, but staying alert and cautious is essential, especially on winding roads and during the rainy season.
Are there facilities and amenities available at Agua Azul Waterfall?
Yes, there are basic facilities at Agua Azul Waterfall, including restrooms, changing areas, souvenir shops, and food vendors.
Is it possible to swim at Agua Azul Waterfall?
Swimming is allowed in designated areas at Agua Azul Waterfall.