4 Best Ways to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque, Mexico

You can get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque by bus, private transfer, rental car, or taxi.

The cheapest option to travel from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque is by OCC bus, which costs USD 31. The journey takes about 9 hours and 15 minutes.

The most popular option is also the OCC bus since it provides convenience at a very affordable price.

The fastest way to travel to Palenque from San Cristóbal de las Casas is by private transfer, rental car, or taxi, which takes about 6 hours.

Mexico’s vibrant landscapes and cultures have lured me in repeatedly, each journey revealing new secrets of transit within its borders.

In this guide, I’m sharing the best tips and tricks I’ve accumulated to ensure smooth and memorable travels across this captivating country. Dive in and get ready for the adventure!

Check our guide for the best options to travel from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque.

Transportation Options from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque

The following table outlines all transportation options from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque:

Method	Time	Price
San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque OCC Bus	~9.5 hrs	$31
San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque Private Transfer	6-7 hrs	$261 to 366
Taxi from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque	~6 hrs	~$180
Rental Car	~6 hrs	–

How far is Palenque from San Cristóbal de las Casas?

The distance from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque is 132.4 miles or 213.1 kilometers. It takes around 6 hours to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque by car.

Getting to Palenque from San Cristóbal de las Casas

1. OCC Coach Bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque

Journey Duration: 9 hours 15 minutes

The OCC Coach Bus is one of the most popular transportation options from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque in Mexico! 

The OCC Coach Bus is a reliable and comfortable way to travel approximately 213 kilometers between the two cities.

The OCC Coach Bus company offers two departures daily from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque, with a travel time of approximately 9 hours due to their safer route via Villahermosa.

The buses have air conditioning, comfortable seats, and restrooms, ensuring a pleasant journey.

The bus route from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque offers stunning views of the Chiapas state’s lush green landscapes and picturesque towns along the way. 

To take the OCC Coach Bus, you can purchase your tickets online in advance here!

San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque OCC Coach Bus Schedule

The table below displays the OCC bus timetable for trips from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque, detailing departure times, journey lengths, and fares.

DEP	ETA	DUR	PX
12:00pm	09:15pm	9h 15m	$31
10:00pm	07:20am	9h 20m	$31

2. Private Transfer from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque

Journey Duration: 6-7 hours

Another transportation option to travel from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque in Mexico is a private transfer! 

A private transfer allows travelers to customize their itinerary and travel at their own pace, making it an ideal option for families or groups of friends.

Private transfers are typically arranged through local tour operators or transportation companies, and travelers can choose the type of vehicle that suits their needs.

The advantages of a private transfer are numerous. Firstly, travelers can enjoy the comfort and convenience of having a private vehicle with a professional driver who will pick them up from their hotel or a designated meeting point and take them directly to their destination in Palenque.

Some tour operators offer bilingual guides who can provide insights into the area’s history, culture, and geography, enhancing the travel experience.

While private transfers may cost more than public transportation options like buses, they can be cost-effective for larger groups. Travelers can split the private transfer cost among the group members, making it an affordable and convenient option!

Prices for a private transfer from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque:

• Up to 3 passengers: USD 261
• Up to 8 passengers: USD 366

3. Driving with a Rental Car from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque

Journey Duration: ~6 hours

A third transportation option from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque in Mexico is renting a car. Renting a car is ideal for those who prefer the independence and freedom to explore the Chiapas region on schedule.

Several car rental companies, including well-known international brands, operate in San Cristóbal de las Casas. 

The driving distance between San Cristóbal de las Casas and Palenque is approximately 213 kilometers, and the journey takes about 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. 

The most popular route is via Villahermosa, which is the longer route, but it is much safer than taking the route via Ocosingo. Analyze the route in advance as well.

Travelers renting a car should ensure they have a valid driver’s license and familiarize themselves with local traffic laws and regulations.

Although we don’t recommend renting a car due to safety concerns in the area, this option also has its advantages. One advantage of renting a car is the flexibility to stop at local attractions or scenic spots along the way.

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4. Taxi from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque

Journey Duration: ~6 hours

A taxi is The last transportation option from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque in Mexico. 

Taxis can be found in San Cristóbal de las Casas at designated taxi stands or by hailing them on the street. However, we don’t recommend hailing a random taxi but instead finding a reliable taxi company that will ensure your safety. 

Negotiating the fare before beginning the journey is important, as some drivers may attempt to overcharge tourists. The fare for a taxi ride from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque may vary, but expect to pay somewhere around USD 180.

However, it is essential to note that you should ask your driver to take the route via Villahermosa possibly. Although this route is longer and might cost you more, taking the Ocosingo route is generally considered unsafe.

So, choose a reputable taxi driver or company, and ensure that the taxi is adequately maintained and insured for a safe and comfortable journey from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Palenque!

Best day tours in Palenque, Mexico

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Palenque, Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions