The Palenque Ruins are well connected with San Cristobal de Las Casas. You can get from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins by bus, private transfer, rental car, or a guided tour.
Nestled within the dense foliage of Chiapas’ vibrant jungle lies the enigmatic ancient city of Palenque, a testament to the brilliance of the Maya civilization!
Surrounded by the verdant Mexican rainforest, this archaeological gem offers a captivating insight into the lives, creativity, and culture of the enigmatic Maya people.
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With its towering pyramids, elaborate palaces, and detailed sculptures, Palenque’s breathtaking splendor lures explorers and ignites the wanderlust of travelers from all walks of life.
The whispers of a long-gone era reverberate through these stony passages, calling adventurers to unravel the riddles woven into this historical wonder.
Embark on an extraordinary voyage through time and tradition with this tour from San Cristobal to Palenque! Guided by professionals, you’ll dive into the depths of this mysterious site, discovering stories of ancient ceremonies, celestial knowledge, and architectural wonders.
This carefully planned itinerary guarantees that you not only witness the magnificence of Palenque but also appreciate the picturesque beauty of the route through the Chiapas highlands.
Seize this unparalleled opportunity to tread the sacred grounds of a vanished age, where every stone and etching is a gateway to the allure of the Maya realm!
Traveling between San Cristóbal de Las Casas and Palenque Ruins is easy, and you can choose between a bus, private transfer, rental car, or a guided tour!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins.
How far are the Palenque Ruins from San Cristóbal de Las Casas?
The distance from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins is 136.1 miles or 219.1 kilometers.
It takes about 5.5 hours to get from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins.
Transportation Options from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins
The following table outlines all transportation options from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| OCC Coach Bus + Colectivo from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins | ~10 hours | ~USD 33 |
| Private Transfer from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins | Custom Time | USD 189-USD 339 |
| Transport + Tour | – | ~USD 84 |
| Rental Car | 5 hours 30 minutes | – |
Getting to Palenque Ruins from San Cristóbal de Las Casas
1. OCC Coach Bus + Colectivo from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins via Palenque
Journey Duration: ~10 hours
The first transportation choice for reaching the Palenque Ruins from San Cristóbal de las Casas is a convenient and budget-conscious journey via a coach bus, followed by a local colectivo ride to the archaeological site itself.
Start by hopping on a coach bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas’ central bus terminal. The reliable company OCC provides daily services with air-conditioned, roomy seating to ensure an enjoyable 9-hour trip through the scenic Chiapas landscape.
The OCC Coach Bus fare is a mere USD 31! Don’t forget to book your ticket online in advance to guarantee your spot!
San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins 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 | |
Upon reaching Palenque town, make your way to the “colectivos” zone, where you’ll find communal minivans or taxis offering transport to the ruins.
This swift and economical 20-minute journey allows you to connect with other travelers and immerse yourself in the local ambiance.
Simply tell the colectivo driver your destination, and they’ll drop you off at the entrance to the majestic Palenque Ruins, ready for your exploration. Colectivos operate frequently, and tickets cost less than USD 2!
2. Private Transfer from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins
Journey Duration: Custom Time
For those who prefer a more tailored, direct, and hassle-free mode of transportation from San Cristóbal de las Casas to the Palenque Ruins, a private transfer is ideal!
This option provides door-to-door service, picking you up from your hotel or accommodation in San Cristóbal and delivering you right to the entrance of the archaeological site.
Numerous companies and independent drivers offer this service, with various vehicle sizes and styles to suit your preferences and group size.
Naturally, prices fluctuate depending on the vehicle type and the number of passengers, so the larger your group, the better! The private transfer usually takes around 5-6 hours, allowing you to journey in the comfort of a private vehicle, often equipped with air conditioning and adjustable seats.
Additionally, this option allows you to pause and appreciate the stunning landscapes or visit intriguing attractions along the way, making the trip to the Palenque Ruins an even more unforgettable experience!
You can check out all the offers and book a private transfer online here!
Prices for a private transfer from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins:
- 1-3 passengers: USD 189
- 4-6 passengers: USD 304
- 7-9 passengers: USD 339
3. Driving with Rental Car from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins
Journey Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes
For travelers who crave the ultimate autonomy to explore at their leisure, renting a car is an exceptional option for getting from San Cristóbal de las Casas to the Palenque Ruins!
This choice enables you to take charge of your journey, making impromptu stops and taking alternate routes to uncover hidden treasures along the way.
You can rent a car in San Cristóbal de las Casas at a very affordable price, which is definitely well worth it.
The drive to Palenque Ruins takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes, depending on the route chosen and the number of stops you make. While driving, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Chiapas and create a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable adventure on your way to the awe-inspiring Palenque Ruins!
Be sure to book your vehicle ahead of time, particularly during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and the best possible rates!
4. Transport + Tour from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins
For those who wish to maximize their journey from San Cristóbal de las Casas to the Palenque Ruins while experiencing other captivating attractions, a transport, and guided tour combination is the perfect choice!
This option offers a comprehensive, stress-free day trip that merges comfortable transportation with the enriching experience of an expert guide.
Various tour operators in San Cristóbal de las Casas provide day trips that include the Palenque Ruins, the stunning Agua Azul waterfalls, and the mystical Misol-Ha waterfall! These guided tours typically offer round-trip transportation from your designated meeting point in San Cristóbal.
The whole trip lasts about 19 hours, commencing early in the morning and returning at night. Throughout the journey, you’ll be accompanied by an experienced guide who will share captivating insights into the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
This option allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Chiapas and make unforgettable memories as you explore the Palenque Ruins, plunge into the crystal-clear waters of Agua Azul, and gaze at the majesty of Misol-Ha!
Best day tours in Palenque, 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 in Palenque, Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins?
The cheapest way to get from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins is by coach bus and a local colectivo. The price of the whole trip is around USD 33!
What is the fastest way to get from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins?
The fastest way to get from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque Ruins is by car. The journey takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes by car.
Is there an entrance fee at Palenque?
Yes, there is an entrance fee of MXN 35 or about USD 2 to visit the Palenque Ruins.
Can you climb the Palenque Pyramids?
Yes, you can climb some of the ruins at Palenque, and even explore the inner chambers!
Is the bus from San Cristóbal de Las Casas to Palenque safe?
Buses in this area are safe as you will have local and experienced drivers who know the area very well.
Can I visit the Palenque Ruins as a day trip from San Cristóbal de Las Casas?
es, it is possible to visit the Palenque Ruins as a day trip from San Cristóbal de Las Casas. However, it is a long journey, so you will need to start early in the morning and plan your visit accordingly.
