about san cristobal de las casas
about us
san cristobal blog
services
recreation
photo gallery
contact
home

Transportation from Palenque to San Cristobal de las Casas Mexico


Map of the road from Palenque to San Cristobal Chiapas Mexico

Short road:
Distance: 191 Km More details
Road: Lots of hills and bumps
Driving time (oficial): 3:10 hours
Driving time (real): Around 5.5 hours

Long road:
Distance: 449 km
Driving time: Around 9 hours

(Last update: November/04/2023)

Transportation companies are now using two roads to get to San Cristobal from Palenque. If you are traveling during the day both roads are save. If your trip is in a night bus or shuttle, avoid the short road (for more about this read safety on road Palenque to San Cristobal). The trip on the long road through Tuxtla and Villahermosa takes around 9 hours by bus or 6.5 hours by car. The short one will take around 5.5 hours without stops. Of course this depends on road condition, traffic, stops, etc.

Door-to-door car transfer

The best way to travel between these two towns is by using a door-to-door car service that picks you up and drops you off at your doorstep. There are lots of hills and bumpy parts on the road between the towns. A private car will help you go over them comfortably. It also lets you take breaks and enjoy the pretty views on the way.

Another advantage of choosing a door-to-door car transfer is that it helps you avoid the inconveniences of sharing a shuttle with multiple passengers. Some other shared shuttle services typically commence around 9 AM in the morning and may not reach San Cristobal until late in the evening, between 11:00 PM and midnight. This can make for a long and tiring journey, especially if you're on a holiday. Moreover, these shared services often involve changing vans along the way to San Cristobal, which can lead to added delays and potential discomfort.

The car transfer typically begins at 10:00 AM, right from your hotel or Airbnb accommodation. During the journey, there are two planned stops to enhance your experience. The first stop is at the captivating Misol-Ha waterfall, where you'll have about an hour to explore the natural beauty and take in the surroundings. The second stop takes you to the stunning Agua Azul waterfalls, where you'll have the opportunity to spend around 2 hours. This longer stop also allows for a convenient lunch break, providing a chance to recharge before continuing your journey.

You can expect to reach San Cristobal at approximately 6:00 PM, conveniently arriving just as the evening begins. This timing helps avoid any potential road hazards that might arise after dark and allows you to fully embrace the city's vibrant nightlife. Your driver will ensure you're dropped off directly at your hotel, making the transition from travel to relaxation smooth and hassle-free. By opting for the door-to-door car transfer service, you benefit from a carefully designed itinerary that optimizes your travel experience between these two towns, leaving you free to make the most of your stay in Mexico.

Ask questions, quote a price, or check out some reviews from other travellers on our TripAdvisor web page.

Shared shutle

This option provides a convenient and cost-effective way to travel, whether you're exploring as a solo traveler or sticking to a more moderate budget. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate and if you are in group of two or more people the door-to-door might be a better choice. As of today (with the understanding that this may change), you have two departure times to choose from.

You can departure at 9:00 AM, a good choice if you're planning to visit the Palenque archaeological site on the same day. The shuttle service will take you to Palenque, where you can explore the archaeological wonders from approximately 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. If you've already explored Palenque and are ready to continue your journey, the shuttle can pick you up around noon.

On your way to San Cristobal the van will make two stops along the way. After Palenque, the first stop is at Misol-Ha, a breathtaking waterfall, where you'll have around 45 minutes to take in the natural beauty. Next up is Agua Azul (2 hours), another stunning natural attraction that's worth exploring. After your visit to Agua Azul, you'll switch from one van to another, which will carry you to your final destination: San Cristobal.

The shuttle's arrival to San Cristobal is typically scheduled between 11:00 PM and midnight, and you'll be dropped off at the main square, providing a central and accessible point for your onward adventures.

Please note that the schedule and details provided here are accurate as of today but may be subject to change do to weather or road conditions (like blockades). It's a good idea to confirm the departure times and stops with the shuttle service closer to your travel date to ensure your journey goes smoothly.

By bus

ADO (or OCC) Bus Company is doing the long road from Palenque to San Cristobal for safety reasons. They have around 8 trips per day and the trip lasts from 8 to 10 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. You can book and check their schedule on https://www.ado.com.mx. Prices go from 200 to 350 MXN. AEXA Bus Company has runs at 9:30, 13:30, and 17:00. They take the long road through Villahermosa, too. The trip ends in Tuxtla Gutierrez. Shuttles to San Cristobal leave every 20 minutes and the terminal is just 200 meters from AEXA last stop. AEXA terminal in Palenque is on Av. Benito Juarez No. 182. La Canada. CP 29960. Palenque, Chiapas. Their phone number is (916) 345.2630. They don't sell tickets online, so you will have to go to their office in Palenque maybe one day before you come to San Cristobal. You can also check their website if you would like to know a little more about them http://www.autobusesaexa.com.mx. Price is 260 MXN for Palenque – Tuxtla. Sometimes they have discounts, and the price is 180 MXN. Shuttle Tuxtla to San Cristobal is 55 MXN.

By colectivo (Mexican shuttle public service)

If you feel adventurer you can take colectivos, one from Palenque to Ocosingo and then other one from Ocosingo to San Cristobal de las Casas. If you are lucky you won’t wait more than 20 minutes for the shuttle to leave. The colectivos terminal in Palenque is on the corner of 5a Poniente Sur and Benito Juarez. Very close to the AEXA terminal. Once you are in Ocosingo ask for the colectivos to San Cristobal. There a couple of companies and they are very close to eachother. Price for both trips will be around 90 pesos each.

© 2007 About San Cristóbal