Blockades and safety on road 199 San Cristobal-Palenque

Last update on January 1st 2024

Many travelers often ask about the safety of using road 199 between San Cristobal and Palenque. It's important to note that the entire state of Chiapas has been encountering challenges with road blockades, causing some confusion with safety concerns. So, if you are coming to Chiapas, this will be something to think about but not a major cause of concern.

These blockades occur because the local residents believe that by obstructing the roads, they can draw attention to their grievances and prompt the government to address their concerns. While there may be some validity to this thinking, it also tends to provoke frustration and anger among other individuals affected by the blockades. Our visitors being some of these people.

It's important to think beyond just safety concerns when it comes to road blockades. The main issue to consider is how these blockades can affect your travel plans. Most blockades are a form of protest against the government's failure to address the demands of the local people. This means that tourists visiting the state are not in real danger. Despite the apparent violence associated with blockades, such as burning cars, cutting trees to block roads, or people wearing Zapatista masks, these actions are not directed towards tourists like yourself who are simply trying to reach their next destination.

When traveling between Palenque and San Cristobal, it's important to note that most blockades are typically found in Oxchuc and Ocosingo. However, it's essential to keep in mind that blockades can also happen at other points along the road. If you happen to come across a blockade, here's what you can expect.

In most cases, blockades usually last for one day. If you encounter such a blockade, you might find yourself stuck on the road for a few hours. The "positive" side is that the people blocking the road might be open to accepting some money in exchange for allowing you to pass through. Typically, a cash payment of 100 to 500 MXN is more than enough (last time I was in a blockade I paid 50 pesos). However, if they ask for more money, it's advisable not to agree to it. The payment is meant to cover their expenses for food and other needs during the blockade, not to get rich. There is no reason for them to ask for additional money. Local residents are aware of this and won't pay more than the usual amount, and the people at the blockade are aware of it as well.

Blockades are peaceful protests intended to highlight local concerns or grievances. Participants may chant, display signs, or occupy the road area, but they typically do not pose a direct threat to tourists. Often, they may provide you with a paper explaining their issues with the government. It's important to remember that they want their voices to be heard, and if you try to bypass the blockade without stopping, it could lead to problems or misunderstandings. You DON'T want to be the person who does that.

Rarely, blockades may persist for multiple days. If you encounter such a situation, there are alternative roads available depending on the location of the blockade. The most extensive option would involve traveling through Villahermosa, Cardenas, and Tuxtla Gutierrez. This alternative route would take approximately 9 hours and would mean missing out on the scenic waterfalls along the way. However, this is the worst-case scenario you might face in terms of travel inconvenience.

So, are there any dangers on route 199? Yes, at night time. When it comes to the road between San Cristobal and Palenque, it's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers when traveling at night. We strongly advise against driving on this road after dark due to reported incidents of robberies. To ensure your safety, it's important to plan your journey in a way that allows you to reach your destination during daylight hours. This is especially important if you're driving a rented car since you will be on an unknown road by yourself. By traveling during the daytime, you increase your chances of avoiding any security concerns and ensure a safer journey. If you choose one of our drivers to navigate this road, we ensure that the trip begins with ample time in the morning to guarantee the safe return of our driver to their home.

By taking these safety tips and recomendations into consideration, it becomes evident that there are no serious safety concerns on this road as long as you travel during daylight hours. We recommend using a reputable travel agency to transport you along this route. If you choose to travel independently, be sure to plan your trip in a way that allows you to travel during the daytime. Additionally, don't miss the breathtaking Agua Azul and Misol Ha waterfalls, and if you have the opportunity, make time to visit Tonina in Ocosingo (if they are open). These attractions offer stunning natural beauty and historical sites worth exploring.

By Jairo Estrada

Any questions?...contact us.