Textiles and mysticism of Chiapas
5
Textiles and mysticism of Chiapas
By Experiencias Chiapas
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About
This experience will bring you closer to the most important topics of THE HIGHLANDS OF CHIAPAS: mysticism, religion and customs of the indigenous people in SAN JUAN CHAMULA, the most visited town from San Cristobal and the beautiful textiles of SAN ANDRES LARRAINZAR. Amazing textiles from Larrainzar are common in the shops and markets of San Cristobal but few visitors come to this town located within a picturesque landscape in the mountains. During this tour you will get to know a little of the history and social context, approaching LIVING CULTURE in an interactive and respectful way. Our hallmark is interaction with local communities, as well as direct support for artisans.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-65, max of 4 per group
Duration: 6h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English, Spanish
More
- entrance fee
- private transport and pick up from your hotel
- Entry/Admission - Iglesia de San Juan Bautista
- Entry/Admission - Iglesia de San Lorenzo
- Entry/Admission - Zinacantan
- Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
- Quiosco central Park, Zona Centro, 29200 San Cristobal de las Casas, Chis., Mexico
Hotel pickup offeredDuring checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.End:- Quiosco central Park, Zona Centro, 29200 San Cristobal de las Casas, Chis., Mexico
- Infants must sit on laps
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 164790P5- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Most travellers can participate
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 4 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 164790P5
From
C$91.82
per adult (price varies by group size)
Select date and travellers
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Itinerary
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- Zona Centro, 29200 San Cristobal de las Casas, Chis., Mexico
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- marcmX2348YG0 contributionsDiscovering Chiapas: A Cultural Journey Through Chamula and ZinacantánSan Cristóbal de las Casas, with its blend of Indigenous and colonial cultures, can feel like a maze for English-speaking travelers. Chiapas Experiences, led by the knowledgeable and passionate Rudy, breaks down those barriers to immerse you in the soul of the region’s rich history. We began the day by hopping into Rudy’s sedan for a personal journey to two remarkable towns: Chamula and Zinacantán. Chamula’s cathedral was a sensory experience like no other, where Native people gathered for homespun religious traditions—a fascinating mix of Coca-Cola, alcohol, pine needles, live chickens, and a staggering number of candles. It was an unforgettable display of how Indigenous and colonial cultures merge in this vibrant community. Another highlight in Chamula was a visit to an unmarked art center run by the talented artist Tex Lopez. The space included a gallery, a large studio where children learn art and connect to their ancestral roots, and a charming restaurant serving flavorful dishes. While Chamula dazzled with its vibrant rituals, Zinacantán offered a quieter but enriching experience. We strolled through the town’s streets, visiting its historic church and a women’s art collective. Meeting the artists and hearing their stories gave us a deeper appreciation for their craft and its role in preserving local traditions. These unique places and connections made the tour truly special. Without Rudy’s guidance, we would never have found these hidden gems. His insights between stops added additional depth, drawing from his experience as a tour guide, documentarian, and advocate for Chiapas’ rich cultural heritage. His passion for sharing the stories of the region—past, present, and future—shines through. For anyone looking to explore Chiapas beyond the surface, this tour is more than an experience—it’s an invitation to connect with the heart of its culture.Written January 13, 2025
- 244colettef0 contributionsA Beautiful, Beautiful DayI have to say, this was the most meaningful experience of my trip so far. I have been travelling alone for 5 months and this was a perfect example of what I have been looking for, to witness indigenous culture, traditional celebration and raw spiritual moments. Rudy is such a genuine person who knows when to inform you - he kindly translated in English for me - and when to let you have your own experience. He knows what his guests will appreciate the most. We as a group bonded I think because Rudy effortlessly makes it so personal. We had so many magical moments in the day it was very moving to experience. This tour encapsulates the authentic travel experience which transcends 'things to tick off the list!' Honestly, I think this will be the most memorable moment I will treasure as a solo traveller. He is a kind and knowledgeable person. I feel so lucky I got to experience this day. It was the perfect day! Gracias 🙏Written July 16, 2024
- M7278AUannam0 contributionsIncredible food, place, and peopleWhat a wonderful day we had, swimming in the river, watching a professional chef do his thing, and enjoying what we created. This was a gastronomical experience I certainly won’t forget! The river was beautiful, relaxing, and not touristed. Of course the food was incredible, but so was being able to actually see it being made, and to hang out the group. What an enjoyable day I’ll be reminiscing about for a long time.Written May 23, 2024
- Anne P0 contributionsAmazing tour!We had a lovely time visiting the two villages of this tour. Great guide and really interesting to see how different faiths have mixed here.Written April 16, 2024
- thomasaM627SP0 contributionsGreat and personal experience .We had a great time with Rudy visiting Cañon Del Sumidero and Chapa De Corso. He had a great local knowledge as he grew up in the area, and he has a long experience in tourism. The experience was very personal, and Rudy followed our pace, which was really nice. I would highly recommend this tour. In addition I suggest booking multiple tours with him given his big knowledge.Written March 21, 2024
- Z1755BAsarak0 contributionsAmazing day with an amazing guideRudy was an amazing guide the entire day. He had a lot of local knowledge and was very friendly and outgoing. We really enjoyed our small group of three people, which made the tour very relaxed and pleasant. 10/10 recommendation!Written March 21, 2024
- chrismcl0 contributionsZoque Carnival and San Juan Chamula CarnivalRudy of Experiencias Chiapas was an excellent guide, for jumping off the deep end and diving into another type of Mexico. One with fire walking, the ritual death and rebirth of the sun, jaguar dances and a world where David beats Goliath whilst hundreds of Mohammedans dance around them in a carnival parade. I don't think I could have done this by myself. It was a great help that Rudy shares some of my own (obsessive?) interests. He was as much a companion as a tour guide and he had a unique skill of sometimes leaving you to explore and meet people alone, re-emerging with updates, plans and a car ride when required. First day: The Zoque Carnival. At Ocozocoautla, about two hours from San Cristobal. There was extreme colour, wild marimba music and thousands of masked dancers whirling around in the heat of the day. It was fascinating to visit the "houses" where the dancers originate. The patrons of the festival were very happy to feed you breakfast with rum, along with hundreds of other local diners. I loved being "back stage" watching the dancers masking up and watching the post breakfast masked dances that take place before the big parade. We visited the monkeys, the jaguars and the mohammedans and watched everyone set off for the big procession. Some fantastic photo opportunities! The big parade was a riot. Fountains of talc and soap powder sprayed on the revellers and absolute chaos. Afternoon of the first day. Rudy had new intelligence, of a very different carnival in San Fernando closer to Tuxtla. Here there was a jaguar altar and a local healer ministering to the townsfolk, slapping them with medicinal herbs. Local dancers hurled paint at each other and the tone was darker and more manic than the morning. We needed to pay for shelter from the paint throwers with a bottle of local hooch. Again, I would never have found this without Rudy. Second day: San Juan Chamula. Lots of highlights. Meeting the men from the barrio of San Sebastian, gathering reeds for the fire walking. The running of the bulls. The fire walking itself. The warrior dances in front of the church. The processions of the sacred banners around the main square. Finding fish for lunch, so far from the sea. I even had a day off from carnival with Alejo Alarcas, another very talented and informed guide. I went rustic and visited the El Chiflon Falls and the Mayan ruins at Tenam Puente. Overall, Experiencias Chiapas had an insight into the region that was far beyond the standard tour company. They really helped bring to life exactly the sort of trip I wanted to make. Final thanks to Monika, who helped piece everything together and made sure the plan worked.Written March 4, 2024
- helensO3503JP0 contributionsExcellent guide and experienceOur tour with Rudy was truly perfect. To begin with the basics, Rudy was on time, polite, and friendly. His vehicle was comfortable and clean. And he was a good driver. Initially, he drove us to San Juan Chamula to visit the Iglesia de San Juan Bautista. Rudy clearly explained the history of the area and provided information that helped me to better understand and appreciate what I was seeing, not only the religious culture, but also aspects of the political and family culture of the Tzotzil, the local indigenous peoples. We also visited Tex Art, met with the owner/artist and enjoyed the view from the cafe on top of the building (best tortillas I have ever eaten - brown corn tortillas!). Finally we stopped at the flower filled pueblo and church of Zinacantán. At each stop, Rudy shared so much information without rushing us and instead, provided the time we needed to absorb all that we were seeing. Rodolfo was an enthusiastic guide and I enjoyed our time together. This tour was a valuable experience.Written February 7, 2024
- johnvZ5953RU0 contributionsGreat experienceWe recently visited Chiapas Mexico, more specifically the area of San Cristobal de las Casas. While visiting we had the pleasure of taking a personal guided tour by Rudy. I can say without hesitation it was an experience of a lifetime, from start to finish. Rudy Exceeded all our expectations turning a memorable trip into an extraordinary adventure. Rudy’s passion for the destinations we visited, as well his personal relationships with many of the community members helped create a perspective visitors rarely get to experience. His extensive knowledge of the area including historical information made every stop on the tour come to life. The fascinating stories and historical facts were an experience like no other. If you are looking for an unforgettable travel experience and not just a copy and paste tour look no further. Our journey was nothing short of magical and we whole heartedly recommend RudyWritten February 4, 2024
- janmaciejz0 contributionsVisit to San Cristobal and surroundingsThe visit was fantastic. Perfect organisation. Rudi and Monika are very kind guides. The city's culture and people are fascinating. We wish we spent there only 4 days. The festival in Chiapa is awesomeWritten January 26, 2024
- VeronicaCN0 contributionsBest private tour in San CristobalMy husband and I did the Cañón del Sumidero and the San Cristobal tour with Rudy. He is an excellent guide, passionate and knowledgeable. He makes an effort to introduce you not only to the natural beauty and history of Chiapas but also cultural aspects of the region, for example the delicious food and local traditions. Do not hesitate to contact him to enhance your visit to this beautiful region in Mexico. Veronica + Juan AngelWritten January 23, 2024
- 879tabethar0 contributionsThe BEST tour with Rudy!Rudy took us on a tour of the towns of Chamulla and Zinacatan on Nov 2nd - if we hadn't done the tour we would have jist thought that the festival happened in the main big towns and consisted of processions .... going on this tour was so informative, Rudy's obvious love, knowledge and respect for the Indigenous people and their customs was so informative and interesting, he happily answered my endless questions!! I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him. We also had a delicious lunch included in the tour and I tasted Posh for the first (& last) time. Thank you very much Rudy for the truly wonderful experience!Written November 8, 2023
- kiraj7010 contributionsVery nice experienceThe tour was very nice! There was a pottery festival in town. We saw traditional dances and ate a lot of nice typical food (also many vegetarian options). After that we went to the pottery workshop. The different steps of the work were shown. We were allowed to potter our own things. We took them with us and dryed them at home. Rudy translated everything very good! Thanks for this experience. Would totally recommend.Written November 5, 2023
- Cddcker0 contributionsDay Of the deads: romerillo and zinacantanWe did a day of the dead tour en Rudi was amazing! He learned us so much things, was kind. Well organisered tour and you would never Experience the same things, traditions etc without this tour. Don't hesitate, just book a tour with them! Monica was also very helpful, even for things besides the tour she helped me planning for San Cristóbal. I would highly recommend it!Written November 5, 2023
- ItzaBuceo0 contributionsVery enriching experienceHad a blast! It was a great experience! A Rudy is a great guide, organized and attentive. Fully recommended.Written October 25, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Krista H
Austin, TX5 contributions
Had an excellent experience on the textiles and mysticism tour with Rudy. He was very knowledgeable about the history and practices of the indigenous people of Chiapas, we learned a lot! Seeing the rituals performed in the church of Chamula was my favorite part. He even took us to a local cantina restaurant once we got back to San Cristobal. The restaurant manager was so happy to have tourists in his restaurant they brought us a round of Mezcalinas! 🍹
Written May 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Montserrat
Monterrey, Mexico2 contributions
Feb 2025 • Solo
I really enjoyed this tour, first of all because I felt really safe, me at the moment traveling solo, and second of all because of the gorgeous scenery!!!
I couldn't recommend it more, if you really want to know the true meaning of the customs and rituals of the locals. Thank you Rudy for the generous hospitality in San Cristóbal! Will definitely come back!.
I couldn't recommend it more, if you really want to know the true meaning of the customs and rituals of the locals. Thank you Rudy for the generous hospitality in San Cristóbal! Will definitely come back!.
Written February 12, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jessika b
Barcelona, Spain13 contributions
Jul 2021 • Friends
I loved this tour! We could see how they produce their beautiful textiles from first hand,which was super interesting! The artisanien women were super friendly and open to questions! The food was delicious and you could even watch them making the tortillas!
A big thank you to Rudy the guide, he was great and he explained us everything and answered patient all our questions.
I totally recommend this tour, if you wanna learn more about traditions in chiapas!
A big thank you to Rudy the guide, he was great and he explained us everything and answered patient all our questions.
I totally recommend this tour, if you wanna learn more about traditions in chiapas!
Written July 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
stefhany r
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Solo
It was a unique experience, knowing the traditions of a state as wonderful as Chiapas certainly fills your heart, the guide is a very prepared person, he addresses very deep topics, with a lot of professionalism and impeccable fluency in English. Highly recommended.

Written September 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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