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If you’re craving a full nervous system reset, this trek offers something rare.
Deep in the Lacandon Jungle, you’ll hike through ancient rainforest, visit two of the most powerful lost Maya cities in the Americas, and unplug completely. No signal. No noise. Just the rhythm of your breath and the sounds of the forest.
The journey moves through the wild heart of the Sierra del Lacandón, a protected biosphere rich in wildlife and cultural history in Chiapas. You’ll walk through dense jungle paths, sleep near waterfalls, and explore the sacred sites of Bonampak and Yaxchilán, both wrapped in vines and mystery. These are not ruins behind fences. They are living temples, tucked deep inside the forest.
Every step takes you further from distraction and closer to something primal. Misty mornings and firelit nights. Canoe rides down the Usumacinta River. The smell of rain and soil. This is a full-body, full-senses experience. You slow down. You listen. You feel.
Your guides are Lacandon Maya, caretakers of this land for generations. They’ll share their stories, their medicine, and their way of walking softly through the forest. You’ll hike to hidden waterfalls, sleep in jungle camps or cabins, and share meals made with local ingredients by local hands.
By the time you arrive to Yaxchilán by riverboat, it feels like you’ve crossed a threshold. Temples rise from the jungle like a dream. Spider monkeys move through the trees. No crowds. No fences. Just the forest and the ruins and you, fully dropped in. This is how a trek becomes a rite of passage.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Journey into the Lacandon Jungle
- Early departure from Palenque
- Visit Bonampak, famous for its vibrant ancient murals
- Meet your Lacandon guide in the village of Lacanjá Chansayab
- Settle into eco-cabins or jungle hammock camp
- Forest walk and waterfall swim before sunset
- Dinner around the fire and orientation for the days ahead
Day 2: Sierra del Lacandón Jungle Trek
- Full-day guided hike through primary rainforest
- Learn about medicinal plants, jungle tracking, and Maya traditions
- Stop at hidden waterfalls and natural pools
- Lunch along the trail
- Overnight at remote camp or return to eco-lodge
- Optional evening storytelling or night walk to spot wildlife
Day 3: River Journey to Yaxchilán And Return To Palenque
- Morning hike to Río Usumacinta
- Scenic riverboat ride through dense jungle
- Explore Yaxchilán: temples, stelae, and jungle-covered pyramids
- Return via river and short hike back to camp
- Final dinner celebration with your guide and group
What to Bring:
- Lightweight, breathable hiking boots
- Long-sleeve shirts and pants (bugs and sun)
- Insect repellent
- Dry bags or waterproof pack cover
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder
- Lightweight towel and swimwear
- Personal medications and basic first aid
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Difficulty and Trail Conditions
Level: Moderate
Distance: Approx. 25–35 km over 3 days
Terrain: Muddy jungle paths, roots, riverbanks
Climate: Hot and humid year-round
Best Season: November to May (dry season)
You’ll be hiking with a daypack. Some sections can be slippery or steep but nothing technical. A decent fitness level is enough.
Ready to Trek into the Wild Heart of Chiapas?
This isn’t just a hike. It’s a return to something essential. A slow walk through sacred land. A chance to unplug and remember what it feels like to be fully alive. If you’re ready for deep nature, ancient stories, and a true reset, this trek is calling.
Let’s plan your jungle journey. Book a free call now and we’ll help you prepare, connect with the right guide, and set dates for your Lacandon adventure.
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Location
FAQ
Is it safe to travel here?
Yes, with a certified local guide. You’ll stay in safe community-run camps and eco-lodges.
Is it suitable for groups or retreats?
Yes. Ideal for small group adventures, nature retreats, and mindfulness-based travel.
Can I do this trek without a guide?
No. Guides are essential for navigation, safety, and access to community and archaeological sites.
Are there bathrooms and showers?
Yes, in lodges and some camps. Jungle conditions apply — simple and rustic.
Is this a good trek for kids or beginners?
Yes, in lodges and some camps. Jungle conditions apply — simple and rustic.
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Added By Kyle Pearce
I started Nature Retreats to spotlight ecolodges, retreat centers and ecotourism projects following sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities and protect fragile biodiversity.
I have been running mindful hiking retreats for the last 7 years that integrate mindful awareness, experiential learning and community building practices.
Connor Murphy
2 months agoIt's certainly cool, with friezes, tunnels you can walk inside, stelae, and a huge staircase up a mountain. Not to mention you can climb up many of the buildings and it's not crowded. I enjoyed it and it's not like I regret going. But honestly I feel it's not worth the 3+ hour trip both ways from and back to Palenque, plus the 30-35 minute speedboat trip. I'd say there's not much reason to go out of your way to see this site in particular compared to Palenque or Uxmal, and this is coming from a guy who loves Maya ruins.
angela crowley
a month agoWonderful guide with Hector, so peaceful here, very little restoration has been carried out on this site , wonderful frescos. Be ready for the heat but the boat trip to access the site is refreshing.
Thais Ehinger
7 months agoAmazing experience exploring these ruins!! You have to take a tour to come here as it is quite a complicated location. It is a 3 hour drive from Palenque, then you get on a small boat for one hour in the river that is the border for Guatemala and Mexico. You get about 2 hours to visit the ruins but I could have easily spent 3! The archeological zone is very big, make sure you don't miss acropolis south and the other ruins that are tucked away a little bit. You are in the middle of the jungle, you can hear howler monkeys, see spider monkeys and you just feel like an Explorer. I highly reccomend you spend the time and money to go there, you won't regret it!
April Lam
4 months agoVery worth to see when long journey start from 5.30am
吴锐恒（Ruiheng Edbalt Wu）
2 years agoA great hidden gem next to the Guatemala border! You need to take the ferry, which is also really good experience. The main pyramid is built on a hill and if you look from the bottom, it is just gorgeous.