San Cristóbal De Las Casas, Chiapas

San Cristobal De Las Casas emerges through the fog from atop a mountain in the southern highlands of Mexico. The colonial mountain city, which is steeped in ancient shaman traditions, is distinct from any other destination you have seen in Mexico.

San Cristóbal de las Casas is characterized by its beautiful pastel-colored colonial architecture. Be transported to a different era as you wander along cobbled streets lined with grand buildings that date back to the Spanish conquest of Chiapas. This region of the country is home to the Tzotzil Maya tribe, masters in textile design and shaman mysticism. Start your explorations in the Central Zone or Historic Area in the heart of the city. The leafy Plaza 31 de Marzo makes a good starting point. Near the square, you will find some of the most impressive colonial buildings. These include the vivid yellow Cathedral of Saint Christopher and Los Portales. On the backpacker route through southern Mexico, San Cristobal is a well-liked rest point. From the Sumidero Canyon to the Palenque ruins, the state of Chiapas is full of wonders. One of Mexico's most picturesque states, it can be a great vacation all by itself!