Riviera Maya to Chiapas: A Complete Travel Guide

Language

The official language of both the Riviera Maya and Chiapas is Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in the tourist areas of the Riviera Maya, and to a lesser extent in Chiapas.

Currency

The official currency of both the Riviera Maya and Chiapas is the Mexican peso (MXN). US dollars are also widely accepted in the tourist areas of the Riviera Maya, but it is best to exchange your currency into pesos before traveling to Chiapas.

Distance

The distance between the Riviera Maya and Chiapas is approximately 600 miles (965 kilometers). The drive takes about 10 hours without stops.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Chiapas from the Riviera Maya:

  • By plane: There are several daily flights from Cancun International Airport (CUN) to Tuxtla Gutierrez International Airport (TGZ). The flight takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • By bus: There are several daily buses from Cancun to Tuxtla Gutierrez. The journey takes about 12 hours.
  • By car: The drive from the Riviera Maya to Chiapas takes about 10 hours without stops. The route passes through the states of Quintana Roo, Campeche, and Tabasco.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from the Riviera Maya to Chiapas will vary depending on your mode of transportation and the time of year you travel. However, here is a rough estimate of what you can expect to spend:

  • Plane ticket: $100-$200
  • Bus ticket: $50-$100
  • Gas: $50-$100
  • Accommodation: $20-$50 per night
  • Food: $10-$20 per day

Best Time to Go

The best time to travel from the Riviera Maya to Chiapas is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, and there is less chance of rain.

What to Eat

Chiapas is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes a variety of traditional dishes such as:

  • Chilaquiles: A dish made from fried corn tortillas tossed in a spicy sauce.
  • Tamales: A cornmeal dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and wrapped in a corn husk.
  • Pozol: A refreshing drink made from fermented corn.
  • Sopa de lima: A lime soup made with chicken, tortillas, and vegetables.

Where to Go

Chiapas is a large and diverse state, with a variety of attractions to offer visitors. Some of the most popular tourist destinations include:

  • San Cristobal de las Casas: A beautiful colonial city located in the highlands of Chiapas.
  • Palenque: An ancient Mayan city located in the rainforest of Chiapas.
  • Sumidero Canyon: A deep canyon located in the center of Chiapas.
  • Laguna de Bacalar: A beautiful lake located in the south of Chiapas.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling from the Riviera Maya to Chiapas:

  • Is it safe to travel from the Riviera Maya to Chiapas? Yes, it is generally safe to travel from the Riviera Maya to Chiapas. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty crime.
  • Do I need a visa to travel to Chiapas? No, US citizens do not need a visa to travel to Chiapas.
  • What is the best way to get around Chiapas? The best way to get around Chiapas is by bus. There are several daily buses connecting the major cities and towns in Chiapas.
  • Can I use my credit card in Chiapas? Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in the major cities and towns in Chiapas. However, it is always a good idea to have some cash on hand as well.