How to get there
By bus from Mexico City about 18 hours, from Tuxtla Gutiérrez about 2 hours; by car from Tuxtla Gutiérrez 83km/52mi on the MEX 190 (Panaméricana) from Mexico City.
San Cristóbal de Las Casas, the oldest Spanish settlement in Chiapas, lies in the Jovel Valley surrounded by
forest-clad mountains, of which the highest are Tzontehuitz (2858 m (9380 ft)) and Huetepec (2717 m (8917 ft)). Although a typical Colonial town with many churches and low houses with tiled roofs and barred windows, considerable Indian influence is evident, creating an unusual atmosphere. San Cristóbal and its surroundings are some of the most interesting places to visit in Mexico. Despite its southern location the high altitude of the town affords it a cool climate, a fact particularly apparent after sunset. The area also experiences a considerable amount of precipitation, with rain falling even during the dry period (November-May).
Until 20 years ago the town was completely cut off from and unaffected by tourism, which has since expanded greatly and led to changes. On New Year's Day 1994 the town was temporarily occupied by members of the Zapatist Army of Liberation (EZLN). Negotiations between the insurgents and the government took place in the cathedral.
Advice
When visiting Indian villages it should be remembered that their inhabitants strongly dislike being photographed; pictures should only be taken from a distance or permission requested beforehand. The easiest way to avoid difficulties is not to take a camera on such trips. Note also that very casual dress and inconsiderate "tourist behaviour" can also cause bad feeling.
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