Comitán - Discovering Mexico

Travelling to Comitán

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Comitán, a pretty good destination in Mexico (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Comitán and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Comitán, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Mexico, here's everything to know about Comitán for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Comitán

Comitán is a colorful and charming city in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and indigenous culture. It is located at an elevation of around 1,550 meters (5,085 feet) and has a population of approximately 115,000 people. The city serves as a gateway to several natural attractions in the region, such as the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve, the El Chiflón Waterfalls, and the Lagunas de Montebello National Park. Additionally, Comitán has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many historic landmarks and museums to explore.

What to visit in Comitán

Comitán is a charming city located in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas. Here are some of its top tourist attractions and a brief description of each: 1. The Archaeological Site of Tenam Puente: This is an ancient Mayan site located about 30 minutes outside of the city. It's famous for its well-preserved structures and elaborate stelae.
2. The Grutas de Rancho Nuevo (Rancho Nuevo Caves): These caves are simply breathtaking! The crystal-clear pools, huge stalactites, and sparkling stalagmites are some of its features.
3. The Cathedral of San Caralampio: This beautiful colonial-era cathedral serves as the city's main church. It's filled with ornate details and frescoes.
4. The Jardín de los Hombres Ilustres (Garden of Illustrious Men): This is a beautiful park located in the center of Comitán. It's dedicated to the city's most famous sons and features a large statue of each of them. 5. The Museo del Ambar (Amber Museum): This museum is dedicated to the history and geology of amber and its use in the region for thousands of years. The museum displays amber products of jewelry, sculptures, and handcrafts.
6. The Hacienda de Poliopolí: This historic estate offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of wealthy colonial-era landowners. It's well-known for its beautiful architecture and lovely gardens.
7. The Parque Nacional Lagunas de Montebello (Montebello Lakes National Park): This park boasts over 50 beautiful lakes which vary in size and water color. The park is a perfect spot for doing outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and kayaking.
All of these attractions showcase different aspects of Comitán's rich history and natural beauty, making it a truly unique and interesting destination.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Mexico, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Comitán

The best time to travel to Comitán in Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, temperatures are cooler and drier with clear skies, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The rainy season in Comitán runs from May to October, and while it can be a beautiful time to visit due to the lush vegetation and green landscapes, it can also be hot and humid with frequent rain showers.
Overall, the best time to visit Comitán depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you prefer cooler, drier weather, then plan your trip during the dry season. If you enjoy lush landscapes and don't mind some rain, then the rainy season may be more suitable for you.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Comitán

You can get to Comitán, Mexico by either bus or car.
By bus: There are several bus companies that operate in Mexico and offer routes to Comitán. You can look up schedules and purchase tickets online or at the bus station. Some of the popular bus companies that offer routes to Comitán are ADO, OCC, and Cristobal Colón.
By car: Comitán is located in the southern part of Mexico and is accessible by car. If you are traveling from Mexico City, you can take the Mexico-150D highway and drive south for approximately 10-12 hours to reach Comitán. It is important to note that the roads can be winding and mountainous, so it is advisable to have an experienced driver.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Comitán, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Comitán

Comitán is a city located in the southern state of Chiapas, Mexico that is known for its delicious and unique cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Comitán with a short description for each of them: 1. Queso de bola: Also known as ball cheese, this is a semi-hard cheese that is aged for several months. It has a nutty flavor and is a popular ingredient in many dishes.
2. Chalupas: These are small tortillas that are fried until crunchy and topped with shredded chicken, cheese, onions, and a spicy tomato sauce.
3. Tamales: Comitán tamales are wrapped in banana leaves instead of corn husks and are filled with a blend of chicken and pork that has been marinated in achiote paste and spices. They are steamed until soft and served with salsa.
4. Cochinita pibil: This is a traditional Mexican dish that consists of slow-roasted pork that has been marinated in achiote paste and served with tortillas, pickled onions, and habanero salsa.
5. Caldo de camarón: A flavorful soup made with shrimp, vegetables, and spices. It is typically served with avocado, lime, and tortillas.
6. Chilate: A hot beverage made from a blend of maize, cacao, and cinnamon. It is sweetened with sugar and served with a slice of bread.
7. Pozol: A thick traditional drink made from maize dough, water, and cacao. It is typically served with sugar and hot sauce.
8. Chamula-style beef: A grilled beef dish that is seasoned with salt and lime. It's often served with a side of salsa and charro beans.
Overall, Comitán cuisine is influenced by its indigenous roots and the many flavors of Mexico, making it unique and delicious.
You can find general info about typical foods in Mexico here.

Is Comitán an expensive destination for tourists?

Comitán can vary in price depending on what activities you plan on doing, the type of accommodation you choose, and your overall travel style. However, generally speaking, Comitán can be a budget-friendly destination compared to other popular tourist destinations in Mexico. Some activities such as visiting historic sites like the Archeological Zone of Tenam Puente and the Rancho Nuevo Ecological Reserve are free or have a low entrance fee. Accommodations can also be found at affordable prices such as hostels and guesthouses. However, if you plan to stay in high-end hotels or participate in expensive tours, then Comitán could be an expensive destination. Overall, it is possible to have an enjoyable and affordable trip to Comitán with some careful planning and budgeting.

Where to find accomodation in Comitán

Comitan is a small city but it offers different areas where you can find suitable accommodations. The historic center is a great area to stay as it is centralized and offers proximity to main attractions. Additionally, Av. Insurgentes, Av. 5 de Febrero, and surrounding streets offer a variety of hotels and hostels that are still close to the center, but also offer a quieter stay. Lastly, if you are looking for a more rural setting, there are some beautiful cabañas and eco-lodges in the surrounding forests and hills.
You can check hotel prices at Comitán here:
Booking.com

Is Comitán a safe destination for tourists?

Comitán is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take precautions and use common sense while visiting there. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, not to wear expensive jewelry or carry large amounts of cash, and to only use official taxis. Additionally, it is always a good idea to research potential safety concerns before visiting any destination and to stay informed while you are there by keeping up with the news and following local guidelines.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Mexico here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Comitán.

What type of travelers will enjoy Comitán the most?

Comitán is a versatile destination that can appeal to all types of travelers. However, the city tends to attract travelers looking for a more relaxed and cultural experience.
Couples and families will enjoy exploring the city’s charming historic center, with its colonial-style architecture, quiet cobblestone streets, and beautiful parks. The city also has several interesting museums, galleries, and cultural centers, such as the Museo Arqueológico de Comitán and Casa Museo Dr. Belisario Domínguez.
For young people looking for fun, Comitán offers several outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and visits to the surrounding natural attractions such as the Lagunas de Montebello or the El Chiflón Waterfalls. For nightlife, Comitán does offer a few bars and clubs, but they are not as lively or numerous as in other nearby destinations.
Overall, Comitán is a great destination for anyone who wants to experience the history, culture, and natural beauty of Mexico in a more relaxed and peaceful setting.

How to get around Comitán

In Comitán (Mexico) you can move around by taxi, colectivo (shared minivans), local buses or walking. Taxis are a good option for short distances or traveling to specific locations. Colectivos and local buses are a cheaper way to get around and cover more of the city, but they can be crowded and may not have a fixed schedule. Walking is also a good option as Comitán is a small city that is easily navigable on foot.

What to see around Comitán

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Comitán, Mexico: 1. Lagos de Colón - Beautiful lakes surrounded by mountains where you can do activities like kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and enjoy a picnic.
2. El Chiflón Waterfalls - Impressive blue-turquoise waterfalls located in the biosphere reserve of Montes Azules.
3. Lagunas de Montebello National Park - A group of beautiful lakes with different shades of blue and green.
4. San Cristóbal de las Casas - A colonial city with beautiful architecture, museums and cultural centers.
5. Cenote Chucumaltik - A natural sinkhole with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for swimming, snorkelling or picnicking.
6. Zona Arqueológica Tenam Puente - Remains of a Maya city dating back to 1100 BC.
7. Cascada el Aguacero - A beautiful waterfall located in the forest, perfect for hiking and relaxing.
8. El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve - A large protected area in the mountains with diverse wildlife and hiking trails.
These are just a few of the many options you have to explore the surrounding areas of Comitán.
For every travel information about Mexico you can click here.

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