12 Reasons Why You Should Visit Chiapas Before Everyone Else Does

Chiapas has one of the largest indigenous populations of any state in Mexico and is a refuge for indigenous culture and tradition. Once a Mayan hub, the modern day descendants of this great civilization have retained a distinct identity and culture. Today, the state contains an estimated 56 linguistic groups and is a focal point for indigenous festivities and vibrant pre-colonial cuisine. Geographically isolated from the rest of the country, the region has even staged uprisings against the distant authorities in the capital. The most recent rebellion was in 1994, when the Zapatista army took up arms to draw attention to the plight of Mexico’s impoverished indigenous peoples.

With the cost of living soaring in Mexico City, travelers will be pleasantly surprised by the prices in the state of Chiapas. Taxis and meals at restaurants are much more affordable than in the capital or in the tourist hubs on the Caribbean coast. Private rooms at a hostel in San Cristóbal are available for as little as MXN$100.

The vibrant and vivid festivals of Chiapas are among some of the most spectacular revelries in the country. San Juan Chamula hosts particularly impressive ceremonies featuring dance and revelry in the five days before Ash Wednesday each year. The town of Comitán has colorful Day of the Dead celebrations, during which the cemeteries are elaborately decorated with candles and flowers. The traditional feast of Chiapa de Corzo takes place from January 4-23. A feast for the senses that combines music, parades and gastronomy, the highlight is undoubtedly the dance of the Parachicos. These traditional masked dancers perform a communal offering to the saints and have been included on UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.