How to get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Montebello Lakes, Mexico

AnaMarija Mishachkovska 21 Apr 2023 Last updated: 4 Apr 2025 3 min read No comments


You can get from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Montebello Lakes by bus + taxi, private transfer, rental car, or a guided tour.

The cheapest option is to travel by public bus and pickup truck, which costs USD 5 and takes about 4 hours.

The most popular option is the Guided Tour, offering transportation to Montebello Lakes, activities, and a day filled with fun and exploration at a very affordable price.

The fastest way is by private transfer or rental car, which takes about 3 hours.

Throughout my numerous adventures in Mexico, I’ve become quite the expert on navigating its diverse landscapes. I’ve tried every transport mode available, from bustling cities to serene beaches.

Getting to Montebello Lakes from San Cristóbal de las Casas

The following table outlines all transportation options:

MethodTimePrice
Public Bus + Pickup Truck~4 hrs~$5
Private Transfer~3 hrs$250 to 209
Transport + Tour~$40
Rental Car~3 hrs

1. Public Bus + Taxi/Pickup Truck

Journey Duration: ~4 hours

Are you seeking a budget-friendly way to reach Montebello Lakes? Then consider using public transportation! 

For the first part of your journey, opt for a local shuttle or a public bus. The bus is the preferred choice.

Start your adventure by hopping on a bus to Comitán, a town approximately 50 kilometers from the Montebello Lakes.

The bus trip typically takes 2 hours and makes multiple stops. Fares for this ride are a mere MXN 40 or about USD 2.5, so keep some change to buy your ticket on the spot.

Upon reaching Comitán, you can catch another shuttle to Tziscao for an additional MXN 40, but we suggest taking a taxi straight to the lakes!

Numerous taxis are available at the bus terminal or around the town, ready to transport you to Montebello Lakes in roughly 30-40 minutes.

Remember to negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand to prevent any confusion.

2. Private Transfer

Journey Duration: Custom Time

Consider booking a private transfer if you want a direct, hassle-free, and comfortable journey!

This option provides a personal vehicle and driver, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the spectacular views.

Perfect for groups, private transfers offer adaptability and convenience, as you can select your departure time and tailor your experience.

Forget about navigating unfamiliar roads or dealing with public transport – a private transfer is the ultimate solution for traveling from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Montebello Lakes effortlessly!

Prices for a private transfer:

  • 1-3 Passengers: USD 150
  • 4-6 Passengers: USD 198
  • 7-9 Passengers: USD 209

3. Rental Car

Journey Duration: 3 hours

Another excellent and practical mode of transportation is driving with a rental car.

This option grants you the freedom and adaptability to travel at your speed, pause at eye-catching viewpoints, and explore the surrounding region at your leisure. 

Rental cars are accessible in San Cristóbal de las Casas, with various vehicle types to suit your budget and preferences.

The drive from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Montebello Lakes takes roughly 3 hours, with well-marked routes and straightforward navigation.

Remember that driving in unfamiliar areas can be challenging, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with Mexican road rules and customs.

Ensure you familiarize yourself with the route and prepare in advance to avoid any potential complications.

4. Transport + Tour

We recommend joining the Montebello Lakes and El Chiflon Day Tour from San Cristobal!

This transportation choice offers a convenient way to reach the lakes and a guided tour that will captivate you! 

With an experienced guide at your side, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the region’s astonishing natural beauty and gain fascinating insights about the area.

You’ll be picked up from your San Cristóbal de las Casas hotel and transported to the lakes in a comfortable vehicle. There will be ample time to explore and admire the vibrant turquoise lakes, imposing mountain peaks, and verdant forests teeming with wildlife.

The tour also includes a stop at the impressive El Chiflon Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip or marvel at the cascading water’s splendor.

After a day of adventure and exploration, you’ll be transported back to your accommodation in San Cristóbal de las Casas, feeling relaxed and invigorated from your extraordinary 12-hour adventure!

This option is the perfect way to fully experience the striking natural beauty of Montebello Lakes without any concerns or difficulties regarding your transportation!

Best day tours to Montebello Lakes

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

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