Situation et moyens d'accès

The Selva Lacandona is a vast tropical rainforest located in Southern Mexico, near the town of San Juan Chamula. While there is no precise address, the jungle spans parts of Chiapas, including the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve. To reach it, most visitors travel first to San Cristóbal de las Casas, then arrange guided tours or transportation to entry points such as Lacanjá Chansayab or Bonampak.

• From San Juan Chamula: Hire a local guide or take a colectivo (shared van) to Palenque or Ocosingo, then transfer to jungle-bound transport.
• From San Cristóbal de las Casas: Organized tours often include round-trip transportation (4–5 hours by road).

Heures d'ouverture et billets

The Selva Lacandona is accessible year-round, but entry to specific archaeological sites or reserves may have restricted hours (typically 8:00 AM–5:00 PM). Fees vary:

• Community-Guided Tours: ~$20–$50 USD per person, often including access to ruins like Bonampak or Yaxchilán.
• Biosphere Reserve Fees: ~$5–$10 USD, payable at entry points.

Meilleur moment pour visiter

The dry season (November–April) is ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Mornings are cooler and offer better chances to observe animals. Rainy months (June–October) bring lush foliage but muddy trails.

Durée de la visite et activités

A full day is recommended for exploring highlights, though multi-day treks are possible. Activities include:

• Guided jungle hikes to discover flora and fauna (howler monkeys, toucans).
• Visiting Mayan ruins hidden in the forest.
• Boat tours along the Usumacinta River.
• Cultural exchanges with Lacandón Maya communities.

Installations

Basic facilities are limited within the jungle itself:

• Restrooms and simple eateries are available in Lacanjá Chansayab.
• No ATMs; bring cash (Mexican pesos).
• Parking is scarce; most visitors arrive via guided transport.

Ce qu'il faut apporter

• Sturdy hiking shoes, lightweight long sleeves, and insect repellent.
• Rain gear (even in dry season).
• Reusable water bottle and snacks.
• Jumelles pour l'observation de la faune.

Règles et règlements

• Respect restricted areas in biosphere reserves.
• Photography is permitted, but ask before photographing locals.
• No littering; carry out all waste.

Informations sur le contact

For guided tours, contact local operators in San Cristóbal de las Casas or Palenque. Official park information is scarce; inquire at tourist offices in Chiapas.