ECOTOURISM

In San Cristobal?s environs you?ll find areas with rich natural resources, allowing you to discover the ecological importance of Chiapas? jungle habitats.

Huitepec Ecological Reserve ? Located 11 km (7 mi) northwest of San Cristobal de las Casas. This is one the newest nature reserves in the region. It is covered by mountain tropical forest, where you can observe various animal species such as rodents, amphibians and reptiles. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 to 4:00.

El Arcotete ? Located 4 km (2.5 mi) northeast of San Cristobal de las Casas. This spot has incredible rock formations surrounded by pine, oak and cypress forests, which are inhabited by squirrels, chachalacas and roadrunners, making it the ideal place for ecotourism outings.

Rancho Nuevo Ecological Reserve ? Located 10 km (6 mi) southeast of San Cristobal de las Casas, off Highway 190. In this region of dense jungle vegetation you?ll find various flora species in the coniferous forest, including medicinal plants like chamomile. As you walk through the reserve you?ll have the opportunity to see skunks, weasels, bats, armadillos, doves, deer, little riverside birds and opossums, among other species.