What to Bring to a Walking Tour in San Cristóbal de Las Casas (and What to Leave Behind)

San Cristóbal de Las Casas is at ~2,200 m (7,200 ft), the streets are cobblestone, and the weather can change three times in one afternoon. What you bring to a walking tour matters more than you think.

This is the honest packing list, from the people who run the tours.

What to bring

Comfortable shoes

This is the most important thing. San Cristóbal de Las Casas is walkable but the streets are cobblestone and uneven, especially after rain. Wear shoes you have already broken in — not new shoes, not heels, not flip-flops. Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes are ideal.

A light jacket or sweater

The highlands get cool in the evening, even in the dry season. A light jacket or sweater is enough for the walking tour. For the Spirits from Chiapas night tour, bring something warmer — the temperature drops after sunset.

Cash

For tips, for market snacks, and for anything you want to buy along the way. Most market stalls do not take cards. Small bills are best — a 500-peso note for a 30-peso tamal is annoying for everyone.

Water

The altitude is ~2,200 m. You will feel it. Drink water before the tour and bring a bottle with you. The city sells bottled water everywhere, but it is easier to bring your own.

A hat and sunscreen

The highlands have strong sun during the day. A hat and sunscreen are not optional if you are walking for 3+ hours.

A light rain jacket

San Cristóbal de Las Casas gets afternoon showers, especially in the rainy season (May–October). A light rain jacket is small enough to carry and will save your day.

Your camera or phone

San Cristóbal de Las Casas is photogenic. You will want it.

What to leave behind

Heavy backpacks

You will be walking for 3–4.5 hours. A heavy backpack will slow you down and tire you out. Bring a small daypack or a crossbody bag instead.

Valuables

Leave your passport, extra cash, and expensive jewelry at your accommodation. Bring only what you need for the tour.

Formal clothing

Dress casual. There is no dress code on any of our tours, and San Cristóbal de Las Casas is a casual city.

Printed tickets

You do not need them. We have your booking on WhatsApp. Just show up.

Strollers (for the historic center)

The Andador Turístico is stroller-friendly, but the side streets and markets are not — cobblestones and narrow aisles. A carrier is easier than a stroller for the historic center.

What to wear (by tour)

San Cristóbal Walking Tour

Casual. Comfortable shoes, light layers, a hat. No dress code.

Authentic Local Experience and Gastro-Cultural Walk

Casual, but slightly nicer than the walking tour — you will be sitting in kitchens and family-run restaurants. Comfortable shoes are still the priority.

Spirits from Chiapas

Casual but slightly dressed up. The bars are social, and people tend to dress a bit nicer for a night out. Bring a light jacket — the temperature drops after sunset.

Tuxtla day tour

Casual and comfortable. You will be in a van for part of the day, so layers are useful (the van may be air-conditioned).

What about altitude sickness?

San Cristóbal de Las Casas is at ~2,200 m. Most travelers feel fine, but some feel short of breath, tired, or mildly headachy on the first day. To minimize it: drink water, take it slow on the first day, avoid heavy meals and alcohol the night before, and do not overplan.

If you feel unwell during the tour, tell your guide. We will adapt the pace.

What about rain?

We run tours in the rain. San Cristóbal de Las Casas gets afternoon showers, and the tours are designed to keep going. Bring a light rain jacket, and wear shoes that can handle a bit of water.

If the weather is dangerous (heavy storm, flooding), we will reschedule or refund. That is rare, but it happens.

FAQ

Do I need hiking boots?

No. Comfortable walking shoes are enough. The walking tour is on cobblestone streets, not trails.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, on all our tours. Bring water for your dog, keep them on a leash in the markets and kitchens, and let us know when you book so we can plan the route.

Can I bring my kids?

Yes. Kids under 4 do not pay. The Walking Tour is the easiest for young children — it is 3 hours, the tastings are small, and the pace is flexible.

What if I forget something?

The center of San Cristóbal de Las Casas has pharmacies, convenience stores, and shops for almost anything you might need. If you forget something, you can buy it before the tour.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Tell us when you book, not on the day. The Walking Tour is easiest to adapt. The food tours need advance notice because the kitchens prepare specific dishes.

Ready to book? Message us on WhatsApp or see the San Cristóbal Walking Tour.