Things To Do
in Parilla

Parilla, Mexico is a small town in Chiapas known for its lush jungles, colorful markets, and friendly communities. It blends Maya heritage with Spanish colonial influences, creating a warm, walkable center anchored by a lively plaza. The surrounding rainforest, rivers, and coffee lands invite nature lovers and cultural curious travelers alike.

Visitors can savor Chiapas flavors, learn traditional crafts, and use Parilla as a gateway to regional adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Parilla and settle into your accommodation, taking some time to refresh after your journey. Stroll around the charming streets adorned with quaint shops and colorful buildings, soaking up the local atmosphere. Visit the local artisan market to sample fresh produce and handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a local eatery to indulge in traditional Mexican cuisine, famous for its rich flavors and unique spices. Afterward, head to the central plaza to admire the historic architecture while mingling with friendly locals. Explore more of the surrounding neighborhoods, each revealing its own picturesque scenes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic walk along the river and take in the breathtaking views. Find a cozy restaurant for dinner and savor authentic dishes, perhaps trying a classic mole or street tacos. End the evening by experiencing a vibrant local music performance or enjoying a quiet drink at a nearby bar.

day 2
Historical Immersion
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the local museum, where you can learn about the rich history of Parilla and its cultural significance. Engage with exhibit guides to gain deeper insights into the region's past. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to a nearby ancient site to further explore the area's historical treasures.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a rooftop café, taking in panoramic views of the city while sampling local delicacies. Post-lunch, embark on a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems, including street art and lesser-known landmarks. Take the chance to ask your guide questions about local legends and folklore for a deeper understanding.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, visit a traditional venue to experience folk dances that narrate the story of Parilla. Dine at a nearby taqueria renowned for its authentic flavors, and taste the artisanal salsas that accompany your meal. Wrap up the night by mingling with locals at a community gathering or market night.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Cup of coffee$1-3
🧃Local beverage (pozol or tascalate)$0.50-2
🚕Short taxi ride$3-8
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-45

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich local culture and friendly communities
  • Compact town walkability and easy access to nature
  • Seasonal rains can affect outdoor plans
  • Limited English spoken outside tourist areas
  • "Buenos dias" - Good morning
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Parilla

Visit one of these nice places.

Central Plaza at Sunrise

Historic plaza framed by colonial buildings and a water fountain.

Iglesia de San Pedro

18th-century church with carved facades and stained glass.

Mercado Central Facade

Vibrant market facade with colorful textiles and produce.

Rio Parilla Riverside Lookout

Scenic riverbank with sunset views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Parilla

Parilla's cuisine blends Chiapas staples with Maya influences, featuring corn, cacao, peppers, and fresh tropical produce.

Parilla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tamales de chipilin

Tamales made with chipilin leaves in corn masa, a Chiapas specialty.

Must-Try!

Pozol

A thick, refreshing maize beverage often served cold with a hint of cacao or cinnamon.

Tascalate

A traditional cacao-based drink mixed with spices and sesame, typically found at markets.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central Parilla

Bustling market offering fresh produce, local snacks, and drink stalls.

Street food alleys

Tacos, sopes, elotes, and fresh fruit cups along the central lanes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Parilla experiences a tropical-montane climate with distinct wet and dry seasons; hot summers, mild winters, and high humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Protocol

Greet with 'Buenos dias' and use the formal 'usted' with strangers.

Photography and Community

Ask for permission before photographing people or private ceremonies; avoid photographing children without consent.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for travelers during the day; petty theft can occur in crowded markets. Keep valuables secure, use reputable transport, and follow local advice.

Tipping in Parilla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tip 10-15% in restaurants; round up for street vendors if you’re happy with service.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred for markets; major cards accepted in hotels and many restaurants; ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with afternoon showers; pack light clothing, sunscreen, and bug spray.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures with occasional rain; ideal for outdoor markets and walks.

Winter

Milder days, cooler nights; layering is recommended.

Spring

Warm days and lush vegetation; great for hikes but be prepared for brief showers.

Nightlife Guide

Parilla at Night

The nightlife scene is relaxed, centered around plaza cafes, small bars with regional music, and weekend markets; expect live marimba or acoustic sets in some venues.

Hiking in Parilla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascadas Agua Azul (nearby)

Spectacular turquoise waterfalls and jungle trails within a short drive.

Parrondo Ridge Trail

Accessible ridge hike offering panoramic views of the region.

Airports

How to reach Parilla by plane.

Tuxtla Gutiérrez International Airport (TGZ)

Primary regional airport; about 2.5-3 hours by road from Parilla.

Palenque International Airport (PQM)

Smaller airport serving regional flights; about 4-5 hours by road.

Getting Around

Walkability

Parilla is compact with a walkable center; sidewalks are generally well maintained in the core; some steep streets just outside the main area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous communities (Tojolabal and Mam)

Strong presence in rural areas; rich traditions and crafts.

Mestizo and mixed-heritage residents

Majority in urban areas; diverse influences in food and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The most popular sport; local teams and street games are common.

Basketball

Youth leagues and pickup games are common in community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in town; on main highways, expect occasional slowdowns during market days; public transportation includes buses, taxis, and ride-hailing options where available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Parilla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many vegetarian options exist; ask for vegetable, bean, and corn-based dishes; avoid meat stock in soups.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are local clinics and a regional hospital in the nearby city; most emergencies require transport to a larger hospital in Tuxtla; some English-speaking staff in larger facilities.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide