Things To Do
in Simojovel de Allende
Simojovel de Allende is a highland town in Chiapas, Mexico, surrounded by pine and oak forests and perched at a cooler elevation than the tropical lowlands. The area has a strong indigenous heritage, with traditional crafts and farming playing a central role in daily life. Visitors can expect scenic scenery, rural charm, and close-knit communities that welcome curious travelers.
The town serves as a gateway to mountain trails, local markets, and authentic Chiapan culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Simojovel de Allende, where colonial architecture and vibrant local markets come alive. Stop by the local bakery to sample traditional pan de muerto, a sweet bread that is a local favorite. As you wander, take in the sights and sounds of the town waking up, with vendors setting up their stalls and locals greeting each other.
After a hearty lunch at a local eatery, visit the 16th-century church, Parroquia de San Juan Bautista, known for its stunning facade and intricate details. Spend some time exploring the nearby artisan shops, where you can find unique handmade crafts and textiles, perfect for souvenirs. Engage with local artisans to learn about their techniques and the cultural significance of their work.
As the sun sets, head to the central plaza where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town with locals gathering for the evening. Grab a bite at a street food stall, trying local delicacies such as tamales and elote. End your day with a relaxing walk under the stars, taking in the peaceful ambiance of Simojovel.
Start your day early and head to the nearby waterfalls of Agua Azul, known for their stunning turquoise waters and lush surroundings. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools, surrounded by the sounds of cascading water and chirping birds. Capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera as the sunlight dances on the water.
After soaking in the beauty of the falls, have a picnic lunch amidst the greenery, sampling local snacks while enjoying the serene environment. Take a guided hike to explore the surrounding trails, where you can spot diverse flora and fauna, and learn about the local ecosystem. Engage with your guide to discover the cultural significance of these natural wonders.
Return to Simojovel and unwind at a cozy café, reflecting on the day’s adventures over a cup of rich, local coffee. As the night progresses, visit the town's open-air market, where you can find a variety of crafts and local foods. Enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with music and laughter, making it a perfect end to a day in nature.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Basic hotel room per night | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or drink | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local bus/fare | $0.5-2 |
| 🧺Souvenir or handicraft | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich indigenous culture and crafts
- Natural beauty and pine forests
- Relaxed, small-town atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and some infrastructure
- Rural road conditions and limited healthcare options
- Longer travel times to major cities
- "¿Qué hora es?" - What time is it?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Places to Visit in Simojovel de Allende
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour lighting over the town square with the church façade and colorful buildings creating classic travel photography moments.
Panoramic viewpoint over pine forests and valley folds, ideal for wide landscape shots and sunset silhouettes.
Vibrant textures, textiles, and foods offering dynamic street photography opportunities with people in daily life.
Food in Simojovel de Allende
Simojovel de Allende Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional corn-based beverage (sometimes served as a light meal) enjoyed cold with lime or spices; widely available in markets and small eateries.
Must-Try!
A chocolatey, maize-based drink seasoned with cinnamon and spices; commonly found in local cafés and family kitchens.
Corn dough filled with beans, peppers, or meat and wrapped in banana leaves; a staple at markets and family meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, herbs, and regional snacks; great for tasting street foods and buying regional ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple greeting in Spanish (hola, buenos días) goes a long way; address elders with polite forms and avoid raised voices in public spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private settings or sacred spaces; accept a gentle refusal with grace.
Safety
Tipping in Simojovel de Allende
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10–15% is customary if service is not included; small tips for hotel staff and tour guides are appreciated.
Cash is widely used; many places accept cards, especially in towns with ATMs; carry some cash for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with higher humidity; brief afternoon showers are possible; stay hydrated and use sun protection during outdoor activities.
Cool mornings and evenings with pleasant daytime temperatures; drier air and clearer skies make for comfortable outdoor photography and hiking.
Frequent rainstorms; trails can become slick; carry rain gear and waterproof footwear; some roads may be slower or less reliable.
Simojovel de Allende at Night
Hiking in Simojovel de Allende
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby waterfall with forest trails; popular for day hikes and photography.
Eco hikes through pine-oak forests with lookout points and potential wildlife sightings.
Airports
How to reach Simojovel de Allende by plane.
Main gateway to Chiapas; approximately a few hours by road from Simojovel depending on routes and weather.
Also TGZ; same airport serving domestic and some international flights; provides additional travel options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant presence with languages such as Tzotzil in the region; strong cultural traditions and crafts.
Mixed heritage with agriculture-based livelihoods and family-run businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in towns and schools.
Played in schools and community centers; pickup games are common in evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Simojovel de Allende.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes based on corn, beans, squash, and vegetables; request that stocks are meat-free and avoid lard; many cooks can adapt stews and tamales accordingly.