Choose wisely. Connect locally.Add your business 
El Chiflón is a staircase of waterfalls on the San Vicente River in the dry, rolling country of southeastern Chiapas, near the city of Comitán. Mineral-rich water drops over a series of limestone ledges, and in the right season it settles into pools of startling turquoise beneath a corridor of tropical trees. The site is run as a community ecotourism park by local ejido members.
A stepped path climbs alongside the river past several smaller cascades before reaching Velo de Novia, the tallest fall, whose spray drifts across the viewing platforms. Lower down, the San Vicente River pools are calm enough for a swim, and some visitors also try the zip lines that cross the gorge. The municipality of Tzimol lies just beyond. In the wider area, Cenote Chucumaltik and the Uninajab natural pools offer quieter water stops, while Comitán itself adds a pleasant central park, Parque Central Benito Juárez, and the Museo de Arte Hermila Domínguez. The Maya ruins of Tenam Puente sit on a hillside nearby.
Travelers on a route through highland Chiapas often combine the falls with the Lagunas de Montebello and the river cascades of Las Nubes. Water color is best in the dry months; heavy summer rain can turn the river brown and close the swimming areas.
WiserMap travel guideEl Chiflón Mexico Velo de Novia Falls and Turquoise PoolsVisit El Chiflón Waterfalls in Chiapas: Velo de Novia, turquoise pools, Tzimol, Comitán, Montebello Lakes, regional food, where to stay and a three day plan.Read the guide
The main attraction of El Chiflón, the Bridal Veil waterfall drops about 120 metres off a cliff in a wide white curtain and sends spray across the viewing platforms. It is reached by a well-built uphill path of about 1.3 km with steps. Bring a rain jacket or plastic bag for your phone, as you will get wet up close.
El Suspiro is one of the first waterfalls you meet on the trail up the San Vicente River, a smaller cascade that tumbles into a turquoise pool surrounded by trees. It is a good warm-up stop with benches and photo spots. In the dry season the water is clearer, while the rainy season brings stronger flow but cloudier water.
Angel's Wing waterfall sits along the path between the lower pools and the Velo de Novia, where the river spreads over a rock face in thin white streams. A viewing deck faces it directly. The climb steepens around here, so pace yourself, carry water, and take breaks on the benches placed along the trail.
Rainbow waterfall is named for the rainbows that form in its spray when the sun hits it, usually in late morning and early afternoon. It lies near the top section of the trail, close to the Velo de Novia. Time your climb so you reach this stretch on a sunny day around midday for the best chance to see the colours.
Below the falls, the San Vicente River forms a chain of shallow turquoise pools and travertine terraces where swimming is allowed in marked areas. The water is cool and very blue in the dry months. Wear water shoes for the slippery rocks, and keep valuables in the lockers or with someone, as the pools can get busy on weekends.
A deep, round sinkhole filled with clear blue water in the Tzimol area, surrounded by rock walls and trees. Swimmers jump or climb down into the cool water, and life jackets are usually available. It is a quieter alternative to the busier river pools. Facilities are basic, so bring cash, snacks and a towel.
The Uninajab pools are a local swimming spot along a river between Comitán and El Chiflón, with clear water, small cascades and shaded banks managed by the community. It is a relaxed place for a picnic and a dip on the way back from the falls. Entry costs a small fee in cash, and services are simple.
The park operates zipline cables that cross the San Vicente River with views of the falls and the forested canyon. Rides are paid separately at the site and run when weather allows. It is a fun way to finish the visit; ask at the entrance about times and weight limits, and leave loose items behind before you go.
Tzimol is the small town that heads the municipality where El Chiflón lies, a short drive away on the road toward Comitán. It has a simple central plaza, a church and local eateries that serve regional food at modest prices. It is a handy place to fill up on fuel and supplies before or after your visit to the falls.
No reviews yet. Been to El Chiflón Waterfalls? Be the first to share your experience.
Share what you loved, what to skip and tips for other travelers.
Log in to write a reviewBeen to El Chiflón Waterfalls? Add your best shots to the gallery.
Log in to add photosPhoto: diego_cue, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: User:Angel06x, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Eduardo Manchon, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: diego_cue, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: BIOLOGO JORGE AYALA, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Nacasma, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
Photo: Carlos t, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: panza-rayada, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Didier Descouens, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: Atamari, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: José de Jesús Pascacio Castillejos, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
Photo: omar91, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 2.0
Photo: Wicki, Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
Photo: Forest & Kim Starr, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 3.0
Photo: Hans Hillewaert, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Hans Hillewaert, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: AlejandroLinaresGarcia, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
Photo: panza-rayada, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: panza-rayada, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: FRANCISCO MANUEL, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.5
