Tuxtla Gutiérrez

About Tuxtla Gutiérrez

The state capital of Chiapas is a busy, modern city spread across a hot central valley. Unlike the highland towns, it is mostly modern, a busy commercial and administrative hub rather than a colonial showpiece. Most visitors pass through on their way to San Cristóbal or the Sumidero Canyon, but the city has several worthwhile stops of its own.

The Plaza Cívica is the civic heart, facing the Catedral de San Marcos, whose bell tower features moving figures when the chimes ring. In the evening, the Parque de la Marimba fills with locals dancing to live marimba music, a lively introduction to Chiapas culture. The Museo Regional de Antropología e Historia presents archaeology and history from across the state, and the Casa de Artesanías displays and sells handicrafts. The ZooMAT is a highly regarded zoo dedicated to species native to Chiapas, set in natural forest. Near the museum, Madero Park and the Botanical Garden offer shady walks. On a hill above town stands the Cristo de Chiapas statue. Just outside the city, roads lead to miradores overlooking the Sumidero Canyon, and boat trips depart from nearby Chiapa de Corzo.

Tuxtla suits travelers using it as a practical base or transit point. The climate is hot, so mornings and evenings are best for exploring.