How to Get From Palenque to San Cristobal De Las Casas

There are four daily bus departures from Palenque to San Cristobal De Las Casas. The company providing this service is ADO’s sub-branch OCC. It offers first-class buses that include AC, reclining seats and a toilet.

The bus journey takes around 8h 55m - 10h — much longer than the travel time of a taxi — because all buses take the Villahermosa route. It’s longer but safer.

So even though it’s a lengthy journey from Palenque to San Cristobal De Las Casas, you can be at peace for the entire journey. The buses also make short stops where you can stretch your legs and go to the toilet.

Want to save on a night’s accommodation? Take the last bus of the day at 21:25. You’ll arrive in San Cristobal de las Casas early morning — ready to start exploring.

A bus ticket from Palenque to San Cristobal De Las Casas costs $29 (480 MXN).

When taking a taxi or other forms of private transfer from Palenque to San Cristobal De Las Casas, you can choose which way to take: via Villahermosa or Ocosingo.

We strongly recommend the Villahermosa route — it’s the safer and more reliable option, especially if you’re travelling with kids or want to avoid unnecessary risks.

The safer route via Villahermosa is more expensive but worth it

The Villahermosa route is longer and travel time by taxi can take around 7 hours, compared to 5-6 hours via Ocosingo. The road is smooth, toll-based, and far more predictable in terms of safety.

Because of the distance and tolls, prices are higher, with rates starting from around $530 (9,000 MXN) for a private taxi with Palenque GL. It’s a higher price, but one that reflects the added safety and comfort of taking the Villahermosa route — and in our opinion, it’s worth it.

Why some operators still use the Ocosingo route

Many local taxis and travel agencies still take the route via Ocosingo because it’s quicker and cheaper. Drivers know the area and are trained to handle potential roadblocks or interactions with locals.

That said, this route has seen ongoing safety concerns. While the trip can often go smoothly, there’s a higher level of risk and unpredictability. If you’re not familiar with the region, we don’t recommend taking this route — the risk isn’t worth the savings.

Recommended taxi companies

For the Villahermosa route, we recommend booking directly with a trusted local operator like Palenque GL.

Many platforms like Wayak and BookAway offer transfers via Ocosingo by default, so it's important to confirm your route when booking. Some companies may allow you to request the Villahermosa route for an extra fee — and if that’s an option, we think it’s worth every peso.

If you decide to go via Ocosingo for time or budget reasons, make sure you’re well-prepared for the journey.

Safety tips when travelling via Ocosingo

• Pick a trusted taxi company. Don’t just hail a taxi from the street. Ask your hotel’s staff to help you find a good ride or choose one that is well-reviewed.
• Ask if they’re travelling in a convoy. There is safety in numbers, especially if you’re passing through unknown territory. Tour operators know this, which is why it’s a common practice to be a part of a convoy. Just make sure your taxi also plans to join one.
• Secure your valuables. Hide all gadgets and anything flashy (especially jewellery!).
• Separate a few 100-peso bills ($5 (85 MXN)) from the rest of your cash. You will encounter at least one roadblock along the way. When paying for your “toll fee”, it will be better if you don’t show that you’re carrying a lot of money.
• Look brave, not fierce. It helps to look calm and confident, but definitely not annoyed, aggressive, or scared. You don’t want to end up pissing off the locals or look like a pushover.
• Travel during the day. No taxi will want to travel at night anyway. That would be like asking for trouble.