How to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque

Why visit Palenque?

Palenque is a top destination in Mexico for archaeology and Mayan history lovers. There’s really not much to see in Palenque town, but its jungles are another story. Palenque’s real attraction lies in the archaeological ruins hidden within the rainforest, just 20 minutes outside of town.

The whole complex has an Indiana Jones feel to it. Its structures are impressive, but they are unfortunately not as well-preserved as Chichen Itza. Still, some people actually prefer the ruins in Palenque because you’re able to climb on them, literally taking the experience to whole new heights.

Road Safety from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque

San Cristobal de las Casas and Palenque are two of the most famous destinations in Mexico and have a good safety record.

However, there have been some issues regarding the roads in between these towns, particularly the one from San Cristobal to Ocosingo. This route is infamous for its roadblocks and has had several incidents of robbery.

Alternative route via Villahermosa

Thankfully, there is a good alternative route to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque, which is via Villahermosa. This town is part of a different state (Tabasco) and is much safer.

The route via Villahermosa takes 7 to 9.5 hours, a bit longer than the direct route via Ocosingo, which is just 5 to 6 hours. But we think the security of the Villahermosa route is well worth the extra time.

To be clear, the road via Villahermosa also has occasional roadblocks. But they happen only once in a while, unlike the daily roadblocks in Ocosingo. Also, more cars and public transport operate on this route so if ever there is a roadblock, you most probably won’t be alone.

Buses take a safer route than taxis

Bus operators know the dangers of passing through Ocosingo, so they only take the route via Villahermosa. However, taxis and some other private transfers often prefer the shorter route via Ocosingo.

To be fair, taxis normally travel in a convoy as a form of defence. That’s usually a short line of minivan shuttles and other private transfers for safety. Still, the convoy isn’t always effective, so we would recommend asking the taxi driver to take the route via Villahermosa instead.

Renting a car?

Driving on your own from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque is possible, but we don’t recommend it.

Buses and taxis are safer as you will have a local driver who knows the area very well. They are trained to take the safest roads and know how to act in case they drive into a roadblock.

But if you’ve already decided on renting your own car, then make sure you take the Villahermosa route. Study the route beforehand too. Some roads can be very bumpy and it always pays to be prepared!

If you drive via Ocosingo and in just one car (not as a part of a convoy), you’re an easy target.

Why we don’t recommend travelling via Ocosingo

• Roadblocks. You will pass by some of the poorest towns in Mexico. The locals have created roadblocks to be like toll gates. For each roadblock, you will be asked to pay around 100 MXN ($5.60) to be able to pass. You will encounter several of them along the way. Prepare your 100-peso bills beforehand so you won’t have to get them from your wallet (or they might take your entire wallet too).
• Robbery. This isn’t common, but there have been instances of robbery and you can easily be the next victim. It has even happened to a convoy of 2 cars before. The cars were stopped and everything of value was taken away. We don’t think it’s worth taking the chance when there is a safer route via Villahermosa.
• Narco territory. The road between Ocosingo and San Cristobal is a well-known Narco territory, as well as the base of a few political and militant groups. Their enemy is the government, not the tourists. But that also means the government has very little control over this area.
• No order. Because of low government presence, if anything happens to you, you are most likely on your own. Authorities may not be able to help you take back your lost things or post a complaint for an injury. There have been incidents where the government even covered up crimes to stop any further investigation.

While speed is important, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. For guaranteed safety, always pick the Villahermosa route.

There are 2 ways to travel the 220 kilometre (137 miles) distance from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque. You can choose between the bus and taxi . The journey takes 7 hours to 8 hours 45 minutes and the quickest way is by taxi . If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 460 MXN ($25.50).

There are several bus trips from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque every day. ADO is the sole operator for this route. The buses include AC, reclining seats and a toilet.

Looking to save time as well as a night on accommodation? Then go for the night bus. If you are a good sleeper, you will be able to get a good night’s rest and wake up the next morning in your new destination.

The buses do make a few stops along the way where you’ll be able to stretch your legs and go to the toilet.

A bus ticket costs 460 MXN ($25.50) and the bus can complete the journey in around 8 hours 5 minutes to 8 hours 45 minutes.

Departure station

Buses to Palenque depart from San Cristobal de las Casas Bus Terminal, just a 10-minute walk from the town’s main square.

You can also get to the terminal by taxi that takes around 5 minutes from the city centre. Rates start at 50 MXN ($2.80).

A private transfer is a comfortable way to get from San Cristobal de las Casas to Palenque — especially if you’re travelling in a group or with kids.

There are two possible routes: one via Villahermosa and another via Ocosingo. The Ocosingo road is shorter and cheaper, but we won’t get tired of saying it — go with the Villahermosa route. It’s the safer, more reliable choice and makes a lot more sense if you want a smooth journey.

Take the safer route via Villahermosa

The Villahermosa route takes about 7 hours and uses toll roads that are well-maintained, smooth and free of sharp curves or speed bumps. It’s a much calmer ride — perfect if you’re prone to motion sickness or just want a worry-free trip.

We recommend booking with Taxi Seguro San Cristobal, a trusted local company offering private transfers via Villahermosa for 5,500 MXN ($305). Taxis are standard 4-seater sedans, and payment is made in cash directly to the driver on the day of travel.

For safety reasons, departures must be no later than 9:00 am, because the driver needs to return to San Cristobal before dark.

Why we don’t recommend the Ocosingo route

The Ocosingo road is shorter — around 5 to 6 hours — and cheaper, with standard fares from 3,500 MXN ($195) to 5,200 MXN ($290). But the route passes through remote areas that have experienced roadblocks and security issues in recent years.

Some drivers know how to handle these situations and choose the safest paths, but there’s still a level of risk. Take this route only if you’re very familiar with the area or absolutely need to save time and money.

If you decide to take the Ocosingo route, you can book a transfer through platforms like BookAway or Wayak. Keep in mind that these booking portals only offer the Ocosingo route and don’t cover the safer Villahermosa option. Make sure to book with a trusted provider and travel only during daylight hours.

Safety tips when travelling via Ocosingo

• Pick a trusted taxi company. We don’t advise just hailing a taxi from the street. Pick one that receives good reviews or ask your hotel’s staff to help you find a trusted ride.
• Ask if they’re travelling in a convoy. Many tour operators choose to travel in a convoy when taking on the Ocosingo route. Make sure that your taxi driver plans to join one. If he doesn’t, find another taxi.
• Secure your valuables. Hide all gadgets and anything flashy (especially jewellery!).
• Separate a few 100-peso bills (100 MXN ($5.60)) from the rest of your cash. This way, you can easily pay for roadblocks without showing all your money. A wallet full of cash can be very tempting for the hungry locals.
• Look brave, not fierce. One wrong look can piss off the locals. Try to look calm and confident, but be careful not to seem annoyed, aggressive, or even scared.
• Travel during the day. No taxi will want to travel at night anyway. That would be like asking for trouble.