Where Culture, Coast, and Cuisine Come Together
Chiapas’ southern region is a true treasure trove of natural, historical, and cultural gems.
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Right in the heart of this region lie pristine beaches, archeological sites, towns filled with culture, and delectable cuisine. Tapachula is a great jumping-off point for an unforgettable journey through the Soconusco region.
Bewitching Beaches and Wetlands: from the Pacific Ocean to Mangrove Forests
▌Beyond the mountains, Chiapas spreads its coastal charm along the Pacific Ocean in Tonalá, one of the state’s oldest municipalities. It is home to Iglesia Vieja archeological site, a vital trade and communications hub between the highlands and the coastal region of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec that features enormous monoliths weighing up to two tons and structures that will pique your curiosity about the area’s enigmatic history.
※ Some 22 minutes away is Puerto Arista, the state’s most well-known beach, perfect for long strolls through its fringe of palm trees. Thirty minutes from here is Boca del Cielo, a beach with fine sand, split by a strip of land holding the ocean back from the lagoon. This unique feature creates spectacular scenery, just the place for boat rides and taking in the golden sunsets.
※ If you are looking for a nature-focused experience, El Madresal, in Tonalá, is an ecotourism center with rustic cabins tucked among mangrove trees. This initiative was created by fishermen from the town of Ponte Duro to protect the plants and animals living along Chiapas’ coast. On its unspoiled beach you can kayak, bird-watch, or just relax while soaking up the sounds of the waves and the jungle.
Hidden Gems in Chiapas’ South: Peace and Quiet, and a Taste of the Sea
▌Moving on down the coast, Riviera de Playa Azul beach is in Pijijiapan municipality. Start your adventure with a tour of the estuary that is part of the Reserva de la Biosfera La Encrucijada (La Encrucijada biosphere reserve). You can take a boat ride or try out a number of aquatic activities. Nearby is Chocohuital, an open sea beach on the other side of the estuary, lined with mangrove trees.
※ Another destination you are sure to want to explore is just an hour from Pijijiapan. Called Acapetahua, it is home to three breathtaking spots. The first is San Carlos (Las Palmas), an old fishing village that specializes in community tourism, letting visitors have nature-filled experiences.
※ Enjoy boat rides among the mangroves and marshes and savor the freshest seafood on Chiapas’ Pacific coast. To the south, you will find the second spot: Barra Zacapulco, where El Ballenato virgin beach is the perfect spot for water activities and fun. It features a bird observatory, restaurant, dugout canoes, and kayaks.
※ Finally, gaze in awe at the sweeping ocean views in Las Conchitas, where you can visit Isla de la Lupe, an island 1.9 miles from Campamento Tortuguero Barra Zacapulco, a sea turtle preservation project located in the town of Ranchería La Lupe. This is another treasure hidden between the wetlands and the ocean. Here, a group of women create handicrafts with coconuts, as well as other products such as soaps and oils.
The Taste of Soconusco:
Tradition in Every Bite
▌This region’s gastronomy is an exquisite blend of local ingredients and pre-Hispanic heritage. Especially exceptional is the high-altitude coffee grown on farms such as Santo Domingo. The beans are well-known for their aroma, body, and flavor. The chocolate is handcrafted following ancient recipes and is a key part of local celebrations.
※ Another point of regional pride is Ron Bonampak, a rum distilled from Chiapas’ sugarcane and aged in barrels. Just the thing to sip after a good meal. Don’t miss the tostadas turulas, crispy tortillas piled with shrimp, tomato, cilantro, onion, chili pepper, and lime. Or try macabil, a freshwater fish caught in nearby rivers. Traditionally it is grilled or turned into soup, its unique flavor evidence of the importance of rivers in the region’s culture.
Story-Filled Handicrafts
▌Folk art is also important here. In many of the towns in the Soconusco region, handicrafts are made with materials from coconut palms, such as bags, necklaces, lamps, and containers that have been intricately carved. These pieces are not only beautiful but also demonstrate the sustainable use of local resources.
※ Likewise, the hand-painted morros are figures depicting the Izapa culture’s worldview. These pieces, made from dried gourds, are painted by artisans who have learned the craft which has been passed down over generations.
※ Whether you are interested in ancient history, seascapes, one-of-a-kind dishes, or local handicraft traditions, the area around Tapachula boasts authentic, varied experiences. Come discover Soconusco, a corner of Chiapas where every spot has a story, every flavor is captivating, and every landscape tempts you to stay forever!
