Things to do in  Palenque

The town of Palenque isn’t a major destination on its own, but it’s a convenient home base for visiting nearby attractions. After exploring ancient ruins, waterfalls, and jungle, there’s plenty to occupy an evening in town, too—start with dinner at one of the restaurants near the city’s central park.

The ancient Maya city of Palenque puts the city of Palenque on the tourist map, as it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And it’s easy to see why: Stones adorned with stucco and sculptures climb against an emerald-green backdrop, while the cries of howler monkeys echo from terraced buildings and pyramids.

Heat, rain, and bugs are the main considerations when planning what to wear in Palenque. The most comfortable option is loose, breathable clothing that will keep the sun and mosquitoes away. If you’re planning to swim in a nearby waterfall, consider sturdy sandals or water shoes to protect your feet on slippery rocks.

No, you can't drink the tap water in Palenque. While some locals drink Palenque tap water with no problem, it can pose a problem for visitors or those with sensitive stomachs. Plan to bring a reusable bottle you can refill from bigger jugs of purified water at hotels, shops, and other destinations.

The Spanish word “palenque” means “stockade” or “fortification”, so likely refers to the city’s fortress-like stones and impressive architecture. It’s not the original name of the ancient Maya city, however. Before the Spanish came it was known in the Itza language of its inhabitants as Lakamha—the name translates to “big water.”

Chiapas is known for its Maya sites, colonial-era cities, and remarkable natural beauty. Things to do in Chiapas range from swimming in waterfalls to strolling San Cristobal de las Casas, spotting wildlife in Sumidero Canyon National Park (Parque Nacional Canón del Sumidero), and visiting archeological sites such as Palenque, Bonampak, and Yaxchilan.