Chiapas: Authentic Indigenous Soul & Village Traditions

Rudy made this such a special day that we immediately changed our plans to do an additional tour with him the following week! He’s full of information, passionate about sharing his culture and history, and doesn’t make you feel like he’s done it all a million times. He’ll take you to spots you’d certainly miss with the bigger groups. Thank you, Rudy!

We have spent a great day with Rodolfo. His knowledge about the area and local habets is very impressive and his English is excellent. It was also very nice to discuss other things in general and learn from Rodolfo about Mexican society in the past and nowadays. We thought it was a very well balanced day with a lot of flexibility. The visit to the family who showed us their beautiful handicraft and their home-made lunch was one of the highlights. It makes a big difference to have somebody so knowledgeable with you. We really enjoyed it.Thank you Rodolfo.

Amazing tour, very powerful. The guide has shared comprehensive knowledge about the culture and surrounding. He speaks fluent English. He took us to an authentic house where they walked us through the textile making process and we ate a delicious fresh breakfast. Chamula was very powerful.

The tour was the most heartening and informative I have been on. I appreciate the places people and tour guide and would recommend this tour highly to anyone interested.

Rudy was AWESOME! He was incredibly informative and willing to answer questions both related and unrelated to topics covered by the tour. What I appreciated the most was the authenticity of his responses to questions from guests. Some of the topics covered during the tour can be considered to have a politically-charged nature to them, and he has a very graceful and skilled way of answering difficult and potentially controversial questions. Rudy was willing to offer his actual opinions in a way I felt was was reflective of both his experience and humility. At the conclusion of the tour, he offered a great recommendation for a taco place in San Cristobal (Tacoleta). I would give this tour a hundred stars if I could. Thank you, Rudy!

We went to the carneval in two different villages and had a really good time. I really can recommend the Guide 100%. He gave us so many Informations. Was a Perfect Day

I had the most wonderful and interesting experience with Rudy, experiencing carnaval on this tour. He was well informed, kind, spoke excellent English and eagerly shared his knowledge with us. He was very flexible and willing to accommodate what we wanted to do. I definitely learned so much about where I was and local traditions thanks to him.

San Cristóbal de las Casas, with its blend of Indigenous and colonial cultures, can feel like a maze for English-speaking travelers. Chiapas Experiences, led by the knowledgeable and passionate Rudy, breaks down those barriers to immerse you in the soul of the region’s rich history. We began the day by hopping into Rudy’s sedan for a personal journey to two remarkable towns: Chamula and Zinacantán. Chamula’s cathedral was a sensory experience like no other, where Native people gathered for homespun religious traditions—a fascinating mix of Coca-Cola, alcohol, pine needles, live chickens, and a staggering number of candles. It was an unforgettable display of how Indigenous and colonial cultures merge in this vibrant community. Another highlight in Chamula was a visit to an unmarked art center run by the talented artist Tex Lopez. The space included a gallery, a large studio where children learn art and connect to their ancestral roots, and a charming restaurant serving flavorful dishes. While Chamula dazzled with its vibrant rituals, Zinacantán offered a quieter but enriching experience. We strolled through the town’s streets, visiting its historic church and a women’s art collective. Meeting the artists and hearing their stories gave us a deeper appreciation for their craft and its role in preserving local traditions. These unique places and connections made the tour truly special. Without Rudy’s guidance, we would never have found these hidden gems. His insights between stops added additional depth, drawing from his experience as a tour guide, documentarian, and advocate for Chiapas’ rich cultural heritage. His passion for sharing the stories of the region—past, present, and future—shines through. For anyone looking to explore Chiapas beyond the surface, this tour is more than an experience—it’s an invitation to connect with the heart of its culture.

I have to say, this was the most meaningful experience of my trip so far. I have been travelling alone for 5 months and this was a perfect example of what I have been looking for, to witness indigenous culture, traditional celebration and raw spiritual moments. Rudy is such a genuine person who knows when to inform you - he kindly translated in English for me - and when to let you have your own experience. He knows what his guests will appreciate the most. We as a group bonded I think because Rudy effortlessly makes it so personal. We had so many magical moments in the day it was very moving to experience. This tour encapsulates the authentic travel experience which transcends 'things to tick off the list!' Honestly, I think this will be the most memorable moment I will treasure as a solo traveller. He is a kind and knowledgeable person. I feel so lucky I got to experience this day. It was the perfect day! Gracias 🙏

We had a lovely time visiting the two villages of this tour. Great guide and really interesting to see how different faiths have mixed here.