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The El Lagartero Archaeological Site is undoubtedly one of the most unique spots in Chiapas, thanks to its extraordinary location within a marshy area surrounded by the Lagos de Colón. Situated right on the border with Guatemala, what makes this site magical is that the pre-Hispanic structures are distributed across various islands and peninsulas, perfectly integrating with a landscape of turquoise lagoons and crystal-clear waters. The name comes from the abundance of lizards (lagartos) that once inhabited the area, though today it is better known for its peace and pristine natural surroundings.
Historically, El Lagartero was a major civic and religious...
center that peaked between 700 and 900 AD. Due to its geography, it served as a strategic hub for trade and cultural exchange between the Guatemalan highlands and the Chiapas lowlands. Architecturally, the site features a main plaza with significant pyramids, a ball court, and several carved stone stelae. A fascinating detail: the limestone structures reflect off the surrounding water, creating a sense of serenity and harmony rarely found in other archaeological zones.
Visiting El Lagartero is more than just a trip into the Mayan past; it is a full ecotourism experience. The contrast between the ancient grey stone, the deep green of the amate trees, and the brilliant blue of the lagoons is a dream for photographers and nature lovers. It is one of the few places in Mexico where you can finish exploring a pyramid and, just a few steps away, dive into a warm natural pool for a swim.
💡 Consejos:
Gear Up: Bring a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes. After touring the ruins under the sun, you’ll definitely want to jump into the Lagos de Colón to cool off.
Environmental Protection: The lagoon water is extremely pure. It is strictly mandatory to use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to...
avoid contaminating the ecosystem, the fish, and the tree roots.
Full Exploration: Don’t just stay in the main plaza. Walk the trails that connect the islands; the views of the water framed by Mayan structures are most impressive from the less-crowded points.
Access: The site is about 2.5 hours from Comitán. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle or book a tour, as public transport to this border region is limited and infrequent.
🕒 Horarios
Abierto 09:00 - 21:00
📍 Ubicación
Cristóbal Colón, La Trinitaria, Chiapas, México
Galería
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https://visita-chiapas.com/en/lugares/el-lagartero/