A paved and stepped path climbs beside the Río San Vicente past a sequence of waterfalls, Cascada Suspiro and Ala de Ángel, before reaching a viewing platform below the Velo de Novia, a 120 m single-drop cascade that is the trail's destination and the reason most people come. The walking surface is good throughout, though the final stretch of steps to the upper platform is steep enough to raise the heart rate, and the constant spray near the top keeps the stone slick. A side path continues above the Velo de Novia to a natural swimming pool, adding real distance and elevation gain for those who want a longer outing beyond the main waterfall viewpoint. The ejido opens the centre daily from 07:00 to 18:00 and charges roughly 60 MXN (approx USD 3.50) per person, with a zip-line circuit available as an optional extra near the entrance.
The Centro Ecoturístico Cascadas El Chiflón sits directly on the Comitán-Tuxtla Gutiérrez highway at km 91, with on-site parking and no advance permit required beyond the ejido's daily entry fee. The path is paved and stepped for its full length, climbing beside the Río San Vicente past the Cascada Suspiro and Ala de Ángel waterfalls before a final steep stretch of steps reaches the viewing platform below the Velo de Novia, a 120 m single-drop cascade that is the trail's main destination and natural turn-around point. The walking surface is good throughout, but the last stretch of steps is steep and kept slick by constant spray, so grip and pacing matter more than distance. A side path continues above the Velo de Novia to a natural swimming pool, adding real elevation gain for those continuing past the main viewpoint. There is no shelter along the route, though drink vendors operate near the entrance and again close to the upper pool.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Centro Ecoturístico Cascadas El Chiflón, Ejido Cristóbal Colón, Municipio de Tzimol
- Best season
- March to June for the strongest blue water colour and lower river flow underfoot
What to bring
- Shoes with good grip, since the upper steps and platform are frequently wet
- Swimwear and a dry bag if continuing to the upper pool
- Rain cover for cameras and phones near the spray zone
- Sun hat, as long stretches of the lower path are unshaded
- Cash in pesos for entry and the optional zip-line
Location
Centro Ecoturístico Cascadas El Chiflón, km 91 Carretera Comitán-Tuxtla Gutiérrez, 30180 Tzimol, Chiapas, Mexico
16.0072, -92.2625 View on map
Highlights
- 120 m single-drop Velo de Novia waterfall
- Cascada Suspiro and Ala de Ángel falls along the ascent
- Turquoise river pools suitable for swimming above the main falls
- Paved, well-maintained path for most of the climb
- Optional zip-line circuit near the entrance
Tips for visiting
- Wear shoes with good grip, since the upper steps and viewing platform are frequently wet
- Bring swimwear and a dry bag if continuing to the upper natural pool
- Protect cameras and phones from spray near the top platform
- Visit March to June for the strongest blue water colour and lower river flow
- Carry cash in pesos for entry and the optional zip-line
When to visit
March to June brings the strongest blue water colour and easier underfoot conditions; visiting on a weekday morning avoids the busiest crowds at the main platform.
Accessibility
The lower section of the paved path is relatively manageable, but the steep, stepped final approach to the Velo de Novia platform is not wheelchair- or stroller-accessible.
Frequently asked questions
How far is the walk to the main waterfall?
It is about 3 km round trip to the Velo de Novia viewpoint, roughly 1-1.5 hours at a walking pace.
Is swimming possible along the trail?
Yes, a natural swimming pool lies on a side path above the Velo de Novia, reached with additional distance and climbing.
What does entry cost?
The ejido charges roughly 60 MXN (approx USD 3.50) per person, with the zip-line circuit as an optional paid extra.