Palenque travel guide

Palenque travel guide

National Airports

Palenque has a small airport called the Palenque International Airport (PQM), which is located about 3 kilometers from the city center. However, the airport only serves domestic flights from a few Mexican cities, including Cancun, Tuxtla Gutierrez, and Villahermosa. The airport is served by airlines such as Interjet, Viva Aerobus, and Aeromexico. If you are traveling from an international destination, you may need to fly into a larger airport in Mexico, such as Mexico City or Cancun, and then take a connecting flight or bus to Palenque.

Trains in Palenque

There are no train services in Palenque. However, there are several bus services that connect Palenque to other cities and towns in Mexico. Buses are a popular and reliable mode of transportation in Mexico, and many companies offer comfortable and affordable options for long-distance travel.

Buses in Palenque

Palenque has a central bus station that offers regular services to nearby cities and towns, as well as other destinations throughout Mexico. There are several bus companies that operate in the area, including ADO, OCC, and Mayab, which offer comfortable and air-conditioned buses. From Palenque, you can travel to destinations such as San Cristobal de las Casas, Merida, Cancun, and Mexico City. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure a seat on the bus.

How to get to Palenque

Palenque is located in the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico and can be accessed by various modes of transportation. Here are some common ways to get to Palenque:

By air: The Palenque International Airport (PQM) offers domestic flights from cities like Cancun, Tuxtla Gutierrez, and Villahermosa. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to the city center.

By bus: Palenque has a central bus station with regular services to other cities and towns in Mexico. You can take a bus from destinations such as San Cristobal de las Casas, Merida, Cancun, and Mexico City.

By car: If you have your own vehicle or are renting a car, Palenque is accessible via the Pan-American Highway (Highway 186) or the Chiapas-Mexico Highway (Highway 199).

By tour: There are several tour companies that offer guided tours to Palenque from nearby cities, such as San Cristobal de las Casas or Villahermosa.

What is the best time to travel to Palenque

The best time to travel to Palenque is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm weather with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological sites and natural attractions around Palenque. The wet season runs from May to October and is characterized by high temperatures and frequent afternoon showers, which can make hiking and outdoor activities more challenging. However, the rainy season can also be a beautiful time to visit as the jungle and vegetation are lush and vibrant. Keep in mind that Palenque can be quite crowded during the peak travel season from December to February, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder season in November or April.

How to get around Palenque

There are several ways to get around Palenque and the surrounding area:

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Palenque and are a convenient way to get around the city. Make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

Colectivos: Colectivos are shared vans that operate on fixed routes and are a popular way to travel between towns and attractions in the area. They can be found at the Palenque bus station or along the main roads.

Buses: Local buses also operate in Palenque and the surrounding area. They are a cheap and reliable way to get around, but can be crowded and may not be the most comfortable option.

Rental car: If you prefer more independence and flexibility, you can rent a car in Palenque. Keep in mind that driving in Mexico can be challenging and roads in rural areas may be unpaved and poorly maintained.

Guided tours: There are several guided tours available in Palenque that can take you to the various archaeological sites and natural attractions in the area. This can be a convenient way to explore the area if you don’t want to worry about transportation logistics.

Accommodations in Palenque

Palenque has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and travel styles. Some options include:

Hotels: There are many hotels in Palenque ranging from budget options to luxury resorts. Some hotels are located in the city center, while others are situated closer to the archaeological sites.

Hostels: For budget-conscious travelers, there are several hostels in Palenque offering dormitory-style accommodations.

Cabanas: Cabanas are a popular accommodation option in Palenque, particularly for those looking for a more rustic experience. These standalone cabins are often located in jungle settings and offer a unique and tranquil experience.

Eco-lodges: For those interested in sustainable tourism, there are several eco-lodges in Palenque that offer environmentally friendly accommodations in natural settings.

Vacation rentals: If you prefer more independence and privacy, there are also vacation rentals available in Palenque, including apartments and houses.