Palenque was built and inhabited from 100 B.C. to 800 A.D. Between 800 – 900 the Palencans migrated to the Yucatan; although there are several theories, on one knows why they abandoned this magnificent city. Palenque is a spectacular example of Classic Mayan architecture.

There are 1400 buildings in the city, but only a dozen or so have been excavated. The dense rain forest of the Chiapas Sierra surrounds the site and the Oltum River runs through the site via an aqueduct built by the Maya. One of the most famous buildings, the Temple of Inscriptions, houses the tomb of King Priest Pakal (603 – 633 A.D.) There is also a small but excellent museum on site.
Mishol Ha & Agua Azul Waterfalls

This area of Chiapas is hot and humid, so a trip to nearby Mishol Ha or Aqua Azul is a great way to spend the afternoon after a day at Palenque. Agua Azul is a turquoise blue water fall 34 miles from Palenque through the mountains. Mishol Ha is a little closer. You can swim at either, and there is are restaurants and changing areas available. Tours are available daily.
Bonampak Mural Boat to YaxilanBonampak & Yaxilan

Bonampak is two and a half hours from Palenque and Yaxchilan another half an hour from there and then one takes a boat across the river to Yaxilan. Both border Guatemala. There is a one-day tour or overnight excursions. If you have the time stay overnight. There is clean, adequate hotel on the banks of the river. This is truly a getaway.

Either way, you will be transported in time on the way to these out of the way places. The excellent highway is through the breathtaking Chiapas mountains and flanked with Mayan villages and farms. It is amazing how little their way of life seems to have changed. Many continue to live much as their ancestors did wearing the traditional Lacandon white robe, speaking Maya and living from the land.

PalenqueBonampak was not discovered until 1946. Ensconced in the jungle, Bonampak is most famous for the murals in the Temple of the Frescos.
Yaxchilan is a larger site than Bonampak. Striking features are the honey combed roofs and the stucco carvings. To reach Yaxchilan you ride on a riverboat with benches