Grutas de Rancho Nuevo
Would you like to explore a natural wonder and have fun with your family? Then don't miss the opportunity to visit the Grutas de Rancho Nuevo Ecotourism Park, a natural area located 15 kilometers from the city of San Cristóbal de las Casas, in the state of Chiapas. In this place you can admire some impressive caves inside the mountain, walk through nature, ride a horse, slide down a very long slippery slope and enjoy the local gastronomy.
The Rancho Nuevo caves are caverns over 550 meters long, where you can observe rock formations such as stalactites and stalagmites, as well as animals such as bats. The tour of the caves has a cost of 30 pesos per person and 10 pesos per car at the entrance. Also, if you dare, you can access a deeper and narrower part of the cave with special equipment and an expert guide, for an extra cost of 300 pesos per person.
But the caves are not the only thing that this ecotourism park offers. You can also enjoy other outdoor activities, such as horseback riding for 50 pesos for 10 minutes, sliding down a 30-meter-long slide that is free, or camping for a symbolic fee. In addition, you can taste the typical food of the place, such as chorizo quesadillas, in one of the 10 local restaurants that are in front of the entrance to the cave. There are also little shops where you can buy handicrafts and souvenirs.
To get to the Grutas de Rancho Nuevo Ecotourism Park from San Cristóbal de las Casas, the most comfortable way is to take a combi (public transport) that goes in the direction of the city of Teopisca and tell the driver that you want to stop at Rancho Nuevo. The price of the trip is 20 pesos per person and the duration is about 15-20 minutes. The place where the combis leave from is Diagonal Arriaga street, located in the Cerrillo neighborhood, just behind the Santo Domingo church, very close to the city center market. Another option is to go by taxi, but the cost will be higher and it is recommended to agree the price with the taxi driver before boarding.
The park's visiting hours are every day of the year, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 pm We recommend that you wear comfortable and warm clothing, since the weather is usually cold and humid. We also suggest that you bring water and some snacks for the road.
The Grutas de Rancho Nuevo Ecotourism Park is an ideal place to spend a different and fun day in contact with nature. Do not miss it and live an unforgettable experience.
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