Mexico is recognized worldwide as one of the locations of some of the most cultural and natural diversity, which makes it an unmatched place of study and research. Additionally, it is one of several countries considered megadiverse, and the total flora and fauna of these countries combined accounts for over 70% of the planet’s total biodiversity.
Mexico is the third country in the world to be recognized for its biological diversity, but it occupies first place in diversity of reptile species (717), second place in mammals (451), and fourth in amphibians (282). Likewise, 32% of the vertebrates found in Mexico are endemic, and therefore can only be found here: of these vertebrates, 44.5% are found directly in the state of Chiapas.
In addition to this, Chiapas is also the temporary home to more than 200 migratory species, including birds, bats, fish, marine turtles, dragonflies, and butterflies. The butterfly species are especially noteworthy because, of the 1,200 species reported in Chiapas, they make up 80% of the known species in all of Mexico. The butterflies here are more than twice the number of migratory butterflies in both the United States and Canada.
Chiapas is an explosion of sounds, colors, and sensations that invite you to experience and participate in the rhythm of its music and dances, which represent the vast artistic and cultural wealth of our state. And let’s not forget the food!
One of the biggest draws of Chiapas is its ethnic diversity, which include a plethora of customs, languages, parties, clothing, and traditions. Additionally, there are indigenous groups - descended from the Mayans - that reside in the state of Chiapas: the Tzotzil, Tzeltal, Tojolabal, Jacalteco, Chol, Kanjobal, Chuj, Mochó, Cakchiquel, Lacandon, Chiapa, Zoque, and Mam. In the worldview of the indigenous, the earth is not separated, and therefore they live communally. Similarly, as nature is one with earth, so too do the indigenous consider themselves one with each other.
The diverse origins of Chiapas informs the art here, which is characterized by those who lived here before Spanish colonization. It has remained free from most outside influences over the years, and the towns have preserved many customs, traditions, ritual languages, and beliefs, as well as some elements of the worldview of the indigenous peoples.
Chiapas is located in a privileged geographic location: it is the main entrance to Central America, and it is the meeting point with South America. This results in a convergence of different cultures and traditions that allows our visitors a very unique experience.
Some of the main tourist attractions in the state are several of our world renowned archeological sites, including towns dubbed "Magical Towns" due to their symbolic attributes: legends, history, architecture, and food. The names of these towns are San Cristobal de las Cases, Chiapa de Corzo, Comitán de Domínguez, and Palenque.
With regards to archeological sites, Chiapas has an abundance: 3,000 are registered with the INAH (National Institute of History and Anthropology), but we have an estimated total of 45,000. Several are open to the public, including Toniná, Chiapa de Corzo, Izapa, Chinkultic, Tenam Puente, Lagartero, and, the most prominent; Palenque, Bonampak, and Yaxchillan. These last three are used for advanced research, and are the sites of important findings from Mayan culture.
There is little doubt that Chiapas is a unique destination: its art, culture, and emblematic sites encourage its visitors and residents to continue to discover all that is has to offer.
