Lagunas Tziscao is part of the Lagune de Montebello (Lakes of Montebello), 59 lakes in Southern Chiapas that vary in color due to their minerals and the sun—turquoise to emerald, dark green, blue-green, steely grey and even violet. Morning is best time to see all the colors in this beautiful national park.

Lagunas Tziscao is one of the southern lakes in this group. As you enter the park, take the road to Tziscao. The village of the same name is beside Lagunas Tziscao; they are about 6 miles down the road. There is no sign announcing that you have arrived but the locals will cheerfully great you when you reach the village. It is a very small settlement with minimal amenities so be sure to pack in any food or water that you think you’ll need during your tour.

You will see a dirt road that leads to the lake, a magnificent vision of turquoise water surrounded by hills. There are hiking paths around the lake that will keep you busy for hours! However, since it is in such a remote area it is best to take a companion along with you.

If you’d like to explore the area on horseback, don’t worry about finding a stable. The natives of the village will quickly find you and offer to rent you their horses and even guide you around the lake. There are actually ten lakes in the area nestled in the hills and valleys, surrounded by forests of pine, cypress, oak and cork lidambar. You will see many species of orchids, some of which are endangered so be sure to watch where you are going so as not to trample them. You’ll be kept busy watching the parakeets, deer, anteaters, parrots, opossums, wild boar, squirrels and other native animals.

Eventually you will come to the Tziscao ecotourism center. It has eight double A-frame cabins, a hostel that shelters fifteen guests, a restaurant with regional food and a campground. You can rent a raft, a paddle boat or a kayak with which to explore the lakes or relax with a swim after your hike. The lake is dotted with beautiful white beaches that make a startling contrast to the blue waters. Wildflowers surround the lakes and beaches, making the area appear to be a tropical paradise. It is truly a treat for all of our sense and you may well be tempted to spend more than a day or two here.

Lagunas Tziscao is an excellent base from which to explore more of the Lagunas de Montebello. Take care, however, to stay within the borders of Mexico or you may have some unwelcome trouble. Pay attention to markers that are placed intermittently and seemingly randomly about the park telling you where the border is.

To get to Lagunas Tziscao, you can rent a car or take a bus from Comitan. The tourism bureau will provide you with a detailed map of the area if you ask for one and you’ll find it very helpful.