This morning enjoy a shared tour of the charming colonial city of San Cristobal de la Casas, which has a local market where hundreds of indigenous people sell their textiles and handicrafts. We visit the cathedral on the northern side of the pretty main square, with its lavish gold-encrusted pulpit. We then walk a few blocks along narrow winding streets lined with red-tiled houses, to the impressive Santo Domingo Church founded in 1547 with its intricate pink façade and gilded Baroque interior.
After browsing in the handicraft market in front of the church, where Tzotzil Indians from the surrounding hills come to trade, we head to two indigenous villages in the Chiapas highlands.
In San Juan Chamula we visit a beautiful white church where the blending of pre-Hispanic traditions and Catholicism is evident in its rituals and where ceremonies are held to counter the influence of paganism. If visiting on a Sunday, you can explore the local market.
San Lorenzo Zinacantán on the other hand is very loyal to the Catholic faith and is known for its traditional textiles and indigenous population. The men wear pink/red jackets with embroidery and tassels, and the women wear vivid pale blue shawls and navy skirts. Every day at midday, the women prepare a communal meal that the men eat in shifts. They too hold a market on a Sunday.
In these villages you can see backstrap weaving, taste a delicious tortilla (made by yourself and cooked on a hotplate over an open fire) and observe other aspects of village. If you are adventurous, you can try a shot of 'pox' - a very strong ancient Mayan alcoholic drink made from sugarcane flavoured with cinnamon and hibiscus flower. Lunch is for your own account.
Note: Please be aware it is regarded as very disrespectful to take photographs of indigenous people without their permission. They are particularly sensitive to inappropriate dress, so don’t wear shorts or revealing clothing. In Chamula you are not allowed to take photos inside the church.