Descend the Lacanjá: Rafting, Jungle Trail and the Lost City of Lacanjá

TUXTLA GUTIÉRREZ GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Descend the Lacanjá: Rafting, Jungle Trail and the Lost City of Lacanjá

A full-day guided outing from Palenque that pairs a 2.5-hour river descent on the Lacanjá with a jungle hike to a virgin archaeological site and a swim beneath Moctuniha waterfall.

Descend the Lacanjá: Rafting, Jungle Trail and the Lost City of Lacanjá.

Duration
14 hours
Location
Tuxtla Gutiérrez
Operator
EcoExperiencias Tour Operators
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Embark on an exhilarating jungle day that threads whitewater and rainforest. The Rafting y Sendero en la Ciudad Perdida follows the Lacanjá River through dense Lacandon vegetation, delivers a sustained descent on the river, and culminates in a guided hike to a small virgin archaeological area—known locally as the lost city of Lacanjá—followed by a visit to the Moctuniha waterfall where swimming is possible.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE RIVER

A 2.5‑hour river descent on the Lacanjá

The itinerary centers on a sustained rafting descent of the Lacanjá River with stops at waterfalls for jumps and short swims, delivering concentrated adrenaline amid lush jungle scenery.

THE ARCHAEOLOGY

A virgin archaeological pocket in the Lacandon

A guided walk through dense vegetation brings you to a small, virgin archaeological zone—the so‑called lost city of Lacanjá—immersed in the rainforest and reached on foot after the river section.

THE WATERFALL

Moctuniha waterfall: swim and relax

After the hike and river return, the group visits Moctuniha waterfall where participants can swim and linger in the surrounding nature while awaiting transportation back to Palenque.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

This is a long, immersive day that alternates bursts of river‑driven adrenaline with a slower, sensory jungle hike. You descend the Lacanjá with intermittent waterfall stops, then switch to foot travel through dense Lacandon vegetation to reach a remote archaeological clearing and the Moctuniha cascade—ending the outing with food, a swim, and a return ride to Palenque.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits (and who should sit this one out).

1
Active adults and young adventurersA strong match: the outing is designed for energetic participants comfortable with rafting, hiking and swimming.
2
Families with older childrenSuitable for families with children aged 12 and up who can swim and handle a long day in the jungle.
3
Travelers with limited mobilityNot recommended—participants with mobility restrictions should choose a less demanding option.
4
Non‑swimmers or weak swimmersThis trip requires swimming skills; it is not appropriate for those unable to swim confidently.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration

The full experience runs approximately 14 hours.

Meeting point

Meet in Palenque for departure; pickups originate from hotels in Palenque.

What to bring

Bring comfortable clothing, tennis shoes, a hat, sunscreen, an extra change of clothes, and additional money for food or drinks.

Age & ability

Activity is suitable for young people and adults; children from 12 years old. Swimming skills are required and the trip is not recommended for people with mobility restrictions.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Rafting y Sendero en la Ciudad Perdida trip?

The outing lasts approximately 14 hours.

Where do we meet for the tour?

The meeting point is Palenque; departures begin from hotels in Palenque.

Is this trip suitable for children?

Children are allowed from 12 years old; the activity is designed for young people and adults.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Yes—swimming skills are required for participation.

What should I bring with me?

Bring comfortable clothing, tennis shoes, a hat, sunscreen, an extra change of clothes, and extra money for food or drinks.

What are the main activities on the itinerary?

The day includes a river descent with waterfall stops, a guided jungle hike to a small virgin archaeological area, and a visit to Moctuniha waterfall with time to swim and eat before returning to Palenque.