Puerto Chiapas

Puerto Chiapas is a commercial port on Mexico's far southern Pacific coast, near the border with Guatemala. The port area itself is industrial, with limited facilities for passengers. Most visitors use it as a departure point for excursions to the colonial city of Tapachula, about 30 minutes inland, or to the archaeological site of Izapa, one of the earliest Mesoamerican cities with carved stelae dating back over 2,000 years. The Chiapas coffee region begins in the highlands above Tapachula, and the local coffee is some of Mexico's best. The Soconusco coast, where the port sits, has mangrove estuaries with birdwatching opportunities. Street food in Tapachula reflects proximity to Guatemala: tamales wrapped in banana leaves, fresh tropical fruit and strong local chocolate. The climate is hot and humid year-round. English is rarely spoken, and the area sees few international tourists, so basic Spanish is useful.