SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LAS CASAS, Chiapas — Iconic tourist trams and mini-trains (trenecitos) have officially begun summer operations across the colonial streets of San Cristóbal de las Casas, welcoming thousands of domestic and international travelers arriving for the holiday season.
The traditional open-air vehicles offer guided historical tours throughout the scenic Jovel Valley, giving visitors a front-row seat to the city’s vibrant gastronomy, colorful architecture, and cool mountain climate. As San Cristóbal prepares to celebrate its 500th founding anniversary in about 18 months, transport companies have expanded their routes to accommodate the anticipated influx of tourists through July and August.
In addition to established stops at historic places of worship—including the churches of San Francisco de Asís, El Carmen, La Merced, San Nicolás Tolentino, Santo Domingo, and the Cathedral—the updated routes now encompass additional landmarks such as Puente Blanco, the City Theater, local protected wetlands, and the historic house of Spanish founder Diego de Mazariegos.
For many visitors arriving from warmer climates, the highland weather is a major attraction. Temperatures in the valley frequently drop to 8°C (46°F) at night and average around 10°C (50°F) in the early morning, making sightseeing wrapped in local artisanal textiles a popular experience.
Rafael Bermúdez Aguirre, operator of the long-running unit “El Coleto”, noted that his tram service has been operating for 26 years alongside several local cooperative companies to meet daily visitor demand.
Tours run seven days a week, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Departures originate on Insurgentes Avenue directly in front of the Sweets and Handicrafts Market (Mercado de Dulces y Artesanías), three blocks from the city center. Tickets are priced at 100 Mexican pesos per person, with discounted rates for senior citizens and 50% off for children ages 5 to 10.
Source: OEM
 have officially begun summer operations across the colonial streets of San Cristóbal.){kind=link}