Making the most of Puerto Chiapas
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Puerto Chiapas's cruise terminal sits within the Puerto Chiapas port complex. Tapachula is the nearest significant town, approximately 20-30 kilometers from the port.
A shuttle runs all day from the Puerto Chiapas cruise terminal to Tapachula's central plaza. Tickets, at $10 pp return, are sold inside the large palapa-styled terminal, and the journey takes about 40 minutes each way.
The park-like terminal has two buildings. One contains the pier market, with several vendors and a performance space; the other has a bar, restaurant and internet access.
Make this a relaxing day, as there are few sights nearby. A pleasant beach lies close to the terminal, or you can take a tour. Tapachula is somewhat run down and a little rough, rather than a destination in itself.
Getting around
Beyond the Tapachula shuttle, other tours are available on arrival, including Chocolate City and Izapa Ruins.
Money
Mexico's currency is the peso (MXN). Its symbol matches the US dollar sign, which can be slightly confusing. In tourist areas, dollar prices are marked "US$" or with an S carrying a double stroke. There are about 17 peso to 1US$.