Orquídeas Moxviquil Botanical Garden is a safe haven for endangered, rescued and rare orchids that grow in the wilds of Chiapas. Spend a few hours surrounded by natural beauty at this lovingly tended garden, where colorful blooms, a lagoon, footpaths and a greenhouse ensure a delightful visit. Your money goes toward the future conservation of the plants too.
Chiapas has a rich biodiversity of Mexico’s plant life. At the garden you can view over 400 of the orchid species native to the Chiapas region. The garden was created in 1994 to protect and conserve mainly orchids, but other plants as well, which were being dumped and burned as forests were cleared. Visit today and you will find over 25,000 rescued plants of various epiphyte and other species.
Wander the little footpaths as they weave around the man-made lagoon. Admire the dainty, vividly colored flowers. There are 5 acres (2 hectares) of land to explore, where you will see many species of bromeliads, orchids, ferns and cacti amid the oak and manzanillo trees. Head inside the greenhouse to view the delicate orchids that need the humid tropical conditions found in Chiapas’ lowland forests.
Learn about the ecology and natural science of the region’s plants and appreciate their beauty. Spend some time in the visitor center, where photographs and information boards provide interesting insights. Here a small amphitheater looks out over the gardens. It is used for educational visits, presentations, poetry readings and small concerts. Inquire in the visitor center to see if any events are scheduled during your visit to San Cristóbal de las Casas.
The Orquídeas Moxviquil Botanical Garden is open daily and has an entrance fee. Proceeds further the work of owner Cisco Dietz and his dedicated team. The gardens are located just outside the city. Take a 10-minute taxi ride or embark on a pleasant 35-minute walk from the historic center to get here.
