Getting to Palenque National Park
Palenque National Park sits in Chiapas, Mexico, with Palenque the nearest town of any size — about 7.4 km (4.6 mi) out, or roughly 12 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Palenque | 7.4 km (4.6 mi) | 12 min |
| Ignacio Zaragoza | 8.3 km (5.2 mi) | 14 min |
| Belisario Domínguez | 10.9 km (6.8 mi) | 18 min |
| Arroyo Palenque | 12 km (7.5 mi) | 20 min |
| Jerusalén | 13 km (8.1 mi) | 22 min |
| Doctor Samuel León Brindis | 13.3 km (8.3 mi) | 22 min |
| San Miguel | 14.1 km (8.7 mi) | 23 min |
| Estrella de Belén | 14.2 km (8.9 mi) | 24 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Palenque National Park?
Palenque, about 7.4 km (4.6 mi) away — roughly 12 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Palenque National Park?
The practical bases are Palenque, Ignacio Zaragoza, and Belisario Domínguez — all within a reasonable drive of the park.