Howler Monkeys in the Jungles of Palenque

The last few months have been a whirlwind of adventure for the two of us. In July alone we got married, packed up, or sold most of our possessions and made the final preparations for moving our stuff across Mexico in a car. When we arrived in Palenque, about a week after all this madness began, and we decided that we deserved a break. Our trip across the continent was going to be a long trip, so we decided to find a nice place to relax for a few days. This was the perfect slice of paradise in the jungles outside of Palenque, so we decided to stay for a while.

Moving everything important to us across the country was always going to be a challenge. This was during Covid, so of course there was an extra layer folded in. We had been so busy with all the associated tasks required to condense our lives into a few suitcases, that we hadn’t really stopped to enjoy things for a while. Palneque was the perfect place to stop. We rewarded ourselves with three nights booked at this jungle lodge. After everything we had been through, it was clear that we deserved a few days rest before moving ourselves further along the map.

This hotel was mostly empty during our stay which meant the jungle was peaceful and the pool was empty. You couldn’t ask for a more relaxing place to stay. The sounds of the jungle were mesmerising. We fell asleep to the sounds of crickets and other jungle critters echoing in our ears.

What makes the Jungles of Palenque so amazing?

Palenque is a very popular tourist destination, especially with the amazing natural and manmade wonders found nearby. Normally, the Mayan Ruins of Palenque would be a top destination in the area, but because of the global health crisis, they were one of the many things that were closed or unavailable at the moment. Instead of exploring the ancient ruins, we came here to relax in the jungle for a few days. Our visit was supposed to be filled with peace and quiet… Soon after our arrival, we began to hear the monkeys in the distance.

If you’ve never heard the sound of howler monkeys, the first experience is very likely to catch you off guard. The noises they make are quite unforgettable, but it is not a sound one would describe as pleasant.

We could find peace and quiet another day. We’ve always loved to experience wildlife in its natural element and this experience was no different. The edge of the jungle bordered our hotel, so they were right there next to the pool. It was incredible.

The screeching noises of the howler monkeys first echoed in the trees in the distance, slowly getting closer. Soon after, these tree climbing primates arrived in the canopy above us and we were quick to go outside for a visit with these guys. The howler monkeys put on quite the show for us.

Where is the Palenque and how do you get there?

If you’re traveling overland, your itinerary will most certainly spend some time somewhere nearby here. Palenque is located in Chiapas, which is at the crossroads where Central Mexico meets both Central America and the Yucatan Peninsula. It is located where the flatlands of the Gulf of Mexico begin to meet the rising hills of the south.

There are many busses from across Mexico and Central America that will make their way passed the region, so there should be no excuses for missing out. Palenque also has an airport which means it’s easy to pop in to the city to begin an overland trip through the state.

Palenque is most famous for it’s Mayan ruins, but the natural beauty found around the state is something that shouldn’t be missed. We visited Three Waterfalls in Chiapas on a previous trip, and would definitely recommend spending a few weeks in the region.

Howler Monkeys in the Jungles of Palenque