Safety

Can I feel safe in the cities and communities of Chiapas?
The State of Chiapas is conformed by a plurality of indigenous communities, so it is necessary to respect their customs in order to fully enjoy their hospitality. This is the best way of avoiding any misunderstanding or confusion regarding the locals, which are usually of peaceful behaviour.
On the other hand, despite the presence of the insurgents of the Zapatista National Liberation Army (EZLN), there are neither armed clashes nor terrorist attacks in the State of Chiapas.
The members of the EZLN are usually in zones far from the cities and tourist centres, therefore travellers will have no inconvenience on that regard.
Once in the cities, take the necessary measures to avoid any unpleasant surprise. Carry only the money you consider indispensable, fully mind your belongings, do not go along solitary and dark places, and leave your valuable objects at the hotel provided it has a safety box.
If you follow these recommendations you will not have major problems in the cities of the State of Chiapas, which are characteristic for being welcoming and peaceful.

What should I do in case of an emergency?
If you were to face any kind of emergency, get in contact with the embassy or consulate of your country of origin, or approach the officers of the Tourist Police, a unit prepared to handle situations and orientate tourists. They can be easily spotted on the surroundings of the main attractions of Tuxla Gutierrez, the capital of Chiapas.
It is advisable to call or go to the following institutions:

In Tuxla Gutierrez

Mexican Red Cross
Address: 1480, 5th Norte Poniente
Phone number: 200- 962-9514

Secretariat of Foreign Affairs
Address: Belisario Dominguez Boulevard, kilometre 1670

In San Cristóbal de las Casas

Mexican Red Cross
Address: 57 Ignacio Allende Avenue
Phone number: 678-0772

Judicial State Police
Address: Insurgentes Prolongation, unnumbered
Phone number: 678-6466

In Palenque

Judicial State Police
Address: Reforma, unnumbered, between Mina and Chiapas
Phone number: 50-788

Mexican Institute of Social Security
Address: 12 de Octubre Street, corner with Nuevo Mexico
Phone number: 50-850

Are hurricanes and tropical storms frequent?
No, they are isolated climatologic phenomena that sporadically pound the State of Chiapas.
In case you face one of these abnormalities during your stay, follow the recommendations issued by the authorities and do not go on excursion that could put you in a threatened situation.