El Panchan was founded in 1980 by Don Moises Morales Marquez (left), a noted expert on the ancient Maya and the region around Palenque. Twenty years ago Don Moises reforested fourteen acres which have become one of the most beautiful natural places in Palenque. The forest is home to incredible birds such as Toucans, hummingbirds, and many others.

El Panchan is devoted to ecotourism. It is staffed by "the Familia Morales" and an international group of nature lovers, artists, and experts in the region who are always available to help and inform visitors. El Panchan is also a favorite hang out for the archaeologists working at the site of Palenque.

El Panchan as located adjacent to the Palenque National Park, 2 km. from the ruins, 1 km. from the site museum, and 4.5 km. from town of Palenque. From El Panchan you can walk to the archaeological site or take a "colectivo" (every 15 minutes from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.)

El Panchan has special events, seminars, public lectures on the Mayan culture, live music, and dancing. We also organize special trips including bird watching and botanical tours.

Chato's Cabañas

• Rooms and bungalows with private baths and hot water
• Swimming pool
• Temascal (Steam bath)

• Hammock and camping areas
• Bicycle rentals
• Jungle walks and tours

    Price (In U.S. Dollars):
    Single - $ 10
    Double - $ 12
    Triple - $ 14

Chato's Cabañas has 20 simple but comfortable bungalows, each with hot water, private bathroom, and screened windows. Many rooms are decorated with paintings created by our talented guests.

Within the boundaries of El Panchan are two unpolluted natural streams and a swimming pool. We also have a temascal (steam bath), a natural way of cleansing your body by the use of steam and aromatic herbs.

Café Restaurante Don Mucho

Café Restaurante Don Mucho specializes in home-style Italian and Mexican dishes and features local cuisine based on organically grown vegetables such as macal, yuca (a local manioc), chayote (a native squash), chaya (a leafy vegetable with more protein than meat) and many others.

Café Restaurante Don Mucho features live music and other entertainment throughout the week. A gift shop with handmade crafts is located on the premises.