Many Indian villages near San Cristóbal are noted for weaving, embroidery, brocade work, leather, and pottery, making the area one of the best in the country for shopping. You'll see beautiful woolen shawls and skirts, colorful native shirts, and magnificently woven huipiles, which often come in vivid geometric patterns. A good place to find textiles as well as other handicrafts, besides what's mentioned below, is in and around Santo Domingo and the market. The stalls and small shops in that neighborhood make for interesting shopping. Working in leather, the craftspeople are artisans of the highest caliber. Tie-dyed jaspe from Guatemala comes in bolts and is made into clothing. The town is also known for amber, sold in several shops; two of the best are mentioned below.

For the best selection of new and used books and reading material in English, go to La Pared, Andador Eclesiásticos 13 (tel. 967/678-6367). The owners keep a large collection of books on the Maya, and Mexico in general, both fiction and nonfiction. Hours are Monday through Saturday 10am to 7:30pm.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.