Tapachula, Administrative division in southern Chiapas, Mexico.
Tapachula is a municipality in southern Chiapas that straddles the border with Guatemala and serves as a major trading hub. Extensive coffee and tropical fruit production dominate the local economy while connecting trade routes between Mexico and Central America.
The area began as an Aztec settlement in the 13th century before becoming an important trading point. In 1794 it was named capital of the Soconusco region, replacing the earlier city of Escuintla.
A Chinese community has lived here since 1900 when workers arrived for coffee production and stayed to build businesses and families. Their presence shaped the city's commerce, food, and daily life in ways you still notice when walking through the streets.
The location near the Guatemala border and connections to other Mexican states make it straightforward to travel here. The subtropical climate brings high humidity and rain, especially during rainy season, so pack accordingly.
The region contains rainforest, mountain zones, and pine-oak forests within short distances of each other. This mixing of different ecosystems allows rare plants and animals to live close together in ways not found in many other places.
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