Sumidero Canyon Mexico Boat Rides Cliffs and Crocodiles
Sumidero Canyon is a narrow gorge cut by the Grijalva River just north of Chiapa de Corzo in the Mexican state of Chiapas. Its sheer limestone walls climb up to about 1,000 metres, and a boat ride along the river puts you at the base of the cliffs, where crocodiles bask on the banks and spider monkeys swing through the trees.
- Best timeNovember to April is drier, while the rainy season brings waterfalls.
- How longAllow one full day, or two with Chiapa de Corzo.
- Getting thereFly into Tuxtla Gutiérrez and take a short taxi or colectivo to the docks.
Why visit Sumidero Canyon
The canyon began forming about 35 million years ago, at roughly the same time as the Grand Canyon in the United States.
Most visitors are Mexican families and tour groups, so the experience feels local and lively. It is also easy to reach from both Tuxtla Gutiérrez and San Cristóbal de las Casas.
On the water in the canyon
The boat trip from Chiapa de Corzo
The boat tour is the best way to see the canyon. Shared motorboats leave from the docks in Chiapa de Corzo and run the length of the gorge to the dam and back, which takes about two to three hours. Life jackets are provided and required. Bring water, a hat and sunscreen, and be ready to wait for a boat to fill on quiet days. 
Cueva de Colores
The Cave of Colors is a small cave whose walls show shades of pink from minerals filtering through the rock. The guides point it out as the boat slows beside it, and a small image of the Virgin of Guadalupe is often kept inside. Nearby, the Cave of Silence takes its name from its lack of echo. 
Árbol de Navidad waterfall
The Christmas Tree waterfall is a seasonal cascade whose moss-covered deposits form tree-like branches. It is most striking in the rainy season, when water runs down the face. In the dry months it can be little more than a damp patch, so ask your guide what to expect. 
Chicoasén Dam
At the northern end of the canyon the Chicoasén Dam closes the river. It is an embankment dam about 260 metres tall, built to supply hydroelectric power, and it is the reason the river is calm enough for boats today. Boats usually turn around near here, and a vendor boat sometimes sells snacks and drinks. 
Wildlife along the banks
American crocodiles sunning on rocks are the most reliable sight, while spider monkeys, herons and parrots often appear above the waterline. Keep your hands inside the boat and follow your guide's advice. Binoculars help with the birds. The canyon is also home to the Central American river turtle, an endangered species that you may glimpse near the surface if you keep your eyes on the water.
Clifftop viewpoints
The miradores
A park road climbs from the north edge of Tuxtla Gutiérrez to six scenic overlooks, including La Ceiba, the closest, and viewpoints such as La Coyota and El Roblar. From the rim you see the river as a thin green ribbon far below.
Chiapa de Corzo town
The plaza and La Pila
Chiapa de Corzo is one of Mexico's Pueblos Mágicos, and its wide main plaza is the place to start. At its centre stands La Pila, a brick fountain in Mudéjar style. Sit under the arcades with a cold drink and watch town life. 
Templo de Santo Domingo
This late 16th century church has three naves and a gilded cedar altar. You can climb the bell tower for views over the old town. Allow about an hour for the church and monastery. 
Museo de la Laca
Next door, the former monastery houses the lacquer museum with five galleries of shiny black lacquerware, a craft long associated with the town. It is a good rainy-day stop and is usually closed on Mondays, so check ahead. 
Archaeological zone and marimba museum
The small archaeological site holds remains dating back to 1400 BC, and the oldest tomb found in Mesoamerica came from here. The Marimba Nandayapa house museum explains the history of the instrument, though visits are by appointment. Together they fill a quiet afternoon. 
Mercado Municipal
The municipal market sells fruit, spices, cheese and regional crafts. Stalls on the ground floor serve local dishes, so come hungry.
Food and local flavors
Chiapas cooking keeps strong indigenous roots. In the market of Chiapa de Corzo, look for cochito al horno, roast pork seasoned with ancho chile.
Pozol, a drink of fermented corn dough, is sold cold and often with a pinch of salt or a slice of chile. A local crumbly cheese called crema doble is also worth tasting, and Chiapas coffee is a good way to end the meal.
Popular dishes to try in Sumidero Canyon
Where to stay
Chiapa de Corzo is the best base for the canyon, with a walkable centre, colonial charm and the docks only a short ride away.
Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the state capital, offers the most choice, the airport and the bus station, and fits short trips and business visitors.
Ribera Cahuaré is the riverside area near the old bridge, where some hotels sit beside the Grijalva.
San Cristóbal de las Casas is a popular highland base, and many tours run to the canyon from there.
Where to stay in Sumidero Canyon
Best time to visit
The park has a hot climate year-round, with an average temperature around 26 degrees Celsius. The rainy season runs from May to October, when waterfalls flow and the forest is green.
Visit early in the day to avoid the heat and the crowds. In January Chiapa de Corzo holds the Fiesta Grande, from 8 to 23 January, with parachico dancers, music and a mock naval battle on the river.
Getting there and getting around
The nearest airport is Tuxtla Gutiérrez, about 35 km south of Chiapa de Corzo, with flights from Mexico City and other major airports. From there you can take a taxi or colectivo to Chiapa de Corzo, and the docks are a short walk or ride from the town centre.
From San Cristóbal de las Casas, OCC buses run frequently to Tuxtla Gutiérrez, and the driver can let you off near Chiapa de Corzo. Tours from San Cristóbal usually combine the canyon, the miradores and the town.
A suggested itinerary
First day
Arrive in Chiapa de Corzo, walk the plaza and La Pila, and visit Santo Domingo and the lacquer museum. Try cochito at the market and stay overnight in town.
Second day
Take an early boat into the canyon, then drive or join a tour to the miradores. Finish with a stop in Tuxtla Gutiérrez or a transfer to San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Practical tips
- Bring water, sunscreen, a hat and light layers for the boat.
- Wear closed shoes with grip, since boat docks and riverbank paths can be slippery.
- Confirm the park road schedule and the current boat arrangements locally before you travel.
- Carry cash for small purchases, because shops in the park are few.
- A tip for the boat crew is customary, so keep small notes handy.
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