Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa De Corzo From San Cristobal

Situated just a short drive from San Cristobal, Sumidero Canyon and the nearby town of Chiapa de Corzo offer travelers a captivating blend of natural and cultural wonders. Visitors can embark on a thrilling boat ride through towering canyon walls, spotting crocodiles and diverse birdlife along the way. Beyond the canyon’s dramatic landscapes, the colonial-era charm of Chiapa de Corzo, complete with an archaeological site showcasing the heritage of the Zoque people, provides a compelling complement to the natural splendor. This 6-hour excursion promises to immerse visitors in the rich tapestry of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• Scenic drive from San Cristobal to Sumidero Canyon, offering stunning natural landscapes en route.
• 2-hour boat ride through Sumidero Canyon to witness towering walls, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
• Explore the well-preserved colonial architecture and archaeological site in the town of Chiapa de Corzo.
• Opportunities to spot crocodiles, birds, and potentially elusive jaguars or pumas during the canyon boat ride.
• Combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, providing a well-rounded immersive experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour kicks off with a scenic drive from San Cristobal to the stunning Sumidero Canyon, where you will embark on a 2-hour boat ride to explore the canyon’s dramatic rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

The boat tour offers a unique vantage point to witness the towering canyon walls, which can reach up to 3,300 feet in height.

After the boat ride, the tour continues to the nearby town of Chiapa de Corzo, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and archaeological site.

Throughout the 6-hour excursion, travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this captivating region.

Boat Ride Through Sumidero Canyon

The 2-hour boat ride through Sumidero Canyon offers visitors a unique vantage point to witness the towering canyon walls, which can reach up to 3,300 feet in height.

As you float along the river, you’ll be awestruck by the sheer scale of the canyon, its steep cliffs carved by the Grijalva River over millions of years.

Along the way, keep an eye out for crocodiles sunbathing on the riverbanks and a variety of birds soaring overhead.

The boat tour provides an up-close look at the canyon’s many waterfalls, caves, and other geological features that are inaccessible from the rim.

This serene and picturesque journey through Sumidero Canyon is a highlight of the tour.

Scenic Highlights of the Canyon

Towering canyon walls reaching up to 3,300 feet in height dominate the scenic landscape, leaving visitors in awe of the sheer scale and grandeur of Sumidero Canyon.

Cascading waterfalls and serene caves dot the canyon, offering a glimpse into the area’s remarkable geological formations carved by the Grijalva River over millions of years.

Keen-eyed observers may spot crocodiles basking on the riverbanks and a diverse array of birds soaring overhead, adding to the captivating natural wonders on display.

The boat ride offers unparalleled access to these breathtaking sights, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the majesty of this natural wonder.

Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Aboard the boat, visitors can catch glimpses of crocodiles basking on the riverbanks and a diverse array of birds soaring overhead, providing unmatched wildlife viewing opportunities within the canyon.

As the boat glides through the tranquil waters, keep an eye out for herons, egrets, cormorants, and even the occasional hawk or falcon. The canyon’s steep walls and lush vegetation serve as the perfect habitat for these captivating creatures.

With a bit of patience and keen observation, you may even spot the elusive jaguar or puma that prowl the remote areas of the canyon. This is a true nature lover’s paradise, offering a chance to witness the vibrant ecosystem thriving within Sumidero Canyon.

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Visiting Chiapa De Corzo

After the captivating boat ride through Sumidero Canyon, the tour continues with a visit to the historic town of Chiapa de Corzo.

This ancient Mesoamerican settlement boasts a rich cultural heritage, showcasing the region’s remarkable architectural and archaeological wonders.

Visitors can explore the impressive 16th-century Baroque-style cathedral, admire the intricate carvings on the Fuente de Siete Cabezas (Fountain of Seven Heads), and wander through the charming colonial streets.

The archeological site within the town offers insights into the pre-Hispanic past, with remnants of ancient structures and artifacts providing a glimpse into the area’s fascinating history.

This stop on the tour provides a well-rounded cultural experience, complementing the natural beauty witnessed earlier in Sumidero Canyon.

Archeological Site of Chiapa De Corzo

The archeological site of Chiapa de Corzo offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s captivating pre-Hispanic past, with remnants of ancient structures and artifacts providing a window into the lives and customs of the area’s former inhabitants.

Visitors can explore the site’s intriguing ruins, which include pyramids, plazas, and other architectural features that showcase the impressive engineering and design prowess of the Zoque people who once thrived here.

The site also boasts a small on-site museum, where guests can view a collection of excavated artifacts and learn more about the site’s history and significance.

This stop on the tour provides a fascinating complement to the natural wonders of Sumidero Canyon.

What to Bring

When embarking on the Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo tour, visitors should bring a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and sunglasses to protect themselves from the sun and elements. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as there may be some light hiking involved at the archeological site.

It’s important to note that swimming isn’t allowed in the canyon, so visitors shouldn’t plan to get wet. While meals aren’t included in the tour, there may be opportunities to purchase food and drinks along the way.

Additional Considerations

Visitors should be aware of the weather conditions before embarking on the Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo tour, as the canyon’s microclimate can be quite hot and humid. Monitoring the forecast and packing accordingly can help ensure a more comfortable experience.

Swimming isn’t permitted within the canyon, so guests should plan accordingly and avoid bringing swimwear.

Meals aren’t included in the tour, so it’s recommended to pack a lunch or snack to enjoy during the boat ride or in Chiapa de Corzo.

The tour involves some walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Bringing a camera or binoculars can enhance the experience of spotting wildlife and admiring the stunning scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take My Pets on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator does not permit bringing pets, as they cannot be accommodated on the boat ride and might disturb the wildlife in the canyon.

Is the Boat Ride Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat ride through Sumidero Canyon is not wheelchair accessible, as it involves navigating narrow waterways and uneven terrain. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate travelers with mobility challenges with advance notice and appropriate arrangements.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though the boat ride through the canyon may not be suitable for very young children or infants due to the narrow boat and uneven terrain.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs during the tour. There are typically local craft and gift shops at the Sumidero Canyon park entrance and in the town of Chiapa de Corzo that offer a variety of traditional Mexican handicrafts and souvenirs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. However, specific terms may vary, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for their exact cancellation and refund policy.

Recap

Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo offer a captivating blend of natural wonder and cultural heritage.

The boat ride through the canyon’s towering walls and cascading waterfalls is a must-see, with opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.

Visiting the well-preserved colonial town and archaeological site provides a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history.

This excursion is an immersive experience that showcases the best of what this area has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: