Tour ZOOMAT, Christ of Chiapas, Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints in Spanish

Discovering the ZOOMAT, Christ of Chiapas, and Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints: A Practical Guide

If you’re planning to visit Chiapas and want a well-rounded day that combines wildlife, cultural landmarks, and stunning scenery, this tour could be just what you need. It’s designed to give a comprehensive snapshot of some of the region’s most iconic sights, all packed into a single day. From observing native fauna at ZOOMAT, to marveling at the impressive Christ of Chiapas, and finally soaking in panoramic vistas from the Sumidero Canyon viewpoints, it offers a bit of everything.

What we appreciate most about this tour is its family-friendly nature and its focus on regional biodiversity — ideal for travelers wanting both education and scenery. The price of $60 per person provides access to several attractions, making it a good value for full-day activities. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves quite a bit of walking, especially at the zoo, so those with mobility issues should consider this.

This tour suits families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to see the best of Chiapas’ natural and cultural highlights in one day. If you’re looking for a balanced, practical excursion with a local touch, this could be your perfect fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Wildlife and Biodiversity: The ZOOMAT houses regional fauna like jaguars, spider monkeys, and quetzals, offering an educational and engaging experience.
• Impressive Landmarks: The Christ of Chiapas is a towering figure at 62 meters, surpassing the famous Christ in Brazil, with incredible views from its vantage point.
• Scenic Views: The Sumidero Canyon viewpoints provide some of the most breathtaking panoramas of the canyon’s steep walls and meandering river.
• Convenient Transportation: Includes round-trip ground transportation, making logistics hassle-free.
• All-Inclusive Entry Fees: Entrance to all major sites is covered, adding to the tour’s value.
• Suitable for Families: The tour is recommended for those traveling with children or anyone interested in native fauna and scenic outlooks.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with pickup options from four convenient locations: Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapa de Corzo, San Cristóbal de las Casas, or Zona Centro. This flexibility means you can choose a location close to your accommodation, saving time and transport hassle. Once aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, the journey kicks off with a relaxed vibe, and the driver, who speaks Spanish, keeps things straightforward and informative.

The total duration is approximately 8 hours, covering four main stops, which helps ensure the day isn’t rushed and allows for ample time at each site. The tour operates in Spanish, so some basic understanding or a translator app could come in handy if you’re not fluent.

Visiting ZOOMAT: An Encounter with Regional Fauna

We loved the way ZOOMAT is structured as a unique zoo specializing in animals native to the Chiapas region. Unlike large, sprawling zoos in bigger cities, ZOOMAT feels intimate and focused. You can expect to see animals like jaguars, spider monkeys, and quetzals, all of which are symbols of the region’s biodiversity.

The zoo is located within the El Zapotal nature reserve, giving it a natural setting that adds to the experience. It takes about 2.5 hours to explore, which is enough to see various exhibits and learn about the local species. Visitors have commented positively on the zoo’s quality, with one saying it’s among the best in Latin America.

However, be prepared for some walking — the zoo is large, and there are paths that might be lengthy. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera for the photo opportunities.

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Visiting the Christ of Chiapas: A Monumental Viewpoint

Next, the tour takes you to the Glorious Christ of Copoya, a 62-meter-high structure that surpasses the Christ of Brazil in height. The statue is strikingly modern and commanding from afar, but the real highlight is the panoramic view from its base. Standing there, you can gaze over the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez and get a sense of the sprawling landscape below.

The visit lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to admire the monument, snap photos, and enjoy the view. It’s a humbling experience to see such a large sculpture and realize how visible it is from many parts of the city. The site is accessible, but again, consider your mobility if you plan to climb around or stand for a while.

Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints: Breathtaking Natural Beauty

The final stop is at the Sumidero Canyon, one of Chiapas’ most famous natural attractions. The viewpoints here allow a spectacular view of steep walls and the twisting river below. The canyon, carved by geological forces over thousands of years, is truly awe-inspiring.

Spending around 2 hours here, you can walk along designated viewpoints, taking in the scale and grandeur of the canyon. Reviewers often mention that the views are worth the trip, with some noting that the sheer cliffs and lush surroundings create a dramatic backdrop.

While the tour emphasizes viewpoints, some visitors might wish for a boat ride to see the canyon from the water. Unfortunately, this isn’t included, but the views from above are still impressive.

End of the Day and Drop-Off

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with drop-offs at your original pickup points. This seamless process makes it convenient for travelers staying in different parts of Chiapas.

The Value Proposition

For $60, this tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, cultural landmarks, and natural scenery. The all-inclusive fee for entrance to each site adds transparency, and the transportation means you don’t need to worry about logistics. The focus on native fauna at ZOOMAT, the towering Christ monument, and panoramic canyon views all pack into a single, manageable day.

The tour’s structure makes it especially good for families or travelers with limited time but a desire to experience Chiapas’s essence. It’s worth noting that some sites are closed on specific days (ZOOMAT on Mondays, viewpoints on Tuesdays), so plan accordingly.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour

This experience is perfect for travelers who appreciate native wildlife and scenic vistas. Families with children will find the zoo engaging, while those interested in cultural landmarks will enjoy the Christ monument. It offers a practical way to see multiple highlights without the stress of planning individual visits or transportation.

However, if you have mobility issues, be aware that some walking is involved, especially at the zoo. Also, if you’re not comfortable in Spanish, arrangements should be made in advance for translation support. For those seeking a full-day adventure packed with authentic regional sights, this tour delivers good value and memorable experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes tourist ground transportation, making travel between sites smooth and hassle-free.

Are entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees to ZOOMAT, Cristo de Chiapas, and the Sumidero Canyon viewpoints are included in the $60 price.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full tour lasts about 8 hours, with approximately 2.5 hours at ZOOMAT, 1 hour at the Christ monument, and 2 hours at the canyon viewpoints.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks, drinks, or plan to eat after the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly tour, especially appealing for children interested in animals and scenic views.

Do I need to speak Spanish to enjoy the tour?
The guide and driver speak Spanish, so some basic understanding or translation support is recommended.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, the tour operates with a “Reserve now & pay later” option, allowing flexibility.

Are there any site closures I should be aware of?
Yes, the zoo is closed on Mondays, and the viewpoints at Sumidero Canyon are closed on Tuesdays — plan your visit accordingly.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, drinks, biodegradable insect repellent, and a charged smartphone are recommended.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a practical, engaging way to experience some of Chiapas’ most striking sights in a single day. It’s especially suited for those eager to see regional wildlife, admire towering monuments, and enjoy sweeping canyon vistas without the hassle of organizing multiple visits.

The combination of wildlife, cultural landmark, and natural beauty creates a well-rounded snapshot of the region, making it a good choice for first-time visitors or anyone short on time but wanting a meaningful taste of Chiapas. While not the most adventurous or exclusive experience, it offers good value and authentic encounters that reflect the area’s character. If you value convenience, diverse sights, and regional authenticity, this tour deserves a spot on your Chiapas itinerary.

Note: Always check current operating days and availability, especially around holidays or closures.

You can check availability for your dates here: