Sima de las Cotorras
Experience the awe-inspiring Sima de las Cotorras, a massive sinkhole in Chiapas, famous for its daily parrot spectacle and thrilling rappelling adven...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See parrots take flight
Sima de las Cotorras
Best Time
See parrots take flight
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the awe-inspiring Sima de las Cotorras, a massive sinkhole in Chiapas, famous for its daily parrot spectacle and thrilling rappelling adventures.
"The most amazing place to go rappelling and zipping in Mexico!"
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Parrots
Arrive by 6 AM to witness the incredible spectacle of thousands of parrots flying out of the sinkhole! :parrot:
💰 Bring Cash (but cards accepted)
While card payments are available, it's wise to carry cash for any purchases or activities. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Descent
The main sinkhole
Rappel down into the massive sinkhole, a thrilling adventure surrounded by lush nature and the calls of countless parrots.
Parrot Spectacle
Entrance of the sinkhole
Witness thousands of parrots emerge from the sinkhole at dawn, a vibrant and noisy natural phenomenon.
Via Ferrata Challenge
Sinkhole walls
Navigate a secured climbing route along the sinkhole walls for an adrenaline-pumping experience with stunning views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Bird Spectacle
Embrace Adventure and Be Prepared to Pay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Parrots
Arrive by 6 AM to witness the incredible spectacle of thousands of parrots flying out of the sinkhole! :parrot:
💰 Bring Cash (but cards accepted)
While card payments are available, it's wise to carry cash for any purchases or activities. :moneybag:
🧗♀️ Safety First for Adventures
The guides are highly professional and ensure your safety during rappelling and via ferrata. :safety_vest:
📸 Capture the Natural Beauty
Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the vibrant parrot flocks. :camera:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Parrots
Arrive by 6 AM to witness the incredible spectacle of thousands of parrots flying out of the sinkhole! :parrot:
💰 Bring Cash (but cards accepted)
While card payments are available, it's wise to carry cash for any purchases or activities. :moneybag:
🧗♀️ Safety First for Adventures
The guides are highly professional and ensure your safety during rappelling and via ferrata. :safety_vest:
📸 Capture the Natural Beauty
Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the vibrant parrot flocks. :camera:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially if you're participating in activities, bring water to stay refreshed. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible natural beauty of Sima de las Cotorras, particularly the breathtaking parrot spectacle at dawn and the thrilling adventure activities like rappelling and via ferrata. The guides are consistently praised for their professionalism and safety measures, making the experiences memorable and secure. While some find the prices a bit high, the overall consensus is that the unique experiences offered are well worth the investment.
"I met the owner and he’s a great guide and instructor, it’s a family ran business and the place is amazing. Rappelling off the cliff and going into the caves was pretty epic. Lots of parrots flying."
jheyson jimenez
"This is a wonderful place, the owner was really nice and he was the one who did our safety for the rappel activity, we felt very secure and for sure it is a memorable experience, if you come here it is better to bring cash with you, but if you forgot it there is no problem since they have card payment available. You can find it a little bit expensive but it is really worth it . Come and do at least one of the activities!!"
M. A.
"Really pretty place, go there at 6am to see the birds fly out, it’s a real spectacle!"
Vanessa Lempert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sima de las Cotorras is located near Ocozocoautla de Espinosa, about an hour's drive from Tuxtla Gutiérrez. You can hire a taxi or rent a car. Some tour operators also offer transportation as part of their packages.
Public transport directly to Sima de las Cotorras can be challenging. It's often easier to arrange a private tour or hire a taxi from Ocozocoautla.
To catch the parrot spectacle at dawn, it's best to stay overnight in a nearby town like Ocozocoautla or arrange for early morning transport.
Yes, several local operators offer guided tours that often include transportation and activities. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
The roads leading to Sima de las Cotorras are generally paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for most vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary, and activities like rappelling and via ferrata have separate charges. While some find it a bit expensive, most visitors agree it's worth the cost for the unique experiences offered. +1
It's advisable to book adventure activities like rappelling and via ferrata in advance, especially if you're visiting during a busy period or want to secure a specific time slot.
The park typically opens early in the morning to allow visitors to witness the parrot spectacle. It's best to check the exact opening hours with the park management or your tour operator.
Some tour operators, like @viajawanderlust, may offer package deals or discounts. It's worth checking their websites or social media for promotions.
While it's recommended to bring cash, many sources indicate that card payments are accepted for entry and activities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attractions include rappelling down the sinkhole, exploring caves, and the thrilling via ferrata. You can also enjoy the natural beauty and observe the abundant birdlife. +1
Yes, visitors consistently praise the safety measures and professionalism of the guides. They are well-trained and ensure a secure experience. +1
Wear comfortable, athletic clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking and climbing. Avoid sandals or open-toed footwear.
While there are natural water features nearby, swimming directly within the sinkhole is not typically an advertised activity. Focus on the adventure sports and natural observation.
The most spectacular time to see the parrots is at dawn, around 6 AM, when they fly out of the sinkhole in large numbers.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the immense scale of the sinkhole from above and below, the vibrant green of the surrounding jungle, and the mesmerizing sight of thousands of parrots taking flight at dawn. 
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to inquire with the park management beforehand to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the sinkhole, while a telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. A GoPro or action camera is ideal for the adventure activities.
The rim of the sinkhole offers panoramic views, and the base provides a unique perspective looking up. The trails around the area also offer scenic photo spots.
Yes, you can take photos during the rappelling activity, but ensure your camera is securely attached and doesn't interfere with safety procedures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider focusing on the observational aspects of the park. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for walking. If your children are adventurous, inquire about age and weight restrictions for the via ferrata or shorter rappelling options. The unique environment is sure to spark their curiosity and create lasting memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you're keen on the adventure activities but want to manage costs, consider booking a package deal that might offer a slight discount. Bringing your own food and drinks can also help reduce on-site expenses. Prioritize the experiences that are most important to you and research different tour operators for the best value.
❤️ Couples and Adventure Seekers
Combine the adventure with the serene beauty of the parrot spectacle at dawn for a truly memorable visit. Enjoying a picnic with a view of the sinkhole or simply exploring the natural surroundings hand-in-hand can add a romantic touch. The combination of natural wonder and exciting challenges makes Sima de las Cotorras a perfect destination for couples seeking an active and awe-inspiring getaway.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Wonder: Sima de las Cotorras
The sinkhole is not just a visual spectacle; it's a vibrant habitat. The constant chatter and flight of parrots, especially at dawn, create an unforgettable auditory and visual experience. The surrounding vegetation thrives in the humid environment, contributing to the lush, tropical feel of the area. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur is on full display, offering a profound connection to the wild.
+1Beyond its natural beauty, Sima de las Cotorras is also an adventure hub. The steep walls of the sinkhole provide an ideal setting for activities like rappelling and via ferrata, allowing visitors to experience the sinkhole from a thrilling new perspective. These activities are managed with a strong emphasis on safety, ensuring that adventurers can push their limits while feeling secure.
Adventure Activities: Thrills in the Sinkhole
Another popular challenge is the Via Ferrata. This secured climbing route allows visitors to traverse the sinkhole walls using a system of cables, ladders, and bridges. It’s a fantastic way to experience the vertical landscape and test your courage, with guides ensuring your safety every step of the way. The feeling of accomplishment after completing the Via Ferrata, with the vastness of the sinkhole around you, is immense.
These activities are not just about the thrill; they offer a unique way to appreciate the scale and beauty of Sima de las Cotorras. The guides are often praised for their expertise and friendly demeanor, making the experience even more enjoyable and memorable. While these adventures come at a cost, the consensus is that they are absolutely worth it for the unique memories created.
The Parrot Spectacle: A Dawn Chorus
To best experience this, visitors should arrive at the site before sunrise, ideally around 6 AM. The early morning hours are crucial as this is when the birds are most active, preparing for their daily foraging. The sheer volume of birds taking flight creates a mesmerizing cloud of green against the morning sky, a truly unforgettable natural display.
This spectacle is a powerful reminder of the rich biodiversity of Chiapas and the importance of preserving these natural habitats. It’s a moment of pure wonder that connects visitors directly with the wild, offering a peaceful yet exhilarating start to the day before the adventure activities begin.
+1
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