Matacanes Canyon
An extreme canyoning adventure in Nuevo León, featuring rappelling, jumps, caves, and natural slides through stunning turquoise waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Matacanes Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An extreme canyoning adventure in Nuevo León, featuring rappelling, jumps, caves, and natural slides through stunning turquoise waters.
"The best experience, without a doubt. Beautiful natural landscapes, highly recommended for extreme adventure."
Book with a Reputable Guide
Safety first! Specialized equipment and knowledge are essential. Guides ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure. :shield:
Wear Proper Footwear
Waterproof shoes with excellent grip are a must for navigating slippery rocks and descents. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Thrilling Jumps
Various points along the canyon
Leap into crystal-clear waters from heights up to 12 meters. An adrenaline rush you won't forget!
Subterranean Caves & Rivers
Within the canyon system
Navigate through stunning caves and float along serene, turquoise rivers. A truly immersive natural wonder.
Rappelling Down Waterfalls
Multiple waterfall sections
Experience the thrill of descending down cascading waterfalls using ropes and harnesses. A core part of the canyoning adventure.
Natural Water Slides
Throughout the canyon
Slide down smooth, natural rock formations into refreshing pools. Pure, unadulterated fun!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Gear Up for Adventure
Physical Fitness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book with a Reputable Guide
Safety first! Specialized equipment and knowledge are essential. Guides ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure. :shield:
Wear Proper Footwear
Waterproof shoes with excellent grip are a must for navigating slippery rocks and descents. :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated & Fueled
It's a long, strenuous day. Drink plenty of water and eat a good meal beforehand to avoid cramps. :water_wave:
Embrace the Jumps!
Don't overthink it! Even if you're hesitant, the guides will help. Life jackets are provided for non-swimmers. :diving_mask:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book with a Reputable Guide
Safety first! Specialized equipment and knowledge are essential. Guides ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure. :shield:
Wear Proper Footwear
Waterproof shoes with excellent grip are a must for navigating slippery rocks and descents. :athletic_shoe:
Stay Hydrated & Fueled
It's a long, strenuous day. Drink plenty of water and eat a good meal beforehand to avoid cramps. :water_wave:
Embrace the Jumps!
Don't overthink it! Even if you're hesitant, the guides will help. Life jackets are provided for non-swimmers. :diving_mask:
Protect Against Ivy
Wear long clothing to shield yourself from potential contact with poison ivy. :leafy_green:
Waterproof Your Gear
Protect your phone and other valuables in a waterproof bag. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Matacanes is overwhelmingly praised as an excellent and comprehensive adventure, offering stunning natural beauty and thrilling activities like rappelling, jumps, and cave exploration. While some find it physically demanding and long, most agree it's a highly recommended, once-in-a-lifetime experience for adventure enthusiasts. The need for guides and specialized equipment is consistently highlighted.
"An excellent experience, with beautiful scenery and lots of water. Highly recommended. It includes rappelling, caves, and slides. It's very comprehensive. You must go with guides as special equipment is required. Even if you don't know how to swim, you can do the tour as you wear a life jacket. You can do it alone, without fear of jumping, and with the help of the guides.
The best experience, without a doubt.
Beautiful natural landscapes. Some jumps may be optional, but it's definitely worth the plunge.
Also, keep in mind that it's tough, with 20 km of water and walking, with little food and almost no breaks. You should be in good condition as it takes more than 8 hours."
Miriam Silva
"An impressive place, the best views and experiences, 100% recommended if you like extreme adventure, I recommend Gaia Xtreme to hire the tour, the guides Adan, Eduardo, Jaime and Oscar provided us with excellent service."
Ericka Ortiz
"Excellent journey with Matacanes Kaab Xplore for 5 days we had a blast and we also did chipitin, the jump and labyrinth."
Sigfrido Hercules Fernandez Morales
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Matacanes is located about two hours from Monterrey, Nuevo León. Many tours offer transportation from designated meeting points, often near the Hotel Hacienda Cola de Caballo. If you plan to drive yourself, a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to the terrain.
Accessing Matacanes can be challenging without a 4x4 vehicle. The roads are rough and can be difficult to navigate, especially after rain. It's generally safer and more convenient to opt for tour transportation.
Common meeting points for tours include the parking lot of the Hotel Hacienda Cola de Caballo. Always confirm the exact meeting location and time with your tour operator when booking. +2
The drive from Monterrey to the Matacanes area typically takes around two hours. Factor in additional time for meeting your group and preparing for the adventure.
If self-driving, ensure you have a reliable GPS and are prepared for off-road conditions. It's advisable to consult with local guides or tour operators for the most up-to-date route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices can vary. For a single-day, all-inclusive tour in 2024, expect around $1,640 MXN per participant. Prices for 2025 are around $1,950 MXN. These often include transportation, guides, equipment, meals, and photography. +1
Most all-inclusive tours cover round-trip transportation, certified guides, personal safety equipment (wetsuit, helmet), photography and video services, traveler's insurance, and usually three meals. +1
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you want to secure a specific date or are traveling with a group. Some operators allow booking for as few as one participant.
While specific restrictions vary by operator, Matacanes is an extreme adventure. Participants should be in good physical condition. It's advisable to consult with your tour provider regarding any health concerns.
It is strongly advised to go with specialized companies and guides for safety reasons. The route requires special equipment and knowledge of the terrain, making independent visits risky.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Matacanes is a comprehensive canyoning route featuring rappelling, jumps (some optional), swimming in rivers and pools, navigating caves, and natural water slides. It's a full-day adventure. +2
The Matacanes experience is a long one, often taking more than 8 hours to complete the approximately 20 km circuit. It's a full-day commitment.
No, not all jumps are mandatory. However, you should be comfortable with water and willing to participate in most activities for the full experience.
The water in Matacanes can be quite cold, especially during certain times of the year. Wetsuits are typically provided by tour operators to help keep you warm. +1
Expect breathtaking natural landscapes, including lush forests, crystal-clear turquoise waters, impressive rock formations, and stunning caves. It's a visually spectacular environment. 
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, but it's crucial to protect your devices. Use a high-quality waterproof case or a floating waterproof bag. Many tours offer professional photo and video services, which can be a great option. +1
Many tour packages include photography and video of your experience. This is a great way to capture the memories without worrying about your own equipment. +1
If using your own camera, ensure it's fully waterproof or in a reliable waterproof housing. Be mindful of your surroundings and the safety of others while taking pictures.
Yes, the jumps are a highlight and offer great photo opportunities. If you're not using a tour's professional service, ensure your camera is secured and ready for action.
The entire canyon offers stunning photographic potential. Keep an eye out for unique rock formations, the vibrant water colors, and the impressive scale of the canyon walls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on tours that emphasize safety and offer clear guidance. The provision of life jackets makes it accessible even for those who aren't strong swimmers. Consider the physical demands and ensure your children are up for a full day of strenuous activity. It's an unforgettable experience that can build confidence and create lasting family memories if approached with the right preparation and expectations.
💰 Budget Travelers
Compare different tour operators to find one that fits your budget and includes the services you prioritize. Consider if the included meals and photography are important to you, as these can add up if purchased separately. Self-driving might seem cheaper, but the need for a 4x4 and potential fuel costs could negate savings, not to mention the risks involved.
❤️ Adventure Seekers & Thrill-Chasers
Embrace the challenge and the stunning natural beauty. The combination of rappelling, jumps, caves, and slides offers a diverse and thrilling experience. Trust your guides, push your limits (safely!), and prepare for an unforgettable day of pure adventure.
+2Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Matacanes Canyoning Experience
Safety is paramount, and going with certified guides is non-negotiable. They provide essential equipment such as wetsuits, helmets, and harnesses, ensuring you're prepared for the challenges ahead. Even if you're not a strong swimmer, the provision of life jackets allows everyone to participate safely. The guides are also adept at managing the psychological aspect of the adventure, helping participants overcome any fear associated with jumps or rappels.
The visual appeal of Matacanes is undeniable. The canyon boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush vegetation, and impressive geological formations. Many tours offer professional photography and videography services, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the moment without worrying about capturing the perfect shot. This comprehensive approach ensures that visitors have a safe, thrilling, and unforgettable adventure in one of Mexico's most beautiful natural wonders.
+1Preparing for Your Matacanes Adventure
When it comes to gear, while tour operators provide essential safety equipment like wetsuits and helmets, bringing your own waterproof shoes with excellent grip is highly recommended. These will be invaluable for navigating slippery rocks and ensuring stability during descents. Some visitors also suggest wearing long clothing to protect against potential contact with poison ivy, which can be present in the area.
Don't forget to protect your personal belongings. A reliable waterproof bag or case is essential for your phone, camera, or any other items you need to keep dry. Many tours offer professional photo and video services, which can be a convenient way to capture memories without the risk of damaging your own electronics.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit