
Sumidero Canyon
A majestic natural wonder in Chiapas, Mexico, with towering cliffs and diverse wildlife, best explored by boat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing

Sumidero Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better wildlife viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A majestic natural wonder in Chiapas, Mexico, with towering cliffs and diverse wildlife, best explored by boat.
"Honestly very beautiful natural attraction super unique and breathtaking I’ve not seen anything like it in my life."
Pack for the Sun & Water
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Wear comfortable shoes for potential walking at viewpoints. :athletic_shoe:
Be Aware of Pollution
Many visitors are disheartened by plastic pollution. Consider tours that highlight conservation. :recycle:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towering Canyon Walls
Sumidero Canyon National Park
Witness sheer cliffs soaring up to 1,000 meters, a truly awe-inspiring geological wonder.

Abundant Wildlife Sightings
Grijalva River
Spot crocodiles, various bird species, and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

The 'Christmas Tree' Rock Formation
Grijalva River
Marvel at unique natural formations, including the iconic 'Christmas Tree' stalactite.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Trash
Boat Tour Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack for the Sun & Water
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Wear comfortable shoes for potential walking at viewpoints. :athletic_shoe:
Be Aware of Pollution
Many visitors are disheartened by plastic pollution. Consider tours that highlight conservation. :recycle:
Boat Tour Duration
Expect a 2-hour boat trip along the Grijalva River, covering about 64 km. :boat:
Mirador Views
Visit the viewpoints for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the canyon from above. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack for the Sun & Water
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Wear comfortable shoes for potential walking at viewpoints. :athletic_shoe:
Be Aware of Pollution
Many visitors are disheartened by plastic pollution. Consider tours that highlight conservation. :recycle:
Boat Tour Duration
Expect a 2-hour boat trip along the Grijalva River, covering about 64 km. :boat:
Mirador Views
Visit the viewpoints for breathtaking panoramic vistas of the canyon from above. :camerawithflash:
Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for crocodiles and diverse bird species; early mornings are best. :crocodile:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sumidero Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder with awe-inspiring cliffs and abundant wildlife, particularly crocodiles. However, the experience is significantly marred by widespread plastic pollution, which many visitors find disheartening and a major detractor from the canyon's beauty. Some also feel tours are overly commercialized and rushed.
"Great place but there are so many trash in the canyon, it is sad to witness animals standing in the middle of plastic bottles… it seems like community here does not care about their land :("
Cie D
"Honestly very beautiful natural attraction super unique and breathtaking I’ve not seen anything like it in my life…
but to just be real I can’t ignore the fact that there is so much plastic pollution in this area it’s disgusting actually and heart breaking it is actually is hard to not mention it because it does take away from the beauty and it’s important to mention because I feel as though there could be something put into place to prevent this much rubbish building up in such a beautiful natural attraction where there is many ecosystems.
Apart from the disgusting build up of neglected rubbish the nature itself is very magical"
Jenika Smith
"Mexican government: DO BETTER. This is a magical spot that is completely neglected it terms of conservation. One full net/barrel of trash/plastic picked up per boat that is allowed to tour. The customers would be willing to support this. It's completely heartbreaking to see the amout of plastic on this beautiful river."
Christina Penn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to visit Sumidero Canyon from Tuxtla Gutiérrez is by taking a boat tour. Tours typically depart from Chiapa de Corzo or Embarcadero Cahuaré. You can arrange transport from Tuxtla to these departure points, often included in tour packages. Some tours also depart from San Cristóbal de las Casas, which involves a longer travel time.
Yes, Sumidero Canyon is a popular day trip destination from San Cristóbal de las Casas. Tours usually include transportation, the boat tour, and sometimes a stop in Chiapa de Corzo. The journey takes about 1.5 hours each way.
The most recommended way to experience Sumidero Canyon is by taking a boat tour on the Grijalva River. This allows you to get up close to the canyon walls and spot wildlife. You can also get a bird's-eye view from the various viewpoints along the canyon rim.
While organized tours are prevalent, reaching the departure points via public transport might be challenging and time-consuming. It's generally easier and more efficient to book a tour that includes transportation from major hubs like Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristóbal de las Casas.
Travel time to Sumidero Canyon varies depending on your starting point. From Tuxtla Gutiérrez, it's a relatively short drive to the boat launch points. From San Cristóbal de las Casas, expect approximately 1.5 hours of travel time each way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost of a boat tour can vary, but it's often around MXN 500 pesos (approximately $40 AUD) per person, which may include transportation from San Cristóbal de las Casas. It's advisable to check current prices with tour operators.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot and potentially get better rates. Many tour operators offer online booking options.
Boat tours generally operate daily, but hours can vary. It's best to confirm the operating schedule with your chosen tour provider. Early morning and late afternoon tours are often preferred to avoid crowds and heat.
While the park itself is a protected area, the primary cost associated with visiting is the boat tour fee. Some sources suggest there might be a small park entrance fee, but this is often bundled into tour prices.
The most common tour is the 2-hour boat trip on the Grijalva River. Some packages might include visits to viewpoints or nearby towns like Chiapa de Corzo. Kayaking tours are also available for a more adventurous experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Sumidero Canyon is home to a variety of wildlife, including numerous species of birds, monkeys, and most notably, crocodiles. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors.
There are several viewpoints offering stunning panoramic views of the canyon from above. These include Mirador La Ceiba, Mirador El Tepehuaje, and Mirador Los Chiapanecos. These spots are ideal for photography.
Yes, Sumidero Canyon can be a great experience for families. The boat tour is generally safe and engaging for children, offering opportunities to see wildlife and impressive natural scenery. However, be mindful of the pollution, which can be upsetting.
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, as you might do some walking at the viewpoints. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense. A light jacket might be useful for cooler mornings or evenings.
Accessibility can be a challenge, especially at the viewpoints which may involve stairs or uneven terrain. The boat tours themselves are generally accessible, but boarding the boats might require some assistance. It's best to inquire with tour operators about specific accessibility options.
🎫 🗑️ Environmental Concerns
Unfortunately, many visitors report significant plastic pollution in the canyon and on the Grijalva River. This is a major concern for many, detracting from the natural beauty and impacting the ecosystem.
There are calls for better conservation efforts from both the government and visitors. Some suggest implementing trash collection per boat or stricter regulations. However, current efforts appear insufficient to many.
While individual actions are limited, you can avoid single-use plastics, carry out any trash you generate, and support tours that demonstrate environmental responsibility. Raising awareness by mentioning the issue is also important.
The presence of plastic debris poses a threat to the wildlife in Sumidero Canyon, potentially leading to ingestion or entanglement. It's disheartening to see animals in an environment impacted by human waste.
Many visitors find the pollution significantly detracts from the natural beauty and the overall experience, leading to disappointment. While the natural wonders are undeniable, the environmental neglect is hard to ignore.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When choosing a tour, look for operators who are patient and informative. The viewpoints offer fantastic photo opportunities, but ensure children are supervised closely due to the heights. The overall experience can be educational and memorable, highlighting the importance of environmental conservation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
From the boat, you'll have unique angles of the canyon's formations and opportunities to capture wildlife in its natural habitat. Don't forget to visit the various viewpoints along the canyon rim for breathtaking panoramic vistas. These elevated perspectives offer a different, yet equally stunning, view of the vastness of the canyon. Be prepared for potential glare on the water and bring a polarizing filter if possible. Remember to also capture the 'Christmas Tree' rock formation and any other unique geological features you encounter.
🌿 Eco-Conscious Travelers
When booking tours, consider operators who demonstrate a commitment to sustainability or actively participate in conservation efforts. While direct impact as a tourist is limited, choosing responsible providers and minimizing your own waste (e.g., using reusable water bottles) can contribute positively. Engaging with the issue by discussing it respectfully and supporting initiatives for cleaner waterways can also be part of your responsible travel approach.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Sumidero Canyon
The canyon's immense scale and dramatic landscapes make it a prime destination for nature lovers and adventurers. The Grijalva River flows through the heart of the canyon, providing the primary means of exploration via boat tours. These tours offer an intimate perspective of the canyon's grandeur, allowing visitors to truly appreciate its scale and natural beauty.
Beyond its geological significance, Sumidero Canyon is a vital ecosystem supporting diverse flora and fauna. The sheer cliffs and riverbanks are home to various species, making wildlife spotting a significant part of the visitor experience. The canyon's creation is ancient, with its geological processes dating back to the same period as the Grand Canyon's formation.
Navigating the Grijalva River: Boat Tours and Kayaking
During the boat trip, you'll witness the canyon's immense walls up close, pass under waterfalls cascading from the cliffs, and have ample opportunities to spot wildlife such as crocodiles and numerous bird species. Some tours may also include visits to small caves or unique rock formations like the 'Christmas Tree.' For a more intimate and adventurous experience, kayaking on the Grijalva River is also an option, offering a different perspective of the canyon's grandeur.
While the boat tours are a fantastic way to see the canyon, it's important to be aware of the environmental concerns. Many visitors have noted the presence of significant plastic pollution in the river, which can detract from the natural beauty. Some tours may offer insights into conservation efforts, and choosing operators who prioritize environmental responsibility can enhance the experience.
Conservation Concerns and Visitor Impact
Travelers often feel that the Mexican government and local authorities are not doing enough to address this environmental problem. There's a sentiment that the natural wonder is being neglected in terms of conservation, with suggestions for more robust waste management systems, such as collecting a net of trash per boat. Some visitors are willing to contribute financially to conservation efforts if they were more clearly implemented.
The impact of this pollution on wildlife is also a concern, with the potential for animals to ingest or become entangled in plastic debris. While the natural beauty and wildlife of Sumidero Canyon are undeniable, the environmental neglect is a significant drawback for many visitors, leading to a mixed experience where the awe of nature is tempered by the disheartening reality of pollution.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit