Sumidero Canyon, Chiapas: Boat Tours & Travel Guide
The Sumidero Canyon is a Chiapas highlight — a boat trip along the Grijalva River beneath cliffs more than 1,000 meters high, with crocodiles, waterfalls and wildlife.
About the Sumidero Canyon
The Sumidero Canyon is one of Chiapas's natural wonders — sheer walls rising more than 1,000 meters above the Grijalva River, best seen from a boat gliding along the water. The two-hour trip passes crocodiles, monkeys and waterfalls, and it is one of the most popular day trips in southern Mexico, usually combined with the colonial town of Chiapa de Corzo.
How to visit the Sumidero Canyon
Boats depart from the pier in Chiapa de Corzo (near Tuxtla Gutiérrez) for a roughly two-hour round trip; you can also drive to the clifftop viewpoints (miradores) for panoramic views. Tours leave from San Cristóbal de las Casas, Tuxtla Gutiérrez and Chiapa de Corzo.
How to get there from the US
Fly into Tuxtla Gutiérrez (TGZ), usually connecting through Mexico City; the canyon is about 15–40 minutes away. San Cristóbal de las Casas, a popular base, is about an hour from Tuxtla.
Best time to visit
The dry season, November to April, is the most reliable for boat trips and viewpoints. Water levels are higher after the summer rains (June–October).
What you'll see
Thousand-meter cliffs, the “Christmas Tree” mineral waterfall, caves, and wildlife including crocodiles, spider monkeys, herons and iguanas. The boat trip ends near the Chicoasén dam. Pair it with a stroll around Chiapa de Corzo, a Pueblo Mágico with a famous colonial fountain.
Is it safe to visit the Sumidero Canyon?
The state of Chiapas carries a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory from the US Department of State. The canyon, Chiapa de Corzo and San Cristóbal are established tourist spots, but parts of Chiapas have seen unrest. Many travelers visit the Sumidero Canyon area without incident by flying in, staying in the main areas and avoiding intercity travel at night, but you should review the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before you go.
Other Highlights in Chiapas and Southern Mexico
The Sumidero Canyon is best visited from San Cristóbal de las Casas, the most touristic city in Chiapas. From there you can also visit the Zapatista community of Oventic. Palenque, with its stunning jungle-surrounded Mayan ruins, is another must in Chiapas. To complete the southeast circuit, add Oaxaca and Campeche.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Sumidero Canyon?
In the state of Chiapas, near Tuxtla Gutiérrez and Chiapa de Corzo, on the Grijalva River. Its walls rise more than 1,000 meters.
How do I visit the Sumidero Canyon?
Take a roughly two-hour boat trip from the pier in Chiapa de Corzo, or drive to the clifftop viewpoints. Tours run from San Cristóbal de las Casas, Tuxtla Gutiérrez and Chiapa de Corzo.
How do I get there from the US?
Fly into Tuxtla Gutiérrez (TGZ), usually via Mexico City; the canyon is about 15–40 minutes away, and San Cristóbal de las Casas is about an hour from Tuxtla.
When is the best time to go?
The dry season, November to April, is best for boat trips and viewpoints. Water levels are higher after the summer rains.
Is it safe to visit the Sumidero Canyon?
Chiapas carries a Level 3 ‘Reconsider Travel’ advisory. The canyon and nearby towns are established tourist spots; review the current US advisory and its area notes before you go.