Viewpoints and Cruise to Sumidero Canyon from Tuxtla Gutiérrez

Exploring Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo: A Genuine Look at the Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the Viewpoints and Cruise to Sumidero Canyon offers a compelling mix of nature, culture, and scenic views. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, reviews and descriptions suggest it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to see the natural beauty of Chiapas up close. The experience combines a 2-hour boat ride, visits to picturesque viewpoints, and the chance to explore Chiapa de Corzo, a town recognized as a Pueblo Mágico.

One thing we love about this trip is how it’s designed to delight outdoor lovers with plenty of opportunities to admire waterfalls, caves, and wildlife like crocodiles and monkeys. Another highlight is the panoramic viewpoints, which offer different perspectives of the stunning canyon walls. That said, one potential drawback is the hot weather and crowded van, which could affect comfort during peak times, especially since the air conditioning doesn’t always work well in the vehicles.

This tour suits travelers who want a full-day outdoor adventure mixed with cultural sights and don’t mind a bustling group environment. It’s ideal if you’re after breathtaking scenery, a boat cruise, and a taste of regional cuisine—but keep in mind some reviews mention the experience can feel hurried or the logistics a bit disorganized.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip from Tuxtla Gutiérrez combining nature, culture, and viewpoints
• Two-hour boat cruise includes sightings of crocodiles, waterfalls, caves, and monkeys
• Visits to Chiapa de Corzo, a charming Pueblo Mágico with colonial architecture
• Stunning viewpoints at La Ceiba, La Coyota, Roblar, offering different vistas of the canyon
• Includes lunch, hotel pickup, and drop-off for convenience
• Average booking time is about 23 days in advance, making it popular but possibly filling up quickly

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup at 9:30 am in Tuxtla Gutiérrez. The transport is by air-conditioned minivan, which should make the roughly 2-hour drive more comfortable. However, as some reviews suggest, the air conditioning may not always work perfectly, and the van can get crowded with up to 16 people. If you’re sensitive to heat or prefer more space, this is worth keeping in mind.

The Sumidero Canyon Boat Ride

Once you arrive at Parque Nacional Canon del Sumidero, the highlight begins: a 2-hour boat ride along the Grijalva River. This cruise offers close-up views of the canyon’s towering walls—some reaching 2,500 feet (762 meters) high—and an excellent chance to see crocodiles basking on the banks and monkeys swinging through the trees.

Travelers consistently praise the breathtaking scenery during this boat ride. One reviewer noted, “The ride through the canyon was breathtaking,” which is a sentiment we agree with. The boat cruise also passes by waterfalls and caves, adding to the sense of adventure and discovery.

A common theme in reviews is how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing interesting facts about the canyon’s geology and wildlife. However, keep in mind that the weather can be quite hot, and if the boat is crowded or the sun intense, it can make the experience less comfortable.

Visiting Chiapa de Corzo

After the boat ride, the tour continues to Chiapa de Corzo, a town renowned for its colonial architecture and vibrant town square. Here, you’ll get about an hour to explore, take photos in front of the impressive central fountain, and enjoy regional buffet lunch featuring local dishes.

Reviewers have appreciated the delicious regional cuisine and the chance to stroll through a town that’s historically significant as the first colonial settlement in the region. The town’s charm is palpable, and it offers a nice contrast to the natural scenery of the canyon.

Viewpoints and Lookouts

The final part of the tour involves stopping at several lookout points within the canyon area: La Ceiba, La Coyota, Roblar, and Tepehuaja. These spots provide different vantage points to see the canyon’s walls and landscapes, making it a photographer’s dream.

One reviewer mentioned that these viewpoints are really what make the trip special, as you get to see the canyon from multiple perspectives. The views are stunning, especially from La Ceiba and La Coyota, where the expansive vistas are truly memorable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers good value considering what’s included: park fees, boat transport, lunch, and hotel transfers. The lunch buffet is described as regional, giving you a taste of local flavors. The tour also features a driver-guide who provides commentary and insight, adding depth to the experience.

However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks outside the buffet are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or water. Also, some reviews highlight that lunch was served quite late—around 4 pm—so if you’re hungry before then, plan accordingly.

Price and Booking

At $85 per person, this tour is priced competitively for a full-day experience that includes transportation, activities, and meals. The fact that most travelers book about three weeks in advance indicates it’s popular but also suggests securing your spot early is wise.

Reviews: What Real Travelers Have Said

While the overall rating is 4 out of 5, the reviews reveal a mix of praise and some frustrations. For instance, one traveler appreciated the breathtaking cruise and the knowledgeable guide, calling the experience “incredible.” Another loved the views from the viewpoints and the good quality of the regional lunch.

On the flip side, some reviews point out disappointments such as the non-functioning AC in the van and delays in lunch service. A traveler even mentioned that booking through Viator was significantly more expensive than local options, which is something to keep in mind if budget is a concern.

Authentic Traveler Quotes

• “The actual tour of the canyon was amazing. We were picked up on time by the driver and he was pleasant but it was blazing hot with about 16 people in the van and the AC did not work.”
• “Had a great time on this tour. The ride through the canyon was breathtaking. The tour guide was very knowledgeable as well.”
• “We were so happy with this tour as we were a little worried that it had no Viator reviews, but it was all great. The cruise was incredible, but the viewpoints really make it.”

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo tour offers a well-rounded look at one of Mexico’s most striking natural sights, combined with a cultural visit and viewpoints that are worth the trip. It is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts and those excited about scenic boat rides, especially if you’re comfortable with group tours and the occasional heat or crowd. The included lunch and hotel pickup make it a convenient option for travelers wanting an organized day out.

Keep in mind that some reviews mention discomfort due to weather or small logistical hiccups, but overall, the experience seems to deliver incredible vistas and memorable moments. If you’re after a balanced mix of nature and culture, and don’t mind sharing the experience with a group, this trip will likely satisfy.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, starting at 9:30 am.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and offers close-up views of the canyon, waterfalls, and wildlife like crocodiles and monkeys.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
The boat ride through Sumidero Canyon, with spectacular views and wildlife sightings, is the main highlight.

Are meals included?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch is included, although it can be served quite late, around 4 pm.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, children are allowed to participate, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, water, and possibly a hat—especially for the sunny viewpoints and boat ride.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 23 days ahead, so early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

Is there any free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to favorable weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people typically take this tour?
Most groups are limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience despite the group atmosphere.

In the end, this tour provides a great way to see the beauty of Chiapas without too much hassle. It balances scenic views, cultural stops, and wildlife sightings—making it a solid choice if it fits your schedule and travel style.