Chiapas: Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo

Traveling through Chiapas offers a chance to see some truly remarkable sights, and this tour promises a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural charm. While we haven’t personally participated, from what’s shared, it seems like a solid way to spend a day exploring two of the region’s highlights: the breathtaking Sumidero Canyon and the picturesque town of Chiapa de Corzo.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is its affordable price point of $49 per person for a six-hour excursion, which includes a boat ride, transportation, and guided commentary. The other standout feature? The stunning views of limestone walls and natural formations that make Sumidero Canyon so iconic. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that viewpoints are closed on Tuesdays, so timing your visit might matter if you’re keen on seeing those panoramas from above. This tour is well-suited for those wanting a mix of adventure and local flavor, especially if they’re staying in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

Key Points

• Affordable and comprehensive day trip with transportation included
• Two main highlights: boat ride in Sumidero Canyon and exploring Chiapa de Corzo
• Stunning natural scenery with limestone cliffs and waterfalls
• Cultural experience with regional cuisine and local crafts
• Viewpoints are closed every Tuesday, so plan accordingly
• Good reviews emphasize punctuality, friendly guides, and the beauty of the canyon

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This 6-hour tour offers a nicely paced way to see some of Chiapas’s most memorable sights, starting with a morning departure from your lodging in San Cristóbal de las Casas. The tour is operated by Jaguar Negro, and it’s designed to give you a glimpse of both natural wonders and local traditions without feeling rushed.

The Journey Begins: From San Cristóbal to Sumidero Canyon

We love that the trip starts with a convenient pickup from your accommodation — no fussing with extra transport or meeting points, which is often a big plus in these kinds of tours. Once on the road, you’ll head towards the Sumidero Canyon, a UNESCO-recognized natural wonder that’s famous for its enormous limestone walls soaring up to 1,000 meters. The drive itself offers scenic views as the landscape shifts from the highlands to the canyon area.

The Boat Ride: Navigating the Grijalva River

The core of the experience is the boat ride on the Grijalva River. During this two-hour journey, you’ll be able to take in some incredible vistas—imagine limestone cliffs towering around you, waterfalls feeding into the river, and unique formations that have earned names like “The Christmas Tree,” “The Cave of the Virgin,” and the “Symbol of Chiapas.” The boat ride is inclusive of insurance and a lifejacket, making it a safe and relaxed way to enjoy the scenery.

Many reviews highlight how stunning the canyon views are, with one traveler even mentioning that the “Very nice tour through the canyon, really beautiful.” The boat captain provides interesting commentary, adding context to the sights and helping you appreciate the geological wonder you’re floating through.

After the Canyon: Exploring Chiapa de Corzo

Following the boat tour, the group heads to Chiapa de Corzo, a historic town founded in 1528. Here, you’ll walk through the charming streets and visit notable sites such as “La Fuente Colonial,” with its authentic Mudejar-style architecture. The town’s vibrant embroidery and crafts are also worth a look, especially if you enjoy browsing local textiles or lacquer pieces.

The tour includes a chance to savor Chiapanecan cuisine, which is a highlight for many visitors. Whether it’s local tamales, traditional sweets, or regional specialties, you’ll get a taste of Chiapas’s culinary culture.

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Returning to San Cristóbal de las Casas

To wrap up the day, the group takes a one-hour drive back along the Tuxtla – San Cristóbal highway, ascending to 2,300 meters. The journey itself offers more scenic views, and you’ll arrive back in San Cristóbal feeling like you’ve truly experienced a slice of Chiapas’s natural beauty and local life.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes group transportation within Chiapas, which helps streamline the day and keeps things relaxed. From reviews, it seems the group sizes are manageable, and most travelers find the picking up from their lodgings very convenient. The driver and guides speak Spanish, so some basic language skills or a translation app might come in handy if you’re not fluent.

Price and Value

At $49 per person, this tour offers a decent value, especially considering the boat ride, insurance, and guided explanations. It’s a budget-friendly way to see a lot in a short time. However, keep in mind that some reviews mention the actual duration lasting longer—up to 9 hours—due to extended sightseeing or waiting times, which might be worth considering if you prefer tightly scheduled days.

Timing and Viewpoints

It’s important to note that viewpoints are closed every Tuesday. If panoramic views are high on your list, planning your trip around this restriction will help you get the most out of the experience. The tour’s start times vary, so check availability ahead of booking.

Accessibility and Suitability

While the tour is quite flexible, it’s worth mentioning that walking around Chiapa de Corzo involves some strolling through town streets, which are generally flat but may be uneven in places. The boat ride is straightforward, but if you have mobility issues, it’s best to consider this.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Multiple reviews praise the punctuality and professionalism of the guides and operators. For example, one traveler from Italy said, “Puntualità eccezionale… guida preparata e disponibile,” which suggests that most participants find the overall organization solid.

Another traveler from Germany simply noted, “Sehr gut,” reinforcing the positive impression. On the other hand, a review from Mexico mentioned that the tour lasted longer than the estimated six hours, extending into the late afternoon, which could be a consideration if you’re tight on time or prefer shorter outings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a scenic, accessible, and affordable way to enjoy some of Chiapas’s most beautiful landscapes. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy boat rides and cultural strolls, and don’t mind some extended hours—especially if you arrive on a day when viewpoints are open. Since the tour includes both natural and town visits, it provides a well-rounded glimpse into the region.

If you’re traveling with someone keen on photography, the views from the canyon are spectacular enough to keep your camera busy. Those interested in local crafts and cuisine will also find Chiapa de Corzo to be a highlight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides tourist transportation in Chiapas, including pickup from your accommodation in San Cristóbal de las Casas.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride on the Grijalva River lasts about 2 hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Are the viewpoints accessible on this tour?
Viewpoints are included in the itinerary but are closed every Tuesday, so plan your visit accordingly.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $49 per person, which covers boat fees, insurance, transportation, and guides.

What should I bring on this tour?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The boat provides lifejackets, but bringing water and snacks might be helpful.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the information doesn’t specify age restrictions, the boat ride and walking tour are generally manageable for most age groups, but consider your children’s comfort with boat rides and walking.

How punctual is the tour?
Based on reviews, the tour is generally punctual; the operator emphasizes excellent timing and organization.

What is the duration of the whole experience?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, but some travelers noted it can extend up to 9 hours depending on the day and activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a full refund available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in San Cristóbal de las Casas and craving a day of natural beauty coupled with some local flavor, this Chiapas: Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo tour offers a practical, scenic, and culturally rich experience. The stunning canyon views alone make it worth considering, especially if you’re eager to see one of Mexico’s most iconic landscapes from an up-close perspective. The visit to Chiapa de Corzo adds a charming town experience, perfect for those who enjoy wandering through historic streets and sampling regional cuisine.

While the tour is quite well-regarded and provides good value for the price, just remember to check the schedule for viewpoints if panoramic views are essential for your trip. This experience suits travelers who want a balanced, scenic day trip that combines nature, culture, and local life without excessive complication or cost.

Hope this helps you decide whether this Chiapas tour fits your travel plans! Safe travels and enjoy the incredible sights this region has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: