If you’re planning a trip to Chiapas and looking for a way to truly experience its natural beauty and local culture, this Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo tour could be a solid option. While I haven’t done this tour myself, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear picture of what to expect, what you’ll love, and what to consider.
What really catches our eye about this experience is the boat tour through Sumidero Canyon, which promises to showcase one of the most impressive natural sights in Mexico. Plus, the visit to Chiapa de Corzo, a charming town with a vibrant local scene, adds a cultural touch that rounds out the day nicely. One potential downside is that viewpoints are closed on Tuesdays, but the tour compensates by taking you to the Cristo de Chiapas viewpoint instead. This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers seeking a mix of nature, culture, and scenic views in a single day.
Key Points
- Includes a shared boat tour through the remarkable Sumidero Canyon
- Visits the colorful and historic Chiapa de Corzo town
- Offers top-down views from the canyon’s rim, weather permitting
- Affordable price of around $51, with flexible cancellation options
- Highlights scenic viewpoints and local culture, perfect for a full day of sightseeing
- Not suitable for pregnant women or children under one year
An Honest Look at the Experience
When considering this tour, the main draw is undoubtedly the boat ride through the Sumidero Canyon. With a duration of about two hours, you’ll glide through the canyon’s towering walls, marveling at the sheer cliffs and the lush landscape. The boat’s shared service means you’re with a group, which often creates a lively atmosphere, but it also keeps the experience affordable. Expect to see a wild, imposing landscape that’s considered one of the natural wonders of the world.
We loved the way the boat tour allows you to get close to the canyon’s natural features. It’s a relaxing yet awe-inspiring experience that you can’t quite replicate on land. The views from the water reveal details you might miss from above, like the steepness of the walls and the way the light plays on the rocks.
Following the boat, the tour moves into the charming town of Chiapa de Corzo. This colorful town is famous for its lively atmosphere, historic architecture, and the local tradition of the Parachicos — dancers and masks that form part of the town’s lively festivals. The tour includes a visit that typically lasts about 2 hours, offering a window into local life and culture.
Visiting Chiapa de Corzo
This stop is a highlight for those interested in culture. You’ll have the chance to learn about the Parachicos and Chiapanecas, which adds a meaningful context to your visit. The town itself is picturesque, with cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a central plaza that’s perfect for a quick stroll or some local snacks.
If you’re on this tour on a Tuesday, be aware that the viewpoints will be closed, but the organizers will take you to the Cristo de Chiapas viewpoint instead. While this might be a less traditional scenic spot, it still offers a decent overlook of the canyon and the surrounding landscape.
The Viewpoints and Top-Down Perspectives
The final part of the tour is ascending to the top of the canyon for a panoramic view. From this vantage point, you’ll get a broad perspective of the canyon walls and the surrounding area. This is often the part travelers mention as a breathtaking way to conclude a day of sightseeing.
However, it’s worth noting that weather can impact this part of the tour — in the review we came across, Maria Paula Bravo from Mexico mentioned that thick fog and neblina prevented her from fully appreciating the views from the viewpoints. So, if you’re visiting during a foggy or rainy season, manage your expectations accordingly.
How the Day Unfolds
The tour generally begins with a hotel pickup in either Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristóbal de las Casas. The transportation is air-conditioned and comfortable, making the long drive more pleasant. The entire day usually lasts around 8-9 hours, including travel time, so come prepared for a full day of exploring.
The itinerary includes a hop-on hop-off stop in Chiapa de Corzo, giving you some flexibility to explore or take photos. The tour wraps up with either a return to your original pickup point or, depending on your booking, to your hotel or Airbnb.
More Great Tours NearbyPricing and Value
At $51 per person, this tour is quite reasonable considering it combines transportation, a boat ride, and cultural visits. The boat tour alone is a major highlight and represents excellent value. Keep in mind that food, drinks, souvenirs, and additional activities are not included, so if you want to grab a local snack or buy a souvenir, you’ll need extra cash.
The Real Traveler Experience
From the review we read, it’s clear that most visitors have a positive experience. Maria Paula Bravo shared that she found the canyon “muy bonito” and appreciated the natural beauty. She did mention that the viewpoints weren’t visible due to heavy fog, but still praised the friendly attitude of the driver. That friendly, local touch makes these tours more memorable, even if the weather isn’t perfect.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a flexible, well-organized day trip without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s also a good choice for travelers staying in Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristóbal de las Casas, as the pickup and drop-off options make it easy to fit into your itinerary.
However, it might not be suitable for pregnant women or very young children, given the physical nature of the boat ride and the walking involved at the viewpoints. Also, if you’re visiting during a season prone to fog or rain, be prepared for limited visibility.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural insight, this tour offers a lot of value. The boat ride through Sumidero Canyon alone makes it worthwhile, and the inclusion of Chiapa de Corzo’s vibrant local culture adds depth to the day. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly way to see some of Chiapas’s most iconic sights.
While the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, and viewpoints may be obscured, the overall experience seems to leave travelers with lasting impressions of the canyon’s grandeur and the town’s lively spirit. The flexibility with cancellation and booking is a bonus, giving you peace of mind.
If you’re someone who appreciates scenic boat trips and enjoys small cultural towns, this tour is worth considering. Just be sure to check the weather forecast, and bring your camera, sun protection, and comfy shoes!
Sumidero Canyon, Chiapa de Corzo, and Viewpoints Tour
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes ground transportation with liability insurance, pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or Airbnb in Tuxtla Gutiérrez or San Cristóbal de las Casas.
How long does the boat tour last?
The boat ride through Sumidero Canyon lasts approximately two hours, offering a close-up view of the canyon’s impressive cliffs and landscape.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes are recommended. Also, ensure your smartphone is charged to capture the views.
Are viewpoints accessible every day?
Viewpoints are open most days, but on Tuesdays, they are closed. The tour will then take you to the Cristo de Chiapas viewpoint instead.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or babies under 1 year old, mainly due to the boat ride and walking at viewpoints.
What’s the cost and what’s included?
The price is $51 per person, including transportation, the boat tour, entrance to the park, and a friendly tourist driver. Food, drinks, souvenirs, and extra activities are not included.
In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Chiapas’s natural and cultural treasures. It’s simple, reliable, and packed with memorable sights — perfect if you’re after a straightforward day that captures the essence of the region.
You can check availability for your dates here: