Cañón del Sumidero
Ce profond canyon naturel situé dans l'État du Chiapas est une attraction touristique populaire et un refuge pour la faune et la flore.
Situation et moyens d'accès
Cañón del Sumidero is a dramatic canyon carved by the Grijalva River, located approximately 40 kilometers northeast of Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the capital of Chiapas. While it is near San Juan Chamula, most visitors access the canyon from Chiapa de Corzo or Tuxtla Gutiérrez, where boat tours depart.
- By Car: From Tuxtla Gutiérrez, take Highway 190D toward Chiapa de Corzo (about 20 minutes). Parking is available near the embarcaderos (docks).
- By Public Transport: Collective vans (colectivos) run frequently from Tuxtla Gutiérrez to Chiapa de Corzo. From there, taxis or local transport can take you to the docks.
- Organized Tours: Many operators in San Cristóbal de las Casas or Tuxtla Gutiérrez offer day trips, including transportation.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
- Boat Tours: Typically run from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, weather permitting.
- Entrance Fees: Boat tours cost around 300-400 MXN (approx. 15-20 USD) per person, depending on group size and negotiation. Tickets are purchased at the docks; advance booking is unnecessary.
- National Park Fee: A separate fee of around 30 MXN (1.50 USD) may apply for park access.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The dry season (November to April) offers clearer skies and calmer waters, ideal for photography. Early morning tours avoid both crowds and the midday heat. The canyon is particularly striking during golden hour (late afternoon).
Durée de la visite
Boat tours last approximately 2 hours, round-trip. Allow extra time for transportation and exploring viewpoints like Mirador La Coyota or the visitor center.
Activités
- Boat tours through the canyon, with guides pointing out rock formations, wildlife (crocodiles, monkeys, birds), and the iconic Árbol de Navidad (Christmas Tree waterfall).
- Hiking trails and scenic viewpoints along the canyon rim (accessible by car or tour).
- Visitor center with exhibits on the canyon’s geology and ecology.
Installations
- Restrooms and small snack bars at the docks and visitor center.
- Limited shaded areas; bring sun protection.
- Parking available near embarcaderos (fee may apply).
- Accessibility: Boat tours may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges; viewpoints require walking on uneven terrain.
Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir
- Light, breathable clothing and a hat for sun protection.
- Sturdy shoes if planning to hike viewpoints.
- Water and sunscreen; limited shade on boats.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting.
- Cash (small bills) for tickets and tips.
Règles et règlements
- Life jackets are mandatory on boat tours.
- Avoid feeding wildlife or littering; the canyon is a protected national park.
- Drones may require special permits; check with guides.
Informations sur le contact
For updates on conditions or official tours, consult the Chiapas state tourism website or local tour operators in Tuxtla Gutiérrez.