The Sumidero Canyon

Only 30 minutes from our property

The crossing of the canyon that holds the Grijalva river is one of the most spectacular in Mexico. In it’s almost vertical walls, varied caves can be found, like the Cave of colors, and waterfalls like the Christmas tree fall. There is an abundance of birds and monkeys, crocodiles can be observed on the river bed. The length of the canyon from the bridge to the Chicoasén dam is 32 km and it’s width varies from 20 to 200 mts. In it’s highest spot it reaches 1000 mts above sea level.

Located in the state of Chiapas and traced through the years by the Grijalva River’s flow, the features of this landscape have allowed the development of a diverse and abundant natural life which led to it being declared National Park.

Amongst the main characteristics of this place we can mention the diverse vegetation which varies according to the altitude within the canyon, so, during a crossing anything can be spotted from tropical bromeliads to pine and oak trees.
Due to the gently inclined slopes, the decreased sunlight in the canyon’s interior and the high humidity conditions, middle and high jungle has developed in the area, where there is a predominance of ceiba, elephant ear, montezuma pine and breadnut trees. Surrounding the rivulets and springs we can see the presence of plants with low soil but high water requirements like the begonia, ferns and mosses.
It’s important to keep in mind that this is one of the last habitats for species in danger of extinction like the great curassow, spider monkey and the river crocodile, and other threatened species like the jaguarundi, the ocelot, the spotted paca, white tail deer, central american red brocket, anteater and the king vulture.

Other findings within the canyon include ancient cave painting, archeological ruins and some evidence of pre-hispanic human habitation of the caves at the entrance of the canyon. All these attractions added to the many others waiting to be discovered, the Sumidero Canyon is an interesting option for nature adventure lovers.

At the end of the journey we come face to face with one of the most impressive engineering projects in Mexico, the Chicoasen dam, which is the most important hydroelectric plant and source of electricity in the country.

Travel tips for visiting the Sumidero Canyon
Tuxtla Gutierrez is a city with all tourist services and can be the starting point for visiting the Canyon. Although, if you are more inclined to a more peaceful and colonial atmosphere, we recommend starting your journey from the town of Chiapa de Corzo.

Chiapa de Corzo boasts of it’s own tourist attractions, like the moorish fountain at it’s center which has become the city’s symbol, the Santo Domingo temple, the Laca museum and the Calvario Temple.

Activities at the Sumidero Canyon

• Boat Ride
• Visiting the lookout points
• Visit to the dam
• Visit the Sumidero canyon’s eco-touristic park

The motorboat rides are ideal for appreciating the canyon as a whole, but in order to appreciate the little details that make up the canyon’s magic, we suggest a row boat ride to begin ideally between 7 and 10 in the morning.

If you would prefer a journey out of the water, you can visit any of the five lookout points which offer a unique panoramic view. You can rent a car and drive yourself or hire from one of the local tour agencies available.