The Cañón del Sumidero is a gorge carved by the Grijalva River through the mountains of central Chiapas, with vertical walls that reach about 1,000 m at their highest point. The standard visit is a motorboat ride up the canyon from Chiapa de Corzo or Cahuaré, followed by optional road viewpoints (miradores) above the gorge. It is the most popular day trip from San Cristóbal de las Casas and Tuxtla Gutiérrez. We cover prices, logistics and the practical details below, and our San Cristóbal day trips guide places it alongside other excursions.
What the boat tour covers
Open motorboats seat around 15 to 20 passengers and travel about 35 km up the canyon to the Chicoasén dam and back. Along the way, the guide points out:
- Árbol de Navidad: a waterfall with moss formations resembling a Christmas tree, most vivid in the rainy season.
- Cueva del Silencio and Cueva de Colores: caves with striking rock colouring.
- Wildlife: river crocodiles on the banks, spider monkeys in the trees, and birds such as herons and vultures.
- The deepest walls: the narrowest, tallest section of the gorge, near the end of the route.
The ride takes about two hours. Life jackets are provided and must be worn.
Prices (as of 2026)
| Item | Approximate cost |
|---|---|
| Boat ticket, adults | around MXN 270-290 (confirm at the dock) |
| Boat ticket, children up to 11 | about MXN 235 |
| Colectivo from San Cristóbal to Chiapa de Corzo | roughly MXN 60-90 |
| Group tour from San Cristóbal | from about USD 35-60 |
| Private tour with hotel pickup | from about USD 100 |
Boat prices are fixed at the docks, and the national park charge is usually included in the ticket. Because the only fare reports we found are undated, check the current rate on arrival. Bring cash for tips, snacks and the miradores.
Hours and best time to go
The docks generally open early and operate until mid-afternoon, with boats leaving when full. Arriving by about 9:00 gives you shorter queues, cooler air and better odds of seeing crocodiles and monkeys. The dry season (November to April) offers clearer skies, while the rainy season brings stronger waterfalls but possibly murkier water.
How to get there
From San Cristóbal de las Casas. The canyon embarkation point at Chiapa de Corzo is about 55 km and 1 to 1.5 hours away. Take a colectivo or second-class bus to Chiapa de Corzo, which takes about 1 hour, then walk or take a short taxi to the embarcadero. This is the cheapest option.
From Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Chiapa de Corzo is about 20 minutes by colectivo, and the Cahuaré dock is closer still. This is the easiest route if you are flying into Tuxtla’s airport.
By tour. Most agencies in San Cristóbal sell a full-day trip that combines the boat ride with Chiapa de Corzo and the miradores. Browse Sumidero Canyon tours on GetYourGuide to compare itineraries and pickup times. Our best tours in San Cristóbal roundup lists other excursions in the area.
Chiapa de Corzo: worth a stop
Chiapa de Corzo is a colonial town with a central plaza, the La Pila fountain (a Mudéjar brick structure from the 16th century) and a good market. Allow an hour or two before or after the boat for lunch, and try the local pozol, a fermented corn drink, or the regional cochito. Many travellers enjoy it more than expected.
The miradores
Road viewpoints along the rim give photos from above, with the river seen about 1,000 m below. They are usually included in tours, and you can also reach them by taxi from Tuxtla Gutiérrez. They are less dramatic than the boat view, but worth it for the scale.
What to bring
- Sun protection, hat and sunglasses, because the boat is open and exposed
- A light rain jacket, as weather can change in the canyon
- Cash in small bills
- Water and snacks, though boat vendors sell some
- Binoculars or a zoom lens for wildlife
Be aware that trash can collect on the river near the dam, especially after heavy rain. Boat operators clean regularly, but conditions vary.
Practical notes
Wear your life jacket for the entire ride. Do not stand up in the boat, and keep your distance from the crocodiles. Children are welcome, though very small children may get bored on the two-hour trip. Check weather and road conditions locally, since Chiapas travel can be affected by roadblocks. For national park information, the CONANP website is the government source.
Is it worth it?
Yes, particularly if you are in Chiapas for several days. The scale of the walls and the chance of seeing wildlife make it one of the strongest short excursions in southern Mexico. Combined with Chiapa de Corzo, it fills a full day comfortably, and starting early gives you the best experience.