Sumidero Canyon: Marvel at Chiapas' Natural Wonder
Sumidero Canyon is a magnificent natural wonder located in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. It is a deep and narrow canyon carved by the Grijalva River, featuring towering cliffs, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Here’s a detailed description of Sumidero Canyon:
Visitor Fee:
There is an entrance fee to access Sumidero Canyon. As of my last update in September 2021, the fee for international visitors was around 45 Mexican Pesos, and for national visitors, it was around 35 Mexican Pesos. Please note that fees may have changed since then, so it’s best to check the current admission prices before your visit.
Transportation:
Sumidero Canyon is situated near the city of Chiapa de Corzo, which is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from the state capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez. There are various ways to reach Sumidero Canyon:
- Boat Tour: The most common way to experience Sumidero Canyon is by taking a boat tour that departs from Chiapa de Corzo. The tours usually last around two hours and provide a comprehensive view of the canyon.
- Car: If you’re driving, you can reach the canyon by taking Highway 190 from Tuxtla Gutiérrez to Chiapa de Corzo.
- Tour: Guided tours are available from Tuxtla Gutiérrez and other nearby towns, offering transportation and organized visits to Sumidero Canyon.
Things to Do:
Sumidero Canyon offers a spectacular experience amidst dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity. Some of the main things to do at Sumidero Canyon include:
- Boat Tour: Take a boat tour through the canyon to witness the towering cliffs, stunning rock formations, and wildlife along the riverbanks.
- Scenic Views: Admire the breathtaking panoramic views from various viewpoints throughout the canyon.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and numerous bird species.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the canyon’s geological formations and the lush vegetation.
Exploring Caves: Explore some of the caves within the canyon, such as the Cueva de Colores (Cave of Colors).
Why People Enjoy Coming Here:
People enjoy visiting Sumidero Canyon for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and the opportunity to witness the stunning landscapes carved by the Grijalva River. The boat tour offers a unique perspective of the canyon’s towering cliffs and provides an up-close encounter with the diverse wildlife inhabiting the area. The serenity and grandeur of Sumidero Canyon create a memorable experience, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
How Old is This Place:
The formation of Sumidero Canyon dates back millions of years when geological forces gradually carved out the deep canyon through the limestone rocks. The Grijalva River’s continuous flow further shaped the canyon over time, creating the spectacular landscape seen today.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
Besides Sumidero Canyon, there are other attractions and destinations in the state of Chiapas that visitors can explore:
- Chiapa de Corzo: Visit the charming town of Chiapa de Corzo, known for its colonial architecture and traditional pottery.
- Cañón del Río La Venta: Explore the La Venta River Canyon, another impressive natural formation located near Tuxtla Gutiérrez.
- Palenque: Travel to Palenque to visit the ancient Mayan archaeological site, famous for its well-preserved temples and pyramids.
- San Cristóbal de las Casas: Discover the picturesque city of San Cristóbal de las Casas, known for its vibrant indigenous culture and colonial charm.
List of Activities:
- Taking a boat tour through the majestic Sumidero Canyon.
- Enjoying the breathtaking views and scenic beauty of the canyon.
- Spotting diverse wildlife along the riverbanks and within the canyon.
- Exploring the caves and geological formations within the canyon.
- Capturing photographs of the dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
- Combining the visit to Sumidero Canyon with nearby attractions and towns for a complete Chiapas experience.