SUMIDERO CANYON & CHIAPA DE CORZO
The Sumidero Canyon is a colossal natural wonder in Chiapas, Mexico, featuring vertical walls soaring up to a kilometer high. This breathtaking chasm has been carved over millions of years by the mighty Grijalva River.
This region is the heart of the Chiapanecan landscape, blending ancient natural history with vibrant indigenous culture in the charming colonial town of Chiapa de Corzo, its gateway.
Most Popular Attractions
The Canyon & Natural Wonders:
Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour: The essential experience, traversing the Grijalva River between the massive canyon walls to witness the spectacular geology and wildlife.
Miradores del Cañón (Canyon Lookouts): A series of five official viewpoints along the canyon’s edge, offering stunning, high-altitude panoramic vistas (e.g., La Ceiba, El Roblar, El Tepehuaje).
“Árbol de Navidad” (Christmas Tree): A famous, moss-covered rock formation within the canyon, shaped like a Christmas tree, created by a continuous natural spring.
Cueva de Colores (Cave of Colors): A small cave within the canyon walls where minerals create deposits of various colors, giving it its name.
Cueva de Silencio (Cave of Silence): Another natural cavity often visited during the boat tour, known for its tranquil environment.
La Cascada Grande (Great Waterfall): A large, seasonal waterfall that plunges down the canyon wall, often seen during the boat tour.
Wildlife Viewing: Spotting crocodiles, spider monkeys, coatis, pelicans, and various other bird species along the river and canyon slopes.
Grijalva River: The powerful river that carved the canyon and flows into the Chicoasén Dam, a major hydroelectric facility nearby.
Chicoasén Dam: One of the world’s highest embankment dams, located after the canyon, responsible for generating a significant amount of Mexico’s electricity.
Parque Nacional Cañón del Sumidero: The protected national park encompassing the canyon and surrounding ecosystem, crucial for regional biodiversity.
Chiapa de Corzo – City Core & Colonial Sites:
La Pila (The Crown Fountain): An iconic 16th-century, Mudéjar-style brick fountain located in the main plaza, famous for its unique structure resembling a Spanish crown.
Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo: A magnificent 16th-century Dominican convent and church complex with imposing architecture, now housing the Museo de la Laca (Lacquer Museum).
Templo de Santo Domingo: The beautiful church adjacent to the convent, featuring a large bell tower and ornate colonial details.
Museo de la Laca (Lacquer Museum): Located in the Ex-Convento, displaying a stunning collection of traditional, highly decorated lacquerware from Chiapas and other regions.
Portal de las Flores (Arcades): The colonial arcades surrounding the central plaza, lined with restaurants and shops, perfect for enjoying the local atmosphere.
Casa de Artesanías (Artisan House): A place to purchase high-quality local handicrafts, especially the beautiful laca (lacquer) items and traditional textiles.
Malecón de Chiapa de Corzo: The waterfront area along the Grijalva River where the Sumidero Canyon boat tours depart.
Ruinas de la Capilla de San Sebastián: The ruins of a colonial chapel on a hill, offering a quiet, historical stop and views over the town.
Templo de San Jacinto: A smaller, historic church with colonial charm, reflecting the town’s religious heritage.
Parachico Masks: Seeing or purchasing the traditional wooden masks used in the Fiesta Grande de Enero (a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event).
Comida Típica (Local Cuisine): Sampling traditional Chiapanecan dishes like cochito horneado (roasted piglet) and pepita con tasajo (beef in a pumpkin seed sauce) in a local restaurant.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Boat Tour of Sumidero Canyon: This is the essential experience. Glide along the Grijalva River for two hours through the 1,000-meter high canyon walls, spotting crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species.
Visit the Miradores (Viewpoints) of the Canyon: Drive along the highway above the canyon to five different viewpoints (La Ceiba, La Coyota, El Tepehuaje, Los Chiapa, and Los Nidos) for breathtaking, high-altitude perspectives.
Explore the Historic Center of Chiapa de Corzo: Wander through the colonial streets of this Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town), a settlement dating back to 1528.
See the La Pila Fountain (La Corona): Admire the iconic 16th-century, Mudejar-style brick fountain in the main plaza of Chiapa de Corzo, built to resemble the crown of the Spanish King.
Shop for Local Lacquerware: Chiapa de Corzo is famous for its beautiful, hand-painted lacquer crafts (laca or laca chiapaneca). Visit local workshops to see artisans at work and purchase unique souvenirs.
Hike the Chicoasén Dam Area: Take a scenic drive and explore the surrounding area of the massive hydroelectric dam built on the Grijalva River, which holds back the waters of the canyon.
Visit the Santo Domingo de Guzmán Temple and Convent: Explore this magnificent 16th-century architectural complex in Chiapa de Corzo, which features a church and an ex-convent.
Try Cochito Horneado: Indulge in the regional specialty of roast suckling pig, traditionally slow-cooked in a wood-fired oven and often served with a savory, spiced broth.
Attend a Local Marimba Performance: Enjoy the sound of the marimba (a type of wooden xylophone), the distinctive folk music of Chiapas, often heard in the main plazas and restaurants.
Explore the Ruins of the Ancient Chiapa Culture: Visit the archaeological site located near Chiapa de Corzo to see the remains of the pre-Columbian city of the Chiapa people.
Take a Kayak/Paddleboard Tour (Season Permitting): For a different pace, explore the calmer sections of the river/canyon edge by kayak or paddleboard, offering a more intimate experience with nature.
Local Tips & Transport
To the Canyon Boat Tours: The most common starting point is the embarcadero (dock) in Chiapa de Corzo. You can easily take a taxi or a local colectivo (shared taxi/van) from Tuxtla Gutiérrez (the state capital) directly to the docks.
The Miradores (Viewpoints): The road to the viewpoints (Carretera Turística—Tourist Highway) is easily accessible from Tuxtla Gutiérrez, but requires a private vehicle or a hired taxi/tour. Public transport does not service all the lookout points directly.
Internal Transport in Chiapa de Corzo: The town is small and very walkable. All the major historical sites, the main plaza, and the main boat dock are within easy walking distance of each other.
Flying In: The nearest major airport is Ángel Albino Corzo International Airport (TGZ), located about 45 minutes from Chiapa de Corzo and 1 hour from San Cristóbal de las Casas. Taxis and private shuttles are available.
Best Time for Boat Tours: For the best chance of seeing wildlife (especially crocodiles basking in the sun), take the earlier morning tours (8 AM to 10 AM). The light is also better for photography. Mid-day tours can be very hot, especially in the dry season.
Dress for the Heat: The area around the canyon and Chiapa de Corzo, being at a lower altitude, can be significantly warmer than the nearby city of San Cristóbal de las Casas. Wear light clothing, a hat, and always bring sunblock and water.
The Pochó Festival: If visiting in January, the Fiesta Grande de Chiapa de Corzo is a major cultural event, known for the traditional Parachicos dancers and the Pochó masked dance, which has been recognized by UNESCO.
Hidden Culinary Gem: Look for small, local eateries serving pepita con tasajo, a traditional Chiapan dish of dried, salted meat in a pumpkin seed-based sauce.
Tours vs. Self-Guided: While many organized tours exist, you can easily arrange the boat trip yourself at the docks. This often gives you more flexibility and can be more budget-friendly.
Plastic Ban: Chiapa de Corzo and the Canyon area enforce strict environmental regulations, including bans on single-use plastics. Bring your own reusable water bottle.
Top Restaurants
El Anafre Restaurant Turístico [$15-$25] – A well-regarded traditional restaurant located near the Malecón/riverside in Chiapa de Corzo, famous for its regional specialties like Pepita con Tasajo and the famous Cochito Horneado.
Restaurante Árbol De La Vida [$15-$25] – Situated in the Hotel La Seiva in Chiapa de Corzo, this spot is popular for a traditional breakfast or a hearty regional meal in a beautiful setting.
El Campanario [$15-$25] – A reliable and central option on the main street of Chiapa de Corzo, serving classic Mexican and regional Chiapanecan dishes in a pleasant, traditional environment.
Cenadurìa La Chiapaneca [$10-$20] – A local favorite in a slightly off-center neighborhood of Chiapa de Corzo, known for its budget-friendly, authentic cenas (suppers) featuring traditional regional foods like tostadas and tamales.
Los Ladrillos Restaurant [$10-$20] – Highly recommended by locals in Chiapa de Corzo for its great variety of guisos (stews), traditional botanas (snacks), and excellent value.
Ola Marina [$15-$25] – This spot is specifically located right on the banks of the Grijalva River, offering delicious seafood and regional dishes with the unique advantage of being an excellent pre- or post-Sumidero Canyon boat trip stop.
Restaurante Bahias Del Grijalva [$15-$25] – Located right on the Paseo del Malecón in Chiapa de Corzo, it offers views of the Grijalva River and a menu focused on regional and Mexican comfort food.
Punto Chope Chin Chin [$10-$20] – A simpler, more casual option in the Barrio San Antonio Abad of Chiapa de Corzo, perfect for enjoying quick, authentic regional plates and antojitos.
Taquería El Calvario [$5-$15] – A no-frills, highly authentic taco spot in Chiapa de Corzo, catering to a local crowd with classic Mexican street food staples.
Antojitos Chiapanecos “La Tía” [$5-$15] – Found in a simple setting near the main plaza of Chiapa de Corzo, this local eatery focuses on regional antojitos (small, traditional snacks) like empanadas and quesadillas.
Fonda Doña Mari [$10-$20] – A humble, family-run fonda near the central area of Chiapa de Corzo, providing daily comida corrida (set lunch menus) with authentic, homestyle Chiapanecan flavor.
Pozolería Doña Elo (Mercado Público) [$5-$10] – Located inside the bustling Mercado Público in Chiapa de Corzo, this is one of the most authentic spots for the traditional cold drink Pozol (cacao and corn) and simple regional snacks.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Pochota: Casa de Café y Bar (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): Located in the heart of Tuxtla, this establishment is renowned for its selection of traditional Chiapan coffee and transforms into a lively bar in the evenings, offering local spirits and cocktails.
La Maceta (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A popular and trendy spot in Tuxtla’s center, offering a relaxed garden atmosphere, great craft beers, and creative cocktails with a local twist.
La Coyota (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): Found in the bustling main area of Tuxtla, this casual bar is known for its excellent selection of Mexican mezcal and regional pox (a Mayan spirit), served neat or in simple, powerful cocktails.
Doña Chely (Chiapa de Corzo): Situated near the main square, this traditional spot is perfect for a casual evening, offering local beers, simple mixed drinks, and a taste of authentic Chiapan atmosphere.
El Jardín de Chiapa (Chiapa de Corzo): A relaxed and inviting restaurant/bar with a garden setting in Chiapa de Corzo, ideal for enjoying a cold beer or a classic margarita after a day on the river.
El Caminito (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A charming bar in Tuxtla with a friendly, welcoming vibe, known for its affordable drinks and a great spot to try local aguardiente (strong spirits) and classic cocktails.
Terraza Jardín (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): Located on a rooftop in a central area of Tuxtla, this bar offers a nice view and is a great spot for enjoying a sunset cocktail in a more elevated setting.
La Casa del Mezcal (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): As the name suggests, this centrally located Tuxtla bar specializes in mezcal, offering tastings and flights, as well as mezcal-based cocktails.
Cantina 11.11 (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A traditional Mexican cantina in Tuxtla that maintains a classic, old-school ambiance, serving straightforward drinks, beer, and complimentary snacks (botanas).
El Gato Negro (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A centrally located spot in Tuxtla known for its rock and alternative music, serving as a reliable choice for a fun, casual night with simple cocktails and beer.
Bar El Mirador (Chiapa de Corzo): Offers a simple yet stunning location with views of the Grijalva River, perfect for a relaxing beer or basic mixed drink near the river docks.
Cervecería de Barrio (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A vibrant, centrally located beer house in Tuxtla, offering a wide selection of national and international beers, as well as some popular micheladas (beer cocktails).
Corzo Bar (Chiapa de Corzo): Found in the heart of the town, this small, cozy spot provides a local atmosphere for a late-night beer or a straightforward highball drink.
Oca Cava y Bar (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A slightly more upscale option in Tuxtla, featuring a wider selection of wines and spirits for those looking for a premium cocktail experience.
El Rincón del Jaguar (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): Located in a popular Tuxtla neighborhood, this spot is known for its friendly service and great, straightforward margaritas.
La Cueva (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): One of the largest and most popular nightclubs in Tuxtla Gutiérrez, offering a high-energy dance floor, VIP areas, and playing a mix of reggaeton, electronic, and commercial music.
Barezzito (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A trendy and stylish club in Tuxtla known for its live band performances, often covering popular music, and transitioning to a DJ set later in the night.
Nico’s Club (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A long-standing staple in the Tuxtla nightlife scene, this club is popular for its mix of Latin and contemporary dance music, attracting a lively crowd.
La Santísima (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A modern club in Tuxtla with a sophisticated ambiance, often hosting themed parties and featuring top local DJs playing house and electronic music.
Mantra Club & Bar (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): Located in a commercial area of Tuxtla, this venue offers a contemporary design and a mix of music genres, appealing to a younger, energetic crowd.
Malabar (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A vibrant club in Tuxtla known for its energetic atmosphere and playing a heavy mix of Latin pop and salsa, perfect for dancing.
Havana Club (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A Tuxtla spot dedicated to Latin rhythms, offering a great place to dance salsa, bachata, and cumbia, with a focus on Cuban and Caribbean vibes.
La Vaca Negra (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): While also a restaurant, this spot in Tuxtla becomes a lively late-night venue on weekends, often featuring live music and a fun, communal atmosphere.
Bar Central (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): Located centrally, this spot serves as a great, lively pre-club bar or a casual late-night meeting point with loud music and strong drinks.
Bar El Callejón (Tuxtla Gutiérrez): A smaller, more intimate late-night bar in Tuxtla that focuses on rock and indie music, providing an alternative to the large dance clubs.