Cañón del Sumidero Highlights

Sumidero Canyon Essentials

Sumidero Canyon is a massive geological rift in Chiapas carved by the Grijalva River, with vertical limestone walls reaching heights of up to 1,000 meters. This collection features the primary land-based viewpoints along the canyon's rim and essential river-level landmarks accessible by boat. Highlights include the moss-covered 'Christmas Tree' rock formation, mineral-stained caves, and the Chicoasén Dam, one of Mexico's largest hydroelectric projects.

Rolf Stein / CC BY-SA 4.0

Sumidero Canyon

Sumidero Canyon is a deep natural canyon located just north of the city of Chiapa de Corzo in the state of Chiapas, in southern Mexico.

Mirador

Elevated observation point providing a panoramic view of the Grijalva River and the canyon's steep limestone cliffs.

Cañón del Sumidero

A protected national park encompassing a deep gorge formed over 35 million years ago, featuring diverse flora and fauna.

Cueva de los Colores

A river-level grotto known for the vibrant pink and ochre mineral deposits on its walls, frequently used as a site for religious offerings.

Cave with Christian statue

A small natural cave along the riverbank that houses a shrine dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Puente Belisario Domínguez

Major bridge spanning the Grijalva River, marking the entrance to the canyon for boat tours departing from Chiapa de Corzo.

Mirador Ceiba

The first viewpoint on the scenic road, situated at an altitude of approximately 400 meters overlooking the start of the gorge.

Daniel Araujo / CC BY-SA 4.0

Mirador El Tepehuaje

A high-altitude lookout point offering a direct view of the river's path as it winds through the narrowest sections of the canyon.

Mirador La Coyota

One of the highest viewpoints along the rim, showcasing the sheer 1,000-meter vertical drop of the canyon walls.

Daniel Araujo / CC BY-SA 4.0

Mirador Manos que imploran.

Observation deck located near the northern end of the canyon, named for rock formations that resemble hands in a prayer gesture.

Presa Chicoasén

A massive hydroelectric dam and reservoir at the end of the canyon route, standing as one of the tallest dams in the world.

Cristmas tree waterfall

A natural rock formation covered in moss and ferns that resembles a giant pine tree, created by a seasonal waterfall.