A Guide To Sumidero Canyon

September 15, 2014
Michael Ryan
Sumidero Canyon entrance

Sumidero Canyon entrance

Cañon del Sumidero or Sumidero Canyon is a natural wonder which is situated in the state of Chiapas, in southern Mexico.  It is placed between Chiapa de Corzo and the capital city of the state, Tuxtla de Gutierrez.  It is a must-visit area in Mexico, with a river running through it and with its steep walls, it is unforgettable.

Some of the remaining archaeological pieces indicate that the canyon area was previously inhabited.  The story goes that the canyon acted as a refuge for the local people from the invading Spanish.  The legend states that they usually chose to jump to their deaths rather that to submit to the Spaniards.

During 1980, the hydroelectric Manuel Morreno Torres dam was completed.  This caused the canyon to flood which allowed crossing by boat.  Prior to this, the water level varied dramatically in the canyon.  During the time of completion of the dam, the government declared the 21789 hectare area a national park.  This was done to protect the archaeological and natural species that remained.

The National Park houses in excess of 800000 species of flora and fauna.  This includes a variety of birds, mammals, butterflies, fish, reptiles and spider monkey populations.

Vantage Points

There are several lookout points within the canyon and National Park.  They are placed at different locations along the canyon and at different levels.

Besides viewing the canyon from above, you can opt for a boat tour that will take you the length of 35 km up the canyon.  The trip froes from the Belisario Dominguez Bridge to the hydroelectric dam and with the return ride, this amounts to a total of 70 km on the water.  The duration of the tour is around two hours and it allows you to view the natural beauty of the canyon.  You may even be able to see some wildlife.

Keep It Clean

Unfortunately the rainy season washes trash from the mountain villages and nearby cities down into the canyon.  The shape of the canyon allows this rubbish to accumulate at a particular narrow area.  This could make it difficult for the boats to navigate along the canyon.  However, the authorities make a point of regularly clearing up the mess, so you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Aerial view of the Sumidero Canyon

Aerial view of the Sumidero Canyon

Be Prepared

To ensure that you enjoy your trip to this beautiful natural wonder, you should ensure that you are prepared for your trip.  Make sure that you pack suitable clothing and a first aid kit.  Most importantly, ensure that your paperwork is in order.  One of the most important pieces of paper you should carry with you at all times is your Mexican car insurance policy.  It is a legal requirement to obtain this type of insurance if you intend traveling on the roads in the country.

It is quite easy to obtain Mexican auto insurance as you can buy your Mexican insurance policy online such as from this URL

.  You can do online research to find the best provider or you can speak to your current insurance broker about obtaining a policy.  The most important aspect of the policy is to ensure that you will be covered for all events.  Although you may be a safe driver, there are others on the road who may not be as alert to the dangers of traveling by road.

8 Comments. Leave new

Jarvis Emanuel

You can easily drive from Illinois to Canada without the need to take Canadian car insurance cover. However, the same is not possible while driving south into Mexico. You would need to take Mexican auto insurance cover.

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Tanika Venegas

It is important to have Mexican insurance while driving on crazy Mexican roads. In as much as Liability-only cover is cheap, it is advisable to have full cover for your car.

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Magnolia Boss

There are plenty of nice camping sites in Mexico. You can also find it wonderful to have an ATV in addition to your RV if you intend to visit remote and rugged terrain for a panoramic view. In case you choose to do so, make sure that your ATV is also covered by Mexican auto Insurance.

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Aracely Spalding

In minutes, your policy is available online. You can always ask assistance for the things in the policy not clear to you.

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Evelyne Rickard

In Mexico, you can have fun and yummy twist or visit a smoothie café with friends. There you can cool down yourself with the different sweet flavors available.

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Leonila Noren

To make things easier for your trip, don’t wear out your children. Choose a simple activity that makes them happy — something that encourages their desire for adventure.

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Loma Morley

As long as the necessary documents are complete, your pets can also go for a car trip with you.

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Stefany Elling

Mexico is a home for amazing mountains like Sierra Madre Mountain for adventurous hiking. Many tourists climb up the mountains to see the rugged areas of Mexico.

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