In short
- Bring a light windbreaker for the boat.
- Wear lightweight clothing for the heat.
- Pack cash and a camera wrist strap.
In this article
Your day trip involves a two-hour river tour and exploring viewpoints up to 1,000 meters above sea level. The climate is hot, but the moving boat feels cool. Proper clothing keeps you comfortable.
What to wear Sumidero Canyon boat tour?
Wear layers, starting with lightweight clothing and adding a windbreaker for the fast boat ride.
The two-hour boat trip departs from Chiapa de Corzo. The motorized lanchas travel fast, creating a strong breeze. A light jacket keeps you warm, especially if you start early from San Cristóbal de las Casas. Wear a tight-fitting cap so the wind does not blow it into the water.
How to dress for the viewpoints and Chiapa de Corzo?
Choose breathable fabrics and comfortable walking shoes.
Temperatures at the bottom of the canyon and in town get hot. Wear light clothes to stay cool while walking around the colonial town. You need comfortable walking shoes to explore the five viewpoints and the streets safely.
What sun protection do you need?
Bring biodegradable sunscreen and polarized sunglasses.
The sun reflects off the Grijalva River, making the glare intense. Sunglasses protect your eyes during the 13-kilometer navigation. Apply biodegradable sunscreen before you arrive to protect the river ecosystem.
What camera gear should you bring?
Use a secure wrist strap for your phone or camera.
You cannot disembark during the boat tour. If you drop your device over the edge, it is gone forever. A strap secures your camera while you photograph the 1,000-meter vertical cliff walls or the crocodiles.
How much cash should you pack?
Carry enough Mexican pesos to cover snacks, tips, and market shopping.
Boat tours cost around $460 MXN for foreigners. Bring extra cash for snacks at Mirador Los Chiapa or meals near the Chiapa de Corzo pier. Credit cards are often not accepted by smaller vendors.
What items are prohibited in the park?
Do not bring alcoholic beverages into the national park.
Park rules strictly prohibit alcohol. You must also keep control of all solid waste and take your trash with you. Pack plenty of drinking water in a reusable bottle to stay hydrated in the heat.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need hiking boots for Sumidero Canyon?
No. Standard comfortable walking shoes are sufficient for the paved paths at the viewpoints and the town streets.
Is a hat a good idea on the boat?
Yes, but make sure it fits tightly. Wide-brimmed hats can easily blow off on the fast-moving boats.
Do I need warm clothes for Sumidero Canyon?
You only need a light windbreaker or layer for the boat ride and early morning departures from higher altitudes.
