Tour ZOOMAT, Christ of Chiapas, Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints in Spanish

If you’re looking to experience Chiapas beyond just its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, this tour offers a well-rounded day full of local fauna, stunning vistas, and a towering monument. It’s a package that suits families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to get a comprehensive snapshot of this southern Mexican state.

What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it combines educational visits like the zoo with breathtaking natural views from Sumidero Canyon. Plus, the imposing Christ of Chiapas adds a sense of awe and perspective to your day. That said, one thing to consider is the amount of walking involved—especially around the zoo area—so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and scenery in a single day. If you prefer relaxed sightseeing with opportunities for great photos and a bit of learning about regional wildlife, this experience will definitely appeal.

Key Points

• Unique Zoo Experience: The only of its kind in Latin America, showcasing regional fauna like jaguars, spider monkeys, and quetzals.
• Spectacular Views: Get a panoramic perspective of Chiapas city from the Cristo of Chiapas and viewpoints of the Sumidero Canyon.
• Family Friendly: Offers engaging activities for children and adults alike, especially wildlife lovers.
• Value for Money: At $60 per person, the tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and expert driver service.
• Active but Manageable: Expect some walking at the zoo and viewpoints, suitable for most but not for those with mobility challenges.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Chiapas in Detail: The Highlights of the Tour

The ZOOMAT: More Than Just a Zoo

The day begins with a visit to ZOOMAT, which is more than just a zoo — it’s a curated showcase of regional wildlife. With a duration of about 2.5 hours, this visit allows you to see animals native to Chiapas in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Reviewers often praise it as one of the best zoos in Latin America, noting how the exhibits are thoughtfully arranged and educational.

One of the standout features is the chance to see jaguars, spider monkeys, and quetzals. These creatures are not only emblematic of the region but also a great way for kids and adults alike to connect with the local biodiversity. The zoo’s location within the El Zapotal reserve adds an extra layer of nature around the enclosures, making the experience feel more authentic and immersive.

The walk through the zoo involves some distance, so comfortable shoes are a must. While it’s not a strenuous trek, be prepared for a bit of a stroll. Many reviews mention how the zoo is well-maintained and offers informative signage, making it an engaging stop that combines fun with education.

The Christ of Chiapas: An Iconic Viewpoint

Next, you’ll visit the Cristo de Chiapas, a 62-meter-high sculpture that surpasses the famous Christ of Brazil. From this vantage point, you’ll get a sweeping view of the city and its surroundings. This is a chance to appreciate the scale of the monument and experience a quiet moment of reflection while taking in the scenery.

The structure’s impressive height makes it a real landmark, and the views from the top are often described as “breathtaking,” offering a different perspective on the city below. It’s a popular photo spot, with many visitors capturing the contrast between the monument and the urban landscape.

Sumidero Canyon Viewpoints: Nature’s Grand Panorama

Finally, the tour takes you to one of the most dramatic natural features of Chiapas: Sumidero Canyon. You’ll visit viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas from the highest points, giving you a sense of the canyon’s immense scale. Spending about two hours here, you’ll have opportunities to photograph the rugged cliffs, winding river, and possibly spot some local wildlife or boat excursions below.

The viewpoints are accessible via short walks or drives, making it a manageable part of the day despite being a natural site. Many travelers find these views to be the highlight, especially if you enjoy landscape photography or simply want to soak in the grandeur of this geological marvel.

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The Practicalities: What to Know Before You Go

Transportation and Comfort

All transportation is included, with air-conditioned vehicles and comfortable seats. The group sizes tend to be moderate, which helps keep the experience intimate yet lively. The driver, who speaks Spanish, is also your guide, providing local insights along the way.

Schedule and Timing

The schedule is structured yet flexible enough to give you time at each site. The tour starts with pickup options from four different locations: Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapa de Corzo, San Cristóbal de las Casas, or Zona Centro. The entire experience lasts approximately one day, with around 6 hours of active sightseeing.

Cost and Value

At $60 per person, the tour includes entrance fees, transportation, and the services of a driver. This makes it a very cost-effective way to see multiple attractions that would be hard to organize independently, especially considering the inclusion of fees and transportation logistics.

What to Bring

Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera or smartphone for photos, some cash for extras or tips, biodegradable insect repellent, and a charged device. Don’t forget your sunglasses and a hat, especially if you’re visiting during the hotter months.

Restrictions and Considerations

The zoo is closed on Mondays, and the canyon viewpoints are not accessible on Tuesdays. People with mobility issues or animal allergies might find it less suitable, given the walking involved and the animal encounters.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and casual travelers who want a well-rounded day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning each site individually. It suits those who appreciate authentic, scenic, and educational moments in a manageable package. If you’re eager to see Chiapas’ unique animals, enjoy panoramic landscapes, and stand beneath one of Latin America’s tallest Christ figures, this tour will deliver.

FAQs

Is there a specific start time for the tour?
Yes, check availability for starting times, as they may vary. You’ll want to confirm your pickup 24 hours in advance to secure your spot.

How long is the visit to each site?
You get about 2.5 hours at ZOOMAT, 1 hour at the Christ of Chiapas, and 2 hours at Sumidero Canyon viewpoints, making for a full but comfortable day of sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The $60 fee covers transportation, entrance fees to ZOOMAT, Cristo de Chiapas, and the canyon viewpoints, plus a Spanish-speaking driver.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the day.

Can I customize this tour or extend my visit?
This specific tour is designed as a one-day experience with fixed stops, so customization isn’t typically offered. For more time at each site, consider planning additional activities separately.

What should I avoid bringing?
Drones, alcohol, plastics, and littering are prohibited. Also, be mindful of insect repellent and avoid bringing any items that could disturb wildlife or other visitors.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compact yet engaging way to experience some of Chiapas’ most iconic sights. It strikes a good balance between wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks—all at a reasonable price point. If you’re traveling with family or simply want a convenient way to see several highlights in one day, it’s hard to beat.

While the walking involved might be a consideration for some, the views, animals, and monument visits make the effort worthwhile. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a structured, informative day with minimal planning.

In the end, this tour provides a snapshot of Chiapas that’s both scenic and educational — a neat package that captures the spirit of this vibrant region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby