Attractions in Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico: What to do and where to go

The Sumidero Canyon

The depths of the Sumidero Canyon certainly exalt your imagination and elevate your spirit. On its rocky walls, running 22 km long, 800 meters deep and eroded by the waters of the Grijalva River, you will find ancient caves with rock paintings, some archaeological remains and other traces of activity by Pre-Columbian society.

The best way to see the canyon is from the river, to better admire the delicate and subtle rock formations, the lush vegetation, and exuberant wildlife. If you're lucky you can spot crocodiles, spider monkeys and aquatic birds on your trip. There are several docks where you can charter a boat and start your adventure however the most convenient are located in Chiapa de Corzo.

Look out Points

Don't miss the chance to take in the breathtaking view of the Sumidero Canyon from the five look out points, an obligatory stop when in Tuxtla Gutierrez. There is a pay booth 23 km from downtown Tuxtla where you are charged a very modest fee, used for keeping the look out points in good condition. The first is called 'La Ceiba', located at the top of a narrow, steep, curvy road 500 meters above sea level. Don't be disappointed when you arrive at the parking lot, since the best view is yet to come. Once you climb down the rocky steps, you will see the true magnificence of the canyon, feel the wind blow in your face, breathe the freshness of the air, and hear the birds sing; a sumptuous reward after a long and winding climb.

To get to the other look out points, you have to keep going up the same road. It is up to you to decide where you want to stop and how long you want to stay at each point; nevertheless, the last one is called 'Los Chiapa' and it is 1200 meters above sea level. It features a restaurant and souvenir shop. Each vantage point gives the observer a different perspective of the canyon and indeed, each one is well worth seeing.

Chiapa de Corzo

Just a 15-minute ride from Tuxtla, at the foot of the impressive Sumidero Canyon on the shores of the Grijalva River, lays Chiapa de Corzo, a historical city linked to Pre-Columbian times, the Spanish conquest, and the Independence of Mexico. Chiapa de Corzo was the first Spanish settlement in the region and is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Chiapas. Even though it is a rather small city, it's rich in history, customs and traditions which have been lovingly preserved throughout the years.

The warmth and hospitality of the people, the slow passing of time, the peace and serenity of the environment, the magnificent flavors of their cuisine, and the almost contagious joy in each of their festivals, celebrated throughout the year, make this city the perfect get-away for an unforgettable vacation.

Marimba Park

The Marimba Park is an icon in Tuxtla Gutierrez, and people gather there every night to listen to live marimba music. Youngsters as well as adults are delighted by the tunes and even have a dance or two around the stage; it really is a magical night out.

San Marcos Cathedral

Built during the 16th century, the San Marcos Cathedral stands out for its 48-bell carillon located at the base of its great tower, where at the toll of the bell each hour you can see the apostles marching across a pedestal on the wall. Inside, the Cathedral still preserves neoclassic style architecture, typical of the beginning of the 20th century.

Regional Museum

The Regional Museum features two exhibition rooms that take you back in time to learn about the different historical periods in Chiapas. The first room begins with the prehistoric period, from the region's first inhabitants and continues up to the Mayans. The second exhibition room continues with the 16th century and ends with modern day Chiapas.

Las Cotorras Gorge

The Cotorras Gorge is a deep cleft in the surface of the earth 160 meters in diameter and 90 meters deep. It has interesting cave paintings and is also the nesting grounds for thousands of parrots and parakeets that can be seen taking flight in circles at sunrise every morning, creating a splendid sight. Then once again they can all be seen gradually coming back to their nests at sunset every evening.

Tuxtla Zoo

The Tuxtla Zoo, also known as ZooMAT, is located 5 minutes from downtown Tuxtla in the heart of the Zapotal Natural Reserve. Besides being one the most renowned zoos in Latin America, it is also famous for the study, preservation and protection of the region's native wildlife, which are kept in semi-natural environments simulating their natural habitats. A visit to the zoo is sure to please the young and old alike and is highly recommendable.