A Morning of Majestic Views

The day began with a gentle wake-up call from the sun, casting its golden rays over San Cristobal de las Casas. My wife and I, ever the adventurers, were ready for a day away from the waves, exploring the natural wonders of Chiapas. We were picked up promptly at 9:00 am, joining a small group of fellow travelers, all eager to experience the famed Sumidero Canyon.

Our first stop was the viewpoints of the canyon. As a surfer, I’m used to scanning the horizon for the perfect wave, but here, the view was something entirely different. The canyon stretched out before us, a testament to nature’s grandeur. The lush jungle vegetation framed the deep chasm, and the Grijalva River snaked its way through the canyon floor. Our guide, speaking in Spanish, shared stories of the canyon’s formation, and even though my Spanish is a bit rusty, the passion in his voice was enough to convey the majesty of the place.

We took our time at the viewpoints, sipping on coffee and soaking in the morning sun. It was a moment of pure tranquility, a reminder of the beauty that exists beyond the ocean’s edge. The driver was accommodating, allowing us to linger and truly appreciate the scene before us.

Riding the Rapids

Next, we descended to the riverbank, where a speedboat awaited to take us on a two-hour journey through the canyon. As we sped along the Grijalva River, the wind in our hair and the sun on our faces, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the thrill of catching a wave. The canyon walls rose dramatically on either side, their sheer cliffs a stark contrast to the gentle flow of the river.

The boat ride offered a unique perspective of the canyon’s grandeur. We spotted a variety of wildlife, from crocodiles basking on the riverbanks to colorful birds flitting through the trees. The guide pointed out the canyon’s geological features, and even though the commentary was in Spanish, the visual spectacle spoke for itself.

As we navigated the river, I felt a sense of freedom akin to surfing. The open water, the rush of the wind, and the awe-inspiring surroundings made for an unforgettable experience. It was a reminder that adventure can be found in many forms, not just in the pursuit of the perfect wave.

Exploring Chiapa de Corzo

Our final stop was the charming town of Chiapa de Corzo. With the guided portion of the tour complete, we were free to explore at our own pace. Armed with Google Maps, we wandered through the town’s historic streets, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant community.

We visited the Mudejar-style fountain, a stunning piece of architecture that stood as a testament to the town’s rich history. The Santo Domingo Church, with its blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and neoclassical styles, was another highlight. As we strolled through the town, we couldn’t resist the allure of a riverside restaurant, where we joined our fellow travelers for a leisurely dinner.

The day ended with a sense of fulfillment, having experienced the natural and cultural wonders of Chiapas. As we made our way back to San Cristobal, I reflected on the day’s adventures. While the ocean will always be my first love, this journey through Sumidero Canyon and Chiapa de Corzo was a reminder of the diverse beauty that the world has to offer. It’s a trip I would recommend to any fellow wanderer, whether you’re a surfer or simply a lover of nature’s splendor.