Getting to Cañón del Sumidero National Park
Cañón del Sumidero National Park sits in Chiapas, Mexico, with El Palmar (San Gabriel) the nearest town of any size — about 8.4 km (5.2 mi) out, or roughly 14 min of driving.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| El Palmar (San Gabriel) | 8.4 km (5.2 mi) | 14 min |
| Tuxtla | 9 km (5.6 mi) | 15 min |
| Viva Cárdenas | 10.6 km (6.6 mi) | 18 min |
| Álvaro Obregón | 10.6 km (6.6 mi) | 18 min |
| Osumacinta | 11.6 km (7.2 mi) | 19 min |
| Benito Juárez | 11.7 km (7.2 mi) | 19 min |
| Venustiano Carranza | 11.9 km (7.4 mi) | 20 min |
| San Fernando | 12.8 km (8 mi) | 21 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Cañón del Sumidero National Park?
El Palmar (San Gabriel), about 8.4 km (5.2 mi) away — roughly 14 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Cañón del Sumidero National Park?
The practical bases are El Palmar (San Gabriel), Tuxtla, and Viva Cárdenas — all within a reasonable drive of the park.