Papaloapan comes from the Nahuatl ‘Papálotl’ which translates as the river of the butterflies. Its width can reach more than 100 meters.
It is possible to cross the Papaloapan river walking by one of its concrete bridges but without a doubt the most fun way to do it is through its suspension bridge that is on the Muro Boulevard or by boat at the Paso Real pier, which is located in the city center.
You can contemplate the Papaloapan river at any point of the city. It is recommended to do it in one of the restaurants or cafés with a panoramic view of the river.
It is not advisable to swim or touch the water since, due to industrial, agricultural activities and pouring water from direct drainage into the river, it has become contaminated. Although, if you want to cool off you can do it in the innumerable streams, waterfalls and springs of crystal clear water that the Chinantla region offers.
