From Oaxaca: Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike & Swim Adventure

Discover the Apoala Waterfalls with a Guided Hike and Swim Adventure from Oaxaca

This $107 per person tour offers a full-day or overnight experience exploring the Apoala Waterfalls and its impressive canyon, forest, and natural pools. Starting in downtown Oaxaca, the journey takes approximately 11 hours or extends into 2 days with camping. The tour features a guided hike, swimming in hidden pools, and the chance to stay overnight amid nature.

Designed for those who love outdoor adventures, this tour combines scenic beauty with comfort, including meals and quality camping gear. The small group size—limited to 6 participants—ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The activity level is moderate, making it suitable for beginners to intermediates who are comfortable with about 6+ km of hiking.

While the tour includes all entry fees, transport, and meals, travelers should be prepared for a moderate hike and bring essentials like hiking shoes and insect repellent. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience in the Mixtec mountains, away from crowds.

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Key Points

• Guided hike through the stunning Apoala Canyon with towering rock walls covered in vegetation
• Swim in natural pools and a waterfall lake in a quiet, secluded setting
• Overnight camping on the river bank with all camping gear provided
• Includes dinner in the traditional village and a local breakfast in the morning
• Stops at Nochixtlan market for lunch on the return journey
• Small group size limits to 6 people for a more personal experience

How the Apoala Waterfalls Tour Begins in Oaxaca

This tour departs from downtown Oaxaca at 4:00 PM in a comfortable vehicle with A/C, heading towards the Mixtec mountains. The journey to Santiago Apoala lasts around 2.5 hours, giving travelers ample time to relax and enjoy the scenic drive before arriving at the campsite.

The first evening involves camp setup and a delicious dinner at 8:00 PM. The experience starts late in the afternoon to avoid interfering with earlier activities, making it accessible for those with busy schedules. The overnight stay features quality camping gear, including tents, warm sleeping bags, and inflatable mats, ensuring a comfortable night in the forest.

Camping and Nighttime Experience in Apoala

Spending the night on the riverbank in the Apoala forest allows travelers to wake up immersed in nature. The sound of the river and the birds singing create a peaceful setting for sleeping. The full camping package ensures a worry-free experience, with set-up included and the chance to simply unwind in the natural surroundings.

Exploring Santiago Apoala and the Twin Rocks Canyon

The next morning begins with a local breakfast before heading out on a hiking adventure that lasts approximately 3.5 hours. The guide leads the group upstream to the Twin Rocks Canyon, famous for its towering rock walls covered with Maguey and other lush vegetation such as air plants.

This part of the hike offers spectacular views of the canyon’s impressive formations. The trail then follows the river downstream to hidden pools where swimming is encouraged, providing a refreshing break and excellent photo opportunities amidst the pristine scenery.

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Visiting the Waterfalls and the Waterfall Lake

Continuing the hike upstream, the group reaches the sight of majestic waterfalls cascading into a waterfall lake. The opportunity to swim in the lake makes for a memorable highlight, with clear waters set against the impressive natural backdrop. The guide explains the geological features and helps everyone appreciate the grandeur of the waterfalls before starting the trip back.

Returning to Oaxaca via Nochixtlan Market

After exploring the waterfalls and pools, the group begins its return journey, leaving the canyon and heading back toward Oaxaca. On the way, there is a stop at Nochixtlan local market for lunch at 2:30 PM, where travelers can enjoy regional food and browse local stalls. The bus then continues its 1.5-hour ride back to the starting point, arriving roughly at 4:00 PM.

Practical Details and Included Amenities

The tour includes a professional bilingual guide, all entry fees, tolls, and meals—dinner in the traditional village and breakfast in the morning. Hiking poles and drinking water are provided to enhance safety and comfort during the hikes.

Participants need to bring swimwear, towel, snacks, hiking shoes, water, jacket, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, and cash for personal expenses or market shopping. The activity level is moderate, with about 6+ km of hiking and an elevation around 2,000 meters.

The Unique Overnight Camping Adventure

This tour’s standout feature is the overnight camping experience amidst Apoala’s natural beauty. The quality camping gear ensures comfort, and waking up to the sounds of nature offers a special connection with the environment. This is perfect for those craving more than just a day trip, providing a full immersion into this untouched landscape.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

Travelers who appreciate outdoor adventures, scenic hikes, and swimming in natural pools are ideal candidates. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it suitable for those new to hiking or camping, as well as seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. While the activity is moderate, it requires a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with walking over rough terrain.

Not suitable for children under 16 years, or individuals with back or heart problems, due to the physical demands and elevation. Those seeking a relaxed, guided nature experience will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Apoala Waterfalls Tour: Final Remarks

The From Oaxaca: Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike & Swim Adventure offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, physical activity, and culture. The guided hikes, swimming opportunities, and overnight camping create an experience that feels both adventurous and accessible.

The inclusion of meals, quality camping gear, and a small group size makes this tour a practical choice for travelers eager to explore the Apoala canyon without sacrificing comfort. It’s especially well-suited for those who want a deep connection to nature combined with some physical challenge and a night under the stars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the activity level is moderate and designed for beginners to intermediates with comfortable walking and hiking experience.

What should I bring for the overnight camping?
Travelers should pack swimwear, towel, snacks, hiking shoes, water, jacket, comfortable clothes, insect repellent, and cash for personal expenses or market shopping.

How long is the hike during the day?
The hike lasts approximately 3.5 hours, covering around 6+ km with an elevation gain of about 250+ meters.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes dinner in the traditional village and a local breakfast the next morning.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with the guide.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing for flexible planning.

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