Hierve el agua half day tour

Experience the Beauty of Hierve el Agua on a Half-Day Tour from Oaxaca

This $35.13 per person tour offers a focused visit to Hierve el Agua, a remarkable natural site just 70 kilometers from Oaxaca City. The 6-hour experience includes a one and a half hour transfer each way in an air-conditioned vehicle driven by a Spanish-speaking driver. The highlight is spending three hours directly at the site, which is ample time for sightseeing, swimming, and taking in the breathtaking views of the petrified waterfalls.

What makes this tour stand out is its simplicity and emphasis on Hierve el Agua alone, without the distraction of multiple stops. This allows visitors to fully enjoy the white calcium carbonate formations that have been forming for millions of years, along with the natural pools perfect for a refreshing dip. The tour is well suited for those who want to see Hierve el Agua without rushing, though it does require a moderate physical fitness level for the hike. Be prepared to bring your own lunch or breakfast, as no meals are included, and the stop for food happens inside the site.

Key Points

• Focused visit to Hierve el Agua with 3 hours to explore and enjoy.
• Affordable price of $35.13, including transportation.
• Transportation only, with reliable, air-conditioned vans and a professional driver.
• The tour is recommended by 96% of participants, highly rated at 5.0/5 based on 46 reviews.
• Hiking and swimming are key activities, with no guide for hiking, but informative driving.
• Bring food and drinks, as there are no meals included, but you can buy inside the site.

Departure from Oaxaca City and Transportation Details

The tour begins at Quinta Real, 5 de Mayo 300, in central Oaxaca, at 10:30 am. After meeting, travelers board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which takes approximately one and a half hours to reach Hierve el Agua. The drive offers scenic views of the mountains and the rugged terrain of the Sierra Mixe region.

Return to Oaxaca City happens after about one hour and 30 minutes at the site, giving plenty of time to relax after exploring. The total duration of the tour is around 6 hours, making it an ideal half-day escape from the city.

Exploring Hierve el Agua: The Main Attraction

Hierve el Agua is famous for its two waterfalls that look as if they are frozen in time, their white calcium carbonate formations accumulating over millennia. The height of these waterfalls exceeds 200 meters, making the view both impressive and surreal. The site is located in the Sierra Mixe, in the town of San Isidro Roaguía, and is accessible via a downhill walk from the parking area.

At the site, visitors spend about 3 hours, which is enough time to walk along the formations, enjoy the natural pools, and appreciate the scenery. The pools are known for their cool water, which offers a refreshing escape after a walk. The scenery includes big agaves and cactus, adding to the rugged charm of the location. The site is well-maintained and clean, with toilets available near the pools and the arrival area.

The Hike and Swimming Experience at Hierve el Agua

The hike down to the natural pools is considered easy by most reviews, but some mention that good shoes are recommended. For those with limited mobility, the walk may be treacherous, especially for seniors or those using a cane, but taking it slow allows most to manage it. The pools themselves are clean and cold, providing an invigorating experience that many find delightful.

The site is not overrun with visitors on weekdays, which helps keep the pools peaceful and uncrowded. There are toilets inside the site, which cost 5 pesos, and changing rooms and showers for 20 pesos. Many visitors enjoy swimming in the pools to cool off and relax after the walk, with some adding a coconut with mezcal at the end for a local flavor.

Practical Tips for Visiting Hierve el Agua

This tour does not include a guide for hiking or entrance fees (which are $70 MXN), so it’s best to bring your own snacks or lunch to enjoy during your free time at the site. Since no additional stops are scheduled, it’s advisable to eat beforehand or plan to buy inside. Sunscreen and comfortable shoes are strongly recommended, especially for the downhill walk and exposure to the sun.

Travelers should be aware of the dirt road leading to Hierve el Agua, which can be bumpy. The vehicles are air-conditioned and driven by professional drivers, but the road conditions are outside the tour provider’s control. Those sensitive to rough terrain should consider this before booking.

The Overall Experience and Who Will Enjoy It

This tour is highly rated and praised for its reliability, comfort, and focus on Hierve el Agua. The driver is noted for being knowledgeable and safe, making the journey smooth. With 3 hours at the site, visitors have ample time to walk, swim, and take photos of the famous petrified waterfalls.

The small group size, capped at 18 travelers, ensures a personalized experience. The tour is perfect for those who want a straightforward visit without multiple stops or complicated itineraries. However, solo travelers seeking a more guided experience may find the lack of hiking guides limiting, as the hiking is self-guided.

This half-day tour offers value for money, reliable transportation, and the chance to see one of Mexico’s most stunning natural formations. It suits visitors who prefer a relaxed pace, beautiful scenery, and swimming in natural pools.

The Sum Up: A Focused Day at Hierve el Agua

This $35.13 tour from Oaxaca City delivers a direct and enjoyable experience of Hierve el Agua, with three hours to explore at your own pace. The reliable transportation, knowledgeable driver, and well-maintained site make for a stress-free outing.

While it doesn’t include a guide for hiking or meals, the simplicity ensures you can enjoy the natural beauty without distractions. The bumpy dirt road may be a concern for some, but the spectacular views and refreshing pools are well worth the effort. This tour is most suitable for those who want a focused visit to this unique geological site in a comfortable, efficient manner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, along with a professional driver.

How long do I spend at Hierve el Agua?
You have about 3 hours to explore the site, walk around, swim, and take photos.

What should I bring for the visit?
Bring food or snacks since there are no meals included. Sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a towel for swimming are recommended.

Are guides available at Hierve el Agua?
No, this tour does not include a hiking guide, but the driver provides informative commentary during transit.

How is the drive to Hierve el Agua?
The drive is approximately one and a half hours, on a dirt road that can feel bumpy. Vehicles are well-maintained.

Is the site suitable for everyone?
Most visitors with moderate physical fitness can manage the downhill walk to the pools, but elderly or mobility-challenged visitors should plan accordingly.

What is the cost of entrance fees?
Entrance costs $70 MXN, paid on-site, and can be purchased inside the site.

Can I swim in the pools?
Yes, many visitors swim in the natural pools, which are cold but refreshing. Bring a swimsuit and towel.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour recommended?
Absolutely, especially for those seeking a relaxed, focused visit to Hierve el Agua with good reviews, reliable transportation, and ample time to enjoy the natural scenery.