Water Fall Tour 5 Hours Rural Areas

The Water Fall Tour 5 Hours Rural Areas offers an engaging way to explore the natural beauty surrounding Manzanillo, Mexico. Priced at $80 per person, this tour provides a mix of scenic drives, forest hikes, and refreshing swims at El Salto waterfall. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 23 reviews, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a genuine outdoor experience away from crowded tourist spots. The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, and pickup is offered from hotels and the cruise ship port in Manzanillo, making logistics straightforward.

This tour is especially suited for visitors who enjoy nature, light hiking, and local food. While it emphasizes less touristy locations and authentic countryside encounters, it’s important to note that admission tickets are not included at the waterfall, and physical activity like hiking is involved. The tour’s positive reviews often highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful views, though some reviews mention occasional logistical hiccups. Overall, it’s a balanced experience that combines adventure, scenery, and local culture.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $80 per person for 5 hours of rural exploration, including transport.
• Pickup Service: Convenient pickup from Manzanillo hotels and cruise port.
• Main Stop: El Salto waterfall in Minatitlan, with forest hiking and swimming opportunities.
• Dining: Enjoy a homemade lunch with fresh tortillas after visiting the waterfall.
• Activities: Includes a stop in Camotlan for local beef and vegetable shopping before heading to Canoas.
• Guides and Experience: Guided by knowledgeable staff who provide informative commentary and personalized service.

Scenic Drive Through Tropical Rainforests and Mountain Roads

The tour begins with a scenic drive along winding mountain roads. You’ll pass through lush jungles and tropical rainforests, which create a peaceful backdrop for the entire trip. The journey itself is a highlight, offering glimpses of the local countryside and rural communities that remain largely untouched by mainstream tourism.

As you leave Manzanillo, the lush landscape unfolds, setting a tranquil tone for the adventure. The trees and terrain are particularly captivating between October and December, the prime months to visit when the weather is most favorable.

Visiting Camotlan for Local Beef and Vegetables

One of the unique features of this tour is the pause in Camotlan, where you can purchase beef and vegetables. This 30-minute stop allows for a taste of the local markets and farm-fresh ingredients. The beef and vegetables are later used for the homemade lunch, which adds a personal touch to the dining experience.

This stop also offers a chance to stretch your legs and interact briefly with locals, adding an authentic flavor to the trip. The beef is left at a local house while you continue to the waterfall, making the lunch both fresh and meaningful.

Exploring Canoas and the Homemade Lunch

After the Camotlan stop, the tour continues to Canoas, a small town northeast of Manzanillo. Here, a home-cooked meal awaits, featuring fresh tortillas and ingredients from the earlier shopping stop. This relaxed lunch setting is often praised for its authenticity and deliciousness, giving visitors a chance to taste genuine local cuisine.

While the lunch is not included in the ticket price, the opportunity to enjoy home-style cooking in a local setting is a highlight. It provides a break from busy tourist restaurants and a chance to connect with local families.

El Salto Waterfall: Hike, Swim, and Nature Views

The main attraction is El Salto waterfall, where visitors get to hike through the forest and enjoy about one hour of swimming in the natural pools. The hike involves a walk through lush greenery, with some areas affected by recent weather events, such as hurricane damage to the steps, which may require careful footing.

You’ll find the waterfall itself to be beautiful and less crowded than popular tourist waterfalls. The water’s clarity and natural setting make it ideal for a refreshing swim. The area offers excellent photo opportunities and a true sense of secluded nature, especially during the best months of October, November, and December.

Practical Details and Group Size

The tour is operated by Danitours, with a maximum group size of 46 travelers. Many reviews mention personalized service when fewer people are booked, sometimes as small as a single traveler. The vehicles used are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the journey.

Participants should be prepared for light hiking and outdoor activity, and it’s advisable to wear suitable footwear and bring swimwear for the waterfall swim. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with good weather conditions being essential, as poor weather may result in cancellations or rescheduling.

What’s Included and What Isn’t

The tour price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and hotel or port pickup. However, admission tickets to El Salto waterfall are not included, so visitors should budget for that separately. The homemade lunch is a highlight but is not part of the ticket price.

Guests can expect a relaxed pace, with enough time at each stop to enjoy nature, shop briefly, and savor the local meal. The tour offers good value for those seeking a local, outdoor adventure in rural Mexico.

The Experience of the Guides and Visitors’ Feedback

Across reviews, Dani, Oscar, Hugo, and Wilbur emerge as enthusiastic, attentive guides. They are commended for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility, often tailoring stops to guest preferences. The guides’ storytelling and personalized approach enhance the overall experience.

Most reviewers appreciate the beautiful views of the waterfall and countryside, with some noting the delicious handmade tortillas as a special treat. A few reviews mention logistical issues, like bumpy roads and damaged steps, but these do not overshadow the overall positive impression.

Suitability for Different Travelers

This tour appeals most to adventurous travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those interested in authentic local culture. It’s suitable for most physically capable visitors, especially since it involves hiking and swimming. Family groups or small private parties often find the experience especially rewarding.

Those seeking luxury or easy sightseeing may find this tour a bit rustic, but for authentic scenery, friendly guidance, and a taste of rural Mexico, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts on the Water Fall Tour in Manzanillo

The Water Fall Tour 5 Hours Rural Areas offers a genuine glimpse into the natural and rural landscapes near Manzanillo. The balance of scenic drives, forest hikes, and a local homemade lunch creates a well-rounded experience worth considering for outdoor lovers. The guides’ friendliness and local insight are widely praised, making this a good choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

While admission costs are extra and some trail conditions may vary, the overall experience promises stunning views and authentic encounters. It’s best suited for visitors who enjoy nature, gentle adventure, and authentic Mexican cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from hotels and the cruise ship port in Manzanillo, making it convenient to join the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 5 hours, including transportation, stops, and lunch.

What is included in the tour price?
The air-conditioned transportation and pickup service are included. Admission tickets to the waterfall are not included and should be purchased separately.

Is physical activity required?
Yes, the tour involves hiking through the forest and swimming at El Salto waterfall, so participants should be comfortable with light outdoor activities.

What is the best time of year to visit?
The optimal months are October, November, and December, when weather conditions are most favorable.

Can children participate in this tour?
Most travelers can participate, though it’s best for those who can handle walking and swimming. Check with the operator for specific age restrictions.

How many people typically join this tour?
The group size can range from private experiences to up to 46 travelers, depending on bookings.

What is the quality of the guides?
Reviews consistently praise the guides, including Dani, Oscar, Hugo, and Wilbur, for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility.

Are there any significant negatives?
Some reviews note damaged trail steps and bumpy roads, which can affect comfort, but these are often minor compared to the overall positive experience.

How do I prepare for this tour?
Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring swimwear, and consider sun protection. Remember that admission fees are extra, and plan accordingly.

What makes this tour different from other Manzanillo excursions?
It emphasizes less touristy rural spots, authentic local food, and nature-focused activities rather than commercial attractions.