Nestled in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico, Hierve El Agua is a unique natural wonder that captivates travellers with its stunning petrified waterfalls and inviting mineral pools. During my month-long journey through Mexico, this site definitely made it into my must-see places in Mexico. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking a serene escape, Hierve El Agua offers a one-of-a-kind experience. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit, including personal tips and recommendations based on my own experiences.
Why Visit Hierve El Agua?
Best Time to Visit Hierve El Agua
How to Get to Hierve El Agua
What to Do at Hierve El Agua
Facilities at Hierve El Agua
Where to Stay Near Hierve El Agua
What to Pack for Your Trip
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Hierve El Agua?
Staying Safe and Respecting the Environment
Why Visit Hierve El Agua?
Hierve El Agua, which translates to “the water boils,” is a geological marvel that has intrigued both locals and visitors for centuries. Despite its name, the water isn’t actually boiling; instead, it’s cool and rich in minerals, which have gradually created the rock formations that resemble cascading waterfalls frozen in time. These petrified waterfalls, along with the natural mineral pools at the top, make Hierve El Agua one of the most visually stunning and unique landscapes in Mexico.
The site is believed to have been a sacred place for the Zapotec people, and standing atop those cliffs, with the vast Oaxacan valley stretching out below, it’s easy to understand why. The blend of natural beauty, history, and the sense of tranquillity you feel there makes Hierve El Agua an essential stop on your Oaxaca itinerary.
Best Time to Visit Hierve El Agua
Timing your visit to Hierve El Agua can significantly impact your experience. Oaxaca’s climate is generally warm year-round, but the best time to visit Hierve El Agua is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for hiking, exploring, and relaxing in the pools.
I visited in April, and the weather was perfect—warm but not too hot, and with fewer crowds than the peak holiday season. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help you avoid the midday heat and enjoy a more peaceful experience. If you’re interested in photography, these times offer the best natural lighting to capture the vibrant colours of the landscape.
While the rainy season (May to October) brings lush green surroundings, it can also make the trails slippery and less enjoyable. However, if you prefer a quieter visit and don’t mind a bit of rain, this could be a good time to go.
How to Get to Hierve El Agua
From Oaxaca City
Hierve El Agua is about 70 kilometres east of Oaxaca City, and getting there can be an adventure in itself. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. You have several options for reaching the site:
- Guided Tours: Many travellers opt for guided tours, which are easy to find in Oaxaca City. Tours usually include transportation, entrance fees, and visits to nearby attractions such as the Tule Tree and a mezcal distillery. During my stay, I found plenty of tour guides offering similar packages in the main square of Oaxaca. After speaking with a few, we met Alberto, who stood out for his flexibility and willingness to tailor the tour to our interests. His brand-new, air-conditioned car and friendliness made the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Don’t hesitate to ask your guide for a bespoke tour if you have specific preferences.
- Public Transport (Colectivo): For the more adventurous, public transport is a budget-friendly option. To get to Hierve El Agua by colectivo, head to the Central de Abastos in Oaxaca City, where you can catch a colectivo to Mitla. The ride takes about an hour, and once in Mitla, you’ll need to transfer to another colectivo that will take you directly to Hierve El Agua. The second leg of the trip is a bit more rugged, as the road to Hierve El Agua is winding and unpaved in parts. While this option is cheaper, it requires more time and patience, as the colectivos won’t leave until they’re full.
- Driving: Renting a car offers the most flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The road to Hierve El Agua is paved but winding, with some steep sections, so it’s best to drive during daylight hours. Parking is available at the site for a small fee. Download this map with directions to Hierve El Agua from Oaxaca City.
What to Do at Hierve El Agua
1. Explore the Petrified Waterfalls
The main attraction at Hierve El Agua is, of course, the petrified waterfalls. These natural rock formations were created by mineral-rich water that flows over the cliffs, leaving behind deposits that resemble cascading waterfalls. There are two main falls, with the larger one being over 200 feet tall. I recommend going for a hike first as you can cool off in the pools once you’re done. The hike is about 2.6km and it took us about 1 hour. If you take the trail down, you’ll have great close up view, looking at the ‘waterfall’, whereas another trail you can get some fantastic views further away, with them in the distance. Take care though, the trail can be uneven and climbing back up was tough!
2. Swim in the Mineral Pools
At the top of the cliffs, you’ll find natural pools filled with cool, turquoise water. These pools are perfect for a refreshing dip, especially after your hike. The water, though cool, was incredibly refreshing after our the hike. We spent a good amount of time just floating in the pools, marvelling at the view of the valley below. Don’t forget to bring a quick-dry towel—this made it easy for us to pack up without worrying about wet gear.
5. Additional Stops
If you have time, consider stopping at some of the other attractions along the way. The Tule Tree, a massive cypress tree (over 2,000 years old!) is a popular stop, as is a visit to a mezcal distillery for a tasting. We did a mezcal tasting during our trip, which was a highlight—not just for the unique flavours, but for the insight into Oaxaca’s rich cultural traditions.
Facilities at Hierve El Agua
Hierve El Agua offers basic but sufficient facilities for visitors. Near the entrance, you’ll find a small area with local vendors selling food and drinks. There are also basic toilets (which cost 10 MXN and the attendant should give you some toilet paper) and changing rooms, which are handy if you plan to swim in the pools. The site is rustic, so don’t expect any luxury amenities, but the facilities are clean and well-maintained. We used the changing rooms to switch into our swimwear and found them to be simple but adequate.
If you’re planning to spend a full day at Hierve El Agua, consider bringing a packed lunch or snacks, as the food options are limited and mostly consist of local street food like quesadillas and tamales. That said, trying some of the local offerings can be a part of the experience.
Where to Stay Near Hierve El Agua
1. Oaxaca City
Most visitors base themselves in Oaxaca City, which offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Staying in Oaxaca City allows you to explore the city’s vibrant culture, food scene, and nearby attractions before or after your trip to Hierve El Agua. From boutique hotels to budget hostels, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few recommendations:
- Casa de Sierra Azul: A charming boutique hotel set in a colonial-era mansion, offering a blend of traditional Oaxacan architecture and modern comforts. It’s centrally located, making it easy to explore Oaxaca City before heading to Hierve El Agua.
- Hotel CasAntica: Located in a former convent, this hotel features beautiful courtyards and a small pool. It’s perfect for those looking to stay in the historic centre with a touch of luxury.
- Hotel Boutique Parador San Miguel Oaxaca: A beautifully decorated hotel featuring traditional Mexican décor and a lovely rooftop terrace. It’s located just a short walk from Oaxaca’s main attractions.
2. Mitla
If you prefer to stay closer to Hierve El Agua, the town of Mitla is a good option. It’s quieter than Oaxaca City and offers a more local experience. Mitla is also home to the famous Mitla ruins, another archaeological site worth visiting. Accommodation here tends to be more basic, but it’s a convenient base if you plan to visit Hierve El Agua early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Here are a couple of options:
- Hotel Don Cenobio: This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Oaxacan cuisine. It’s located right in the heart of Mitla, making it a convenient base for exploring the town and nearby sites.
- Posada Los Angeles: A budget-friendly option with clean, simple rooms and a friendly atmosphere. It’s located close to Mitla’s main attractions, including the ruins and local markets.
What to Pack for Your Trip
Packing smartly for Hierve El Agua will ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable visit. Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: The trails can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy footwear is a must.
- Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuit for a dip in the mineral pools.
- Quick-Dry Towel: A quick-dry towel is essential for drying off after swimming. It’s lightweight and easy to pack away.
- Sun Protection: The sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- Water and Snacks: While there are vendors at the site, it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
- Camera or Smartphone: For capturing the stunning landscapes.
- Light Jacket: Even on warm days, it can get breezy at the top of the cliffs.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Hierve El Agua?
Visiting Hierve El Agua is relatively affordable, making it accessible for all types of travellers. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs:
- Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is around 50-80 MXN per person (about £2-3). This gives you access to the entire site, including the trails and pools.
- Parking Fee: If you’re driving, expect to pay a small parking fee of about 50 MXN (£2).
- Guided Tour: If you choose to go with a guided tour from Oaxaca City, prices range from 400-700 MXN (£15-25) per person, depending on the inclusions (e.g., additional stops, lunch, etc.).
- Public Transport: Taking colectivos is the cheapest option, with the total cost being around 150-200 MXN (£5-7) per person for the round trip.
Staying Safe and Respecting the Environment
Safety is crucial when visiting natural sites like Hierve El Agua, especially when hiking and swimming.
Safety Tips:
- Watch Your Step: The trails can be uneven, so take your time, especially near the edges of the cliffs.
- Swim Safely: The pools can be slippery, so enter them carefully. If you’re not a strong swimmer, stick to the shallower areas.
- Stay Hydrated: The combination of sun and physical activity can dehydrate you quickly, so drink plenty of water.
Respecting the Environment:
Hierve El Agua was actually closed to tourism back in 2021 as locals were seeing no benefit from the masses of tourists that were visiting. These days it’s now limited to 200 visitors per day, and so understand that the locals deeply respect the significance of this site – and you should too.
- Leave No Trace: Take all your rubbish with you and dispose of it properly.
- Stay on the Trails: Stick to marked paths to avoid damaging the fragile environment.
- Respect Local Customs: Hierve El Agua is a site of cultural significance, so be mindful of any local customs and traditions by following any instructions.
Hierve El Agua is a destination that captures the essence of Oaxaca’s natural beauty and cultural richness. From the awe-inspiring petrified waterfalls to the tranquil mineral pools, every aspect of this site offers something special. My visit to Hierve El Agua was a highlight of my travels in Mexico, and I hope this guide helps you make the most of your own adventure. Whether you’re exploring the trails, relaxing in the pools, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, Hierve El Agua is sure to leave a lasting impression.
With a bit of planning and the tips shared here, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy everything this incredible destination has to offer. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Hierve El Agua!
