Hierve El Agua – How to Visit Oaxaca's Petrified Waterfalls (2025 Guide)
If you’re visiting Oaxaca, a trip to Hierve el Agua is non-negotiable. These stunning petrified waterfalls and turquoise mineral pools are one of Mexico’s most unique natural wonders—and easily one of the best day trips from Oaxaca City.
Formed over thousands of years by calcified minerals from freshwater springs, Hierve el Agua creates the illusion of “frozen” waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. Add in infinity-like pools with panoramic views of Oaxaca’s mountains, and you’ve got a destination that’s part natural spa, part hiking adventure, and all unforgettable.
Whether you want to swim in the mineral pools, hike the scenic loop trail, or pair your visit with a mezcal tasting, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Hierve el Agua.
Formed over thousands of years by calcified minerals from freshwater springs, Hierve el Agua creates the illusion of “frozen” waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. Add in infinity-like pools with panoramic views of Oaxaca’s mountains, and you’ve got a destination that’s part natural spa, part hiking adventure, and all unforgettable.
Whether you want to swim in the mineral pools, hike the scenic loop trail, or pair your visit with a mezcal tasting, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Hierve el Agua.
Why Visit Hierve el Agua?
Despite its name, which translates to “boiling water,” the pools are actually cool and refreshing—perfect for a dip on a hot Oaxaca day. The setting is spectacular: two petrified waterfalls, bubbling freshwater springs, and mineral-rich pools perched on a cliffside with jaw-dropping views of rolling valleys.
Hierve el Agua is also culturally important, with evidence suggesting ancient Zapotec irrigation systems once harnessed these springs. Today, it’s a place to connect with nature, cool off, and explore one of Mexico’s rarest landscapes (there are only two sites like it in the world).
Best Tours to Hierve el Agua
Getting here on your own can be tricky, so tours are often the most convenient and comfortable option. These two 5-star rated Viator tours are our top picks:
⭐ Half-Day Tour to Hierve el Agua in Small Group – Perfect if you want just Hierve el Agua without the long craft or shopping stops included in most tours. You’ll have about 3 hours to hike, swim, and relax.
⭐ Only Hierve el Agua + Mezcal Distillery Tour – Adds a stop at a local mezcal distillery for a tasting, giving you the best of both worlds.
OAXACA TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Oaxaca? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
Planning your trip to Oaxaca? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
- Travel Insurance – Don’t leave home without it! SafetyWing offers super affordable travel insurance with straightforward pricing and flexible extensions—even if your trip is already underway. Protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses and travel mishaps while you explore Oaxaca and beyond.
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- Tours & Experiences – Book unforgettable adventures in Oaxaca with Viator. Whether you're discovering the pre-Columbian archaeological site of Monte Albán or visiting Oaxaca's petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua, Viator makes exploring the city easy and fun.
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our travels and helping us create more content like this!
Things to Do at Hierve el Agua
Swim in the Mineral Pools – The mineral springs feed several natural pools with striking turquoise water. They’re cool, refreshing, and the best way to beat the midday heat. Don’t apply sunscreen before swimming, as requested on-site, to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.
Hike the Loop Trail – After a dip, hike the 1.6-mile loop trail around the site. It takes about 1–1.5 hours and gives you dramatic views of both petrified waterfalls, bubbling springs, and the valley below. Expect some steep climbs and rocky paths, but also shaded rest stops along the way.
Snap Iconic Photos – From the edge of the infinity-like pool to the waterfall viewpoints, Hierve el Agua is one of the most photogenic spots in Oaxaca.
Enjoy Local Food Stalls – Back near the parking lot, food vendors open mid-morning serving everything from quesadillas to ice-cold beers. A Oaxaca cheese quesadilla with a cerveza is the perfect post-hike reward.
How to Visit Hierve el Agua
By Tour – For the easiest and most stress-free way, book a tour. Comfortable transport, included entry, and optional mezcal stops make tours the best option for most travelers.
By Public Transport – Budget travelers can take a bus or colectivo to Mitla, then hop on a camioneta (shared pickup truck) to Hierve el Agua. Be prepared for a bumpy ride and irregular schedules.
By Rental Car – Driving gives you flexibility to arrive on your own schedule. We always book with Discover Cars, which includes the mandatory liability insurance in Mexico. Many other agencies tack on $15–20 USD per day at the counter, so it’s a smart way to avoid surprises.
🌟 Pro tip – If the toll road is closed, you’ll need to use well-marked local roads through small villages. The last 45 minutes are on a rough dirt road with steep drop-offs.
Entrance & Facilities
- Entrance Fee: 50 pesos (~$2.50 USD), includes parking.
- Hours: Typically open from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Facilities: Restrooms, changing areas, food stalls, and local guides available on-site.
When to Go to Hierve El Agua
The best time to visit is November–April, Oaxaca’s dry season. Expect warm sunny days, cool nights, and little to no rain.
What to Bring to Hierve El Agua
- Swimsuit & towel
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat & sunscreen (apply after swimming)
- Plenty of pesos (for entry, food, and tips)
- Water (a must)
Final Thoughts
Hierve el Agua is a rare natural wonder that combines beauty, history, and adventure. Whether you swim in the cliffside pools, hike to the waterfalls, or sip mezcal after a long morning in the sun, it’s a highlight of any Oaxaca itinerary.
For the most hassle-free experience, book a small group tour to maximize your time at the site and avoid unnecessary stops. However you get there, Hierve el Agua is one of those places you’ll remember forever.
🌟 Pro tip – Ready to go? Book your Hierve el Agua tour on Viator here.
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