Oaxaca’s Hierve El Agua is a breathtaking natural wonder, where towering petrified waterfalls and serene mineral pools captivate visitors from around the world. This 8-hour hiking tour promises an immersive experience, guiding adventurers through the surreal landscape and introducing them to the rich Zapotec heritage. With convenient hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and an optional local lunch, the tour offers a seamless and personalized adventure. As you step into this enchanting realm, prepare to be swept away by the sheer beauty and cultural significance that Hierve El Agua holds – a journey that will leave a lasting impression on both your senses and your spirit.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Tours In Teotitlan Del Valle.
Key Points
- This 8-hour tour explores the unique petrified waterfalls and mineral pools of Hierve el Agua in Oaxaca.
- The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and admission to Hierve el Agua.
- Participants will have 2.5 hours to wander the surreal landscape and enjoy scenic views of the cascading waterfall formations and warm turquoise pools.
- The tour also visits the traditional Zapotec town of Teotitlán del Valle, with an optional traditional Oaxacan lunch available.
- The tour is suitable for moderate hikers, with a maximum of 14 participants for a personalized experience.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua Waterfalls Hiking Tour offers a comprehensive experience, priced at $52.01 per person.
The 8-hour tour is limited to 14 participants and available in English and Spanish. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation with air conditioning, and admission to the Hierve el Agua site.
Travelers can explore the petrified waterfalls and mineral pools for 2.5 hours. An optional traditional Oaxacan lunch is available for an additional fee.
The tour also visits Teotitlán del Valle, a Zapotec town known for its natural dyes. Comfortable attire, sun protection, and cash are recommended.
The tour has received positive reviews for its punctuality, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable local experiences.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Teotitlan Del Valle.
Itinerary Highlights
Hierve el Agua, the main highlight of the tour, offers visitors a chance to explore the unique petrified waterfalls and mineral pools.
Guests will have 2.5 hours to wander through this surreal landscape, admiring the cascading, frozen-in-time waterfall formations and dipping their toes in the warm, turquoise pools.
The tour also includes a visit to the traditional Zapotec town of Teotitlán del Valle, known for its vibrant natural dye production.
Along the way, travelers will have the opportunity to indulge in a delicious Oaxacan lunch at a local smoke kitchen, seeing the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour includes transportation with air conditioning, a bilingual driver, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Plus, the admission fee to Hierve el Agua is covered. However, the tour excludes food, drinks, and tips. Participants should also note that the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, recent surgeries, or back problems.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Transportation with A/C | Food and drinks |
| Bilingual driver | Tips |
| Hotel pickup and drop-off | – |
| Admission to Hierve el Agua | – |
| – | Not suitable for mobility issues |
Preparation and Recommendations
Participants are advised to come prepared for the Hierve el Agua hiking tour.
The tour involves moderate hiking, so comfortable shoes and clothes are essential.
Plus, visitors should bring a sun hat, towel, sandals, and sunscreen to protect against the Oaxacan sun.
Cash is recommended, as there may be opportunities to purchase local goods or enjoy a traditional Oaxacan lunch.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, recent surgeries, or back problems, so prospective participants should consider their physical capabilities before booking.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
- Bring a sun hat, towel, sandals, and sunscreen
- Carry cash for optional purchases
- Ensure you have no mobility, surgical, or back issues
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Based on the 95 reviews, customers have generally praised the Hierve el Agua hiking tour. The tour’s guides received a 4.1/5 rating for their knowledgeable and personable service. The transportation was particularly impressive, earning a 4.7/5 rating. While the value for money and overall service received solid 4.1/5 and 4/5 ratings respectively, some areas for improvement were noted.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Guide | 4.1/5 |
| Transportation | 4.7/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.1/5 |
| Service | 4.0/5 |
| Overall | 4.2/5 |
Positive feedback highlighted the tour’s punctuality, flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable local experiences, such as mezcal tastings and home-style meals.
Tour Schedules and Availability
The Hierve el Agua hiking tour departs daily from the pickup location in Oaxaca City.
Guests can choose from multiple start times, including 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM, and 1:00 PM.
The tour runs approximately 8 hours, providing ample time to explore the petrified waterfalls, soak in the mineral pools, and visit the local Zapotec town.
Participants can reserve their spot online without upfront payment, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour accommodates small groups of up to 14 people, ensuring a personalized experience guided by bilingual experts.
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey, guests are advised to wear appropriate attire and footwear.
Booking and Payment Details
Booking the Hierve el Agua hiking tour is a straightforward process. The tour is priced at $52.01 per person and lasts 8 hours.
Groups are limited to 14 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. Travelers can book the tour in English or Spanish and choose a pickup location near their hotel or Airbnb.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, there’s flexibility to adjust plans if needed. Visitors can reserve their spot online without upfront payment, paying later.
The tour includes transportation, a bilingual guide, admission fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off, providing a hassle-free adventure to explore the iconic petrified waterfalls of Oaxaca.
Safety and Accessibility Considerations
While the booking process for the Hierve el Agua hiking tour is straightforward, it’s important to consider the tour’s safety and accessibility.
The hike may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, recent surgeries, or back problems. Participants should be prepared for the following:
- Moderate difficulty level with some steep and uneven terrain.
- Walking in direct sunlight and exposure to hot temperatures.
- Navigating narrow paths and steps near the petrified waterfalls.
- Potential challenges for those with vertigo or a fear of heights.
It’s essential to review the tour’s exclusions and discuss any concerns with the provider to ensure the experience aligns with one’s physical capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
There’s no minimum age specified for the tour, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or recent surgeries. Participants should be able to handle the hike and activities comfortably.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, there are options to purchase food and drinks along the way, so bringing your own is not required. The tour provides transportation and admission to the main site.
What Is the Terrain Like at Hierve El Agua?
The terrain at Hierve el Agua is a mix of rocky, uneven paths and gentle slopes. Visitors will encounter some steep, natural staircases as they explore the petrified waterfalls and mineral pools. Proper footwear is recommended to navigate the varied landscape safely.
Is Photography Allowed at the Sites Visited?
Photography is generally allowed at the sites visited on this tour, including the petrified waterfalls and mineral pools of Hierve el Agua. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the unique natural landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students, but they do provide a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Group sizes are limited to 14 participants.
Recap
The Hierve el Agua hiking tour from Oaxaca promises a truly breathtaking experience. With its stunning petrified waterfalls, mineral pools, and traditional Zapotec town, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of the region. Priced at $52.01 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore this surreal landscape and create lasting memories.
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