Hierve el Agua
A rare geological marvel with petrified waterfalls and natural pools, offering stunning views and a refreshing dip.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Hierve el Agua
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rare geological marvel with petrified waterfalls and natural pools, offering stunning views and a refreshing dip.
"Witness unique mineral formations resembling frozen waterfalls, a rare geological wonder found in only two places globally."
🎯 Arrive Early for Photos
Get there by 8 AM on a weekday for empty views and prime photo ops.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be slippery and uneven; good walking shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Petrified Waterfalls
Main formations
Witness unique mineral formations resembling frozen waterfalls, a rare geological wonder found in only two places globally.
Natural Swimming Pools
Top of the formations
Take a refreshing dip in the mineral-rich pools with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valley.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Surrounding area
Explore trails that lead to various vantage points, offering different perspectives of the natural beauty and the valley below.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Cash is King & Wear Good Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Photos
Get there by 8 AM on a weekday for empty views and prime photo ops.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be slippery and uneven; good walking shoes are a must.
💰 Bring Cash
Essential for entrance fees, tolls, and local vendors.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
The sun is intense; bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Photos
Get there by 8 AM on a weekday for empty views and prime photo ops.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be slippery and uneven; good walking shoes are a must.
💰 Bring Cash
Essential for entrance fees, tolls, and local vendors.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
The sun is intense; bring water, sunscreen, and a hat.
🏊♂️ Swim in the Pools
The water is cool, not hot, but a dip is refreshing!
🚶♀️ Explore the Hike
The hike to the bottom offers the best views, but it's steep.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the unique geological formations of Hierve el Agua, describing the petrified waterfalls as bizarre and beautiful. The natural swimming pools offer a refreshing experience with stunning valley views, and the hiking trails provide ample opportunities for exploration. While the site is visually impressive, some reviewers caution about slippery conditions and the lack of safety railings, emphasizing the need for sturdy footwear and careful navigation.
"Petrified waterfalls. Several of them as a matter of fact. Quite bizarre and frankly beautiful. Also some pools people frequently swim in. Not that warm. Lots of space to roam around to get different vantage points. Be careful as it can be a little slick in spots and there are few railings. Some designated trails to walk along, too. Look for the occasional agave plant. All of this nestled in a mountain range."
Duncan McAuley
"What a fascinating natural phenomenon. And it looks recent, which is even stranger. I bet it looks different in 20 years. The water is not warm, but not cold. Room temp. I didn't swim, but I did take off my shoes and walk around. Be careful it is slippery. And there are NO fences. Nothing to prevent you from falling off. There are 2 main features to see, and you have to walk to the other side to see back. Definitely worth it, though not an easy hike. It has bathrooms and change rooms, plus a bunch of food and souvenir vendors up top. The walk down and back up is not that easy, especially if you go ALL the way down to the bottom of the formation. But if you are in the area, I highly recommend checking it out."
Laurin Jeffrey
"Nice water fall and natural springs inviting for the water.
We spent half a day there, went for a little hike, jumped into the natural swimming pools and had a quick bite there. We tried also for the first time coconut with chilly, good memory…
If you go for a hike make sure you bring sufficient water and sun protection. The hike goes up and down there is little shade, relatively step and it‘s helpful to wear good shoes."
Thomas Fridrich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Hierve el Agua by car, taxi, or tour. Driving yourself or hiring a private taxi is recommended for flexibility. Buses and trucks are also an option, often requiring a transfer in Mitla. The journey typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Going on your own offers more freedom to explore at your own pace, especially if you want to arrive early. However, tours can be convenient and may include other stops.
The roads start paved but can become dirt roads closer to the site. The scenery is beautiful, offering glimpses of the Oaxacan landscape.
Yes, you can take buses or trucks towards Mitla and then arrange local transport to Hierve el Agua. This option requires more planning and potentially transfers.
Yes, there are tolls on the route, so ensure you have cash available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around $50 Mexican pesos per person. Additionally, there might be community fees or tolls along the way.
Advance booking is generally not required for Hierve el Agua. You can purchase tickets upon arrival.
Hierve el Agua is generally open year-round. For the best experience and fewer crowds, aim for early morning visits.
Yes, there are bathrooms and changing rooms available at the site, though there may be a small fee for use.
Visiting during the low season is highly recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Hierve el Agua is famous for its unique petrified waterfalls, which are mineral formations created by flowing water over thousands of years. It's one of only two such sites in the world.
Despite its name ('Boiling Water'), the water in the pools is actually cool to room temperature, not hot.
You can swim in the natural pools, hike along the trails to different viewpoints, and take photos of the petrified waterfalls. +1
The hike can be challenging due to its steepness and the heat, especially if you go all the way down. Good walking shoes are recommended.
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the unique petrified waterfalls.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food and souvenir vendors located at the top of the site, offering local Oaxacan cuisine.
You can find typical Oaxacan dishes and snacks. Trying local specialties like coconut with chili is recommended.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check local regulations. However, vendors are available if you need to purchase food.
Some restaurants are located near the site, offering a place to dine after your visit.
Local drinks like mezcallinis and tejate are popular choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The edge of the petrified waterfalls and the infinity pools offer iconic photo opportunities. Hiking to the bottom also provides unique angles.
Early morning or late afternoon, especially after 6 PM when crowds thin out, provides softer light and fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Drone usage policies can vary; it's best to check for any restrictions before flying.
You can capture stunning landscape shots of the petrified waterfalls, panoramic valley views, and people enjoying the pools.
Experiment with different angles from the top and bottom of the formations. The contrast between the white minerals and the blue sky is striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. The sheer novelty of the petrified waterfalls can captivate younger imaginations, making it an educational and exciting outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or weekdays to potentially find better deals on transport or accommodation if you plan to stay nearby. The experience itself is priceless, offering stunning natural beauty and a unique geological marvel.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
The contrast of the white mineral formations against the blue sky and green valley is visually striking. Experiment with different angles from the top of the formations and from the trails leading down to the base. The infinity pools also provide excellent opportunities for capturing reflections and unique perspectives.
Consider using a drone for aerial shots, but be sure to check for any regulations. The raw, natural beauty of the site provides endless creative possibilities. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Hierve el Agua
This natural phenomenon is incredibly rare, with only one other comparable site in the world: Pamukkale in Turkey.
Visitors can explore the area to understand the scale and beauty of this natural wonder. The trails allow for close-up views of the petrified cascades and offer insights into the geological processes that shaped this extraordinary place.
Experiencing the Pools and Trails
Beyond the pools, a network of hiking trails winds around the site, providing access to various vantage points and a deeper exploration of the natural formations. The hike to the bottom of the petrified waterfalls is particularly rewarding, offering the most dramatic perspectives.
For those seeking the ultimate tranquility, staying overnight at the on-site accommodation allows for visits during the early morning or late evening when the crowds have dispersed. This offers a chance to experience the site's serene beauty in near solitude, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.
Community and Local Culture
Some visitors have noted that the roads leading to Hierve el Agua can be less developed, transitioning from paved to dirt paths.
When visiting, remember to be respectful of the local customs and the natural environment. The presence of Xoloitzcuintli dogs, a native Mexican breed, has also been noted, adding a unique cultural touch to the experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit