Cañón de la Zorra Sol de Mayo Waterfall
A stunning desert oasis featuring the Sol de Mayo Waterfall, offering a refreshing swim and a scenic hike. Discover this hidden gem in Baja California...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the desert heat
Cañón de la Zorra Sol de Mayo Waterfall
Best Time
Beat the desert heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning desert oasis featuring the Sol de Mayo Waterfall, offering a refreshing swim and a scenic hike. Discover this hidden gem in Baja California Sur.
"Surprising little desert oasis! Fun to swim under the waterfall and see the animals nestled way out in the desert."
Pack Smart for the Hike
Bring water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes. The trail can be steep and rocky. :waterwave: :athleticshoe:
Embrace the Refreshing Swim
The cool, clear water is perfect for a dip after the hike. :swimmer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sol de Mayo Waterfall
Cañón de la Zorra
A breathtaking oasis with a cool, clear waterfall cascading into a refreshing pool. Perfect for a desert escape.
Desert Hike
Trail to the waterfall
A scenic, moderately steep hike through rocky terrain, offering stunning desert views before reaching the oasis.
Wildlife Encounters
Entrance area
Charming peacocks and box turtles often greet visitors, adding a unique touch to the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Your Desert Oasis Adventure
Respect Nature and Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Smart for the Hike
Bring water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes. The trail can be steep and rocky. :waterwave: :athleticshoe:
Embrace the Refreshing Swim
The cool, clear water is perfect for a dip after the hike. :swimmer:
Respect the Environment
Leave no trace! Pack out all trash and protect the natural beauty. :evergreen_tree:
Wildlife at the Entrance
Enjoy the peacocks and turtles! Keep a safe distance and observe them respectfully. :peacock: :turtle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Smart for the Hike
Bring water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes. The trail can be steep and rocky. :waterwave: :athleticshoe:
Embrace the Refreshing Swim
The cool, clear water is perfect for a dip after the hike. :swimmer:
Respect the Environment
Leave no trace! Pack out all trash and protect the natural beauty. :evergreen_tree:
Wildlife at the Entrance
Enjoy the peacocks and turtles! Keep a safe distance and observe them respectfully. :peacock: :turtle:
Consider the Entrance Fee
There's a small entrance fee, typically around $12.50 USD. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cañón de la Zorra as a beautiful desert oasis with a refreshing waterfall and enjoyable hike. The cool, clear water is a major draw, perfect for swimming and cooling off. Many appreciate the unique wildlife encounters at the entrance and the overall peaceful atmosphere. Some find the hike steep and the trails challenging in parts, and advise bringing ample water and snacks.
"Beautiful place in the middle of nowhere. Nice hike to the waterfall. Lots of animals around and it was a nice, cool swim at the base. Bring water or drinks. Nice place to chill for an afternoon."
Derrick Johnson
"Beautiful spot, it’s $12.50USD to get in when I went. Warm water, and they even have cool animals at the entrance like a peacock and box turtles!"
Ben Molina
"Surprising little desert oasis! Fun to swim under the waterfall and see the animals nestled way out in the desert. Worth the short drive outside Santiago 👍🏼"
Megan A
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The waterfall is located near Santiago in Baja California Sur. It's about a 1.5-hour drive from San Jose Del Cabo. While a 4x4 isn't strictly required, some road sections can be rough, with desert and sand roads. Following signs for Rancho Ecologico Sol de Mayo is recommended.
Parking spots can be limited, especially during busy times. It's often allowed to park safely on the roadside if the main lot is full.
The drive involves navigating desert roads, which can be sandy. Some describe it as driving through 'desert highways' before reaching the oasis.
Yes, there's an entrance near a restaurant and another one a bit further down the road outside the restaurant.
A North West Forest pass or equivalent might be required, especially if you're coming from certain areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee was approximately $12.50 USD when one visitor went. It's advisable to check current pricing before your visit.
Specific operating hours are not widely published, but it's generally considered a daytime attraction. It's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the entrance. There's no widespread information about advance booking options.
No specific age restrictions are mentioned for entry. It's a family-friendly destination, but supervision is recommended for children.
Information on discounts is not readily available. It's best to inquire at the entrance if you believe you might qualify for any special rates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is described as short but steep, with long steps carved into the cliff. It takes about 20 minutes to descend. Some parts of the trail to the upper pools are covered in loose sand and rock.
Yes, swimming in the waterfall and the clear, cool water is a highlight. Some parts require submerging completely, so be prepared.
Visitors often spot peacocks and box turtles near the entrance. It's a surprising amount of wildlife for a desert location.
The main trail to the waterfall is considered a straightforward, easy hike for most skill levels, though it is steep. The trails to the upper pools can be more challenging due to loose terrain.
Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for the rocky and potentially slippery trails. Comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather and swimming is also advised.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be a restaurant near one of the entrances, it's highly recommended to bring your own water and snacks. Options within the canyon itself are limited.
Picnicking is a great idea! Bring your own food and drinks, and remember to pack out everything you bring in to keep the area clean.
It's best to assume potable water is not readily available. Bring more water than you think you'll need, especially for the hike.
No, there are no food stalls or vendors inside the canyon. All food and drinks should be brought from outside.
The nearest significant dining options would be in the town of Santiago, which is a short drive away.
📸 📸 Photography
The cascading Sol de Mayo waterfall, the clear turquoise pools, the unique desert landscape, and the wildlife like peacocks offer fantastic photo opportunities.
The trail can be steep and uneven, so be cautious when taking photos. Having a secure way to carry your camera or phone is advisable.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the desert landscape, while midday offers good light for the waterfall. Be mindful of harsh shadows during peak sun hours.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage. However, it's always best to check local rules and be respectful of other visitors' experiences.
The area around the waterfall and the upper pools offer the most dramatic and picturesque views. The trail itself provides scenic vistas of the surrounding desert.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to the Oasis
For those seeking a more secluded experience, exploring the trails that circle up to the pools feeding the waterfall is recommended. These paths offer a chance to have areas all to yourselves, providing a truly peaceful escape. However, these upper trails can be more challenging due to the loose terrain, so caution is advised. Remember to keep your hands free for balance, especially if you start to slide.
Embracing the Refreshing Waters
Beyond the main waterfall, the pools fed by the lagoon offer further opportunities for swimming and exploration. The water temperature is consistently pleasant, providing a perfect way to cool down and relax after the hike. It's an ideal spot to spend an afternoon, chilling in the water and enjoying the unique desert oasis setting.
Respecting the Natural Environment and Wildlife
The area is also home to various wildlife, adding to its charm. Visitors often encounter peacocks strutting near the entrance and box turtles basking in the sun. It's important to observe these animals from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them. Keeping children and pets closely monitored is also advised, as the trails can be steep and the environment is natural. By adhering to these principles, everyone can enjoy the magic of this desert oasis responsibly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit