Visiting Hierve el Agua: Tours, Tips, How to Get There & What to Expect

Hierve el Agua is one of the most unforgettable day trips from Oaxaca City. This otherworldly site features petrified waterfalls spilling over a cliffside and mineral-rich pools you can swim in — all with sweeping mountain views. Just 1.5 hours from the city, it’s a must-see natural wonder that combines geology, hiking, swimming, and scenery in one epic spot.

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Quick Facts:

🗺️  Location: San Lorenzo Albarradas, Oaxaca (1.5 hours from Oaxaca City)
🏞️  Highlights: Petrified waterfalls, cliffside pools, panoramic views
💦  Swimming: Yes – bring your suit!
💰  Entry Fee: ~$50 pesos + parking
🛻  How to Get There: Tour, private driver, or DIY (see below)

How to Get from Oaxaca City to Hierve el Agua?

There’s 3 ways to get to there… from taking a tour, to going it solo.

1 – Take a Guided Tour to Hierve el Agua

A guided tour is the easiest and most convenient option — and often the best value. Most tours include hotel pickup, a bilingual guide, and stops at other key attractions along the way.

The best part about Hierve el Agua is you have to go past the Mezcal region to get there.

Many tours visit:

• El Árbol del Tule (the world’s widest tree)
• Mitla (archaeological site and Pueblo Mágico)
• Teotitlán del Valle (famous for handwoven textiles)
• Mezcal distilleries with tastings and demos

Best Rated Tours

⭐️ El Tule – Teotitlán del Valle – Mitla ruins – Hierve el Agua – Mezcal

⭐️ Hierve el Agua – Mezcal

⭐️ Private Tour – Monte Albán, Hierve el agua, Teotitlán Del Valle and Mezcal

2 – Hire a Private Driver for the day

You can hire a private driver here for the day for great flexibility. Also taxi drivers are quiet often willing to do day trips to anywhere you like at a negotiated day price if you find a trustworthy one.

3 – Go Without a Tour (Step-by-Step Instructions)

It’s totally possible to visit Hierve el Agua on your own — just be prepared for a longer and less comfortable journey.

🛻 Step-by-step DIY Instructions:

1. Start by heading to the VW dealership near the baseball stadium in Oaxaca City.
2. Take a bus or shared colectivo taxi to Mitla. Be sure to tell the driver you’re going to Hierve el Agua, that way you’ll get dropped off right at the pick-up trucks..
3. In Mitla, transfer to a pick-up truck heading up to Hierve el Agua (45 min ride, leaves when full).
4. Do the same in reverse to return.

⏱️ Total time: ~5–6 hours round trip
💸 Total cost: ~150–200 pesos per person

Can you swim at Hierve el Agua?

Yes, you can swim in the pools at Hierve el Agua! Despite the name meaning “boiling water,” the water is refreshing and cool — not hot.

Bring a swimsuit and towel, and don’t forget:

🧢 Hat & sunscreen (there’s little shade)
👟 Comfortable shoes for hiking
📸 Camera or phone for epic photos
💵 Small change for entry & transport
🧥 Light jacket (mornings can be chilly)

You can also hike the trails around the site for views of the waterfalls from below. Allow at least 1.5–2 hours if you plan to walk and swim.

Can You Stay Overnight at Hierve el Agua?

Yes, there are simple cabins (cabañas) on-site! Prices range from 600–1200 MXN per night, but can’t be booked online — you’ll need to ask in person.

The bonus? From 5pm to 7am, you’ll have the place almost to yourself. Bring snacks and essentials, as services are limited.

Best Time to Visit Hierve el Agua?

The dry season (November–April) offers the best weather and easiest access. Rainy season (June–September) makes the road more slippery and can sometimes lead to closures.
Try to arrive by 8–9am to avoid tour crowds and capture the best light for photos.

If you’re on a tour, depending which one, you’ll likely get there in the afternoon. But If you’re going solo, or a private tour, the early the better before the other tours get there and to give you as much time as possible there.

Is Hierve el Agua worth it?

Absolutely. It’s one of the most unique natural landscapes in Mexico — and photos don’t do it justice. Whether you’re into hiking, swimming, photography, or just soaking up surreal views, Hierve el Agua delivers.

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