Exploring Hierve el Agua

 

One of our favorite things about traveling with locals is the opportunity it provides to go deep under the surface of a new destination. To not only experience off-the-beaten-track attractions but also to learn about the unique culture, history and importance of the area from the viewpoint of someone who knows it intimately. Without fail, these moments with locals—however brief—always create our most meaningful, lasting memories.

While recently exploring Oaxaca with Mexican photographers and tour guides Sam and Bernie, we were once again swept away. Sam and Bernie founded their new travel company Cantimplora Travel based on their passion for taking travelers on meaningful, off the beaten track adventures—all while photographing the once-in-a-lifetime memories so that you can step away from your screens and devices.

 

 

A Cruising Couple At Hierve el Agua
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

 

Hierve el Agua Collage 1
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

 

View of Hierve el Agua
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

Traveling with Cantimplora Travel is precisely like being hosted by local friends; Sam and Bernie are eager to share the best-hidden gems and attractions of their country, without using forced scripts or rigid schedules. From meeting a local mezcal farmer to indulging in the best cuisine in Oaxaca City, Sam and Bernie were a wealth of insider tips from start to finish. But perhaps one of our favorite attractions on our road trip through Oaxaca was exploring the mesmerizing petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua.

 

Hierve el Agua: A Natural Wonder in Oaxaca, Mexico

 

 

Petrified Waterfall Hierve el Agua
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

Hierve el Agua is one of only a handful of petrified waterfalls in the world. Though it looks more like a frozen waterfall dramatically etched into the side of a cliff, Hierve el Agua is, in fact, the result of mineral-dense water slowly spilling over the edge. Over thousands of years, the minerals slowly accumulated to form the stunning petrified falls.

[clickToTweet tweet=”Hierve el Agua is one of only a handful of petrified waterfalls in the world.” quote=”Hierve el Agua is one of only a handful of petrified waterfalls in the world.”]

 

 

Hierve el Agua
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

Though the name Hierve el Agua translates into ‘the water that boils’, the natural infinity pools at the top of the cliff are in fact cool and refreshing—perfect for taking a dip while enjoying the spectacular surrounding scenery.

 

 

Hierve el Agua Oaxaca
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

 

Yoga at Hierve el Agua
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

There are numerous paths and hiking trails throughout the area. The main track is a rigorous hike that will take you on a loop around Hierve el Agua, including the opportunity to get both panoramic photographs and up-close-and-personal shots with the petrified falls. While certainly not the easiest hike under the intense midday Mexican sun, it is well worth the views it provides. Just be sure to bring a hat and plenty of water along for the journey.

 

 

Hierve el Agua Hike
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

 

Hierve el Agua Collage 2
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

 

Hierve el Agua Hike
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
 

 

Once you’ve had enough time to take in the wonder and soak in the mineral-rich natural springs, then be sure to fuel up at any one of the many vendors and small restaurants just outside the entrance. We recommend the fresh pineapples mixed with rum and chile spices to accompany a mouthwatering tlayuda.

 

Have you visited Hierve el Agua? Share your travel tips and experiences below!

 

We were guests of Cantiplora Travel on their amazing Oaxaca Road Trip. As always, all thoughts are our own.