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.
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
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
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.”]
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.
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
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.
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
Photo by Cantimplora Travel
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.
Looks like an interesting place. Glad to see pictures of both of you.
Thanks! :) It was such an awesome experience!
A Cruising Couple recently posted…Why wildlife holidays are the ultimate adventure
Beautiful view, guys. How expensive is it to get there and stay for a day of hiking :)? I would definitely add it to must-see places!! :)x
Agness recently posted…Seeing the Aurora Borealis in Norway on a Budget
Hey, Agness!
Unfortunately, we’re not really sure how expensive it is. We chose to go with Cantimplora Travel, and they took care of all the logistics for us. We would definitely recommend having an insider guide like them to show you the ins and outs! You’ll get SO much more out of your trip. :-)
Hope you get to go soon! :-)
A Cruising Couple recently posted…Uncover The World
The waterfalls look amazing, however I have a bit of a problem with walking more than about 30 minutes. Do you know if we can drive very near to the waterfall? Even if there is a road to the top?
Hi Eva, You can definitely drive right up to the “natural infinity part”. You can also get a glimpse of the petrified waterfalls from there. Not everyone in our group did the hike and they all enjoyed it, so it is definitely worth the visit :)
I love your photos! My husband and I were in Mexico a few years ago, but we didn’t go to Oaxaca (which apparently was a mistake :) ). I’ve since heard that it’s THE destination for Día de los Muertos, so now we have several great reasons to go back!
Miriam recently posted…Saint Petersburg, you are fascinating
Thanks so much, Miriam! :)
That’s really too bad that you didn’t make it over to Oaxaca. On the bright side, however, you’re right that it’s an awesome excuse to come back. ;-)
Must agree that it really is the best spot for Dia de los Muertos! So much fun to celebrate such an incredible holiday in this city.
Hope you get to back sooner rather than later! :)
A Cruising Couple recently posted…Why wildlife holidays are the ultimate adventure
what an amazing other-worldly feel the place has! Like an alien landscape – love it!
That’s a great way to put it! It’s almost too beautiful to be of this world. ;-)
A Cruising Couple recently posted…Why wildlife holidays are the ultimate adventure
You are the people know how to enjoy , how to live with his hobby. máy kinh vĩ geomax
Great pictures! Just coming back from Oaxaca this revives the good memories) Hierve el Agua is a great spot with really impressive landscapes ( Im under impression thought that it becomes unfortunately fairly crowded with tourists)
Denis recently posted…WTM London : 2017 the year of Sustainable Tourism
Thanks so much!! And we must have picked a good time to visit Hierve el Agua then! Hope it doesn’t get too crowded – it was magical while we were there :)