Sadhya The name “Hierve El Agua” translates to “boiling water” in Spanish, but the waterfalls don’t boil. Instead, they were formed by mineral water flowing through karstic limestone, creating frozen-in-time cascades down a cliff.
Hierve El Agua’s rock formations were created over thousands of years as minerals bubbled out from rocks, slowly calcifying to form the unique rock structures seen today. The falls were named after this subtle phenomenon of mineral deposits appearing to “boil” on the mountainside.
Hierve El Agua is nestled amidst low brush-covered mountains and it offers a breathtaking backdrop for its natural springs, with cool temperatures despite its name meaning ‘the water boils’
Spectacular Infinity Pools
The mineral springs cascade into natural infinity pools perched on a cliff’s edge, providing unparalleled panoramas of the Sierra. The water, dribbling over millennia, has formed striking white mineral formations resembling frozen waterfalls.
What To Do At Hierve El Agua
Presently, Hierve El Agua offers two ghostly ‘waterfalls’ for visitors: the larger “cascada grande” and the smaller “cascada chica.”
From the parking lot, a trail links the two falls. Just keep following it downhill, and you’ll reach the bottom, facing the frozen falls. If you have the time, I highly suggest taking the extra hike. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes. It’s best to do this hike before 10:00 AM, especially if you plan to swim, to avoid the heat.
At the top of Cascada Grande, you will see three mineral pools, showcasing yellow and greenish hues due to the minerals in the water. You can swim in these pools, and there’s a changing room nearby. Watch your step on the mineral pools, especially the ones near the edge. I went barefoot, and although it was a bit uncomfortable, I managed just fine.
The nearby vantage point offers stunning views of the grander ‘cascada grande’. A 1 km trail leads to the second waterfall, offering a quieter, more natural spot with fewer bathers.
Refreshing Mineral Water
Despite the name, the springs at Hierve El Agua aren’t boiling; they are heavily carbonated with temperatures ranging between 22-26°C. They resemble boiling water as they spurt out from the rocks. Visitors can swim in the nonthermal pools, providing a one-of-a-kind bathing experience amidst stunning natural beauty.
Convenient Facilities
Changing rooms are located just above the pools ensuring visitors can freshen up comfortably after their dip. It’s recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds during peak seasons.
Historical Significance
Once a vital water source, Hierve El Agua’s bubbling springs used to supply water to an intricate network of canals and terraces leading to the valley, making it one of Mesoamerica’s most complete terraced irrigation sites. Archaeologists suggest the canal system was abandoned around the 1300s.
Food Recommendations
Visitors can enjoy local snacks from stalls nearby, including quesadillas, memelas, and more. Popular options include quesadillas filled with Oaxacan cheese and squash blossoms, as well as freshly chopped jicama served with chili, lime, and salt for a refreshing snack.
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How To Get To Hierve El Agua from Oaxaca City
Consider joining a tour for a hassle-free visit to Hierve el Agua from Oaxaca. These organized tours often include other attractions along the way, like the giant Tule Tree, a carpet factory, the ruins in Mitla, and a Mezcal factory. Many hotels and hostels provide this tour, and you can also book it online here.
To reach Hierve el Agua from Oaxaca City, first, go to Mitla. It’s a small town famous for its archaeological site, about 25 miles southeast of Oaxaca City. Then, drive along an unpaved mountain road to reach Hierve el Agua. The trip usually takes about two hours from Oaxaca City.
Unpredictable Roadblocks
Visitors should be aware of unofficial roadblocks that may arise due to local feuds, sometimes charging an additional M$10 for entry. Plan accordingly to avoid any inconvenience. When we visited here we went with a tour group and click here to find more details.
