March 2012

About 45 miles to the west of Oaxaca’s capital, just 40 minutes away, and in the heart of the mountain chain, we can find the imposing petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua.

These “salt waterfalls”, as they are also known, formed thousands of years ago from the fall of carbonated water through a cliff measuring over 660 feet in depth.

These enormous formations, similar to the stalactites that form inside caverns, make up one of the most fascinating landscapes in Mexico. But there is more at Hierve el Agua: water holes and springs with temperate water, ideal to relax and enjoy the vegetation that includes oak trees, cacti, maguey plants and other species.

At the esplanade called The Amphitheater, we can find a natural spa. Here we can swim along two water holes that due to their mineral content, have acquired a unique green turquoise tone. Furthermore, here we can also enjoy four effervescent springs. If that is not enough, this site offers unmatched views of the region’s landscape.

Beyond its great natural beauty, Hierve el Agua is home to an important archeological site that brings visitors close to the ancient regional culture. These architectural remains shed light on the complex irrigation and terraces system that the Zapotec Indians built about 2,500 years ago.

Today, Hierve el Agua possesses the infrastructure necessary to offer visitors a pleasant experience: bathrooms, dressing rooms, palm shelters and food stands. For those wishing to spend the night here, there are fully-equipped cabins providing a comfortable stay.