Hierve el Agua: Oaxaca’s Frozen Oasis (Literally, If You Go at the Wrong Time!)

The Magic of Hierve el Agua: A Hidden Gem in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a place that keeps you on your toes. One moment, you’re walking through the vibrant streets of Oaxaca City, sipping on a fresh tejate (a local cacao drink), and the next, you’re standing on a mountaintop, staring at what looks like a frozen waterfall.

Hierve el Agua is one of those destinations that feels like a secret the earth has been keeping. It’s beautiful, it’s strange, and it’s unlike anything else in Mexico. You’d think something this stunning would be packed with tourists, but because it’s a bit off the beaten path, it remains a hidden gem. If you love nature, adventure, or just finding places that make you go, “How is this even real?”, this spot needs to be on your list.

But before you start planning your trip, let me give you a crucial piece of advice: check the weather. I learned this lesson the hard way.

What Makes Hierve el Agua So Special?

Let’s get one thing straight—Hierve el Agua is not actually a waterfall, and the water does not “boil.” The name translates to “Boiling Water,” but that’s because the springs bubble up from the ground, making it look like they’re boiling. In reality, the pools are naturally cool, and the mineral-rich water has, over thousands of years, created giant white rock formations that resemble a cascading waterfall frozen in time.

This geological wonder is one of only two petrified waterfalls in the world—the other is in Turkey! The sight alone is worth the trip, but what makes the experience even better is that you can actually swim in the natural pools sitting on the edge of the cliff, giving you a front-row seat to one of Oaxaca’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Our Chilly Hierve el Agua Experience (AKA, How to Accidentally Freeze in Oaxaca)

When my family and I visited, we were beyond excited. We had seen photos of the place—the turquoise pools, the endless mountain views, the golden light hitting the rock formations just right. It looked like paradise.

What we didn’t check? The temperature.

Turns out, Hierve el Agua can get pretty cold, especially if you visit early in the morning or during the cooler months. The wind was blowing, the air was crisp, and that beautiful turquoise water? Freezing. I dipped my foot in and immediately regretted every life decision that had led me to that moment.

Some brave souls (aka, people with a higher tolerance for suffering) still got in, but if you’re imagining a warm, relaxing soak—think again. Unless, of course, you visit on a hot day, in which case, the water is refreshingly cool rather than shockingly icy. Lesson learned: if you want the full experience, go when the sun is out!

How to Get to Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua is located in San Lorenzo Albarradas, about 1.5 to 2 hours from Oaxaca City. There are a few ways to get there, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling:

1. Rent a Car
   1. If you’re up for a little road trip, you can rent a car and drive yourself. The drive is beautiful, but be prepared for a winding, sometimes bumpy road toward the end. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
2. Take a Tour
   1. This is probably the easiest option. Many tour companies in Oaxaca City offer day trips to Hierve el Agua, often paired with other attractions like a mezcal distillery or the ancient ruins of Mitla. If you don’t want to worry about transportation, this is a great choice.
3. Public Transport + Truck Ride
   1. For the more budget-conscious traveler, you can take a colectivo (shared taxi) to Mitla, then hop on a local truck that takes you up the mountain to Hierve el Agua. It’s a bit of an adventure, but it’s doable if you don’t mind a bumpy ride!

What to Bring for the Best Experience

Hierve el Agua is a place where preparation makes all the difference. Here’s what you should pack:

• Swimsuit – If you visit on a warm day, you’ll want to take a dip!
• Towel – Whether you swim or not, it’s good to have one in case of chilly winds.
• Comfortable shoes – There are hiking trails that take you down to the base of the petrified waterfall. It’s a must-do for amazing photos!
• Sunscreen & Hat – The sun can be intense at higher elevations.
• Cash – There’s a small entrance fee, and if you want snacks or souvenirs from local vendors, cash is your best bet.
• Light Jacket – If you’re going early or during cooler months, be prepared for some chilly air!

Beyond the Pools: Exploring the Area

Many visitors don’t realize that there’s more to Hierve el Agua than just the pools. There’s a hiking trail that takes you down to the base of the petrified waterfall, where you can see the formations up close. The hike takes about 45 minutes to an hour and is well worth the effort. You’ll also find stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

After your visit, consider stopping by a nearby mezcal distillery to taste Oaxaca’s most famous drink. The town of Mitla, known for its ancient Zapotec ruins and traditional weaving, is also a great place to explore before heading back to Oaxaca City.

Is Hierve el Agua Worth It? Absolutely!

Despite the unexpected Arctic waters on my visit, Hierve el Agua was still one of the most memorable places I’ve been to in Mexico. The landscape is surreal, the views are unbeatable, and if you go on a warm day, the pools are the perfect place to soak and relax.

So, is it worth it? Yes! Just take it from me—check the weather before you go!

Would you brave the cold water, or are you more of a “stay on dry land and take pictures” kind of traveler? Let me know in the comments!

Final Thoughts

Hierve el Agua is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Oaxaca. Whether you go for the stunning views, the unique geology, or the chance to swim in a natural infinity pool, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Just make sure you come prepared, and remember: a little sunshine makes all the difference!