Hierve el Agua (Spanish for “the water boils”) is a set of natural rock formations in the Mexican state of Oaxaca that look like waterfalls. The site is located about 70 kilometers east of Oaxaca city, past Mitla, with a narrow, winding unpaved road leading to the site. The site consists of two rock shelves or cliffs which rise between fifty and ninety meters from the valley below, from which extend nearly white rock formations which look like waterfalls. These formations are created by springs whose water is over-saturated with calcium carbonate and other minerals. As the water flows over the cliffs, the excess minerals are deposited in the same manner that stalactites are formed in caves. One of the cliffs, called the “cascada chica” (small waterfall) or the Amphitheater, contains two large artificial pools for swimming as well as a number of small natural pools. (NOTE: Despite the name, Hierve el Aqua is not a hot spring. The water flowing out of the ground is tepid, at best, so if you plan to take a dip in one of the pools, be prepared for cold water!)
There is a serene quality about the setting, which affords panoramic views. It is best visited mid-week when there are few visitors. On weekends the site is quite popular with families from the local area, who come to picnic — great fun, but the crowds and noise can be jarring.
A modest fee of 25 pesos is charged for admission to the site. Vendors sell snack food and beverages at stands located near the parking lot. There are bathrooms and changing rooms on site. A motel-like facility with private rooms and swimming pool was constructed on the property in recent years, but failed to draw tourists and was abandoned.
Time frame: 8:30 depart Llano Park / 10:00 arrive Hierve / 12:00 sack lunch at Hierve / 1:30 board bus for Oaxaca / 3:00 return Library.
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