Discover the dramatic cliffs and mineral pools of Hierve el Agua before savoring authentic Oaxacan cuisine and artisanal mezcal on this enriching half-day tour with Oaxacool Tours & Experiences.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; includes light hiking and swimming at a gentle pace.
Wildlife
History
Hierve el Agua's formations are the result of mineral spring deposits over thousands of years, historically revered by indigenous Zapotec communities.
Conservation
Oaxacool Tours supports sustainable travel by prioritizing local businesses and minimizing environmental impact on fragile geological sites.
Oaxacool Tours & Experiences
Discover the dramatic cliffs and mineral pools of Hierve el Agua before savoring authentic Oaxacan cuisine and artisanal mezcal on this enriching half-day tour with Oaxacool Tours & Experiences.
Oaxacool Tours & Experiences operates guided cultural and culinary tours in and around Oaxaca, Mexico. The company organizes small-group excursions that highlight the region’s Zapotec heritage, traditional crafts, and mezcal culture. Popular offerings include the Tlacolula Market Food Tour + Mezcal, which visits the 16th-century Tlacolula de Matamoros market to sample street food and artisanal mezcal with an expert guide; the Full Oaxaca Experience, a one-day itinerary visiting the Tule Tree, a private tapestry workshop, Hierve el Agua, Mitla, and a local distillery with bottomless mezcal tasting; and the Hierve el Agua + Textile Rug Art tour that combines natural sites with a visit to a Zapotec artisan workshop.
Other curated options include the Mezcal and Food City Tour Deluxe, a walking tour of top mezcalerias concluding with dinner at La Olla Restaurant; the Monte Alban + Alebrijes + Clay Experience, which visits Monte Albán and artisan communities in San Martin Tilcajete and San Bartolo Coyotepec; and a half-day Hierve el Agua & Mezcal Experience featuring a swim, Oaxacan buffet, and family-run distillery visit. Each itinerary focuses on authentic encounters with artisans, archaeological sites, markets, and mezcal producers, often in small groups to allow personalized attention. The company’s structured tours provide clear, activity-based experiences for travelers seeking cultural immersion, traditional food and drink tastings, and hands-on textile and pottery demonstrations. Tours range from half-day to full-day options and include market visits, archaeological sites, artisan workshops, swimming at Hierve el Agua, and multiple mezcal tastings in small, guided groups for travelers.
Tours Offered
6
Six curated cultural and culinary itineraries
Small Groups
Small groups
Personalized attention on many tours
Mezcal Tastings
Bottomless options
Multiple tours include tastings
Natural Sites
Hierve el Agua
Tours include swimming and views
Choose a small-group itinerary for Tlacolula market visits, Hierve el Agua swims, Monte Albán exploration, artisan workshops, and mezcal tastings.
Prepare for uneven terrain
Wear sturdy shoes for the short hike up to the mineral pools, as paths include rocky and uneven surfaces.
Hydration is key
Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially after swimming and walking in the sun.
Cash for local food options
If opting for street food near Hierve el Agua, carry cash, as many vendors do not accept cards.
Respect local customs
At the mezcal distillery, listen closely during tastings and ask questions to deepen your understanding of this cultural craft.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Protect your feet and provide traction on rocky and uneven paths to Hierve el Agua.
Swimsuit and towel
Wear or bring swim gear for the natural mineral pools to fully enjoy the refreshing water.
spring|summer|fall
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the hike and distillery visit with your own water supply.
Sun protection
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to shield yourself from strong highland sun.
spring|summer|fall