Oaxaca: Cascadas de Apoala 1 Day Bike and Hike tour

Exploring Oaxaca’s natural beauty takes many forms, but few experiences match the combination of cycling, hiking, and swimming in one action-packed day. For around $163 per person, this 10-hour adventure takes you from the lively streets of Oaxaca City to the serene, lush landscapes around Cascadas de Apoala. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll pass through vibrant villages, enjoy scenic views, and discover the stunning natural pools and waterfalls that make this area special.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personal touch of friendly guides like Pedro and Celestino, who bring the local ecology and culture vividly to life. Second, the variety of activities—cycling through the countryside, hiking downstream, and relaxing in the pools—offers a well-rounded, authentic experience.

A possible consideration? The tour’s difficulty level is rated for beginners to intermediate, so if you’re looking for a very relaxed day or a high-adventure challenge, you’ll want to consider your fitness level and comfort with outdoor activities.

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy being active, appreciate scenic landscapes, and want to get a taste of rural Oaxacan life away from the tourist crowds. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with cycling and hiking, and who love the idea of cooling off in natural pools after a day of exploring.

Key Points

• Cultural & Natural Blend: Experience rural Oaxaca villages, lush scenery, and natural waterfalls in one day.
• Active & Scenic: A well-balanced mix of biking, hiking, and swimming that keeps you moving and engaged.
• Guided Expertise: Knowledgeable guides like Pedro and Celestino enhance the experience with insights into local ecology and history.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for beginners and families, with a relaxed pace and safety equipment included.
• Authentic Experience: Enjoy local breakfast and lunch, supporting community businesses along the way.
• Weather Considerations: Waterfalls may be inaccessible if heavy rain occurs, so check weather forecasts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deeper Look at the Oaxaca Cascadas de Apoala Tour

This tour offers a compelling blend of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery set against the backdrop of Oaxaca’s stunning landscape. We’ll start early, with a 7 am pickup in Oaxaca City, giving us plenty of time to enjoy the day without feeling rushed.

The Journey to Nochixtlán and Breakfast

After an hour-long drive, we arrive in Nochixtlán, where a local restaurant awaits for breakfast. This break is a lovely way to start the day, offering a taste of authentic Oaxacan cuisine and giving us a chance to soak in the small-town atmosphere before hitting the trail. The breakfast is included, adding value to the tour and helping fuel the activities ahead.

Scenic Bike Ride through the Countryside

From Nochixtlán, we continue about 30 minutes by car to the starting point of our bicycle ride. Here, the landscape transforms—fields, small villages, and local life unfold before us. The bike route takes us through peaceful rural roads, where we can observe daily Oaxacan life—women weaving, children playing, farm animals grazing. The ride isn’t overly strenuous, making it accessible for most beginners but interesting enough for intermediate riders.

What we loved about this segment: the panoramic views and the chance to see rural Oaxaca up close. It’s a real privilege to witness local life outside tourist hubs, and the guides do a great job of pointing out details and sharing stories.

Descent into Santiago Apoala

The highlight of the biking portion is a fun descent into Santiago Apoala, a charming village located at the bottom of a canyon. Once there, we register at the local post and settle in for a well-earned lunch. The food is described as hearty and satisfying, perfect after a morning of activity.

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Hiking to the Natural Pools

Post-lunch, the focus shifts to hiking downstream. The trail leads us to natural pools, where you’ll have plenty of time for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos. The largest pool is a true highlight—think clear, cool water surrounded by lush greenery, a perfect spot to cool off and take in the scenery.

If there’s time and weather permits, the route crosses several smaller pools, giving an opportunity for more lounging and photos. The main attraction, however, is the Snake Tail Waterfall, which is often cited as a must-see for its impressive cascade and photo opportunities.

Return Journey and Reflection

The walk back to the village concludes the day’s outdoor activities. The return drive to Oaxaca takes about 2.5 hours, giving you time to unwind and reflect on what you’ve experienced. Many reviews commend the friendly guides, especially Pedro and Celestino, who make the day both educational and enjoyable.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• What to bring: pack a sun hat, swimwear, camera, and sunscreen. A waterproof camera is recommended for waterfall shots, and insect repellent can make the hike more comfortable.
• Difficulty level: rated beginners to intermediate, so most active travelers will find this manageable.
• Weather: if there’s heavy rain, the waterfalls may be inaccessible. It’s worth checking the forecast beforehand.
• Group size: tours are organized with small groups, making for a more personal experience.
• Inclusions: transportation, bicycles, helmets, guides, breakfast, lunch, water, and fruits are all covered, offering good value for the price.

Reviews Highlighted

One traveler from the United States called it an “Absolutely Unforgettable Bike and Hike tour” and praised the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery. They appreciated how Pedro took care of everyone’s safety, pace, and hydration, making it suitable even for less experienced hikers.

Another from Mexico simply called it “Excelente”, emphasizing the scenic bike ride, and another from the UK highlighted how the local guides enriched the experience with deep ecological insights, making it both fun and educational.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with culture. It’s ideal if you enjoy cycling, hiking, and swimming, and aren’t concerned about a moderate level of exertion. The tour provides a rare glimpse into rural Oaxaca, with guides passionate about sharing the natural and cultural landscape.

It’s especially great for families, couples, or solo travelers who like organized, guided outings that move at a comfortable pace but still pack in a lot of scenery and activity. If you’re looking for a day away from the busy city, experiencing authentic local life, and cooling off in natural pools, this is a highly recommended choice.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting at 7 am and returning in the early evening.

How much does the tour cost?
It costs $163 per person, which includes transportation, guides, bikes, helmets, breakfast, lunch, water, and fruits.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s rated for beginners to intermediate, making it accessible for most active travelers.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, waterproof camera, insect repellent, and cycling clothing.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted, though assistance dogs are allowed.

What happens if it rains heavily?
The waterfalls might not be accessible if there’s heavy rain, so check the weather forecast beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, making communication easy.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour is organized for small groups, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long is the drive back to Oaxaca City?
The return trip takes approximately 2.5 hours.

In summary, this Cascadas de Apoala bike and hike tour offers a compelling mix of adventure, culture, and stunning scenery. It’s a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to experience rural Oaxaca’s natural beauty, supported by guides who know their stuff and genuinely care about sharing their homeland. If you’re looking for a day filled with authentic moments, breathtaking views, and a good dose of outdoor activity, this tour should be on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here: