Hike in Apoala and Discover its Impressive Waterfalls

This full-day tour takes you into the heart of Oaxaca’s mountainous Mixteca region, starting in the colorful city of Oaxaca and ending with a refreshing swim in some of Mexico’s most beautiful waterfalls and lagoons. For $111.73 per person, you’ll spend roughly 10 hours exploring rugged trails, soaking in spectacular canyon views, and tasting local food in Santiago Apoala. The tour is operated by Paul Lopez and features a private group experience, making it ideal for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature away from the crowds.

What we love most about this experience are the stunning vistas of the Twin Peaks and canyon, and the chance to swim in crystal-clear lagoons like “cola de serpiente” and “velo de novia” — perfect for a break from hiking. The local community visit adds authenticity, giving you a taste of traditional food and culture. However, note that the tour involves moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for those with decent fitness levels who enjoy outdoor adventures.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency of the activity — poor weather can lead to cancellations or changes. Also, since the tour is about 10 hours long, it’s a full day out, so comfort with early starts and a fair amount of walking is important. This tour is ideal for adventure-minded travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, authentic cultural encounters, and don’t mind a bit of exertion to reach some of Oaxaca’s lesser-known natural gems.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Enjoy panoramic views of Twin Peaks and the canyon.
• Authentic experience: Visit local community and taste traditional food.
• Active adventure: Moderate hiking with scenic mountain vistas.
• Refreshing swims: Blue lagoons and waterfalls for cooling off.
• Comfort provided: Air-conditioned vehicle, hiking poles, bottled water, snacks included.
• Weather dependent: Cancellations possible in poor weather, so check forecast.

Exploring Apoala’s Waterfalls and Mountain Trails

When we first learned about this tour, what caught our attention was the promise of an unspoiled natural setting combined with accessible comfort — including air-conditioned transportation and hiking poles. The journey begins early, with a 7:00 am pickup at the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, ensuring you get a full day to explore.

The Route and Natural Highlights

Once on the road, the scenery shifts from Oaxaca’s vibrant cityscape to the rugged landscapes of the Mixteca region. Your guide, likely someone knowledgeable and passionate about the area, will lead your small group through streams cascading down mountains, forming impressive waterfalls like “cola de serpiente” (snake’s tail) and “velo de novia” (bride’s veil). These names paint a vivid picture of the natural sculptures you’ll see, each with their own charm and photo opportunities.

The blue lagoons are particularly alluring, inviting a quick dip after a somewhat invigorating hike. As one traveler noted, “we loved the way the waterfalls and lagoons offered both a scenic break and a chance to cool down,” making the physical effort well worth the reward. The water’s clarity and inviting temperature turn these spots into perfect swimming holes, especially after a hike up the surrounding mountains for panoramic views.

The Hiking Experience

The hike to the Twin Peaks offers sweeping views inside the canyon, with trails that are generally accessible for those with moderate fitness. The climb isn’t overly strenuous but requires some stamina and good shoes, which are recommended since trails can be uneven. The reward is the breathtaking vantage points where you can see the canyon’s vastness and the lush surroundings.

According to reviews, the guides do a good job of pacing the trek and sharing insights into the landscape, making this a meaningful experience beyond just the physical challenge. The mention of hiking poles provided adds stability, especially on uneven terrain.

Cultural and Culinary Highlights

A standout feature of this tour is the opportunity to visit the local community of Santiago Apoala. Here, you can sample traditional local food, which adds an authentic flavor to the day. It’s a chance to see how local residents live and enjoy their environment, transforming this from a simple outdoor activity into an engaging cultural exchange.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $111.73, which includes round-trip air-conditioned transportation, snacks, bottled water, and admission fees. This comprehensive package offers excellent value, especially considering the transportation logistics and access to natural sites that are often difficult to reach independently.

You might appreciate the small group setting (since it’s a private tour), which ensures a personalized experience and more time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The activity’s full-day format allows ample time for exploration, photo-taking, and relaxing in the lagoons.

Considerations for Travelers

While the activity is a wonderful adventure, it’s important to note that it’s weather-dependent. Rain or storms could lead to cancellations, so checking the forecast is wise. Also, since it’s about 10 hours long, travelers should be comfortable with early mornings and some physical activity.

If you’re someone who thrives on discovering off-the-beaten-path natural sights and enjoys combining outdoor activity with local culture, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially appealing if you’re comfortable with basic hiking and looking for an authentic day out in Oaxaca’s stunning landscape.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts who don’t mind a bit of walking and love hidden gems. If you enjoy hiking, swimming, and cultural encounters all in one day, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also great for those looking for a personalized, small-group experience with a knowledgeable guide.

Travelers interested in authentic local cuisine and remote natural landscapes will appreciate the chance to see how communities live amidst spectacular scenery. The tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and culture — a day well spent for those wanting to step away from Oaxaca’s busy streets and into its wild beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting point for this tour?
The tour begins at the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, located on Reforma Sur in the Centro district of Oaxaca City, at 7:00 am.

How long does the tour take?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, including transportation, hiking, swimming, and cultural visits.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get air-conditioned transportation, hiking poles, bottled water, snacks, and admission fees to the natural sites.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll get to try local food in the community, which is a highlight for many travelers.

Is this experience suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves hiking and walking on uneven trails. Caution is advised if you have mobility limitations.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In The Sum Up

This Apoala waterfalls tour offers a well-rounded mix of spectacular scenery, cultural insight, and outdoor activity. For those eager to see a less-visited side of Oaxaca, the stunning waterfalls, lagoons, and mountain vistas are well worth the effort. The tour’s emphasis on authentic community visits and natural beauty make it stand out among other day trips.

It’s best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and curious travelers who appreciate guided experiences that combine physical activity with cultural exposure. The value for money, thanks to included transportation, snacks, and entry fees, further enhances its appeal.

If you’re looking for a full day of scenic hiking, swimming, and local flavor, this tour could become a highlight of your Oaxaca visit. Just remember to bring proper footwear, a sense of adventure, and a camera to capture the unforgettable views.