If you’re craving a day away from the beaches of Huatulco to explore the lush, mountainous landscape of Oaxaca, this tour is a solid choice. Priced at around $63 per person and lasting about 8 hours, it promises a mix of scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and delicious local food. Led by friendly guides, you’ll visit the charming town of San Miguel del Puerto, stroll along riverside trails, and enjoy a swim at Llano Grande Waterfalls.
What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it balances nature, culture, and local hospitality. The guided walk along the river and the chance to hop into crystal-clear pools make the day both invigorating and relaxing. Plus, the homemade, local-style meal serves as a real highlight, offering a taste of authentic Oaxaca cuisine.
One potential drawback is the bumpy dirt road — it’s part of the adventure but can be challenging for those with mobility issues or anyone prone to car sickness. The tour is best suited for travelers in good physical condition who want to see Oaxaca’s natural side, especially those interested in a mix of outdoor activities and cultural authenticity.
If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys scenic drives, appreciates good food, and doesn’t mind a bit of a trek, this tour will likely hit the spot.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Combines nature, culture, and local cuisine in a single day.
- Scenic Drive: About 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach the mountains, with changing vegetation and lush views.
- Interactive Trails: Guided walk along riverside paths that lead to waterfalls and pools.
- Swim and Relax: Crystal-clear pools perfect for cooling off and connecting with nature.
- Local Flavors: A traditional meal prepared by local cooks, offering unique flavors.
- Challenges: Dirt roads and some walking require good mobility and comfort with uneven terrain.
Exploring the Full Experience: From Departure to Return
Planning more time in Huatulco? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transport
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in La Crucecita, making it easy to hop on without worrying about logistics. The round-trip transportation takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive. The route takes you from the coast into the mountains, with changing vegetation providing visual treats at every turn. The dirt roads may rattle the vehicle, but they’re part of the journey into more remote, less touristy parts of Oaxaca.
The Charm of San Miguel del Puerto
Once you arrive at San Miguel del Puerto, a humble mountain community, you’ll be greeted by local guides and villagers eager to share their homeland. Here, you can observe the simple, authentic lifestyle, and the guides are typically bilingual, fluent in Spanish and English — making the experience accessible and informative. The guided walking tour along a scenic riverside trail offers a closer look at the lush surroundings, with small waterfalls and pools that are perfect spots for photos or a brief stop for a cool drink.
Llano Grande Waterfalls: A Refreshing Natural Gem
The main event is the visit to Llano Grande Waterfalls, where you’ll spend quality time swimming in crystal-clear pools formed naturally by the waterfalls. The water is inviting, and many reviews highlight how beautiful and refreshing these pools are. As one traveler said, “The falls are gorgeous,” and the pools are ideal for dive-in swimming and relaxation after the trek.
The terrain around the waterfalls is somewhat rugged, with uneven paths, so a moderate level of mobility is recommended. The walk from the main waterfall to the pools involves some steep and obstacle-laden trails, but guides are helpful, and the setting makes the effort worthwhile. The water’s clarity and the picturesque surroundings make it one of those moments you’ll want to photograph to remember.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch: A Taste of Local Oaxaca
After your water adventure, you’ll head to a local restaurant for a traditional meal. The cooks here have a reputation for seasoning that’s both simple and flavorful, transporting your taste buds to a different level. The meal is included in the community fee (an extra 250 MXN), covering entrance and food, which many reviewers agree offers good value for money. You might find the food a highlight, especially if you’re a fan of authentic regional flavors.
While you're exploring Huatulco, here are other experiences we've looked into
Free Time and Shopping
Post-lunch, there’s some free time to explore the village, shop for souvenirs, or just soak in the tranquil mountain atmosphere. It’s a good chance to pick up handcrafted items or chat with locals, adding a cultural layer to your day.
Return Journey
The bus ride back to La Crucecita is equally scenic, allowing you to reflect on your day exploring Oaxaca’s mountains. The total tour duration, including pickup, drive, hikes, and lunch, makes for a full, immersive experience without feeling rushed.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
Guides and Authenticity
Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, like Saul, who make the day engaging and informative. Their bilingual skills help bridge language gaps, and their helpfulness ensures everyone feels comfortable, even during the more challenging parts of the hike.
Breathtaking Natural Beauty
From the changing vegetation as you ascend to the mountains, to the stunning waterfalls, this tour offers plenty of picture-perfect moments. Several travelers mention how the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile — “the views are worth it,” as some put it, and the waterfalls are described as “gorgeous.”
Good Value for Money
With transportation, guided walks, entrance fees, and a hearty local meal included, many consider this a cost-effective way to experience Oaxaca’s mountain landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.
Delicious Food and Hospitality
The meal and the chance to see how local cooks prepare traditional dishes add a layer of cultural richness that many travelers appreciate. The food is described as flavorful and authentic, making it a memorable part of the day.
Challenges and Considerations
The main concern noted in reviews is the dirt roads, which can be bumpy and challenging for some. The terrain around the waterfalls involves steep paths and obstacles, so travelers with mobility impairments or those not comfortable with uneven terrain might find parts of the day difficult.
The community fee of 250 MXN (about $13 USD) is an additional cost that covers entrance and food, which is not included in the ticket price. Some travelers have also mentioned that the transport vehicle charged an extra fee at the farm, so it’s worth clarifying costs beforehand.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy nature, don’t mind a bit of dirt-road rattle, and want to experience authentic local life. It suits those who appreciate guided outdoor walks, scenic drives, and a chance to swim in natural pools.
It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a paved, leisurely experience. But if you’re in decent shape, love meeting local communities, and enjoy picturesque landscapes, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day.
The Sum Up
In the end, the Huatulco: Llano Grande Waterfalls tour delivers a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s mountain environment, combining scenic drives, lush trails, refreshing swims, and hearty local cuisine. It’s a chance to step outside the coastal resorts and see a different side of this vibrant region.
You’ll love the stunning waterfalls, the friendly guides, and the delicious meal that rounds out the day. The natural beauty and cultural authenticity make it a meaningful outing for travelers seeking more than just beaches.
While the dirt roads and uneven trails require a bit of stamina, the overall experience offers great value — especially when you consider the included transportation, guide, and meal. It’s a solid pick for those wanting an active, immersive day that showcases the best of Oaxaca’s mountains.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from La Crucecita, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about logistics.
How long does the drive take?
The journey from Huatulco to the waterfalls takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes each way, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views along the way.
Is the walk difficult?
The guided trail along the river is scenic and generally manageable, but it involves some uneven terrain, steeper sections, and obstacles. It’s best suited for those in good physical condition.
What is the community fee?
A 250 MXN fee per person covers entrance to the waterfalls and the included meal. You should be prepared for this extra cost.
Can children join the tour?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the terrain and walking involved suggest it’s more suited for older children or teenagers in good health.
Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and a more engaging experience for international visitors.
This tour combines adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic local culture, making it a memorable way to explore Oaxaca’s mountainous heart. Perfect for those seeking an active day in nature with a touch of local flavor.
You can check availability for your dates here: