Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure in Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City, Mexico

Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure

Outty Ranking 57 5.0 · 7 traveler reviews11 hoursFrom $2200

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

2

Children

Age 12 and under

0

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From, per person$2200
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Outty Ranking

57/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 7 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure worth booking?

Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure is a 11-hour experience in Oaxaca City, Mexico, from $2200 per person. It scores 57 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look, based on a 5/5 rating across 7 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
57 / 100
Rating
5/5 (7)
Duration
11 hours
From
$2200 per person

Discover the stunning landscapes of the Apoala Magic Waterfalls on a full-day hiking and swimming adventure. Trek through a picturesque canyon while surrounded by towering rock walls, and take refreshing dips in hidden p

What you get

    About this experience

    Discover the stunning landscapes of the Apoala Magic Waterfalls on a full-day hiking and swimming adventure. Trek through a picturesque canyon while surrounded by towering rock walls, and take refreshing dips in hidden pools. Led by a bilingual guide, this journey allows you to explore the natural beauty of the Mixtec region, culminating in a visit to majestic waterfalls. A delicious lunch awaits at Twin Rocks’ valley, and the experience is designed for nature lovers. Prepare for an invigorating day filled with exploration, tranquility, and breathtaking views. ITINERARY OPTIONS: 1. Single-day hike and swim adventure. 2. Exclusive overnight camping experience (Fri, Sat only).

    What's included

    Included

    • Local community guide
    • Admission fees
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Lunch
    • Professional bilingual guide
    • Fully guided informative tour
    • Hiking poles
    • Bottled water

    Not included

    • Breakfast

    What you'll see and do

    1. Templo de San Matias Jalatlaco

      Meet by the front of the Jalatlaco church

      15 minutes here

    2. Asuncion Nochixtlan

      Drive to Nochixtlan. Comfortable drive to the market to eat breakfast

      90 minutes here

    3. Breakfast time. Grab a bite at a local market en route to the hike

      30 minutes here

    4. Santiago Apoala

      Drive to Apoala. Continue the drive to the destination

      60 minutes here

    5. Santiago Apoala

      Start the hike downstream. 6+ km total hike. Time: 3:30 hrs. Elevation: 2,000 m.

      60 minutes here

    6. Santiago Apoala

      Discover the majestic waterfall. Continue the hike upstream to the waterfalls

      60 minutes here

    7. Santiago Apoala

      Hike upstream. Along the hike we'll find hidden pools to go for a swim

      60 minutes here

    8. Santiago Apoala

      Lunch time. Enjoy a meal (included) in the scenic Twin Rocks valley

      45 minutes here

    9. Santiago Apoala

      Hike the canyon. Additional hike through towering rock walls and vegetation

      60 minutes here

    10. Oaxaca

      Start the drive back to Oaxaca city

      150 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Oaxaca City

    Meet by the front gate of San Matias Jalatlaco church in Jalatlaco

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Meet by the front gate of San Matias Jalatlaco church in Jalatlaco

    Options you can book

    • Apoala Overnight Experience

      Worry-free camping: Tent, warm sleeping bag and comfy sleeping mat will be provided. Camping experience : Experience Apoala in the most unique way! Spend the night on the river bank in the forest, wake up to birds singing. Duration: 1 day: Meet at 4 pm to begin your journey. Spend the night in Apoala. Get back to the city at 4 pm on the next day. Meals included : Savor delicious dinner and breakfast at a local eatery. 2 Hikes: Canyon hike and river/Waterfalls hike. IMPORTANT NOTE: This is an extended version of our standard single-day option. It includes an additional meal and camping gear.

    • Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure

      Small group experience: Intimate groups of 6 people max, so you can truly connect with other travelers. Duration: 11 hours Lunch is included.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 6 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Valterra Excursiones

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments
    • Not recommended for travelers with low level of fitness

    Photos

    Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure in Oaxaca City, photo 2Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure in Oaxaca City, photo 3Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure in Oaxaca City, photo 4Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure in Oaxaca City, photo 5Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure in Oaxaca City, photo 6Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure in Oaxaca City, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 7 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Photo opportunities

    5 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Food and drink

    5 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Physical effort

    5 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Traveler reviews

    7 verified traveler reviews for Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    7
    4 star
    0
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    morgangH6563BT · April 2026

    Amazing ecotourism hike!

    Had a wonderful trip with Ivan and our tour mates. Beautiful roadtrip, hike, and local food experiences! Highly recommend to diversify your Oaxaca experience.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! We're glad you enjoyed the road trip, hike, and local food experiences. One of our goals is to help visitors discover a different side of Oaxaca, so we're happy to hear the experience added something special to your trip. Thanks for the recommendation, and we hope to see you again on a future adventure!

    via Tripadvisor

    E6290BYnicks · March 2026

    Amazing!

    Ivan was incredible! He is an excellent communicator & provided a clear itinerary. He is very knowledgeable about the history and customs of the region. The trek was truly magical & the food served for lunch was superb. I would highly recommend going on this trip!

    via Tripadvisor

    Lucie F · February 2026

    An absolutely unforgettable nature experience in Apoala!

    We had an absolutely incredible day with Ivan in Apoala!! Everything was beyond amazing: the waterfalls, the vibrant colors of the water, the breathtaking scenery, and the hike. I loved every single moment. We had lunch at a wonderful small family-run restaurant in the middle of nature, which made the day even more special. Then we explored an absolutely stunning canyon; it was so, so, so beautiful! I can’t recommend this experience enough for anyone looking to enjoy nature during their trip to Oaxaca. Ivan’s passion for nature is contagious, and it was a real pleasure spending the day with him and learning so many things about nature in Mexico!

    via Tripadvisor

    577annalisao · February 2026

    Beautiful scenery and refreshing swims

    This hike was such a wonderful addition to our trip in Oaxaca. It was well paced with three stops to take in the beauty and have a refreshing swim. Ivan was a great host. He was very knowledgeable on the area and environment. We even got to get close with some donkeys and sheep :)

    via Tripadvisor

    sar2d2 · February 2026

    Magical waterfall hike

    This trip was absolutely stunning. Ivan, was a great guide, knowledgeable, and helpful. The water, the valley, the food. It was all a really lovely experience.

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    11 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat
    Price range
    $2200 to $2550
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    2
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 57

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)90
    Review evidence (18% weight)34
    Booking momentum (14% weight)22
    Value for money (12% weight)0
    Listing quality (10% weight)80
    Local standing (8% weight)56
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Oaxaca City.

    How much does Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure cost?

    +

    Prices start at $2200 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Oaxaca City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure take?

    +

    Plan for about 11 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Oaxaca City is not rushed.

    Is Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 57 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 7 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Oaxaca City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure?

    +

    Around 2 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Oaxaca City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Oaxaca City and add a light layer if any part of the 11-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Apoala Magic Waterfalls Hike and Swim Adventure start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Oaxaca City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Oaxaca City?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Oaxaca City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include AUTHENTIC OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local., Hierve el Agua 2.5 hours, Mitla, Tule, Rugs and Mezcal for a Day, Traditional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma's Recipes. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Oaxaca City?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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