Apoala Canyon, Ponds and Waterfalls 2 Days Hike Trip

Planning a trip that mixes outdoor adventure, culture, and some well-deserved relaxation? If so, this Apoala Canyon tour might be right up your alley. It’s a two-day journey designed to showcase some of Oaxaca’s most beautiful natural landscapes—think steep waterfalls, clear ponds, and lush forests—paired with meaningful interactions with local communities. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the info we’ve gathered, it sounds like a well-organized and engaging experience.

What really catches our eye is how this tour combines physical activity with cultural flavor. You’ll hike through varied terrains—rocky sections, forested areas, streams—and get the chance to learn about local traditions, like palm weaving. Plus, the scenery is said to be absolutely stunning, with views of Apoala Canyon that are worth every step. On the flip side, it’s not designed for everyone; it’s an intermediate level, so you’ll need a decent fitness level, and some parts of the hike are quite steep.

If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures, appreciates local culture, and doesn’t mind a bit of physical effort, this trip could be a fantastic fit. However, if you’re traveling with very young kids, have mobility issues, or aren’t comfortable with hiking, you might want to look for something a bit more relaxed. But for anyone craving a genuine, active experience in beautiful surroundings, this tour offers a lot.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery and canyon views make this a memorable outdoor experience.
• Cultural activities, like palm weaving and local lunch, add depth beyond just hiking.
• The tour balances adventure and relaxation, with swimming in natural pools and resting opportunities.
• It’s priced at $316 per person, which includes most essentials — meals, transport, guide, and access fees.
• It’s best suited for adventure travelers with intermediate fitness levels; not ideal for young children or people with mobility issues.
• The tour has a 5-star rating, indicating high satisfaction from past participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: An In-Depth Look

Day 1: Hike into Apoala Canyon

The trip begins early—around 6:45 a.m.—with a pickup from your hotel in Oaxaca. That’s pretty typical for guided tours, and it’s good to keep in mind that you’ll be on the move for most of the day. After an hour’s drive to Nochixtlán for breakfast, you’ll continue on for about 40 more minutes to Fortin el Alto, where your actual hike starts.

The first stretch of the hike covers around 12 km, on dirt roads that gradually transition into a trail. The terrain is varied—rocky patches, forested sections, streams—and that keeps things interesting. We love the descriptions of the trees, mainly oaks covered in Spanish moss, which add a magical touch to the landscape. Most of this day’s hike is downhill, leading you to the impressive Apoalas Canyon, which offers breathtaking views. You’ll likely want to stop frequently to take photos and soak in the scenery.

The cabins near the canyon are a cozy spot to spend the night. After settling in, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a traditional meal with Doña Aurora at a local eatery, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. Evenings include a palm weaving demonstration at a local family’s home, which is a lovely way to connect with the community and learn a new craft. Dinner at a nearby restaurant wraps up the day.

Day 2: Waterfalls, Ponds, and Cultural Highlights

The second day is packed with more activity—about five hours of hiking overall, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the surroundings. If you’re an early riser, you can visit the Devil’s Cave in Santiago Apoala before breakfast, which adds a bit of legend and local lore to the experience.

After breakfast, the group heads downstream to enjoy the natural pools, which are perfect for swimming and cooling off. The clear, inviting waters are a highlight, and the opportunity to relax in such pristine surroundings makes this trip stand out. The return hike involves a steep section—about 1 km of natural steps—that tests your legs but rewards you with stunning views from the edge of the village.

A notable feature is the Snake Tail Waterfall, the main attraction of Santiago Apoala. Standing near it, you’ll understand why it’s such a popular spot. The combination of waterfalls, river views, and lush greenery makes for a truly memorable scene. The day concludes with a traditional lunch before heading back to Oaxaca, with the drive taking approximately 2.5 hours.

What’s Included and Practicalities

The tour covers most of what you’d want: five meals, accommodations, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, water, fruits, and access fees. The included meals are likely to give you a taste of regional flavors, and the accommodations near the canyon provide a cozy resting point after a full day’s hike.

The group is generally well-rated, and the provider offers flexible cancellation — cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — which adds peace of mind when planning your trip.

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What to Bring & What to Know

You’ll want to pack essentials like a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, cash, and comfortable clothing suited for cycling or hiking. The tour explicitly states that pets are not allowed, but assistance dogs are permitted, which is helpful for travelers with service animals.

Note that this experience isn’t suitable for children under 12, or travelers with certain health or mobility restrictions. The emphasis is on active participation, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level ready for some steep climbs and uneven terrain.

What We Think: The Strengths and Minor Drawbacks

One thing that makes this tour stand out is how stunning the scenery is. Multiple reviews mention the “spectacular views” and “beautiful surroundings,” which suggests that seeing Apoala Canyon and the waterfalls in person is worth every effort. The inclusion of cultural experiences—like the palm weaving and local meals—adds a warm, human touch that elevates the trip beyond just hiking.

However, the hike’s intermediate difficulty might be a hurdle for some. The steep sections and rocky trails require a reasonable fitness level. Also, the timing means a long day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or less physical activity, this might not be your best fit.

Cost-wise, at $316 per person, it includes most essentials, making it a good value considering the remote and natural beauty you’ll experience. It’s a comprehensive package, especially if you want to avoid organizing transportation and meals on your own.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This adventure is ideal for travelers who thrive on outdoor activity and want a taste of authentic rural Oaxaca. If you’re comfortable hiking some moderate trails, love scenic landscapes, and are interested in local customs, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a combination of physical challenge and cultural connection, all set against a backdrop of some of the most striking natural scenery in Oaxaca.

It’s less suitable for families with very young children, or folks with mobility or health issues, given the physical demands and steep sections. But for anyone who enjoys active trips and doesn’t mind a bit of effort, this could be one of the most memorable ways to experience Oaxaca’s natural beauty and local culture.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 12 due to the physical nature of the hike and terrain.

How long is the drive from Oaxaca City?
The total travel time from Oaxaca City to the starting point is about 1 hour to Nochixtlán and then 40 minutes to Fortin el Alto.

What does the tour cost include?
The price covers five meals, accommodation, transportation, a guide, water and fruits, and access to towns and attractions.

Is the hike difficult?
It’s classified as intermediate, with varied terrain and some steep sections. A moderate fitness level is advised.

Are meals provided?
Yes, five meals are included, offering a taste of regional cuisine.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, cash, and comfortable clothing suitable for hiking or cycling.

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

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility.

What language does the guide speak?
Guides are available in both Spanish and English.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a meaningful adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with cultural insights, this Apoala Canyon tour offers a compelling package. The mix of hiking, swimming, local interactions, and stunning vistas makes for a memorable two days in Oaxaca’s less-traveled corners. It’s well-suited for active travelers who want to see the natural beauty of the region while engaging with local traditions and enjoying the outdoors.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more laid-back experience or have mobility considerations, you might want to explore easier options. But for those ready to embrace some physical activity and eager to see some of Oaxaca’s best natural sights, this trip promises to deliver quite a few wow moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: