From Huatulco: Magical Copalitilla Waterfalls with Entry

If you’re heading to the Oaxaca region and looking for an outdoor adventure that combines nature, local culture, and fun, the Magical Copalitilla Waterfalls tour might just catch your eye. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve read plenty of reviews and gathered all the details to give you a clear picture of what to expect. This tour promises a full day of exploring waterfalls, swimming in cool rivers, discovering caves, and learning about local communities—all with the convenience of door-to-door transport from Huatulco.

What I really like about this experience is how it offers a mix of adventure and cultural insight. The fact that you get to swim and slide around in crystal-clear waters sounds fantastic, especially if you’re craving some active outdoor fun. Plus, stopping at a community market adds a local flavor that feels authentic. That said, it’s worth noting that the trip involves walking on a dirt trail, which might be a consideration if you have mobility issues or are traveling with very young children. This tour feels well-suited for active travelers who want a hands-on experience with nature and local life.

It’s not perfect — the walk to the waterfalls is roughly 10 minutes on uneven terrain, and some may find that a bit tiring. Also, meals aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for lunch. But if you’re up for a day full of waterfalls, caves, and scenic views, this tour offers a lot of value at $53 per person. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, as the reviews consistently highlight.

In the following, I’ll walk you through what makes this tour a great pick — or not — depending on what you’re after.

Key Points

• Beautiful natural scenery with multiple waterfalls and crystal-clear waters.
• Interactive activities like swimming, sliding, and exploring caves.
• Authentic cultural experience including a stop at a local community market.
• Guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Comfortable transportation with pickup and drop-off included.
• Good value for the price considering the activity variety and length.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Copalitilla Waterfalls Tour

The Journey Begins: From Huatulco to the Waterfalls

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup, which is super convenient. You’ll hop into an air-conditioned vehicle, and from there, it’s roughly an hour and a half drive through the mountains and local villages. This part of the trip sets a relaxed tone and gives you a chance to enjoy scenic views of Oaxaca’s countryside.

Scenic Drive Through Local Communities

One feature that many reviewers appreciate is the opportunity to see local life firsthand. Your guide will drive through small villages, sharing stories and stopping at a community market. Here, you can sample some local products and get a taste of everyday life — a small but meaningful glimpse into the region’s culture.

The Walk to the Waterfalls

Once you arrive, the trek to the waterfalls involves a 10-minute walk along a dirt trail. This part of the experience is worth mentioning because the terrain can be uneven and potentially slippery, especially if it’s been raining or if you’re not used to walking on dirt paths. Bring sturdy, closed-toe shoes (the tour recommends this), as you’ll be navigating rocks and natural obstacles.

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The Waterfalls and the Fun in the Water

This is the heart of the tour. The spectacular waterfalls cascade into pools of clear, cool water perfect for swimming and relaxing. You’ll find multiple falls with different features, including caves underneath some of them. Travelers rave about the feeling of cool water on a hot day and the fun of sliding down rocks or jumping from platforms — like a natural playground.

One reviewer shared: “We went into the falls, slid down a rock slide, and jumped off a platform bridge — all while the guide took pictures and videos of us!” Expect plenty of opportunities to play, climb, and even explore caves beneath some waterfalls, which adds an element of adventure.

The Caves and Hidden Gems

Some waterfalls have caves underneath, offering fun and sometimes surprising spaces for exploration. These caves add an extra layer of interest, especially if you enjoy discovering small natural hideaways. The water is described as very pure and refreshing, making swimming an absolute highlight.

Relaxation and Photo Opportunities

Besides the active fun, you’ll have time to just sit back and soak in the tropical scenery. The lush vegetation around the waterfalls makes for fantastic photos and a calming backdrop for unwinding.

Optional Lunch and Rest

After exploring, there’s an option to grab lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the price), which many reviewers recommend. Our guides have taken groups to spots with better food options than at the waterfalls themselves, which is a thoughtful touch when you’re ready for a break.

Return Trip to Huatulco

The tour wraps up with a return to your hotel, typically after about 7 hours in total. Expect to be back in town with plenty of stories and possibly a good dose of photos and videos to remember the day.

What’s Included and What You’ll Need to Budget For

The package covers hotel pickup and drop-off, entry tickets to the waterfalls, a bilingual guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a coffee and mezcal tasting — a nice touch to wind down at the end of the trip.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan ahead for lunch. Also, there’s a small community donation of 10 pesos, which helps support local villages. Having some cash on hand is a good idea for this.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

This tour is well-suited for those who can handle walking on uneven terrain and are comfortable in water. The guide recommends bringing swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, insect repellent, cash, and closed-toe shoes. Remember, pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility issues, or wheelchair users should probably skip this one, as it involves some physical activity and uneven paths.

The Real Deal: What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a stellar 4.9 out of 5 from 29 reviewers. People highlight several aspects:

• Knowledgeable guides who are friendly, funny, and attentive. One reviewer said, “Giovanni was a treasure, worth every cent!” and others noted how guides often go above and beyond to ensure safety and fun.
• The waterfalls are described as stunning, with plenty of opportunities for sliding, jumping, and exploring caves, making it perfect for adventurous spirits.
• Many mention the value for money — at $53, the experience provides a full day of activity, scenery, and cultural insights.
• The added touch of coffee and mezcal tastings seems to be appreciated, giving the trip a local flavor without extra cost.
• Some travelers mention the walk as a bit tricky but manageable with proper footwear — a fair trade-off for the scenery and fun.

Some minor points:

A few noted that communication could be better, especially regarding pickup times, but everyone was eventually satisfied with the organization. The drive can be bumpy and long, but most agree it’s part of the adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you love outdoor activities, waterfalls, and exploring without feeling rushed, this trip offers a compelling mix of natural beauty and cultural flavor. You’ll get to swim and slide in stunning waters, discover caves, and see local markets — all under the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable guides. The cost is reasonable for what you get, especially considering transportation, entry, and extras like tasting sessions.

This experience is perfect for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of walking and getting wet. If you’re traveling with people who prefer less physical activity or have mobility restrictions, it might not be the best fit. The optional lunch is a bonus but not included, so plan accordingly.

In short, for those looking to add a fun, scenic, and cultural outing to their Huatulco trip, this tour hits the right notes. Just be prepared for some walking, and bring your sense of adventure and a good pair of shoes.

FAQ About the Magical Copalitilla Waterfalls Tour

Is the tour suitable for children?
While children can enjoy swimming and playing at the waterfalls, the tour involves some walking on uneven dirt trails and natural terrains. It’s best suited for active kids comfortable around water and outdoor environments.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, insect repellent, cash, and closed-toe shoes. These items will make your experience more comfortable and safe.

How long is the drive from Huatulco?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours each way, offering scenic views of rural Oaxaca towns and countryside.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s an option to buy lunch afterward. Many travelers recommend trying the local restaurants the guide suggests for better food.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Expect multiple waterfalls, caves underneath some falls, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and a cultural stop at a local market.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible choice for your planning.

This tour offers a great mix of fun, scenery, and local culture—ideal for those who want an active, memorable day in Oaxaca. With friendly guides, stunning views, and authentic experiences, it’s a trip worth considering if you’re in the area and craving some nature’s playground.

You can check availability for your dates here: