Oaxaca: Cascadas de Apoala 1 Day Bike and Hike tour

If you’re looking to step outside Oaxaca’s vibrant city life and really connect with the natural beauty of the region, the Cascadas de Apoala 1 Day Bike and Hike tour offers a well-rounded adventure. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews suggest it’s a fantastic way to experience Oaxaca’s scenic countryside, natural waterfalls, and authentic villages—all in one day.

What we love about this tour is how it combines adventure with cultural insight. You’ll enjoy a scenic bike ride along quiet rural roads, passing through small villages where daily life unfolds. Then, you get to hike to breathtaking waterfalls and cool off in natural pools—what’s not to love?

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is classified as beginners to intermediate in difficulty. That means it’s accessible if you’re new to cycling or hiking, but if you’re looking for a super intense workout, this might not be your best fit. The tour is designed for active travelers who want a balanced mix of effort, scenery, and culture.

This trip is perfect for those who love outdoor exploration with a touch of local flavor. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy biking, hiking, and natural beauty, and who appreciate having knowledgeable guides to enhance the experience.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery with panoramic mountain views and lush forests.
• Cultural immersion through visits to small villages and local life.
• Well-organized tour with professional guides and all necessary equipment.
• Includes food and water, making it convenient for a full day out.
• Suitable for beginners to intermediate travelers.
• Flexible cancellation policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the experience

Starting the day: From Oaxaca City to the adventure’s heart

The tour kicks off early, with a 7 am pickup from your hotel in Oaxaca City. This early start is perfect if you want to make the most of the day, and it allows you to beat the crowds. The drive to Nochixtlán takes about an hour, giving you a chance to settle in and get excited about what’s ahead.

Once in Nochixtlán, you’ll enjoy a breakfast in a local restaurant. This is a great chance to sample some regional flavors and chat briefly with your guides about the day’s plans. After breakfast, it’s just a short 30-minute drive to the starting point of the bike ride, where the real adventure begins.

The scenic bike ride: A gentle exploration

The bike portion is designed to be enjoyable rather than intense. You’ll pass through small villages, which means you get a glimpse of everyday rural life. The route offers spectacular views, so don’t forget your camera—there will be plenty of opportunities for photos. The pace is manageable, and guides keep an eye on everyone to ensure a relaxed experience.

The highlight here is a fun descent into Santiago Apoala, a small village situated at the bottom of a canyon. According to reviewers, the ride is a perfect balance of effort and scenery, with a sense of adventure on the downhill stretch. The guides, like Pedro, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the whole experience feel safe and welcoming.

Lunch and rest: Fuel for the second half

After the bike ride, it’s time for lunch in Santiago Apoala. The tour includes a local meal, which is appreciated by travelers who want to enjoy authentic flavors after some physical activity. This is also a good chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and gear up for the next part of the day.

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The hike to natural pools: Refresh and unwind

Post-lunch, the group heads downstream for a hiking journey that leads to natural pools. These pools are the main attraction, with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. The largest pool is a focal point for many visitors, and the clear waters are ideal for cooling off after the morning’s exertion.

The route to the pools involves crossing the river multiple times, adding a splash of excitement and a bit of adventure to the hike. If time permits, you might explore additional pools along the way, though the main highlight remains the Snake Tail Waterfall—a perfect spot for photos and a brief rest.

Return journey and reflections

After soaking in the pools and taking photos, you’ll walk back to the village, preparing for the return trip to Oaxaca. The drive back takes approximately 2.5 hours, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s included in the tour

The tour comes with everything you need: transportation, a bicycle, helmets, gloves, and a knowledgeable MTB guide. Food is covered with breakfast and lunch, and water and fruits are provided to keep you energized.

Considerations and tips

• Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, waterproof camera, and cycling clothing for comfort and safety.
• The waterfall visit depends on weather conditions; heavy rain might prevent access.
• The tour is designed for beginners to intermediate riders, so it’s suitable if you’re looking for a manageable outdoor adventure.

Authentic reviews that resonate

One traveler from the US shared, “Absolutely unforgettable! The guides were passionate and knowledgeable, and the scenery was breathtaking.” They appreciated the thoughtful touches like refreshments and breaks, which made the experience both fun and comfortable.

Another reviewer from the UK mentioned, “This was a perfect way to see outside Oaxaca City. The scenery on the bike was spectacular, and the guides made it very enjoyable.” Their comments highlight how well the tour balances activity with cultural and natural sights.

A Mexican traveler simply called it “Excelente”, underlining how the experience resonates across different backgrounds.

Final thoughts: Who is this tour for?

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities like biking and hiking, and you want to see more of Oaxaca’s natural landscapes, this tour offers a compelling option. The scenic rides, local villages, and natural pools make for a fulfilling day out. The fact that it’s suitable for beginners and intermediate means it’s accessible without needing extensive experience—but a decent level of fitness helps.

Travelers who value expert guides, comfortable equipment, and well-organized logistics** will find this tour particularly appealing. It is also a solid choice for those wanting a family-friendly outdoor adventure that’s active but not overly strenuous.

However, keep in mind that if heavy rain hits, the waterfalls might be off-limits, so it’s worth checking the weather forecast beforehand. The early start, full day commitment, and outdoor focus mean it’s best suited for those ready to spend a day immersed in nature.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Oaxaca City and to the various sites, making it convenient and stress-free.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, camera, sunscreen, waterproof camera, insect repellent, and cycling clothing to stay comfortable and prepared.

Can beginners do this tour?
Absolutely. The difficulty level is rated as beginners to intermediate, so it’s suitable for most active travelers without advanced cycling or hiking experience.

What happens if it rains heavily?
If the weather is very rainy, especially heavy rain, the waterfalls might not be accessible, which could impact some parts of the tour.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, bike, helmets, gloves, the guide, breakfast, lunch, water, and fruits.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is there any age restriction?
The tour is suitable for those comfortable with physical activity. Specific age restrictions aren’t stated, but it’s generally accessible for most active adults and older travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility should plans shift unexpectedly.

This Cascadas de Apoala bike and hike tour offers a satisfying mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insights, and natural beauty. If you’re keen to explore Oaxaca beyond its city streets, this trip will give you a genuine taste of the region’s landscapes and small-town charm—without sacrificing comfort or organization.

You can check availability for your dates here: