Two places, one adventure: Minas Viejas and Meco Waterfalls

Two places, one adventure: Minas Viejas and Meco Waterfalls

If you’re looking for a day filled with striking natural beauty and some relaxing water-based fun, this tour to Minas Viejas and Meco Waterfalls might be just what you need. While I haven’t done it myself, based on what travelers say and the details available, it looks like a well-rounded experience that offers both adventure and chill moments—all within a manageable nine-hour window.

What really stands out are the stunning waterfalls, where you can take refreshing swims in crystal-clear pools, and the unique panga ride that takes you to the Meco Waterfall. Plus, the included regional food adds a nice touch to the day. That said, it’s worth noting that this is a fairly active day, with plenty of walking and water activities, so it works best if you’re comfortable with some physical activity. If you’re after a relaxed, less busy day or traveling with very young kids, this might be a bit much.

This tour seems ideal for adventure seekers who want to see some of the best natural sites in Zacatecas and enjoy a taste of authentic regional cuisine. If you’re a fan of waterfalls, scenic boat rides, and exploring outdoors, this could be a great pick. However, keep in mind the full-day commitment and physical aspects involved in the activities.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfalls: Swim in turquoise pools at Minas Viejas and Meco Waterfalls.
• Unique Panga Ride: Experience a boat trip across the river to reach Meco Waterfall.
• All-Inclusive Value: Entrance fees, guides, transportation, and regional food are covered.
• Active Itinerary: Expect walking, swimming, and boat excursions—good for those who like outdoor activity.
• Flexible Cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Practical Tips: Bring comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, water, cash, and insect repellent.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deeper Look at the Experience

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup in Ciudad Valles around 9:00 am. From there, it’s about 100 minutes by van to the first stop—Minas Viejas Waterfalls in El Naranjo Tamasopo. The drive itself is straightforward, giving you some time to relax and get ready for the day ahead. Once at Minas Viejas, you’ll spend about two hours exploring, taking photos, walking around, and—most importantly—swimming in the pools beneath the waterfalls.

The waterfalls themselves are quite impressive, standing about 50 meters high, and their waters are famously clear, making the swim both refreshing and photogenic. The guided tour helps you appreciate the natural beauty and provides some context about the area, which adds a layer of understanding to the experience. One reviewer, Hendrick Bernard from the Netherlands, called the waterfalls “beautiful,” and appreciated the friendly guide, which hints at a well-organized visit with good company.

After leaving Minas Viejas, the journey continues with a 40-minute van ride to the next highlight—El Meco Waterfall. Here, you get to experience a wooden canoe ride across the river, which adds an element of adventure to the day. The boat ride isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the fun, giving you a different perspective of the lush surroundings. Once you arrive, you can enjoy more swimming and even make some jumps—so pack your courage and your swimsuit.

The Meco Waterfall is smaller but just as beautiful, with crystal-clear waters perfect for a dip. The boat ride and the swimming combined make for a relaxed yet active afternoon. The tour includes a guided visit, so you’ll learn about the area’s flora and fauna, enriching your appreciation for this natural setting.

Following the water activities, the group heads to a local restaurant for about an hour and a half to enjoy regional Huasteca cuisine. The food is typically served buffet-style, providing a hearty, regional flavor experience. This meal is a great way to recharge before heading back to Ciudad Valles, with the return trip taking about two hours.

Transport, Timing, and Overall Value

Transportation is smoothly handled, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, which is a big plus—no need to worry about getting to the starting point. The total duration, around nine hours, is quite reasonable given the stops and activities involved. The price of $98 per person includes guides, entrance fees, activities, and even a photographic package, which adds to the value. You’re paying for a well-organized day that covers a lot of ground, especially considering the scenic beauty and activities included.

The tour’s price seems fair when you account for all the extras—guides, transportation, entrance fees, and regional food. It’s a good deal for those who want an immersive day without the hassle of organizing transportation or activities on their own. Plus, the inclusion of major medical insurance provides peace of mind.

Practical Considerations & Tips

Since you’ll be in and around water, bringing comfortable shoes, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent is essential. The guide recommends closed-toe shoes—no flip-flops—and advises against high heels, jewelry, alcohol, or making fires, which is typical for respecting the environment and safety.

Given the physical activities involved—walking, swimming, boat riding—it’s best if you’re comfortable with some movement. The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, but if you’re traveling with older children or teens who enjoy outdoor adventures, it should suit you well.

The tour is conducted in Spanish, so some basic understanding or a translation app might come in handy. Cancellation policy is flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours before and get a full refund, which is reassuring for planning.

What Travelers Are Saying

The one review we have is glowing: Hendrick Bernard from the Netherlands gave it a full 5-star rating, calling the waterfalls “beautiful” and highlighting the warmth of the guide and the delicious regional meal. He mentioned the friendliness of the guide making the experience even more enjoyable, which is a good sign that the tour is well-paced and supported.

While no negative reviews are available here, it’s always wise to remember that busy outdoor tours can sometimes be limited by weather, so check the forecast and be prepared for sudden changes.

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Should You Book This Tour?

This experience is especially great if you’re eager to see some of the most scenic waterfalls Zacatecas has to offer, do some swimming, and enjoy a scenic boat ride. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, with all logistics handled for you.

If you’re not a fan of physical activity, or if you’re traveling with very young children or those who prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit intense. But for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting to sample regional cuisine in a beautiful setting, it’s a worthwhile choice.

In short, this tour offers genuine value with its combination of stunning scenery, active water-based fun, and authentic regional food—all wrapped up in a well-organized package.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from Ciudad Valles to the waterfalls and back is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 9 hours, including all stops, activities, and meals.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable, closed-toe shoes, a towel, water, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for extras.

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

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the activities involve swimming and walking, so older children who enjoy outdoor adventures should find it enjoyable.

What is the price?
$98 per person, which covers guides, entrance fees, activities, transportation, and a regional meal.

Is the guide bilingual?
The tour is conducted in Spanish, so some language skills can enhance the experience.

Are the waterfalls safe for swimming?
Yes, the pools are known for their clear, inviting waters, and swimming is a key part of the tour.

To sum it up, if you’re after a full day of natural beauty, active fun, and local flavors, this tour to Minas Viejas and Meco Waterfalls offers a fantastic way to experience Zacatecas’ outdoors. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with some water-based escapades, all while enjoying the company of friendly guides and fellow explorers. Just pack your essentials, be ready for some physical activity, and get ready to see some truly beautiful spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: