Hierve el Agua is a natural wonder that is worth the trip when visiting Oaxaca, Mexico. It is a set of natural rock formations, simulating a cascade, with beautiful colors, thanks to the mineral deposits. You can swim in the warm, refreshing water and enjoy the stunning landscape. It is a sacred place for the Zapotec civilization and still used for religious rituals today. Surrounding the Hierve el Agua site are several small, traditional villages where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy delicious, authentic Oaxacan cuisine.

You can take a taxi or a bus from Oaxaca City to the site of Hierve el Agua. It is approximately 70 kilometers away, and the trip takes about two hours. It is recommended to hire a guide or join a tour to explore the majestic natural wonder of Hierve el Agua.

The best time to visit Hierve el Agua is from October to March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Avoid visiting during the rainy season when the road to the site can be muddy and slippery.

Hierve el Agua has a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. During the summer months (June to September), temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F), so it's essential to bring sunscreen and stay hydrated. The winter months (December to February) are much cooler, with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F).

Some accommodation options include the charming Casa de Adobe, which features rustic adobe architecture, comfortable rooms, and scenic views of the Oaxacan landscape, starting at $75 USD per night. Another option is the luxurious Hotel Escondido, with oceanfront villas, a private beach, a spa, and a restaurant, starting at $285 USD per night.

You can find local street food vendors and markets around Hierve el Agua, with delicious and affordable dishes like tlayudas, empanadas, and tamales. You can also try out traditional restaurants like La Olla, offering authentic Oaxacan cuisine with prices ranging from $10 to $30 USD per plate.

Hierve el Agua is considered safe for tourists, but visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight and keep an eye on your belongings. Oaxaca City has a moderate crime rate, but the crime rate is generally lower in the outskirts and rural areas of the region.

The Oaxaca region has a diverse population, with a mix of indigenous and mestizo heritage, as well as Afro-Mexican, Arabic, and Jewish communities. The predominant religion is Catholicism, but many local communities also practice traditional beliefs and rituals. The primary language is Spanish, but there are also indigenous languages spoken such as Zapotec and Mixtec. The population is relatively young, with a median age of 27 years old.

Apart from swimming and admiring the stunning Hierve el Agua rock formations, visitors can explore the nearby traditional villages such as Mitla, known for its ancient Zapotec ruins, or Teotitlán del Valle, famous for its woolen rugs, and try out local mezcal distilleries. Additionally, visitors can hike through the mountains and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Oaxacan landscape.