Hierve de Agua is one of the most popular day trips from Oaxaca, and for good reason – it’s a pretty incredible sight! A little more than an hour outside of Oaxaca city, you’ll find one of the only petrified waterfalls in the world. It often received comparisons to Pamukkale in Turkey.

Thousands of years of this mineral-rich water flowing over the sides of this cliff has developed the beautiful white calcium layers that elegantly drape over the side of the steep mountainside.

Hierve de Agua literally translates to “water boils” due to the appearance that the water gives off when coming out of the ground. But the water temps are actually tepid and are perfect for a quick dip. Towards the top of Hierve de Agua, you’ll also find plentiful drink stands to further aid in your refreshment.

From the parking lot atop Hierve de Agua, you’ll need to walk down a path for about 10 minutes to actually reach the petrified waterfall itself. From there, have a look around or go for a swim in one of the pools.

Hierve de Agua is another “must” for things to do in Oaxaca.