What is so special about Hierve el Agua?

For millennia, Hierve el Agua’s natural springs have calcified its travertine cliff faces, creating this illusion of a petrified waterfall. It is one of only a few natural wonders of its kind in the world (other calcified pool formations include terraced thermal springs in Pamukkale, Turkey and Sichuan, China).

How was Hierve el Agua formed?

Formed by the runoff of carbonated water from the springs located at the top of the rocks. From these springs the water is projected above the formations, giving rise to new rocky layers that are projected towards a ravine of more than 200 meters of depth.

Why is Hierve el Agua closed?

At Hierve el Agua, community ‘remains mired in poverty’ Community landowners in San Lorenzo Albarradas, Oaxaca, have announced the closure of the Hierve el Agua tourist attraction because the revenue it generates hasn’t benefited the local area.

Can you swim at Hierve el Agua?

Although information differs, at the moment you can swim or only cool off in the pools of Hierve el Agua. There is no guard or no signs saying that this activity is forbidden, you can even find here toilets and changing rooms.

Where is Hierve el agua in Oaxaca, Mexico?

The site is located about 70 km east of Oaxaca city, past Mitla, in the municipality of San Lorenzo Albarradas, with a narrow, winding unpaved road leading to the site.

What kind of rock is Hierve el agua?

Hierve el Agua is a unique rock formation in Oaxaca, Mexico of hardened mineral deposits left by water that has calcified over thousands of years.

What was the history of Hierve el agua?

History of Hierve el Agua. Hierve el Agua might be a tourist destination today, but the bubbling springs used to supply water to an intricate series of canals and terraces leading down to the valley, comprising one of the most complete terraced irrigation sites in Mesoamerica.

What makes Hierve el agua a petrified waterfall?

Hierve el Agua is a unique rock formation in Oaxaca, Mexico of hardened mineral deposits left by water that has calcified over thousands of years. It is one of only two petrified waterfalls in the world! Because the literal translation in Spanish of ‘Hierve el Agua is “water boils”,…