Hierve el Agua, Petrified Mexican Waterfall
Wildlife

Hierve el Agua, Petrified Mexican Waterfall

Oaxaca,Mexico

Hierve el Agua, Petrified Mexican Waterfall

The Hierve el Agua is an extraordinary waterfall located in Oaxaca, Mexico and its name means "bubbling water". At first glance it seems to be a huge ice cascade, but in reality, it is a set of rock formations, an imposing cluster of rocks which have been molded over time, forming what now seems like a waterfall. The steady stream of rich mineral water over thousands of years left sedimentary deposits all along the walls much the same way that stalactites form in the caves.

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Water, which has a temperature of about 75°F, comes out of two small artificial lakes located at the top of the altar, forming the two slopes that descend for 30 meters. One of these is called the "cascada chica" and runs on the slope creating natural pools where it is possible to bathe.

Taking a dip in these lakes offers an absolutely enchanting experience with breathtaking views of the entire valley.

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Besides generating these spectacular waterfalls, these springs are also one of the most important sources of irrigation in the area which follow through an old system based on the flow of water from the natural slopes. They are able to support a large part of the surrounding agricultural area.

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Hierve el Agua is located about 45 miles east of the city of Oaxaca and 9 miles southeast of Mitla town. The area is very isolated and is not easy to reach, especially due to the surrounding rugged terrain. However, there is a safe path located along the slope, allowing any visitor to stroll around the waterfall and have a full view of the entire beautiful scenery.

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