The boat trip
Paddling the gorge.
Mauro Trejo — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Eneas De Troya — CC BY 2.0 · Mauro Trejo — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Carlos Adampol Galindo from DF, México — CC BY-SA 2.0 · Carlos Adampol Galindo from DF, México — CC BY-SA 2.0
The Huasteca's most famous and highest waterfall, plunging from a cliff edge about a hundred metres high into a turquoise river at the bottom of a narrow gorge; white water falling through green rock into blue water is one of Mexico's most beautiful natural sights. The best way to see it is a trip in a long wooden boat that visitors paddle with a local boatman against the current for about an hour, between rock walls over clear water, until the waterfall appears ahead. On the way there is a stop at a water cave, Cueva del Agua, for a swim in clear, cold water. The paddling is tiring but fun, and the return trip with the current is easier and quicker. Boats are not allowed near the foot of the fall, which is dangerous, so they stop at a safe distance. You can also see the fall from above by road and a walk. The turquoise colour shows in the dry season, roughly November to May; in the rainy season the water turns brown, the current strengthens and trips may stop. Bring cash, as payment is cash only, and a dry bag.
Paddling the gorge.
A swim on the way.
White over turquoise.
Aquismón municipality, about two hours by road north of Xilitla; boats leave from La Morena landing
In the dry season, roughly November to May. In the rainy season the water turns brown, the current is strong and boat trips may be cancelled.