Multi-day Hike & Swim in the heart of the Mixteca: Apoala Waterfalls - 2 Days (1 night)

Join us at Coyote Aventuras for a journey into the heart of the Mixteca, one of Oaxaca’s most culturally rich and storied regions. After a warm welcome at the office, we begin our scenic drive toward the community of Santiago Apoala, a sacred place whose name means where the water begins. Apoala has long been celebrated in ancestral narratives passed down through markets, gatherings, and eventually in painted codices made from amate paper. According to the ancient Vindobonensis manuscript, this valley is considered the birthplace of the first humans, emerging from a sacred turquoise pool that symbolizes the meeting point between the divine and the earthly. As we arrive in this enchanting community, the landscape reveals deep canyons, spring-fed waters, and a sense of timelessness that continues to shape indigenous identity. Our exploration begins with hikes to natural pools and waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation, where every step carries echoes of ancient stories and spiritual beliefs tied to the land. Resting in communal cabins by the river, guests enjoy traditional meals crafted from ingredients nurtured by local hands, each dish reflecting centuries of sustainable agriculture and culinary wisdom.

The experience continues with visits to sacred sites, cliffside caves adorned with ancient paintings, and breathtaking natural formations that highlight the region’s biodiversity. Guided by local experts deeply connected to their territory, we learn about cultural practices, seasonal foods, and the significance of the natural world in Mixtec worldview. Evenings invite relaxation with shared meals, moments of quiet reflection, or gathering around a small fire beneath a canopy of stars. As the journey unfolds, the valley offers opportunities to swim, hike, listen to stories, and immerse oneself fully in this living cultural landscape. The adventure concludes with a final communal meal in the village, allowing time to appreciate the kindness of local hosts and the profound beauty of a place shaped by history, spirituality, and nature. This experience is designed for travelers who seek connection, authenticity, and the chance to walk within a world where myth and landscape exist in perfect harmony.