Aguacero Waterfall and La Venta River Canyon – Ocote Biosphere Reserve

Travelers seeking a memorable day immersed in nature’s grandeur will find this tour to the Aguacero Waterfall and La Venta River Canyon a compelling choice. Promising a blend of breathtaking vistas, physical activity, and authentic encounters, this experience offers a window into the rugged beauty of Tuxtla Gutiérrez’s surrounding wilderness. Whether you’re an active explorer or simply love stunning scenery, this trip provides a well-rounded adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk behind a waterfall—an experience not many get to enjoy safely. Second, the spectacular views of the La Venta River Canyon are truly photo-worthy. However, be aware that the tour requires a moderate level of fitness, as you’ll be descending nearly 900 steps and navigating uneven terrain. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with physical activity and eager to get off the beaten path. Overall, if you’re after an authentic, active day in nature with plenty of visual rewards, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery with views of the La Venta River Canyon and cascading waterfalls.
• Physical activity involved, including a descent of less than 900 steps and walking behind the waterfall.
• Includes transportation, lunch, water, and entrance fees for good value.
• Seasonal underground river exploration from December to May adds an extra element.
• Small group size (max 14 travelers) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

This full-day excursion from Tuxtla Gutiérrez is a rare chance to experience some of Chiapas’ most striking natural features. It’s designed for those who enjoy outdoor activities and want more than just a scenic drive. The tour runs about eight hours, making it a substantial yet manageable adventure for most travelers.

Starting the Day: Early Pickup and Excitement Builds

The adventure begins at 8:00 am with hotel pickup, which is included in the price. Transportation is typically handled by a comfortable vehicle, guided by an experienced local guide. Since the group size is capped at 14, you’ll find a friendly, intimate atmosphere that allows plenty of questions and personalized attention.

The journey from Tuxtla Gutiérrez to the La Venta River Canyon is scenic in itself, setting the tone for the day ahead. As you travel, your guide will likely share insights into the region’s geography and ecology, adding context to the natural beauty you’ll soon experience firsthand.

Cascada el Aguacero: The Magnificent Waterfall

The first highlight is the Aguacero Waterfall, which drops an impressive 75 meters into the La Venta River. This is a true showstopper—a curtain of water that offers both visual delight and the soundscape of rushing water. The breeze generated by the falls keeps the air fresh, and you’ll have the chance to walk around and admire the view from different angles.

Most travelers report that the waterfall’s grandeur lives up to expectations. One visitor described it as a “beautiful waterfall” and appreciated that it wasn’t overly crowded, allowing for a peaceful experience. The walk around the falls is relatively straightforward, but the real challenge is descending the less-than-900 steps that lead to the base of the waterfall.

Descending into the Canyon

This part of the tour is where physical fitness plays a role. The descent involves quite a few steps, which can be tiring but also adds to the sense of adventure. The steps are manageable for most with moderate fitness, and the effort is rewarded with close-up views of the cascading water and the canyon walls.

Behind the Waterfall: A Unique Perspective

Once at the base, you’ll have the opportunity to stand behind the rushing water—a moment that travelers find both exhilarating and refreshing. The cool spray and roaring sound create a sensory experience that’s hard to match.

Some visitors mention bringing a change of clothes for the return journey, as the spray can soak you, and the weather may not always be sunny. A practical tip from a recent review suggests packing a dry set of clothes, especially if you plan to continue exploring or want to stay comfortable for the rest of the day.

Exploring the La Venta River Canyon and Forest

After admiring the falls, the tour continues with panoramic views of the La Venta River Canyon. The landscape is rugged and dramatic, with lush forests clinging to the canyon’s edges. Your guide will point out interesting flora and fauna along the way, making this part of the experience both scenic and educational.

Depending on the time of year, there’s also the chance to explore an underground river from December to May, which adds a thrilling element to the day. This underground adventure involves additional equipment and is included in the tour price during those months.

Lunch and Rest Breaks

A hearty lunch is included—an appreciated perk that fuels your afternoon activities. The meal is usually local cuisine, giving you a taste of regional flavors and ingredients. Afterward, you’ll have some downtime to relax and reflect on the morning’s highlights before heading back.

The Return Journey and Reflection

The drive back to Tuxtla Gutiérrez offers a chance to unwind and review the day’s highlights. Pack a change of clothes, as advised, and remember that the entire experience is weather-dependent. The tour operates rain or shine, which adds a layer of unpredictability but also authenticity to your outdoor adventure.

What sets this tour apart for us is the careful balance it strikes between physical activity and breathtaking scenery. The inclusion of park entrance fees, bottled water, lunch, and adventure equipment (for underground rivers during certain months) makes the $95 price quite reasonable. It offers a comprehensive experience without hidden costs, and the small group size ensures personalized guidance and safer navigation through the rugged terrain.

While some may find the descent demanding, many reviews emphasize that the spectacular views and the chance to get behind a waterfall make it well worth the effort. As one traveler said, “We really enjoyed the experience,” and the guide Juan was praised for his friendliness and knowledge.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits active travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical effort and love nature. It’s ideal for those eager to see stunning waterfalls and canyon landscapes up close and are comfortable with uneven terrain and stairs. It’s not recommended for children under 7 or anyone with mobility issues. If you’re looking for a laid-back day, this might be too vigorous, but for adventure seekers, it’s a rewarding outing.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Chiapas’ rugged beauty, combining the thrill of descending into a canyon behind a waterfall with panoramic views of forests and river valleys. It’s a well-organized, value-packed experience that makes good use of local guides and includes everything you need for a memorable day.

For travelers ready to move beyond sightseeing and into the realm of outdoor adventure, this trip delivers impressive scenery, authentic encounters, and a sense of accomplishment. It’s perfect for those who want to add some active exploration to their Chiapas itinerary, especially if waterfalls and canyons are on your must-see list.

While it demands some physical effort, the rewards are spectacular. If you prefer a relaxed day, or have mobility concerns, you might want to choose a different activity. But for active travelers and nature lovers, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Chiapas’ natural world.

How early do I need to book this tour?
The tour is typically booked around 9 days in advance, so it’s best to plan ahead to secure your spot.

What is included in the price?
The $95 fee covers transportation, park entrance fees, bottled water, lunch, and adventure equipment if you go underground river exploring from December to May. Adventure insurance is also included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children aged 7 and under due to the physical nature of descending steps and uneven terrain.

What should I wear?
Dress smart casual, and be prepared for outdoor conditions. Packing a change of clothes is advised, especially for the return trip, as you may get wet.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What is the physical fitness level required?
A moderate fitness level is recommended; you should be comfortable with walking, steps, and uneven surfaces.

This tour offers an authentic, active adventure in one of Mexico’s most scenic regions. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or panoramic canyon views, it’s a day packed with natural wonder—and just the right amount of effort.