Huatulco: Waterfalls Tour with Buffet Lunch

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines nature, culture, and good food, the Waterfalls Tour in Huatulco might just fit the bill. Offered by Aventura Huatulco Expediciones Turistícas, this full-day experience takes you from your hotel into the lush scenery of Oaxaca’s mountains, with plenty of opportunities to cool off in natural pools, learn about local cuisine, and enjoy authentic Mexican hospitality.

What makes this tour appealing? We like the way it balances activity and relaxation — you get to swim at several waterfalls and then settle in for a hearty buffet of traditional dishes. Plus, the scenic drive over mountainous terrain offers beautiful views that help set the mood for a day immersed in Mexico’s vibrant nature.

A possible consideration? The tour is quite focused on the waterfalls and food, so if you’re not comfortable in water or prefer more cultural museum visits, this might not be your best fit. It’s best suited for travelers who love outdoor adventures with a flavorful twist and can handle a 7-hour commitment.

This tour is perfect for those wanting an active day surrounded by natural beauty, eager to try local cuisine, and looking for a relaxed way to explore outside the beach zones of Huatulco.

Contents hide

1 A Detailed Look at the Waterfalls Tour

2 What’s Included and What’s Not

3 The Value of This Experience

4 Who Will Love This Tour?

5 The Sum Up: Who This Tour Is Best For

6 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Key Points

Stunning Waterfalls: Multiple waterfalls with natural pools for swimming.
Authentic Oaxacan Cuisine: Enjoy a buffet with a variety of traditional dishes.
Scenic Drive: Over mountain roads offering beautiful vistas.
Cultural Insight: Brief learning about Oaxacan gastronomy.
All-Inclusive: Transportation, guide, entrance fees, and lunch included.
Duration: A full 7-hour experience, ideal for a relaxed day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Waterfalls Tour

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Huatulco

Starting the Day: From Hotel to Mountain Views

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Huatulco, which is convenient and hassle-free. The transportation is by tourist van, a practical choice for comfort and space. The drive takes you over the mountains, providing a scenic ascent that hints at the lush landscapes ahead. Expect the journey to last about an hour or so, depending on your hotel location — a small price to pay for the stunning scenery.

Learning about Oaxacan Gastronomy

Before the waterfalls, the guide stops at a village for about 20 minutes, where you can learn a bit about Oaxacan cuisine. This brief introduction is valuable — it sets context for the dishes you’ll later enjoy and enhances the overall experience. Many reviews appreciate this cultural touch, noting that it adds depth to the day rather than just being a quick stop.

The Waterfalls and Natural Pools

The main draw? Several waterfalls await, each offering opportunities for swimming in refreshing natural pools. The tour allocates roughly three hours for this part, giving enough time to relax, play, and take photos. The waterfalls are set in a beautiful, verdant landscape that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise.

Guests frequently comment on the stunning views and clear waters. One traveler mentioned, “We loved the way the waterfalls looked in the sunlight, and swimming in the cool water was a perfect break from the heat.” The natural pools are ideal for a quick dip, but remember to bring your swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes.

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The Buffet Lunch: Flavorful and Filling

After the swimming, everyone gathers for a buffet lunch featuring traditional Oaxacan dishes. The meal is more than just a snack — it’s a hearty, flavorful experience. Expect a variety of local favorites, and in reviews, travelers often remark on the deliciousness and authenticity of the food.

Included in the lunch is coffee and hibiscus water, offering a sweet and refreshing drink to complement your meal. Many find this part of the tour a highlight — a genuine taste of local flavors amid a relaxed, scenic setting.

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Return to Huatulco

The day wraps up with the return trip, which is typically uneventful but offers more mountain scenery. The total tour lasts about 7 hours, making it manageable for most travelers without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides transportation, a driver guide, entrance to the village and waterfalls, and a buffet lunch. All the essentials are covered, making it a straightforward, stress-free option.

However, you’ll need to bring your own medication for motion sickness, as it’s not included. Practical items such as comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and water will help ensure you’re fully prepared.

Practical Tips

Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for walking and possibly getting wet.
Pack a towel and change of clothes for after swimming.
Don’t forget your sunscreen, especially if you’re sensitive to sun.
Bring water to stay hydrated, especially after swimming.
Be aware that the tour is conducted in Spanish, so some basic understanding can enhance your experience.

The Value of This Experience

At $71 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of nature, culture, and cuisine. The price covers transportation, guide, entrance fees, and a substantial meal, which many travelers find to be a good value considering the scenic beauty and cultural insights.

Compared to other excursions, it balances activity and relaxation, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for an engaging day outside the usual beach scene. The seven-hour duration allows for a leisurely pace without feeling overly long, giving you enough time to enjoy each part.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to outdoor lovers and those curious about local food traditions. If you enjoy swimming in natural pools, scenic mountain views, and are keen to try authentic Oaxacan dishes, this trip will likely satisfy. It’s also a great choice for travelers who prefer guided excursions with everything organized for them.

Those looking for a cultural or historical experience might find it a bit limited — it focuses firmly on nature and food rather than museums or archaeological sites. It’s ideal for those wanting a relaxed, active day in the fresh air, rather than something more structured or museum-focused.

The Sum Up: Who This Tour Is Best For

This Huatulco Waterfalls Tour offers a genuine taste of the region’s natural beauty and culinary culture. It’s especially suited for travelers who love outdoor activities and are eager to cool off in pristine pools amid lush scenery. The inclusive nature of the trip, with transportation, guide, and lunch, makes it a convenient choice, ensuring you don’t need to worry about logistics.

The scenic mountain drive and stunning waterfalls are memorable highlights, making this tour a good value for the price. It’s perfect for those seeking a day of adventure and flavor, with enough time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

If you’re after a straightforward, enjoyable outdoor experience that combines nature and local cuisine, this tour could become a highlight of your time in Huatulco.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation via tourist van is included from your hotel in Huatulco, making the logistics simple and straightforward.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen, and water. These items will help you enjoy swimming and stay comfortable throughout the day.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts around 7 hours, including travel, activities, and lunch, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Is the guide available in English?
The tour guide is live in Spanish. Some travelers may find basic Spanish helpful, though the scenic and food experiences are largely visual and sensory.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, driver guide, entrance to the village and waterfalls, and a buffet lunch with coffee and hibiscus water.

Is there a need for advance booking?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially during busy seasons. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any restrictions or considerations?
You might find the tour challenging if you’re uncomfortable in water or prefer more cultural sightseeing. Also, be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

This Waterfalls Tour in Huatulco offers a day of natural beauty, authentic local flavors, and scenic mountain views. It’s a fantastic way for active travelers and food lovers to experience Oaxaca’s stunning landscapes and culinary delights in one memorable outing.