There are many beautiful places around the world that most of us haven’t gone to yet. And if ever you’ll be going to Mexico, be sure to pay a visit to this place that will surely mesmerize you – The Petrified Waterfalls of Hierve El Agua.
Hierve el Agua is Spanish for “water boils” and is the name for the petrified waterfalls located in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, about 70 km east of Oaxaca City. But it’s surprisingly one of the least visited sights along the central valley touring routes leading out of the city of Oaxaca.
Anyways, here are some photos and information about The Petrified Waterfalls of Hierve El Agua.
Upon approaching Hierve el Agua, you will see from a distance a massive waterfalls which appears to be frozen on the side of the mountain.
But that would be impossible because the area is dominated by a hot climate.
And when you come closer, you’ll realize that it’s actually a deposit of minerals formed over thousands of years.
This is due to the spilling of mineral-laden water over the edge of the cliff down to the rocky mountain side.
The name Hierve el Agua comes from the bubbling natural mineral springs that are found in the area, but it’s actually a misnomer.
At two locations about 75 feet apart, water does indeed “boil” up from the ground; not hot, but rather forced to the surface by the earth’s interior pressure.
The water rises to the surface and then channels into two man-made pools.
It looks like an infinity pool.
The bubbling springs are rich in mainly calcium carbonate and magnesium.
Descending towards the actual site to swim, one has to walk over mineral deposits.
The waters, with their high mineral content, are reputed to have healing qualities.
Hierve el Agua is truly a “must see” location especially for naturalists, photographers, hikers and those who plans to visit Mexico.
Here another stunning view of the petrified waterfalls.
