Guadalajara: Hike & Swim at Wild Hot Springs Waterfalls

Summary

Swim in wild springs after hiking steep trails outside Guadalajara

You’ll hike steep trails outside Guadalajara with a local guide, feel your heart race as you reach wild hot springs, then dive into fresh water surrounded by rocks and trees. Share small moments with others along the way — laughter, stories, maybe even a scraped knee or two — before heading back with that good tired feeling only nature gives.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound — not birds or wind, but the slap of water against rock somewhere ahead. We were just outside Guadalajara, and our guide, Luis, grinned when I asked if it was really as cold as people say. “Depends how brave you are,” he said. The air smelled green, like wet leaves and earth that’s been hiding from the sun for days. Everyone in our group had that nervous energy you get before a long hike, lacing up boots and adjusting backpacks.

The trail itself is no joke — about 6 kilometers, some parts steeper than I expected. There was this one stretch where my legs started to burn and I almost slipped on a patch of loose gravel (Luis just laughed and offered his hand). At one point we stopped so he could show us a plant locals use for tea — he crushed a leaf between his fingers and passed it around. It smelled sharp and kind of sweet, nothing like anything back home. We met another group coming down who were soaked and grinning; they told us to jump straight in when we got there.

I’ll be honest: standing at the edge of the hot springs, I hesitated. The water looked impossibly clear, almost blue-green where the sun hit it through the trees. Someone from our group counted to three and we all just went for it — cold at first but then perfect once you were in. There was this moment when everyone went quiet except for splashing and someone’s laugh echoing off the rocks. I didn’t expect to feel so awake or weirdly proud of myself for making it all the way out here from Guadalajara. Even now, sometimes I think about that feeling — water on my skin, sunlight flickering through leaves overhead.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike and swim at hot springs

• Hike 6 kilometers on steep trails
• Arrive at magical hot springs
• Swim in fresh hot spring waters

Top questions

How long is the hike to the hot springs near Guadalajara?

The hike is about 6 kilometers or roughly 4 miles each way.

Can you swim in the waterfalls during this tour?

Yes, swimming in fresh hot spring waters is included at the end of the hike.

Is this tour private or will there be other guests?

This is not a private tour; there may be other guests joining the experience.

Is lunch or food included on this day trip from Guadalajara?

No meals are included; only guided hiking and swimming are part of the experience.

What level of fitness do I need for this hike?

You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to complete the 4-mile hike on steep trails.

Are there public transportation options nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the starting point.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with health issues?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided hike through steep trails outside Guadalajara leading to wild hot springs where you can swim in fresh water alongside fellow travelers before returning together by foot.