Huatulco: Copalitilla Waterfalls Day Trip & Coffee Tasting

Summary

Copalitilla waterfalls swim jungle walk coffee tasting from Huatulco

You’ll hike through lush Sierra jungle near Huatulco to reach Copalitilla waterfalls, swim in cool mountain pools, share fresh-roasted coffee with locals, and taste regional dishes like mole with handmade tortillas. Expect laughter with your guide and time to just breathe in nature’s quiet moments.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely left Huatulco before the road started winding up into the Sierra. I remember how the air shifted — suddenly cooler, almost sweet with that green, earthy smell you only get in the mountains after a bit of rain. Our guide, Esteban, kept pointing out little villages tucked between banana trees and laughing about how he always gets car sick on these curves (he was fine, but I believed him). The drive to Copalitilla waterfalls took about an hour and a half, but honestly it felt shorter because everyone in the van started swapping stories about their favorite Mexican foods. Someone behind me confessed they’d never tried mole — I think Esteban almost pulled over in shock.

The walk through the jungle to the waterfalls was muddier than I expected (wear real shoes), but there was this moment when we heard water before we saw it — that deep rushing sound under all the bird calls. And then you turn a corner and it’s just there: pale green pools stacked under these cascades, mist catching in the sunbeams. We all went quiet for a second. I didn’t even bother with photos at first; just sat on a rock and let my feet dangle in the cold water. A local kid showed us where to jump in safely — he grinned every time someone hesitated at the edge.

After swimming (and one slightly embarrassing belly flop), we followed Esteban back up for coffee with some folks from the community. They roasted beans right there — smoky and sharp-smelling — and explained how they use local plants for medicine. I tried repeating “hierba santa” but probably butchered it; everyone laughed anyway. Lunch wasn’t included but most of us ordered mole with chicken and tortillas so fresh they were still steaming in our hands. It’s funny how food tastes better when you’re tired and damp from swimming.

On the drive back to Huatulco, someone passed around mezcal (just a sip), and I watched sunlight flicker through palm leaves outside my window. There’s something grounding about days like this — not perfect or fancy, just real people sharing what they love about their home. I still think about that first shock of cold water on my skin.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Copalitilla Waterfalls and Meal

• Travel 1.5 hours to mountains
• Walk through jungle to waterfalls
• Swim and take photos at waterfalls
• Enjoy traditional mole with chicken meal

Top questions

How long is the drive from Huatulco to Copalitilla waterfalls?

About 1 hour and 30 minutes each way by air-conditioned vehicle.

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?

Yes, round trip accommodation pickup within Bahías de Huatulco area is included.

Can you swim at Copalitilla waterfalls?

Yes, there are natural pools ideal for swimming at the waterfalls.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No, lunch is not included but you’ll have time to buy regional food like mole with chicken made by local cooks.

What should I wear or bring for this tour?

Wear comfortable walking shoes (it can be muddy) and bring swimwear for the pools.

Are there any health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues; moderate fitness is needed.

Is there a local guide during the tour?

Yes, a certified bilingual guide leads the group throughout the day trip.

Do you get to try local coffee or mezcal?

Yes, coffee and mezcal tastings are part of the experience during your visit to the community.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and return within Bahías de Huatulco, entrance fees to Copalitilla waterfalls, guidance from a certified bilingual local expert throughout your journey into the mountains, plus tastings of fresh coffee and mezcal shared by community members along the way.