Huatulco: Copalitilla Waterfalls Day Trip & Local Lunch

Summary

Jungle hike to copalitilla waterfalls swim in cool pools and share lunch with locals near huatulco

You’ll hike through lush jungle near Huatulco to reach Copalitilla Waterfalls, swim in crystal-clear pools alongside locals, then share a traditional meal of handmade tortillas and regional dishes cooked over wood fire. With pickup included and a local guide leading you through coffee country, expect both adventure and warmth along the way.

What’s the experience like?

“Here’s where the river laughs,” our driver Armando said, grinning as we bounced along the last stretch toward San Miguel del Puerto. I didn’t get it at first — but when we finally stepped out, the air was thick with that green, alive smell, and you could hear water tumbling somewhere below. The drive from Huatulco took just under two hours, winding through the Sierra Madre del Sur. I kept watching the clouds snag on the hills. Our group was a mix of sleepy and excited, and someone’s phone kept playing cumbia quietly in the back.

The hike itself wasn’t long — maybe twenty minutes? — but it felt like stepping into another world. Our guide, Marisol, pointed out wild orchids clinging to tree trunks. She showed us how to spot coffee plants (I’d never seen them up close before; the leaves are waxy). There were parts where sunlight caught on spiderwebs overhead, and for a second it looked like silver threads everywhere. When we reached Copalitilla Waterfalls, I just stood there for a minute trying to take it in — all these clear pools stacked one above another, water so cold it made my feet ache at first. Kids from the village were already splashing around, yelling to each other in Spanish.

I tried one of those jumps into the deep pool (not graceful), and Marisol laughed — “¡Valiente!” she called out. After swimming, we followed her back up the trail for lunch at a small open-air kitchen. The tortillas were still puffed up from the comal; you could smell woodsmoke mixing with coffee brewing nearby. Rice with butter, beans straight from the pot — simple food but honestly some of the best I’ve had in Mexico. There was this quiet moment when everyone just ate without talking much, listening to birds and that steady sound of water somewhere off behind us.

I still think about that river sound sometimes when things get too loud back home. If you’re looking for a day trip from Huatulco that’s more than just pretty views — something with real people and real flavors — this is it. And yeah, bring dry clothes unless you want to ride home damp like I did.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Copalitilla Waterfalls and meal

• Travel 1h40m to San Miguel del Puerto
• Hike through jungle to waterfalls
• Swim in crystal clear pools
• Enjoy typical regional meal

Top questions

How far are Copalitilla Waterfalls from Huatulco?

About 1 hour 40 minutes by vehicle from Huatulco to San Miguel del Puerto.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

The tour includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How difficult is the hike to Copalitilla Waterfalls?

The hike is short and suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Can you swim at Copalitilla Waterfalls?

Yes, there are crystal-clear pools where visitors can swim.

What kind of food is served on this tour?

You’ll have typical regional dishes like buttery rice, handmade tortillas cooked on a comal, and black beans from the pot.

Is there a local guide during the tour?

Yes, a local guide accompanies you throughout the experience.

Are drinks or coffee included?

You’ll taste organic coffee as part of your visit to the community.

Is this day trip suitable for families?

The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from Huatulco to San Miguel del Puerto, a guided jungle hike to Copalitilla Waterfalls with time for swimming in natural pools, plus a traditional lunch featuring handmade tortillas and regional specialties before heading back home.