Tamul Waterfall & Xilitla Garden Guided Tour from San Luis

Summary

Huasteca Potosina Adventure: Tamul Boat Ride & Surrealist Art Walk

Get ready to paddle beneath Tamul waterfall, swim in cool rivers and caves near San Luis Potosí, and wander through Xilitla’s surreal gardens with a local guide. Breakfast and all safety gear are included—plus stories you’ll remember long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

We were already sweating by the time we reached Tanchachin village—sun barely up, air thick with that green river smell. Our guide grinned, handed us paddles, and before I knew it, we were gliding down the river in this long wooden boat. The water was so clear you could see right to the pebbles. There was this moment—maybe halfway—where everyone just stopped talking and listened to the oars dipping, birds yelling somewhere in the trees. I didn’t expect to feel so small under Tamul waterfall; it’s loud, but not in a bad way. More like it shakes your chest a little.

After rowing back (arms jelly), we jumped straight into the Tampaón river—cold enough to make you gasp, but honestly, nothing’s ever felt better. There’s a cave nearby called “La Cueva del Agua”—our guide led us inside with these little headlamps, and the echo of our voices bounced everywhere. It smelled like wet stone and moss. Lunch back in Tanchachin was simple—fresh tortillas, beans, something spicy on the side—and I swear I’ve never eaten so fast.

Xilitla hit different. We had an early reservation at Edward James’ garden, so it was just us and a few locals wandering those wild concrete staircases tangled with vines. Our guide told stories about James building all this for his dreams—I still think about that weird archway opening onto nothing but jungle mist. Later at Leonora Carrington’s museum, I got lost staring at her sculptures—everything felt mysterious but somehow familiar. By evening, I was tired in that good way where you know you’ll sleep deep.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tamul Waterfall and River Swim

• Travel to Tanchachin village
• Row boat trip to Tamul waterfall base
• Swim in Tampaón river
• Visit Water cave
• Lunch with regional dishes
• Travel to Xilitla

Day 2 — Edward James Garden and Museum Visit

• Breakfast at local restaurant
• Tour Edward James' sculptoric gardens
• Visit Leonora Carrington's museum
• Lunch with traditional meal

Top questions

How long is the drive from San Luis Potosí to Tamul waterfall?

The drive from San Luis Potosí to Tanchachin village (near Tamul waterfall) takes about 3.5 hours each way.

Is swimming allowed during the Tamul waterfall tour?

Yes, there are opportunities to swim both in the Tampaón river and inside a flooded cave known as “La Cueva del Agua.”

Are meals or breakfast included on this guided tour?

Breakfast is included as part of your booking; lunch is available locally during your stop in Tanchachin village.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

The tour is suitable for families; infants can ride in strollers or use specialized seats provided by the operator.

What’s included

Your trip covers breakfast each day and all required safety gear for water activities like rowing and swimming. A local expert guides you throughout—including entry to Edward James’ garden and Leonora Carrington’s museum—with comfortable lodging arranged overnight in Xilitla.