Agua Azul Waterfalls (Cascadas de Agua Azul)

Dissolved minerals lend Agua Azul a distinctive blue color, and the falls are a dramatic sight with dense forest for a backdrop. Tours of Agua Azul generally depart from Tuxtla Gutiérrez, San Cristóbal de las Casas, and the ancient Maya city of Palenque. And since the surrounding jungle is home to some of Chiapas’ top historic and natural sites, itineraries often include stops at several, such as scenic Sumidero Canyon.

• Agua Azul is a great destination for photographers. For fewer crowds, get there early in the day.

• While swimming at Agua Azul is popular, it can also be dangerous—swift currents, submerged logs, and other hazards are common.

• Take water shoes to protect your feet if you go in the river.

Agua Azul is located on the Xanil River (Rio Xanil), just off Highway 199 in the state of Chiapas. Both Ocosingo and Palenque are roughly 40 miles (64 kilometers) away. To get to the waterfalls, take one of the colectivos, or minibuses, that run between Palenque and Ocosingo. Ask the driver to drop you off at the turnoff for Agua Azul, then flag down a taxi for the final 2.8-mile (4.5-kilometer) trip.

The color and volume of the waterfalls vary drastically throughout the year. For the most vibrant color, visit during the dry season (November through May). Toward the end of the dry season, though, you’ll see much less water—ask about the falls’ current state before going. Frequent rains from December through April mean siltier, muddy-looking water, though the rushing falls are striking during this time.

Varied terrain and a maze of rivers create dozens of waterfalls in Chiapas. Close to Palenque you’ll find the lovely Misol-Ha, a slender cascade that drops into a wide pool. Another favorite are the towering El Chiflón Waterfalls (Cascadas El Chiflón), with their trails and ziplines.

That depends. While most travelers enthuse about the waterfalls’ crystal-clear turquoise tones, getting there involves a tiring road journey. If you’re traveling between Palenque and San Cristobal, then Aqua Azul makes for a convenient stopover (the waterfall is a 90-minute drive from Palenque’s archaeological zone.) Many coach transfers include a stop here.

If you’re visiting as part of a tour, then operators will typically schedule between 2-3 hours to visit the waterfalls and take a swim (there are several swimming points.) The surrounding jungle is also stunning, with multiple scenic outlooks, so be sure to take a camera.

The area around the Agua Azul Waterfalls is home to multiple waterfalls and there’s a trail that connects the various cascades. It can get slippery when wet, so wear a sturdy pair of closed-toe shoes (save flip-flops for the pool.) Bring a dry change of clothes—loose, comfortable shorts and T-shirts work fine.

While the Agua Azul Waterfalls is safe for adults, those traveling with children should consider their age and ability before visiting. There are designated safe spots for swimming, but other areas have strong currents and other hazards have even led to drownings in the past. Older children are fine with supervision, but families with younger kids and infants should probably find another activity.

If you want to see why Agua Azul is nicknamed the Blue Eye, then head here during Mexico’s dry season (November-May): that’s when the waterfall’s turquoise color will really pop. You’ll also enjoy sunny, dry, and temperate weather. The rainy season brings muddy brown water.

Technically, yes. Travelers can travel to Agua Azul in a private car or rental vehicle, or using the public minivans known as colectivos in Mexico. That said, the area has been targeted by political groups who set up blockades and have been known to target tourists, so your safest option is to come here with a group.