Open Travel Guide
Hiking in Oaxaca

Oaxaca Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Oaxaca.

By Updated Reviewed by Daniel Mercer

The short answer: start with Benito Juárez to Cuajimoloyas Trail, Latuvi Loop Trail and Hierve el Agua Trail. This guide profiles 10+ hiking trails in Oaxaca, with prices, timing, and the practical notes that decide whether each one earns a place in your plan.

Oaxaca is one of Mexico's most culturally rich states, home to 16 recognized indigenous groups, the archaeological capitals of Monte Albán and Mitla, and a coastline stretching from the surf town of Puerto Escondido to the calm resort bays of Huatulco. Oaxaca de Juárez, the colonial capital, is celebrated for mole, mezcal, and some of the finest regional cooking in the country.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Benito Juárez to Cuajimoloyas Trail

    15.3 km one-way between the two villages6 to 6.5 hours886 m gain, high point near 3,200 m

  2. 2

    Latuvi Loop Trail

    8 to 10 km loop3 to 4 hours400 m gain, high point around 2,700 m

  3. 3

    Hierve el Agua Trail

    3 km round-trip along the base of the petrified waterfalls1.5 to 2 hours120 m gain/loss along the cliff base

  4. 4

    Monte Albán Perimeter Walk

    3 to 4 km walking the outer platforms and ball court circuit1.5 to 2.5 hoursMinimal gain within the hilltop site itself; the site sits roughly 400 m above the valley floor

  5. 5

    Cerro del Fortín Hike

    1.5 km round-trip via the 218-step stairway to the summit viewpoint45 minutes to 1 hourApproximately 100 m gain

  6. 6

    Cascadas de Apoala Trail

    4.2 km round-trip1.5 to 2 hours220 m gain/loss

  7. 7

    Cuajimoloyas Cloud Forest Waterfall Trail

    5 km round-trip to the waterfall viewpoint2 to 2.5 hours180 m gain/loss, starting near 3,197 m elevation

  8. 8

    San Felipe del Agua Trail

    3.9 km round-trip to the river viewpoints1.5 to 2 hours269 m gain

  9. 9

    Peña de San Felipe Trail

    16 km round-trip5 to 6 hours900 m gain, high point near 2,700 m

  10. 10

    Punta Cometa Coastal Walk

    2.9 km round-trip1 to 1.5 hours127 m gain

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.

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