“A proper hike to reach natural hot spring pools in the jungle. The trail follows a river with some wading and scrambling — not difficult but you need decent shoes. The pools themselves are stunning and we had them to ourselves. Magical.”
Tours
Hot springs hike
Atotonilco Hot Springs, Puerto Escondido
Duration
5 hours
Departs
8 AM
Returns
1 PM
Location
Atotonilco Hot Springs
From
$1,600 MXN
Trusted by travelers from around the world
Gallery — 10 photos
Hidden in the jungle hills above Puerto Escondido, the Atotonilco Hot Springs pool in rocky basins where mineral-rich water rises from deep underground. Reaching them requires a jungle hike that is half the adventure — a trail through tropical forest, across the Manialtepec River, and past panoramic views of the Sierra Madre del Sur that most visitors to the coast never discover.
Your experience
What to Expect
We pick you up at 8:00 AM from your hotel or Airbnb in Puerto Escondido and drive you to San José Manialtepec, about 30 minutes north. There you meet your guide, receive a safety briefing, and begin the hike into the jungle.
The hike is moderate difficulty — roughly 1.5 hours of walking on a trail that crosses the Manialtepec River multiple times and passes through dense tropical forest. The air is cooler and wetter than on the coast, filled with the sound of running water and birdcalls. Your guide points out orchids, local wildlife, and shares insights about the flora, fauna, and cultural traditions of the area.
At the springs, you have about one hour to soak in the warm, mineral-rich therapeutic waters, swim, and take photos. Your guide captures the experience with professional photo shooting included in the tour. Then you hike back down — easier on the descent — and return to Puerto Escondido by 1:00 PM.
Hour by hour
Detailed Itinerary
8:00 AM
Pickup from Your Hotel
Your driver picks you up from your hotel or Airbnb in Puerto Escondido.
8:45 AM
Arrive at San José Manialtepec
Arrive at the village, meet your experienced guide, and receive a safety briefing and hiking tutorial.
9:00 AM
Begin the Jungle Hike
Start hiking through the tropical forest. The trail follows the Manialtepec River valley upstream, crossing the river on stepping stones and navigating lush jungle terrain. Watch for tropical birds, butterflies, and small mammals along the way.
10:30 AM
Arrive at Atotonilco Hot Springs
Reach the natural pools hidden in the jungle. Soak for about one hour in the warm, mineral-rich waters, swim, relax, and enjoy photo shooting in a stunning natural setting.
11:30 AM
Return Hike
Head back down the trail — easier on the descent. Your guide stops at viewpoints and photo opportunities along the way.
12:30 PM
Back to Puerto Escondido
Return to the vehicle and drive back to the coast. Your driver drops you off at your accommodation by approximately 1:00 PM, in time for a late lunch.
What makes it special
Highlights
Atotonilco Hot SpringsWarm, mineral-rich therapeutic pools hidden in the jungle with no commercial development
Jungle hikingA genuine forest trail through one of Oaxaca's most biodiverse regions
Manialtepec River crossingsThe route follows and crosses the river multiple times, adding adventure to the hike
Sierra Madre panoramasMountain and jungle views you won't find anywhere on the coast
Wildlife spottingTropical birds, butterflies, and small mammals are common along the trail
Photo shooting includedYour guide captures the experience for you
All set
What's Included
Round-trip transportation from your hotel or Airbnb to San José Manialtepec
Experienced hiking guide with knowledge of local flora, fauna, and cultural traditions
Professional photo shooting during the tour
Access to the hot springs
Safety briefing and hiking tutorial
Pack light
What to Bring
Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip — the trail has wet rocks and river crossings; no flip-flops
Swimsuit under your clothes for the hot springs
Towel
Change of clothes — you will get wet during river crossings
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Insect repellent — the jungle has mosquitoes
Water bottle and snacks — drinks and food are not provided
Cash for tips or purchases in the village
Camera in a waterproof bag — protect it during river crossings
Before you book
Good to Know
Transportation is included;
we pick you up at 8:00 AM and drop you back by 1:00 PM — door to door from anywhere in Puerto Escondido.
Moderate difficulty;
the hike is 1.5 hours each way through jungle terrain with river crossings and inclines. Suitable for active people and beginners in reasonable fitness, but not a flat walk.
Minimum age:
12 years; the trail requires sure footing on wet rocks and river crossings. Not suitable for young children or those with significant mobility issues.
Minimum 2 participants;
if you are travelling solo, message us on WhatsApp and we will try to pair you with another group departing the same morning.
You will get wet;
the trail crosses the Manialtepec River multiple times. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes and bring a change of dry clothes for the ride home.
Drinks and food are not included;
bring your own water bottle and snacks. There are no shops or restaurants on the trail or at the hot springs.
Weather-dependent;
the trail can be slippery after heavy rain. In case of unsafe conditions, we will reschedule at no extra cost or offer a full refund.
Best season for waterfalls:
June to October; the springs and surrounding waterfalls are most impressive during and just after the rainy season, but the tour operates year-round.
Real traveler stories
What travelers are saying
“Escursione bellissima attraverso la giungla fino a delle sorgenti termali naturali. La camminata è parte dell'esperienza, non troppo difficile ma servono scarpe buone. Le pozze sono incantevoli e l'acqua è calda e pulita. Consigliato!”
“Randonnée magnifique à travers la jungle jusqu'à des sources chaudes naturelles. Pas touristique du tout, on était seuls dans les bassins. Le guide connaissait tous les oiseaux et plantes. Prévoyez bonnes chaussures et maillot.”
4.9 (185)
5.0 (140)
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From
$1,600 MXN