Waterfalls in Mexico

Mexico's falls here span very different climates and landscapes. Agua Azul, in Chiapas, is a long series of travertine cascades and pools coloured a distinctive turquoise-blue by dissolved calcium carbonate, set in tropical rainforest near the Palenque ruins. Tamul Falls, in the Huasteca Potosina region of San Luis Potosi, is reached along a river where two waterways meet in contrasting colours before the wider Tamul drop itself, a boat trip as much as a hike. Basaseachic Falls, in the Sierra Tarahumara of Chihuahua, is Mexico's second-tallest waterfall, a single plunge into a canyon within the dramatic Copper Canyon region, far drier and more remote than the southern falls.

When to go

The rainy season, roughly June-October, brings the fullest, most turbid flow to Agua Azul and Tamul, sometimes turning Agua Azul's water from turquoise to brown after heavy rain. The dry season, November-April, offers clearer water and easier access, though Basaseachic, fed by a smaller mountain catchment, is generally most impressive just after the rains, July-September.

Getting around

Agua Azul is a stop on the common overland route between Palenque and San Cristobal de las Casas, reachable by tour van or bus. Tamul Falls typically requires a boat trip up the Rio Santa Maria from the village of Tanchachin. Basaseachic is reached by a several-hour drive from Chihuahua or Creel, with the final approach on foot.

Entry requirements

US, Canadian, UK, and EU citizens enter visa-free with a tourist card (FMM), issued on arrival or with the airfare, generally valid for up to 180 days.

Entry rules checked September 2026. They change without much notice — confirm with the official government source before you travel.