About the Hike:  Guacamaya is a small community in a mountain setting 37 km north of Oaxaca City, perched precariously on the side of a mountain in a luxuriant valley. The mountain slopes are precipitous, but old logging roads generally follow the contour of the hills and so are friendly to hikers. There is an observation tower atop El Portillo, 5.8 km up the road beyond the town, which offers a panoramic view when not shrouded in fog. It is a .6 mile (.96 km) walk one way from the town to the cascada on a path that descends 325 feet (99 meters). Visitors can feast on the fresh trout which are raised in local ponds, which can be ordered pan fried, grilled or baked in aluminum foil with an assortment of vegetables and spices.

Note: High altitude from 2,732 to 3,154 m. (8,900 to 10,350 ft). Jackets and hats recommended for warmth and possible rain.

Type/Difficulty: Mountain / Easy to Difficult, depending on trail/s chosen by the hiker.

Distance and Elevation Change: varies depending on the trails/s chosen by the hiker

Additional fee: Small entrance fee to view the waterfall

Meal: Lunch in the village, fresh trout $150-$200 pesos.

Time Frame: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm. (ending time is approximate) Please arrive at the boarding location at least 15 minutes before departure.

Meeting Point: Calle de Los Libres, between Zarate and San Martin, directly behind the Americana Hotel. See map on the hiking introduction page