Water Fall Tour 5 Hours Rural Areas

Exploring El Salto Waterfall: An Authentic Day in Rural Mexico

If you’re looking for a way to escape the busy beaches of Manzanillo and experience a more genuine slice of rural Mexico, the Water Fall Tour 5 Hours Rural Areas might be just what you need. This guided adventure takes you on a scenic drive into the countryside, culminating in a refreshing swim at El Salto waterfall, followed by a homemade meal in a small town. While not a luxury or high-end tour, it offers a real taste of local life and nature—an authentic experience that doesn’t cost a fortune.

What we particularly appreciate about this trip is the chance to see less touristy spots and enjoy a personalized tour experience, often with guides who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The scenic mountain roads and lush rainforests make for a memorable journey, and the chance to hike through the forest to reach the waterfall adds an element of adventure. On the downside, some travelers might find the itinerary a bit basic or wish for a more polished experience. Still, if your goal is to see a genuine, natural part of Mexico with friendly guides, this tour is worth considering.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature, enjoy light hiking, and want to avoid overly commercialized attractions. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a flexible, small-group experience that emphasizes local flavor over luxury.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience away from the typical tourist spots in Manzanillo
• Scenic mountain drives through lush jungle and rainforest landscapes
• Hiking to a waterfall for swimming and relaxation in a natural setting
• Includes a homemade lunch with fresh tortillas, giving a taste of local cuisine
• Pickup offered from hotels and cruise ports, simplifying logistics
• Good value at $80 per person for a five-hour guided tour with personalized touches

Discovering the El Salto Waterfall Experience

This tour begins with a pickup service in Manzanillo, making it easy to start without the hassle of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads. Once aboard an air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll be whisked away on a roughly five-hour journey that balances scenic travel, culture, and outdoor fun. The drive itself is one of the highlights, as you wind along mountain roads through dense jungles and tropical rainforests—truly a visual feast that transports you away from the coastal crowds.

The First Stop: Camotlán for Fresh Beef and Vegetables

Before reaching the waterfall, the tour makes a unique stop in the town of Camotlán. Here, travelers have about 30 minutes to buy fresh beef and vegetables, which are then taken to a local home to be cooked later. This stop offers a glimpse into daily life in the countryside and provides an authentic, hands-on aspect to the trip. Several reviews note the flexibility and personal touch of this part of the tour, with one traveler mentioning how the guides happily accommodated their requests for extra stops.

A Scenic Drive to Canoas for Lunch

After the shopping stop, the journey continues to Canoas, a small town northeast of Manzanillo. Here, you’ll leave the bought beef at a local house and enjoy a delicious homemade lunch featuring fresh tortillas—a highlight praised by many reviews for its authentic flavor. The meal is served in a relaxed, friendly setting, giving you a true taste of local hospitality. Some reviews mention this as a memorable part of the experience, appreciating the chance to connect with local families and enjoy traditional food.

Hiking and Swimming at El Salto Waterfall

Post-lunch, the group heads to the main attraction: El Salto Waterfall. You’ll traverse a forest trail—expect a gentle hike through lush greenery—to reach the cascading waters, where you can swim and relax for about an hour. The waterfall is a less touristy spot, which adds to the sense of discovery and genuine connection with nature. One reviewer highlighted that the waterfall’s natural beauty is stunning, although hurricane damage has impacted the steps down, making access slightly more challenging.

Practical Details and Tips

Admission tickets are not included, so budget roughly a few dollars for entry. The tour is limited to a maximum of 46 travelers, but most reviews reflect a small-group feeling—often even just a few people—making it more personal. The tour’s duration is approximately five hours, which leaves plenty of time for travel, activities, and a leisurely lunch.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

Guides and Personal Service: Many reviews praise guides like Oscar, Dani, or Hugo for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to accommodate requests. This personal touch makes the experience more meaningful and comfortable.

Natural Beauty and Authenticity: The lush rainforest scenery and the waterfall’s natural charm make for unforgettable pictures and memories. Unlike commercial parks, the waterfall feels like a true hidden gem—less crowded and more peaceful.

Culinary Experience: The homemade lunch with fresh tortillas not only fills you up but also offers a genuine taste of local cuisine, often a highlight for food lovers.

Flexible and Customizable: Some reviews mention that guides are happy to make additional stops or tailor the experience, which can enhance your overall enjoyment.

Possible Considerations for Travelers

Limited Time at the Waterfall: With only about an hour to swim and relax, some might wish for more time at the waterfall, especially if they enjoy more extensive hikes or photography.

Additional Costs: Admission tickets are not included, so you’ll need a few extra dollars for entry—something to keep in mind when budgeting.

Road Conditions and Access: Hurricane damage has affected the steps to the waterfall, which could be a concern for those with mobility issues or heavy backpacks. The roads can be bumpy, too, so a sense of adventure is recommended.

Tour Price vs. Experience: At $80 per person, the value lies in the combination of scenic drives, authentic rural encounters, and a peaceful natural setting. It’s not a luxury experience but offers genuine value for those seeking local flavor and outdoor fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who crave authentic rural encounters and outdoor adventure. If you enjoy light hiking, swimming in waterfalls, and interacting with local families, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for those who prefer a small-group feel and want to see a less commercialized side of Mexico. The tour’s flexible nature and focus on natural beauty also appeal to travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day out.

However, if you’re expecting a polished, highly organized, or luxurious experience, this might not be the best fit. The charm lies in its simplicity and local flavor, making it a memorable, genuine day for the curious and the adventurous.

The Sum Up

In the end, the Water Fall Tour 5 Hours Rural Areas offers a well-rounded experience that combines scenic drives, authentic cultural interactions, and refreshing nature. It’s a chance to see a quieter, more genuine side of Mexico away from the beaches and resorts. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge add depth to the trip, while the chance to swim at El Salto Waterfall and enjoy a homemade meal makes it a worthwhile outing for many.

This tour stands out for its value, authentic charm, and small-group intimacy. It’s best suited for those who love nature, cultural experiences, and a bit of adventure—all within a manageable five-hour window. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this trip can provide a meaningful, memorable day in the Mexican countryside.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup from hotels and the cruise ship port in Manzanillo is included, making the logistics simple.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately five hours, including travel, stops, and lunch.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, guided commentary, and a homemade lunch in Canoas.

Are admission tickets to the waterfall included?
No, admission tickets are not included, so you should budget for a small fee at the waterfall.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should note the steps and hiking involved.

Can I customize the experience?
Guides are generally accommodating; some reviews mention requests for extra stops or personalized planning.