Solo road trip to Huasteca Potosina: Mexico’s hidden paradise of waterfalls, surreal gardens, and outdoor adventures

I did this Huasteca Potosina road trip alone, and in this guide, I will share with you my itinerary, safety tips, budget, and everything you need to know about visiting Huasteca Potosina Mexico.

Hi Trisha! I found your Skybiking video on Instagram and realized that it’s in Huasteca Potosina! I was wondering if you already have a blog post about it? I have so many question! I know that you always travel by yourself so I was wondering: do you think I can drive alone in this area? Is it safe? How many days did you do it? Thank you so much for all your Mexico articles for solo travelers. I really love your content as it is relatable so thanks again if you ever answer this!

Sandra Hutchinson, United States

Hi Sandra,

Thanks for the kind words and thanks for following my life in Mexico! Huasteca Potosina road trip was a long-time dream of mine so I just went ahead and did it!!!

It is safe, however, the only thing that I can share is that it will be challenging to ask for directions if you don’t speak Spanish. Huasteca Potosina is still NOT that popular to foreign tourists so you will see many Mexican travelers here.

I’ve shared all my experiences in this guide, and I really encourage you to do it solo! There is nothing to worry about safety. Additionally, I wanted to share that I did not sign up for any tours.

I just paid entrance fees myself and appeared at the waterfalls without reservations. Good luck and I’ll update this post if you have more questions!

Xx, Trisha

🙋 Questions about Huasteca Potosina? Ask me on Tiktok!

📍 Where is Huasteca Potosina Mexico?

Huasteca Potosina is a region in the eastern part of the state of San Luis Potosi in Mexico. It is not a specific town or city but rather a geographic area characterized by lush vegetation, abundant rivers, and impressive waterfalls.

The region extends into the neighboring states of Hidalgo, Veracruz, Tamaulipas, and Querétaro. Huasteca Potosina is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage, attracting visitors who are interested in outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the unique landscapes.

Ciudad Valles is the city you have to go to (or stay in) when visiting the waterfalls of Huasteca Potosina.

⛔ Is Huasteca Potosina safe?

ABSOLUTELY! You don’t have to worry about safety in Huasteca Potosina. Please take note that I did this road trip by myself. The only thing you need to worry about regarding “safety” is that nobody can speak English well in this area.

If you do the drive independently and don’t speak Spanish, it will be hard to ask for directions. Sometimes, you won’t even see people on the streets as some of these waterfalls are in remote areas.

However, if you’re not driving and signing up for Huasteca Potosina tours, all tour guides can speak English (more or less).

🗺️ Huasteca Potosina Mexico Map

🚗💨 Planning your Huasteca Potosina trip

Driving from Central Mexico

I drove from Mexico City but it was quite a long drive. My first destination was Xilitla but along the way, I stopped in Pachuca for a night and continued the drive next day to Xilitla.

Driving within Mexico City is no joke because the city is so congested with traffic and it’s chaotic. If you are not used to city driving, I wouldn’t really recommend this.

San Luis Potosi is the state where the Huasteca Potosina is located so it’s close to Central Mexico. You can start this trip from San Miguel de Allende, Queretaro, or Guanajuato City as well.

Car rental prices from Central Mexico start at $17 USD per day but note that you need to pay a security deposit. You will also need to pay extra if you want to return the car to a different location (i.e. you can return the car in San Luis Potosi).

In my case, I rented the car in Mexico City and returned it to Leon, Guanajuato, because I continued my journey to Guanajuato state. I paid $150 USD extra for the different location drop-off fees.

Flying to San Luis Potosi

Another way to do a Huasteca Potosina road trip is by flying to San Luis Potosi International Airport. You can rent a car at SLP Airport and drive 3.5 hours to Ciudad Valles from there.

Ciudad Valles is the main jumping point for Huasteca Potosina, although many people mistake San Luis Potosi City to be the starting point. Find a hotel in Ciudad Valles and book it for your Huasteca Potosina road trip.

I stayed in Casa Aura, a small boutique hotel under $60 USD per night with a gym and a pool. They also have a private parking.

🧭 Huasteca Potosina Mexico road trip itinerary

Day 1: Xilitla

If you enjoy nature, adventure, and unique cultural experiences, then Xilitla could be an excellent destination for you. The town is home to the famous Las Pozas gardens, a surrealistic sculpture garden created by British artist Edward James.

The gardens feature a series of concrete structures and staircases that seem to blend seamlessly with the surrounding jungle, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

Las Pozas is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The ticket costs $5 USD. If you are a (Mexican) student, you can show your ID and you will only pay $0.50 USD (same goes for senior citizens).

Xilitla is known for its vibrant local culture, including delicious food, traditional music, and colorful handicrafts. The town also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Feria Nacional del Huapango, a celebration of traditional Mexican music and dance.

However, it is worth noting that Xilitla is not as developed as other tourist destinations in Mexico, and some areas can be challenging to access.

Xilitla travel tips

• Xilitla is a small town. You don’t need more than one night here as the main attraction is the Edward James’ surreal garden.
• Xilitla is hilly, so you will encounter uphills when driving.
• I stayed in Jardin Huasteca, a boutique hotel with a pool (breakfast included).
• Xilitla downtown is worth exploring, so after you visit the surreal garden, have a quick lunch before driving to your next destination. Querreque is a great rooftop restaurant, and I loved their food!

Day 2: Mico’s Waterfalls

The waterfalls are part of the Micos River, which winds through a lush, green canyon before cascading down a series of rocky ledges.

The falls are about 20 miles northeast of Ciudad Valles and can be reached via a winding road offering stunning countryside views.

Once you arrive, you can park your car and hike down to the riverbank, where you will find a series of small waterfalls and pools perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

One of the most popular activities at Micos Waterfalls is rafting or kayaking down the river. The rapids are not too intense, making it an accessible adventure for people of all skill levels.

You can rent a raft or kayak from one of the local outfitters and spend the day paddling down the river, taking in the stunning scenery.

For those who prefer to stay on land, several hiking trails lead through the canyon and offer breathtaking views of the falls and surrounding landscape. You can also explore the nearby cave systems, which are home to various unique rock formations and underground rivers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Micos Waterfalls is also home to a rich cultural heritage. The region is home to several indigenous communities, including the Huasteca people, who have lived there for thousands of years.

You can learn about their history and traditions by visiting one of the local museums or attending a traditional dance or music performance.

Before exploring the Micos Waterfalls, I first did the Skybike tour, which cost $40 USD. The Skybike will give you the best views of the waterfalls. It is a little scary when you look down and people with heart conditions cannot get on the Skybike.

Mico’s Waterfalls tips

• The entrance fee to Mico’s Waterfalls is $1.50 USD. I paid an extra $1 USD for parking.
• Activities inside Mico’s Waterfalls (such as riding the boat to the falls) cost extra. I paid about $7 USD for a single-person boat ride. You can also go rappelling at an extra cost.
• Swimming is allowed inside the Micos Waterfalls but depending on when you are going to visit, the water is pretty cold. The currents are not that strong so I would say this won’t be hard for beginners.
• There are restaurants inside the compounds of Mico’s Waterfalls. The meals are really good and big. I had fried fish with rice and vegetables for $12 USD (pretty expensive but worth it).
• There are showers, changing rooms, and toilets inside Mico’s Waterfalls (at no extra cost). But bring your towel!

Day 3: Tamasopo Waterfalls

These waterfalls are part of the Tamasopo River, which runs through a lush, green canyon before cascading down a series of rocky ledges, creating a breathtaking sight.

The falls are about 30 miles southeast of Ciudad Valles and can be reached via a winding road offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once you arrive, you can park your car and hike down to the riverbank, where you will find several pools of crystal-clear water fed by the cascading falls.

One of the most popular activities at Tamasopo Waterfalls is swimming in the pools. The water is cool and refreshing. There are also several small waterfalls and natural slides that add to the fun and excitement of the experience.

For those who prefer to stay on land, several hiking trails lead through the canyon and offer breathtaking views of the falls and surrounding landscape. You can also explore the nearby cave systems, home to various unique rock formations and underground rivers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Tamasopo Waterfalls is home to a rich cultural heritage. The region is home to several indigenous communities, including the Huasteca people, who have lived there for thousands of years. You can learn about their history and traditions by visiting one of the local museums or attending a traditional dance or music performance.

Tamasopo Waterfalls tips

• The entrance fee to Tamul Waterfalls is about $2 USD. Parking is another $1.50 USD.
• Life jackets are mandatory in Tamasopo Waterfalls. You have to pay $5 USD extra to rent a life jacket.
• There is a big restaurant inside Tamasopo Waterfalls, although you can also bring your food and drinks. The park has many picnic areas and outdoor tables and chairs.
• The current in the waterfalls is pretty strong, so do not go in if you are not a good swimmer. There are also many jumping points in Tamasopo Waterfalls, but be careful.
• Shower rooms are available in Tamasopo.

Day 4: Tamul Waterfalls

Tamul Waterfalls is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the state of San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The falls are part of the Gallinas River, which winds through a beautiful canyon before plunging over a 300-foot drop into a turquoise-blue pool below.

Tamul Waterfalls is located about 50 miles northeast of Ciudad Valles and can be reached via a winding road that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Once you arrive, you can take a short hike to the riverbank, where you can rent a kayak or hop on a guided boat tour to explore the falls up close.

Kayaking or taking a boat tour is one of the best ways to experience Tamul Waterfalls. The ride takes you through a beautiful canyon, passing by towering cliffs and lush vegetation before reaching the base of the falls.

As you approach the waterfall, the roar of the water becomes more intense, and you will be amazed by the sheer power and beauty of the falls.

Another way to experience Tamul Waterfalls is by hiking the surrounding trails, which offer breathtaking views of the falls and landscape. You can also explore the nearby cave systems, which are home to various unique rock formations and underground rivers.

In addition to its natural beauty, Tamul Waterfalls is also home to a rich cultural heritage. The region is home to several indigenous communities, including the Huasteca people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

You can learn about their history and traditions by visiting one of the local museums or attending a traditional dance or music performance.

Tamul Waterfalls tips

• The fee to get to Tamul Waterfalls is $7 USD (boat fee, no entrance fee). You can pay the boatman upon arrival at the departure area.
• If you’re driving to Tamul Waterfalls, the correct destination to put is La Morena. Do not put “Tamul Waterfalls” on the Map because it won’t give you the accurate directions.
• You will have to row (together with everyone on the boat). The boatman will not row by himself as everyone needs to help. The rowing will take about 30 minutes, depending on the strength of your group.
• Once at the Tamul Waterfalls, boats take turns to take pictures in one spot that has the backdrop of Tamul Waterfalls.
• If you are not taking a boat, you can also hike to the Tamul Waterfalls (about 2-3 hours).
• There are no restaurants in this area, but small stores sell junk food.

Day 5: Puente de Dios

Puente de Dios, which translates to “Bridge of God,” is a natural wonder in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. It is a beautiful limestone formation sculpted by the flowing river over millions of years.

The bridge is one of the most unique and impressive geological formations in Mexico and attracts visitors worldwide.

Puente de Dios is located about 30 miles southeast of Ciudad Valles and can be reached via a winding road that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once you arrive, you will be amazed by the beauty of the clear, turquoise waters of the river that flow through the cave and under the bridge.

You can also explore the surrounding area by hiking the nearby trails, which offer stunning views of the river and the cave.

One of the unique aspects of Puente de Dios is the cave that lies beneath the bridge. The cave is illuminated by natural light and has a serene, peaceful, and awe-inspiring atmosphere. The cave is also home to several stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years.

In addition to its natural beauty, Puente de Dios is also home to a rich cultural heritage. The region is home to several indigenous communities, including the Huasteca people, who have lived there for thousands of years.

You will also find a freight train rail on the way to the entrance of Puente de Dios so be careful when crossing the rails.

Puente de Dios tips

• The admission fee to Puente de Dios is $2 USD for adults and $0.50 for kids. Parking was another $0.50 USD.
• The trail to see Puente de Dios is downhill but is is a paved stairs (see photos above of how the trail looks like).
• The current in Puente de Dios is strong, but there are ropes and lines that you can hang on to. I lost my GoPro pod in Puente de Dios because the current took it from underneath! Good thing I was still able to hold on to the GoPro camera.
• There are changing rooms and toilets at the entrance of Puente de Dios.

🏊🏽‍♀️ Huateca Potosina tours

Huasteca Potosina full-day adventure

🕒 7-8 hours
💲$64 USD

The full-day adventure in Huasteca Potosina includes several stops at natural wonders and cultural sites. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Ciudad Valles and transportation to various regional locations.

First up on the itinerary is a visit to Tamul Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip and snap some envy-inducing photos. Then you’ll head over to Las Pozas, the surrealist garden of Edward James, where you’ll feel transported into a magical wonderland.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll explore Tamasopo Waterfall and Puente de Dios (Bridge of God), both natural wonders that will leave you in awe.

Puente de Dios & Hacienda Gomez tour

🕒 10 hours
💲$73 USD

This tour includes visits to Puente de Dios (Bridge of God) and Tamasopo Waterfalls. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Ciudad Valles and transportation to the two locations.

The tour starts by picking you up at your hotel and taking you to experience a thrilling ride on a 4×4 truck, where you’ll witness breathtaking landscapes along the way.

Once you arrive at the first stop, the Bridge of God, an expert guide will explain how underground currents created this incredible rock formation. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos and even jump off from a height of approximately five meters into one of its crystal-clear pools.

Rafting in Tampaon River from Ciudad Valles

🕒 10 hours
💲$73 USD

This rafting in Tampaon River tour is an exciting experience will have you paddling through rapids and taking in stunning views of the Mexican countryside.

The tour begins with a safety briefing to ensure all participants feel comfortable and confident on the water. Then it’s time to hit the river!

The rapids provide just enough excitement without overwhelming those new to rafting. Take the breathtaking scenery along the way – towering cliffs and lush greenery surround you at every turn. There are even opportunities to jump off rocks into deep pools of crystal-clear water!

Surrealist Garden Tour in Xilitla and Sotano de las Huahuas

🕒 10 hours
💲$73 USD

The full-day cultural tour includes a visit to the surrealistic sculpture garden in Xilitla and the Sotano de las Huahuas cave in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Ciudad Valles and transportation to the two locations.

The first stop on this tour takes you to the heart of Xilitla where you’ll discover Sir Edward James’ surrealistic sculpture gardens. The garden is filled with towering structures, twisted vines, and cascading waterfalls that are guaranteed to transport you to another world.

Next up is a visit to Sótano de las Huahuas where you’ll descend into an underground cave system filled with spectacular rock formations and crystal-clear pools of water.

Minas Viejas Waterfall and Micos Waterfalls Tour

🕒 10 hours
💲$73 USD

This full-day adventure includes visits to Minas Viejas Waterfall and Micos Waterfalls in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Ciudad Valles and transportation to the two locations.

You can swim in the crystal-clear pools at both waterfalls and explore the surrounding natural beauty. The tour also includes an experienced guide who will provide information about the history and culture of the region.

Cascada el Salto and Cascada el Meco Tour

🕒 10 hours
💲$73 USD

This half-day adventure includes visits to Cascada El Salto and Cascada El Meco in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Ciudad Valles and transportation to the two locations.

You can swim in the refreshing pools at both waterfalls and explore the surrounding natural beauty. The tour also includes an experienced guide who will provide information about the history and culture of the region.

Puente de Dios and Tamasopo Waterfalls

🕒 10 hours
💲$73 USD

The tour offered by Viator is a full-day private tour that includes visits to Puente de Dios and Tamasopo Waterfalls in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. The tour includes private transportation to and from your hotel in San Luis Potosi and the two locations.

You can swim in the natural pools at both waterfalls and explore the surrounding natural beauty. The tour also includes an experienced private guide who will provide information about the history and culture of the region.

💡 Huasteca Potosina fun facts

Huasteca Potosina is a beautiful region in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, known for its stunning natural beauty, unique cultural heritage, and adventurous activities. Here are some fun facts about Huasteca Potosina:

• The region is home to several indigenous communities, including the Huasteca people, who have lived there for thousands of years. They have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their traditional music, dance, and handicrafts.
• Huasteca Potosina is famous for its waterfalls, which can be found throughout the region. Some of the most popular waterfalls include Tamul, Tamasopo, and Micos.
• The region is home to several unique geological formations, including the Puente de Dios, a natural bridge formed by a river flowing through a cave.
• The Huasteca Potosina region has a tropical climate, which makes it an excellent destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and swimming.
• The region is also known for its delicious food, which includes dishes such as enchiladas potosinas, gorditas, and barbacoa.
• The Huasteca Potosina region has been used as a filming location for several movies, including the James Bond film, “Quantum of Solace.”
• The area is home to several protected natural areas, including the Sierra de San Miguelito National Park, home to various endemic plant and animal species.
• The Huasteca Potosina region is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, including the Feria Nacional del Huapango, which celebrates traditional Mexican music and dance.
• The region is home to several archaeological sites, including Tamtoc, once a major cultural center of the Huasteca civilization.
• The Huasteca Potosina region is an excellent destination for ecotourism, with many opportunities for sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.

✨ Huasteca Potosina travel tips

Best time to visit Huasteca Potosina Mexico

I was disappointed when I arrived in Xilitla and it was raining! I thought the rain would subside once I start driving towards Ciudad Valles but no – it rained at leat 3 hours of the day.

I did not time this Huasteca Potosina Mexico road trip very well and I did not research about the weather before hand. I still pushed through visiting the waterfalls even if it was raining, except for one day that the rain was so hard, I had to stay in bed.

I did this road trip at the end of January to the beginning of February, and guess what? That’s apparently one of the best times to visit Huasteca Potosina! Some friends of mine did this road trip around April, and they said that the waterfalls were dry and they didn’t see any waterfalls.

Huasteca Potosina is better with a bit of rain because the waterfalls, obviously, need water. I am so glad that I did it in a semi-rainy season but I did not bring a raincoat. I wasn’t expecting this road trip to be wet!

Huasteca Potosina travel budget

All tours in Huasteca Potosina Mexico costs $75 USD so if you are visiting 5 waterfalls/places, it will cost $375 USD. I drove to all the waterfalls and only paid about $5 USD per visit (entrance fee and parking).

DIY is way way cheaper but of course, you have to get to the waterfalls on your own, which can be challenging if you don’t speak Spanish. These destinations are remote and asking directions in English will be a challenge.

Should you follow Google Maps?

Yes, Google maps are reliable during Huasteca Potosina road trip except for Tamul Waterfalls which got confusing. You have to go to La Morena, a small town in Huasteca Potosina.

You will pass through a town and keep driving til you see the elementary school at the end. From there, you will see a sign that says La Morena (turn right).

How many days do I need in Huasteca Potosina Mexico?

The days you need to spend in Huasteca Potosina depend on your interests and the activities you wish to do. For a comprehensive experience, a minimum of 3 to 5 days is recommended.

This will give you enough time to explore the main attractions, such as the Tamul Waterfall, Xilitla’s Las Pozas (Edward James Surrealist Garden), the Sótano de las Golondrinas (Cave of Swallows), and the Tamasopo and Micos waterfalls.

However, if you want a more relaxed pace or to participate in additional activities like hiking, rafting, or canyoning, you may want to spend a week or more in the region. Ultimately, the time you choose to spend in Huasteca Potosina will depend on your personal preferences and the goals for your trip.