Mexico is full of breathtaking natural destinations, but La Huasteca Potosina remains one of its best-kept secrets. If you love waterfalls, natural pools, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, this is the road trip for you! On our recent La Huasteca Potosina road trip from Monterrey, my best friends and I embarked on an unforgettable journey exploring hidden waterfalls, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and tasting the region’s best food. We spent three nights in this magical place, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in its natural beauty. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own trip!

What to Bring

Before hitting the road, make sure you pack:

• Water shoes – Many waterfalls have rocky or slippery surfaces.
• Quick-dry clothes – You’ll be in and out of the water all day!
• Waterproof phone case – Protect your device while swimming.
• Snorkeling gear (optional) – Some places offer rentals, but it’s best to bring your own.
• Dry bag – Keep valuables safe and dry.
• Cash – Some places don’t accept cards, and you’ll need cash for local guides.
• Bug spray & sunscreen – The jungle setting means mosquitos, and you’ll need protection from the sun.

How to Get There & How Long to Spend

The best way to explore La Huasteca Potosina is by car. From Monterrey, it’s about 6-7 hours to Ciudad Valles, the main hub for the region. We spent three nights, which gave us enough time to visit multiple waterfalls, caves, and scenic spots at a relaxed pace. Plan to spend at least 3-5 days here to fully experience the waterfalls, caves, and stunning landscapes.

• From Monterrey: 6-7 hours by car
• From Mexico City: 8-9 hours by car or a flight to Tampico, then a 3-hour drive
• From San Luis Potosí City: 4 hours by car

Public transportation is limited, so renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.

Top 10 Must-See Spots in La Huasteca Potosina

1. Media Luna Lagoon – A natural spring perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and hammock naps by the river.
2. Puente de Dios – A hidden paradise with turquoise pools, waterfalls, and cave explorations guided by locals.
3. Cascadas de Micos – Cliff jumping, swimming, and hiking inside a stunning waterfall system.
4. Tamul Waterfall – The region’s most famous waterfall, accessible via boat or kayak.
5. Cueva del Agua – A cenote-like cave with surreal blue water, ideal for swimming.
6. El Salto Waterfall – A towering waterfall that dries up in the winter but is breathtaking in the rainy season.
7. Tamasopo Waterfalls – A family-friendly waterfall park with easy swimming areas.
8. Sótano de las Golondrinas – A massive sinkhole where thousands of birds fly out at dawn.
9. Xilitla & Edward James Surrealist Garden – A magical sculpture park hidden in the jungle.
10. Cascada El Aguacate – A less-visited waterfall with stunning scenery and clear swimming pools.

Unique Foods to Try in La Huasteca Potosina

After a day of adventure, refuel with these regional specialties:

1. Enchiladas Potosinas – Corn tortillas filled with chile-infused masa and cheese, served with crema and beans.
2. Entomatadas Potosinas with Cecina – My personal favorite! Like enchiladas but covered in a tomato sauce and served with salted beef (cecina).
3. Zacahuil – A huge tamale made with pork or chicken, wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked overnight.
4. Bocoles – Small, thick corn patties stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat.
5. Atole de Guayaba – A warm, sweet guava-based drink, perfect for cooler evenings.

Our Road Trip Adventure: Highlights & Hidden Gems

Snorkeling & Hammock Time at Media Luna

Our first stop was Media Luna Lagoon, a spring-fed lagoon with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. We spent the afternoon floating through the water, relaxing in hammocks by the river, and even saw some people scuba diving! If you’re interested, you can rent diving equipment here.

Exploring Hidden Waterfalls at Puente de Dios

The next day, we joined a local guide at Puente de Dios, and it was worth every peso! He took us through hidden waterfalls, caves, and even natural water slides. Swimming inside the caves was an unforgettable experience, and we got to explore spots we never would have found on our own.

Swimming & Cliff Jumping at Cascadas de Micos

Our last big adventure was Cascadas de Micos, where we hiked, swam, and cliff-jumped into deep pools. This place was perfect for families—there were lots of shallow areas for kids and deeper spots for thrill-seekers. The whole experience felt like a natural water park!

The Perfect End to Our Trip

After a full day of adventure, we finished with a delicious plate of entomatadas potosinas with cecina. Since I don’t eat spicy food, this was the perfect mild dish. The combination of soft tortillas, tomato sauce, and salted beef was the best way to end our three-night getaway.

Essential Spanish Phrases for Your Visit

While many tour guides speak English, knowing a few Spanish phrases will enhance your trip:

• “¿Cuánto cuesta?” – How much does it cost?
• “¿Dónde está…?” – Where is…?
• “¿Hay una ruta fácil?” – Is there an easy trail?
• “¿Está abierto?” – Is it open?
• “Gracias por su ayuda.” – Thank you for your help.
• “¡Qué bonito lugar!” – What a beautiful place!

Final Tips for Your La Huasteca Potosina Road Trip

• Best time to visit: June to October for waterfalls at their fullest, but the region is stunning year-round.
• Costs: Most waterfall entrances cost $50-$100 MXN ($3-$6 USD), and guided tours range from $200-$600 MXN ($12-$35 USD).
• Where to stay: Base yourself in Ciudad Valles, which has many hotels and Airbnbs.
• How much time to allow: At least 3-5 days, but three nights is a great starting point for a relaxed trip.
• Walking distances: Many sites require short hikes (5-30 minutes), but some, like Tamul Waterfall, need a boat ride to access.

If you love adventure, swimming, and hidden natural gems, La Huasteca Potosina is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re snorkeling in Media Luna, exploring caves at Puente de Dios, or cliff jumping at Cascadas de Micos, you’ll leave with incredible memories. So grab your best friends, pack your bags, and hit the road for Mexico’s ultimate water adventure!

Book your trip today and experience the magic of Mexico’s most captivating destinations. With our concierge service handling all the details, you can relax and enjoy the adventure.

Explore more of Mexico by checking out my previous blogs! A Guide to Exploring La Sierra Gorda, Querétaro: Unique Spots, Food, and Culture