• About
  • Blog
  • Destinations
    • Mexico City
    • Baja California
    • Chihuahua
    • Chiapas
    • Copper Canyon
    • Guadalajara
    • Guanajuato
    • Huasteca Potosina
    • Merida
    • Monterrey
    • Morelia
    • Quintana Roo
    • Oaxaca
    • San Miguel de Allende
    • Tequila
    • Tulum
    • Valladolid
    • Veracruz
  • Mexico

  • Culture
    • Best Mexican Foods
    • Best Mexican Movies
    • Best Books about Mexico
    • Mexican Artists
    • Mexico Fun Facts
    • Mexico Historical Facts
    • Mexican Holidays
    • Pueblos Mágicos in Mexico
  • Nature
    • Beaches and Islands
    • Cenotes
    • Hot Springs
    • Mayan Ruins
    • Mountains and Valleys
    • Waterfalls
    • Wildlife Experiences
  • Itineraries
    • 5-Day Mexico City Itinerary
    • 10-Day Baja California Road Trip
    • 10-Day Chiapas Road Trip
    • 10-Day Copper Canyon by Train
    • 10-Day Guanajuato Road Trip
    • 10-Day Yucatan Road Trip
    • 10-Day Oaxaca Road Trip

Mexico

San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

10 Stunning San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

April 18, 2024

Huasteca Potosina is well-known in Mexico for its milky blue waterfalls and natural swimming holes. Here’s our pick of the best San Luis Potosi waterfalls to visit.

If there’s one thing that San Luis Potosi is famous for, it’s the waterfalls — dreamy cascades with milky blue natural pools and aquamarine running streams, surrounded by lush sub-tropical rainforests. The waterfalls in this northeastern state of Mexico look absolutely out of this world, so rich in their turquoise hue because of the high calcium content in the surrounding rocks.

Most of these waterfalls are concentrated in the sub-region of La Huasteca Potosina, a lush and naturally stunning region studded with vast caves, swimming holes and wild jungle. In recent years, it’s developed into an adventure hub, where you can go hiking, whitewater rafting, canyoning or ziplining. It’s gained popularity amongst Mexicans, but it has surprisingly remained a secret outside of Mexico.

coolest waterfalls in san luis potosi - huasteca potosi waterfalls


Table of Contents

  • San Luis Potosi Waterfalls
    • How To Get to Huasteca Potosina
    • How to Get around Huasteca Potosina
    • San Luis Potosi Waterfalls Map
  • 10 Best San Luis Potosi Waterfalls
    • 1. Cascada Salto del Agua (el Naranjo)
    • 2. Salto del Meco
    • 3. Cascadas de Minas Viejas
    • 4. Cascada Tamul
      • How to Get to Cascada Tamul:
        • Option 1: Hiking to the Base of the Falls
        • Option 2: Taking a Boat to the Falls
    • 5. Cascadas de Micos 
    • 6. Cascada el Aguacate
    • 7. Cascadas de Tamasopo 
    • 8. Puente de Dios
    • 9. Los Comales
    • 10. Laguna Media Luna
    • My 10-Day Huasteca Potosina Itinerary
    • Rules for San Luis Potosi Waterfalls
    • What to Pack for San luis Potosi Waterfalls
      • Packing List for San Luis Potosi Waterfalls
    • Tips for Visiting San Luis Potosi Waterfalls
    • Enjoy Your Trip to San Luis Potosi!

San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

The state of San Luis Potosi is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Mexico, and they range from dramatic cataracts to mystical drops and spurts. On our recent road trip in Huasteca Potosina, we tried to visit as many waterfalls as we could in 10 days and have handpicked the 10 most beautiful San Luis Potosi waterfalls here for you!

How To Get to Huasteca Potosina

This is the tricky part – there are no airports in Huasteca Potosina. The nearest airports are in San Luis Potosi and Tampico, which are still a few hours’ drive away. Both airports serve mainly other cities in Mexico and a few destinations in the US. I recommend renting a car from these airports to get around Huasteca Potosina.

  • San Luis Potosi International Airport (SLP) – located in San Luis Potosi city, this airport mainly receives flights from within Mexico and a few cities in the US. It is approximately a 4-hour drive to Ciudad Valles. You can rent cars from the usual agencies at the airport.
  • Tampico International Airport (TAM) – located in the neighboring state of Tamaulipas, this airport is actually closer to Ciudad Valles than San Luis Potosi Airport. It’s a 2.5-hour to drive to Ciudad Valles, and the airport has all the usual car rental options too.

Welcome! I’m Nellie — a travel writer, book author, and worldschooling mum. Since moving to Mexico in 2021, I’ve been sharing my secret haunts, favorite towns, and the many things that make Mexico so special on this blog. Read about me here.

san luis potosi waterfalls - salto del agua


How to Get around Huasteca Potosina

The best way to explore la Huasteca Potosi and see the best San Luis Potosi waterfalls is by renting a car. The Huasteca Potosina region is so remote that public transport is very limited in the area. Renting a car will get you out to the rugged countryside and explore a few waterfalls in one day.

For all my car rentals in Mexico, I always book with Discover Cars as they offer the best prices and excellent customer service. An economy rental car with pickup/dropoff at San Luis Potosi Airport costs only $150 for a whole week, which is less than $21 a day. You will need to pay extra for insurance and add-ons, but that’s a really decent price to pay.

Check Car Rental Prices

san luis potosi waterfalls - salto del meco


San Luis Potosi Waterfalls Map

I’ve pinned this list of San Luis Potosi waterfalls on this map:

How to use this map: Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations, then click on the locations to display further information. To open a larger version in a new tab, click on the top right corner of the map. Star the map to save it to your own Google Maps.


10 Best San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

1. Cascada Salto del Agua (el Naranjo)

With several cascades tumbling 60m into a series of travertine natural pools, Salto del Agua is my absolute favorite San Luis Potosi waterfalls. Because of its remote location, it’s one of the least-developed waterfalls in Huasteca Potosina. You won’t find Tarzan swings, jumping boards and lifeguards here, but you will have the place to yourself. 

Even though it’s a short 15-minute drive from the more popular Salto del Meco (read next), Salto del Agua was surprisingly empty when we were there. We visited Huasteca Potosina at one of the most important Mexican holidays, Semana Santa (Easter), and found many falls rather crowded – Salto del Agua was the only falls we had all to ourselves.

Note: Salto del Agua doesn’t flow all year round. In winter, it is diverted into the hydroelectric plant next door; but you’ll still be able to swim in the natural pools surrounding it. 

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-5pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 30 MXN (US$2) to enter, life jackets are mandatory and available for 50 MXN (US$3) to rent
  • How to Visit: Stay in El Naranjo and drive 15 mins here OR book a day tour here
San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

2. Salto del Meco

The 35m high Salto del Meco is a postcard-perfect waterfall located close to the town of El Naranjo. You can’t really swim in the falls, but you can take a panga (wooden boat) and get close to the falls. Catch a boat from the Sundial hotel, to get as close as possible to the falls.

See also  20 Natural Wonders of Mexico

Travel Insurance for Frequent Travelers

We’ve been using Safety Wing for years now, and it’s one of the best decisions we’ve made as digital nomads. Their Nomad Insurance plan is affordable and provides solid coverage for medical emergencies regardless of where we’re traveling. 

The best spot for panoramic views of the hotel is from the mirador (viewpoint) perched along the road to El Naranjo. For even better views, I recommend staying at Hotel Salto del Meco (like we did), with bungalows and an infinity pool overlooking the cerulean waters.

The hotel organizes activities such as a panga boat ride (free for guests), tubing, SUP rental and canyoning. It’s not cheap to stay here (at US$244/night) – but it was well worth it for the spectacular location. 

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 7am-4pm 
  • Entrance Fee: Free entrance 
  • How to Visit: Stay in Hotel Salto del Meco OR book a day tour here
san luis potosi waterfalls - salto del meco

3. Cascadas de Minas Viejas

Enroute from Ciudad Valles to El Naranjo, we made a stop at the Cascadas de Minas Viejas and were blown away by the sheer scale of it. Two cascades plunge from over 50 metres high into a beautiful milky blue pool, which then flows into smaller pools. Minas Viejas is so magical, it’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mexico in our opinion.

We spent quite a few hours swimming through the falls and lounging on the green grass surrounding the running river. Here, you can also go rappelling down the falls with just a harness and ropes. Book your experience with HuaXteca.com.

Cascadas de Minas Viejas is rather developed, with food stalls, restaurants, shops and bathrooms along the path that leads to the falls. However development has been limited right around the falls, so they still retain their natural charm.

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 7am-6pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 70 MXN ($4.50) for entry and 30 MXN ($2) for parking 
  • How to Visit: Stay in El Naranjo and drive 30 minutes here OR book a day tour here
san luis potosi waterfalls - minas viejas

4. Cascada Tamul

Cascading down an impressive drop of 100m (330 feet), this curtain of waterfalls is the tallest and most impressive of all the San Luis Potosi waterfalls. We also named it one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mexico. Sadly, when we were there, Tamul wasn’t flowing as it was diverted to irrigate the fields nearby. That said, even when the falls are not flowing, we could still take the boat trip and swim in the nearby cenote and surrounding river.

What makes Cascada Tamul so special is the level of difficulty to reach this phenomenal waterfall. You can’t just park and walk there. You either hike to the base of the falls or take a lancha boat upriver to get close to it. Booking a tour might be a good idea for those without transport.

Note: Cascada Tamul doesn’t flow all year round. At the time of our visit (April 2024), it was diverted to irrigate agricultural lands. Be sure to check with your hotel before planning your trip.

huasteca potosina waterfalls - cascada tamul

How to Get to Cascada Tamul:

Option 1: Hiking to the Base of the Falls

It’s mandatory to hire a local guide from the town of El Naranjito to hike to the falls. Once you’ve arranged your tour, you’ll need to drive the bumpy road to the trail, with your guide in the lead. The road is terrible, but you should be able to make it on a normal sedan – just go real slow! 

Park your car at Campamento Tamul and follow your guide to the trail. It takes around 20 minbutes to hike to the lookout point where you can admire the falls from the top. You can then continue down all the way to the river to see the falls from a different angle. Warning: this part of the trail requires you to climb backwards down a rickety ladder or a series of steps. It’s quite steep and nervewrecking, but the views from the base of the falls are spectacular!

san luis potosi waterfalls - cascada tamul

Option 2: Taking a Boat to the Falls

The more popular way to get to Tamul is by taking a boat to the falls. This tour for example brings you on a lancha boat close to the falls. You can also drive to where the boats leave – the ’embarcadero’ or pier at La Morena – and join a boat. The boat tours cost 1,000 MXN (US$60) for a group of 5 or 250 MXN ($15) per person if you wait for the boat to fill up.

You’ll need to help paddle and it takes around 1 hour to reach the falls. However, you don’t get super close to the falls as a large rock in the river prevents boats from getting closer. These boat tours usually bring you to a nearby cenote where you’ll get to swim.

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 7am-6pm 
  • Entrance Fee: No entry fee, but the boat tours are about 250 MXN per person ($15 USD) and the hike is about 1,000 MXN (US$60) for a group of 5 
  • How to Visit: Stay in Ciudad Valles and drive 1 hour here OR book a day tour

5. Cascadas de Micos 

Cascadas de Micos are the closest waterfalls to Ciudad Valles and  – as you’d expect – one of the most popular waterfalls in Huasteca Potosina. Sprawling across 1km of the Micos River, Cascadas de Micos is a string of seven small falls and natural pools. The falls aren’t exactly impressive as they’re rather small, but there are a few adventure activities you can do here that make Micos one of the most adventurous and fun waterfalls in San Luis Potosi.

Adventureland Micos offers ziplining tours that will whisk you high above the falls and through the rainforest surrounding the falls. Its newest attraction is Skybiking, where you can bike across the river on cables, with fantastic views of the falls from above. You can choose from various packages, with prices starting from 700 MXN (US$41) for basic ziplining to 1,050 MXN ($62) to do skybiking, ziplining and a walk along the hanging bridge. We did the complete package and had a blast!

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 7am-4pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 30 MXN (US$2) to get in, but the boat tours are about $250 pesos per person ($15 USD)
  • How to Visit: Stay in Ciudad Valles and drive 30 minutes here OR book a day trip here
See also  Huasteca Potosina Travel Guide 2025
skybiking san luis potosi waterfalls -

6. Cascada el Aguacate

Approximately a 45-min drive from Cascadas Micos, el Aguacate is lodged deep in the rural countryside and far from civilization. As the second-highest waterfall in San Luis Potosi, el Aguacate is a single cascade that falls from a height of 70m. It’s a long walk down the steps from the restaurant to the falls, but it’s well worth the trek.

The beautiful azul waters tumble from the falls into a natural pool and splits into several streams. There’s a boardwalk that leads over the water and over the river and natural pools. The water in this place is cold because it originates from Tamasopo, but it makes for a refreshing dip in the sizzling heat. 

Despite its rural location, this waterfall has a surprisingly good restaurant with excellent food and drinks (try their fresada, a strawberry-flavored piña colada mocktail). There are also Instagram-worthy swings and birds’ nests where you can snap photos in!

TIP: We stayed at a beautiful log cabin near this waterfall and highly recommend it! There aren’t many restaurants or amenities in the village, but the log cabin is comfortable and great for a night’s stay.

  • Location: Google Maps (1h10m from Ciudad Valles)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 9am-6pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 70 MXN (US$4) for entry and includes parking
  • How to Visit: Stay in this Airbnb and drive 10 minutes
san luis potosi waterfalls - cascada el aguacate

7. Cascadas de Tamasopo 

Cascadas de Tamasopo is one of the most developed waterfalls in Huasteca Potosina, having been transformed into a waterpark of sorts. It has three impressive waterfalls and several natural pools and swimming holes, equipped with Tarzan swings, jumping boards and lifeguards. Kids can even challenge themselves to the obstacle courses that hang over the turquoise waters. 

It sprawls across a big area, with plenty of restaurants, bars and shops selling waterproof cases, floaties, and swim gear. There are many picnic tables and green spaces, as well as sun loungers perfect for lying out under the sun. Plan to spend the whole day here, as there’s so much to do! We had a great time jumping off the platforms and swimming under the falls here. This is my daughter’s favorite San Luis Potosi waterfalls.

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-6.30pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 160 MXN (US$10) to get in, and 100 MXN (US$6) for parking.
  • How to Visit: Stay in Ciudad Valles and drive 1 hour here OR book a day tour
san luis potosi waterfalls - cascada tamasopo

8. Puente de Dios

Just a short 15-minute drive from Cascadas de Tamasopo is Puente de Dios, a favorite among the daredevils. Translated to mean ‘Bridge of God’, the waterfall is accessible via a steep descent down hundreds of steps into a rugged canyon.  It’s made up of a series of small rapids and falls surrounding a big 20m-deep natural pool filled with indigo water – but the star of the show is the cavern that’s you can swim in. 

The electric-blue water is crystal clear, and you can see the stalagmites in the cave floor as you swim around them, as well as the stalactites that hang from the ceiling. It reminds me of the cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula! You can actually swim through the cave to the other side, where you’ll find some calmer spots to swim in.

The current in the pool itself is really strong and the use of a life jacket is mandatory. There are life jackets for rent at the carpark. There are also ropes so you can hold on and lifeguards watching over the area. The ground is very slippery so I recommend wearing water shoes. 

  • Location: Google Maps (1h15m from Ciudad Valles)
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-5.30pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 100 MXN (US$6) for entry and 40 MXN (US$4) for parking
  • How to Visit: Stay in Ciudad Valles and drive 1 hour here OR book a day tour
waterfalls in huasteca potosina - puente de dios

9. Los Comales

Located in the town of Xilitla, Los Comales is far from being the most impressive waterfalls in Huasteca Potosina but since it’s right next to the famous Edward James’ Sculpture Garden, it’s worth a visit if you’re in the area. The surrealist garden designed by British poet and artist, Edward James, is a must-see in Huasteca Potosina. 

Blending naturally into the forest, his home is a unique sculptural space unlike any other in the world: Columns with gothic arches, dramatic gates, pavilions with undetermined levels and spiral staircases that end abruptly in mid-air. In short, Edward James made concrete flourish along the lush flora and fauna of Xilitla, making surrealist architecture possible. 

Los Comales falls are at their most impressive from June to August, though it was pretty powerful when we visited in April. The pool at the base of the falls is shallow, and makes for a refreshing place to dip in after a visit to the gardens. It’s a short and beautiful walk through the rainforest to get to the falls. 

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-5pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 75 MXN (US$4.50) to enter and 50 MXN (US$3) for carpark
  • How to Visit: Stay in Xilitla and drive 10 mins here
san luis potosi waterfalls - los comales

10. Laguna Media Luna

Located in the town of Rio Verde, Laguna Media Luna is a protected natural area and lagoon. Its name translates to mean “Half Moon Lagoon”, thanks to the crescent shape of the lagoon. Technically it’s not a waterfall, but it’s one of the best spots for swimming in San Luis Potosi.

See also  Hierve el Agua: Oaxaca Waterfalls Guide 2025

The surreal, mint-green colored lagoon is fed by six thermal springs with temperatures ranging between an appealing 27°C and 30°C (80.6°F and 86°F). The water is so crystal clear that visibility reaches all the way to 30m deep, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving. 

Besides its natural beauty, Laguna Media Luna also holds some historical value. The remains of two mammoths can be seen on the river bed. They have been immaculately preserved by the alkaline water in the lagoon which is of karst origin. At the beginning of the 1970s, a group of archaeologists and divers rescues hundreds of idols and vessels from the bottom of the lagoon, originating from pre-Hispanic cultures.

  • Location: Google Maps 
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-5pm 
  • Entrance Fee: 100 MXN (US$6) to enter and 50 MXN (US$3) for carpark
  • How to Visit: Stay in Rio Verde and drive 30 mins here
san luis potosi waterfalls - laguna media luna


My 10-Day Huasteca Potosina Itinerary

One of the challenges we faced when planning our Huasteca Potosina trip, was figuring where each waterfall was and which to visit first. To make things easier for you, I’m sharing our Huasteca Potosina itinerary below. Feel free to bookmark this article or print it out and refer to it during your trip!

Basically, there are three main towns in Huasteca Potosina that you can use as your base – Xilitla, Ciudad Valles and El Naranjo. I recommend spending the first two days in Xilitla, the next 4 days in Ciudad Valles, and the last 3 days in El Naranjo. From these bases, you can easily drive to the various waterfalls named below.

  • Day 1: Explore Xilitla
  • Day 2: See Edward James Gardens + Museums
  • Day 3: Drive to Ciudad Valles (stop at Sotano de las Golondrinas)
  • Day 4: Cascada Micos + Cascada El Aguacate + Selva Teenak
  • Day 5: Cascada Tamul
  • Day 6: Cascada Tamasopo + Puente de Dios
  • Day 7: Drive to El Naranjo
  • Day 8: Salto del Meco
  • Day 9: Salto del Agua 
  • Day 10: Drive to San Luis Potosi
san luis potosi waterfalls - driving to san luis potosi


Rules for San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

Most San Luis Potosi waterfalls are privately owned by ejidos (farm land owners) and therefore have different rules and entrance fees. But these rules apply to most waterfalls in general:

  • Smoking is not allowed anywhere near the waterfalls.
  • Stay within the designated areas.
  • You can climb and jump off from platforms only if there are signs indicating that it’s ok.
  • Do not litter.
  • Pets are not allowed (except in Cascada Tamasopo)
  • Carry sunscreen, preferably biodegradable.
  • Bring repellent, there are a lot of mosquitoes especially in the evening.
san luis potosi waterfalls -  jumping off the falls


What to Pack for San luis Potosi Waterfalls

Most of these San Luis Potosi waterfalls have slippery surfaces so you’ll NEED water shoes. If you don’t have water shoes, sandals or KEEN shoes will suffice. I wore my Teva sandals inside the falls and to climb up to the jumping platforms.

You’ll also need a waterproof phone holder if you’re planning to take photos. I bought one for 100 MXN (US$6) in one of the shops at Cascadas Tamasopo, but it’s not the best quality.

Be sure to read my guide on what to pack for Mexico for more details.


Packing List for San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

  • Bathing suit
  • Microfiber quick-dry towel
  • Water shoes
  • Waterproof sun hat
  • Breathable, quick dry t-shirts
  • Hiking pants
  • Light jacket
  • Hiking shoes
  • Waterproof dry bag
  • Waterproof phone holder
  • Reef safe sunscreen
  • DEET bug spray
  • GoPro & charger
  • Power bank
  • Book or Kindle
san luis potosi waterfalls - water gear


Tips for Visiting San Luis Potosi Waterfalls

If you’re going to one of these waterfalls in Mexico, here’s a list of tips you should follow to have the best experience on your adventure:

  • Respect the rules —  Always make sure to read the rules at the park entrance, whether that is wearing a floating vest all the time, not diving, or not climbing certain places. All of it is for your own safety.
  • Prepare to climb lots of steps — Most of the waterfalls are accessible via hundreds of steps, so get ready for a workout!
  • Wear sunscreen —  Apply some sunscreen before your adventure and again after you’ve been swimming or practicing any kind of water activity. You don’t want to end up sunburnt the next day, trust me, it could ruin your vacation!
  • Drink enough water —  A nice swim may freshen you up after the long hike some of these waterfall sites need you to do to get to them, but don’t forget to bring your own water bottle and drink enough so you don’t dehydrate.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings —  There are no security cameras or anything in these waterfalls. Keep an eye on your belongings and try not to bring anything valuable.
san luis potosi waterfalls - steps to the falls

Enjoy Your Trip to San Luis Potosi!

Thank you for reading this far! I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the best San Luis Potosi waterfalls. There’s an impressive amount of waterfalls in Huasteca Potosina, and you’ll need a lifetime to see them all. By narrowing them down to the 10 most impressive falls, I hope I’ve saved you some time and helped you plan an epic trip to Huasteca Potosina.

Which of these Huasteca Potosina waterfalls have you been? Let me know if you have any questions in the comments field below. I’ll be more than happy to answer them!

For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out some of these articles:

  • Huasteca Potosina Travel Guide
  • 10 Best Waterfalls in Mexico
  • 10 Best Hot Springs in Mexico
  • 20 Natural Wonders of Mexico
  • Hierve el Agua: Oaxaca Waterfalls
  • How to Visit la Gruta San Miguel de Allende
  • 30 Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende
  • 30 Fun Things to Do in Guanajuato
  • 5 Days in Mexico City Itinerary

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!


Inspired? Pin it!

san luis potosi waterfalls - huasteca potosina waterfalls
0 Comments
Share
Nellie Huang

Nellie is a book author, travel blogger and worldschooling mum. Having traveled to over 150 countries, she currently lives in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, with her digital nomad family. She started this Mexico travel blog to share her love for her adopted home. Read more about her and get real-time updates from her on Facebook and Instagram.

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

You May Also Like

January 31, 2024

20 Natural Wonders of Mexico

May 11, 2023

Hierve el Agua: Oaxaca Waterfalls Guide 2025

May 11, 2024

Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon Flight: All You Need to Know

Hi, I’m Nellie

A travel writer, Lonely Planet guidebook author and worldschooling mum. Living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, with my family since 2021. Read about me.

Current Location

Current Location

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

My Books

product_title_1

Lonely Planet Mexico

product_title_2

Lonely Planet Singapore

product_title_3

Explorers

product_title_4

Amsterdam Like a Local

product_title_5

The Adventure Traveler's Handbook

Recent Posts

  • Mexico City with Kids: My Guide to the Perfect Family Trip

    Mexico City with Kids: My Guide to the Perfect Family Trip

    March 27, 2025
  • Bacalar  Mexico: My Guide to Bacalar Lagoon

    Bacalar Mexico: My 2025 Guide to Bacalar Lagoon

    March 19, 2025
  • Driving in Mexico

    Driving in Mexico: All You Need to Know in 2025

    March 15, 2025
  • Staying at Casa Viva Troncones

    Staying at Casa Viva Troncones

    February 20, 2025
  • Day of the Dead in Mexico

    Day of the Dead in Mexico: The Ultimate Guide 2025

    October 21, 2024
@wildjunket
Nellie Huang | Adventure + Family Travel

@wildjunket

✈️ Travel writer & @lonelyplanet author 🌎 Sharing all about digital nomad family travel 🗺️Visited 150 countries 📍 Singaporean in Mexico 🇲🇽
  • 💌 Send this to another parent or save it as reminder to why you need to book that trip!

Did you know your family adventures are literally building your child’s brain? The science behind travel’s impact on development is fascinating! 🧠

I’ve seen these incredible benefits firsthand on Kaleya (who’s already 10 and have traveled to 60 countries) — she’s incredibly adaptable, creative, and has a deep interest in learning. She’s a great problem-solver and likes to challenge herself.

‼️Pssst… You don’t have to fly to the other side of the world to travel! A day trip to the next town over, the beach 20 minutes away, or even a different ski slope creates the same brain-boosting benefits. It’s about NOVELTY! 

Have you noticed developmental leaps in your little ones after travel? Share below👇

*Comment STUDY if you’d like a link to the report from ISTC.

 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
  • 🇪🇸✨ Planning a summer trip to Spain with kids?

I lived in Spain for 7+ years (my husband is a Spaniard). Here are 10 tips to help your family to connect with local culture, and actually enjoy the heat, food, and fun — together. 

📚 1. Give your kids cultural context
Read books or watch fun YouTube videos about flamenco, Gaudí, castles, or even Real Madrid vs Barça ⚽ — so they feel excited and involved.

🏞️ 2. Prepare for the heat
Spain is experiencing a heat wave now, with temperatures above 46degC. Plan lots of pool time and downtime in the afternoons.

3. Trade tourist beaches for the mountains
Avoid packed coasts and head to the Pyrenees or Picos de Europa instead. 🏔️ Think hiking, rivers, cable cars, wildflowers — all cooler (literally and figuratively) and WAY less crowded.

⛺ 4. Try glamping or rural stays
Spain has amazing family-friendly glamping spots — think safari tents in the hills or cabins near rivers. 🌲 You’ll get nature, quiet nights, and kids can run wild without traffic or crowds.

🚂 5. Choose slower spots
Skip Barcelona and Madrid — they get ridiculously crowded in summer. Instead stay in small towns like Altea, Ronda, Cazorla, or Cadaqués. Easier to navigate, safer for kids, and rich in charm.

🌞 6. Embrace the pool + siesta combo
Book places with a pool 🏊‍♀️ and plan early outings. Siesta hours (2–5pm) are no joke — rest indoors, then head back out when the sun chills out.

📆 7. Check the local fiesta calendar
Spain = non-stop festivals. 🎉 Know what’s happening so you can either join the fun (like La Tomatina) or avoid being stuck in packed plazas with tired kids.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 8. Prep their taste buds early
Spanish food is incredible… but not always kid-approved at first glance. 🧄🍅 Serve tapas-style meals at home — like olives, tortilla, pan con tomate — so the flavors feel familiar when you arrive.

More tips in the comments section below. ⬇️
  • Lately I’ve received too many news of friends who have passed on way too early.

The truth is, we don’t get to choose how much time we have on Earth — but we can choose how we spend it. ⏳💛

🗺️ You don’t have to travel to make the most out of your life. This is just a reminder to do the things that light up your heart and spend time with the people you love. 

✨ Chase your dreams, NOW rather than later. Because life is too short to wait.

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #makeitcount
  • Argentina marks a milestone for us — it’s Kaleya’s 60th country visited! 🇦🇷

It’s been a truly special trip for the whole family. Alberto and I first traveled Argentina 17 years ago as part of a 5-month South America backpacking trip and we fell in love with the country’s food, culture and landscape. 🥩

We’ve wanted to bring Kaleya for years, so it’s extra special to come back together as a family. 

P.S. we don’t travel to collect passport stamps but we do like keeping track of where we’ve been as a way to reflect and see how far we’ve come. 📋

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
  • Life has a funny way of making you miss the present. I’m always looking ahead and dreaming up the next idea, planning the next move. Rarely do I stop to take it all in and reflect on all the things we’ve accomplished and goals we’ve hit. 🎯

Moving to Mexico was once a dream for us, a departure from our grey gloomy days in Europe. It changed the way our family live. We’re outside more, together more. We traded stuff for time and we live more intentionally. ✨

But it’s almost time to leave Mexico, so I’m making the most of our time here to soak it all in. This is a reminder to enjoy the moment and be grateful for where you are. Don’t let life pass you by. 

#livinginmexico #digitalnomadlifestyle #mexpats #lifeinmexico #familytravel
  • 🇻🇳 If you’re traveling Vietnam with kids, don’t miss this underrated gem — Ninh Binh is Vietnam’s inland Ha Long Bay (but without the crowds or chaos!).

📍Just 1.5–2 hours south of Hanoi by train, car, or bus — it’s super easy to reach and perfect for spending some time in nature. 

Here’s your kid-friendly guide to exploring this magical region:

🛶 Tam Cốc Boat Ride – Glide through rice paddies and under caves with towering limestone cliffs around you. Boats are rowed by locals using their feet! Kids LOVE this.

⛰️ Hang Múa Viewpoint – 500 steps up, but older kids can totally do it! You’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the rivers and karst peaks. Kaleya loved the lotus flower gardens. 🪷 

🦕 Trang An Grottoes –  This was where they filmed “Kong: Skull Island”. The UNESCO site feels like a scene out of Jurassic Park. Peaceful, scenic, and a big hit with curious little explorers.

🐐 Hoa Lư Ancient Capital – Teach kids a little Vietnamese history where emperors once ruled. Wide open spaces for them to roam and learn.

🦜Thung Nham Bird Garden – Great for nature-loving families. Spot flocks of birds at sunset and explore hidden caves along the way.

🛏️ Where to Stay – Family-friendly homestays in Tam Cốc with rice field views, bikes to borrow, and home-cooked meals. Perfect for downtime after adventures.

🛵 Bonus Tip – Rent a scooter to weave around the rice paddies. Our family of 3 fit nicely into one scooter. It was our daughter’s favorite experience! 

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling 
#familytravelvietnam #vietnamwithkids #digitalnomadfamily #worldschoolers
  • “Is Pakistan really safe to visit? Isn’t it irresponsible to bring your kid there?!” 

🇵🇰 Pakistan is a place I’d dreamt of traveling for years. I did the research and decided to finally visit with my family — and it turned out to be everything I’d imagined, and more.

📺 What you see on the news is never the whole picture — Pakistan is not a terrorist-filled war zone or a shell-shocked wasteland. 

🏔️ As we discovered, Pakistan is a country power–packed with mountains more impressive than anything I’ve seen elsewhere. Landscapes here are of truly epic proportions, framed by dramatic valleys, crackling glaciers and dreamy waterfalls. People are incredibly warm, welcoming and kind.

🕊️ There are still security issues in more remote areas of the country, such as Balochistan, KPK and the Tribal Areas, but many parts of Pakistan are considered safe for locals and foreigners alike.

So if you’re considering traveling Pakistan, take this as a sign to just GO! I highly recommend exploring with @hannanbalti, an experienced Gilgit guide who’s great with kids.

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling 
#travelpakistan #pakistanzindabad #visitpakistan #pakistandiaries #gilgitbaltistan #pakistanwithkids
  • Traveling well is something kids aren’t born how to do — even we adults had to learn how to travel! 🧳 It’s a skill just like learning to read or ride a bike. It takes time and practice to master.

Many moms tell me how lucky I am to have an easygoing kid who’s a great traveler. Truth is she’s had lots of practice! We’ve traveled with her since she was 5 months old and we haven’t stopped. 

I remember the days when she screamed her head off in the plane, refused to walk in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle and had a meltdown in a mosque. 😂 But we kept going and never gave up. 

The more we traveled, the better she got at traveling. She’s an incredible traveler now, always up for adventures and ready to try anything! So keep going, things will get easier!!! 

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
  • This was the craziest thing I’ve ever done. 🤪

When I traveled New Zealand, I knew I had to do this canyon swing or I would totally regret it! It was such an epic experience thanks to the ridiculously fun crew at @shotovercanyonswing! 

They made me laugh, calmed my nerves and kept me safe (You can still see the look of fear in my face thou)! YOLO!!! So glad I did it. 🏔️

When I showed my kid this video, she went “I wanna do it too!” ☺️ That’s my girl! 

👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 

Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #shotovercanyonswing #newzealand #newzealandtravel
View on Instagram
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
💌 Send this to another parent or save it as reminder to why you need to book that trip! Did you know your family adventures are literally building your child’s brain? The science behind travel’s impact on development is fascinating! 🧠 I’ve seen these incredible benefits firsthand on Kaleya (who’s already 10 and have traveled to 60 countries) — she’s incredibly adaptable, creative, and has a deep interest in learning. She’s a great problem-solver and likes to challenge herself. ‼️Pssst… You don’t have to fly to the other side of the world to travel! A day trip to the next town over, the beach 20 minutes away, or even a different ski slope creates the same brain-boosting benefits. It’s about NOVELTY! Have you noticed developmental leaps in your little ones after travel? Share below👇 *Comment STUDY if you’d like a link to the report from ISTC. Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
13 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
🇪🇸✨ Planning a summer trip to Spain with kids? I lived in Spain for 7+ years (my husband is a Spaniard). Here are 10 tips to help your family to connect with local culture, and actually enjoy the heat, food, and fun — together. 📚 1. Give your kids cultural context
Read books or watch fun YouTube videos about flamenco, Gaudí, castles, or even Real Madrid vs Barça ⚽ — so they feel excited and involved. 🏞️ 2. Prepare for the heat Spain is experiencing a heat wave now, with temperatures above 46degC. Plan lots of pool time and downtime in the afternoons. 3. Trade tourist beaches for the mountains
Avoid packed coasts and head to the Pyrenees or Picos de Europa instead. 🏔️ Think hiking, rivers, cable cars, wildflowers — all cooler (literally and figuratively) and WAY less crowded. ⛺ 4. Try glamping or rural stays
Spain has amazing family-friendly glamping spots — think safari tents in the hills or cabins near rivers. 🌲 You’ll get nature, quiet nights, and kids can run wild without traffic or crowds. 🚂 5. Choose slower spots
Skip Barcelona and Madrid — they get ridiculously crowded in summer. Instead stay in small towns like Altea, Ronda, Cazorla, or Cadaqués. Easier to navigate, safer for kids, and rich in charm. 🌞 6. Embrace the pool + siesta combo
Book places with a pool 🏊‍♀️ and plan early outings. Siesta hours (2–5pm) are no joke — rest indoors, then head back out when the sun chills out. 📆 7. Check the local fiesta calendar
Spain = non-stop festivals. 🎉 Know what’s happening so you can either join the fun (like La Tomatina) or avoid being stuck in packed plazas with tired kids. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 8. Prep their taste buds early
Spanish food is incredible… but not always kid-approved at first glance. 🧄🍅 Serve tapas-style meals at home — like olives, tortilla, pan con tomate — so the flavors feel familiar when you arrive. More tips in the comments section below. ⬇️
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
Lately I’ve received too many news of friends who have passed on way too early. The truth is, we don’t get to choose how much time we have on Earth — but we can choose how we spend it. ⏳💛 🗺️ You don’t have to travel to make the most out of your life. This is just a reminder to do the things that light up your heart and spend time with the people you love. ✨ Chase your dreams, NOW rather than later. Because life is too short to wait.
 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #makeitcount
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
Argentina marks a milestone for us — it’s Kaleya’s 60th country visited! 🇦🇷 It’s been a truly special trip for the whole family. Alberto and I first traveled Argentina 17 years ago as part of a 5-month South America backpacking trip and we fell in love with the country’s food, culture and landscape. 🥩 We’ve wanted to bring Kaleya for years, so it’s extra special to come back together as a family. P.S. we don’t travel to collect passport stamps but we do like keeping track of where we’ve been as a way to reflect and see how far we’ve come. 📋 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
Life has a funny way of making you miss the present. I’m always looking ahead and dreaming up the next idea, planning the next move. Rarely do I stop to take it all in and reflect on all the things we’ve accomplished and goals we’ve hit. 🎯 Moving to Mexico was once a dream for us, a departure from our grey gloomy days in Europe. It changed the way our family live. We’re outside more, together more. We traded stuff for time and we live more intentionally. ✨ But it’s almost time to leave Mexico, so I’m making the most of our time here to soak it all in. This is a reminder to enjoy the moment and be grateful for where you are. Don’t let life pass you by. #livinginmexico #digitalnomadlifestyle #mexpats #lifeinmexico #familytravel
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
🇻🇳 If you’re traveling Vietnam with kids, don’t miss this underrated gem — Ninh Binh is Vietnam’s inland Ha Long Bay (but without the crowds or chaos!). 📍Just 1.5–2 hours south of Hanoi by train, car, or bus — it’s super easy to reach and perfect for spending some time in nature. Here’s your kid-friendly guide to exploring this magical region: 🛶 Tam Cốc Boat Ride – Glide through rice paddies and under caves with towering limestone cliffs around you. Boats are rowed by locals using their feet! Kids LOVE this. ⛰️ Hang Múa Viewpoint – 500 steps up, but older kids can totally do it! You’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the rivers and karst peaks. Kaleya loved the lotus flower gardens. 🪷 🦕 Trang An Grottoes – This was where they filmed “Kong: Skull Island”. The UNESCO site feels like a scene out of Jurassic Park. Peaceful, scenic, and a big hit with curious little explorers. 🐐 Hoa Lư Ancient Capital – Teach kids a little Vietnamese history where emperors once ruled. Wide open spaces for them to roam and learn. 🦜Thung Nham Bird Garden – Great for nature-loving families. Spot flocks of birds at sunset and explore hidden caves along the way. 🛏️ Where to Stay – Family-friendly homestays in Tam Cốc with rice field views, bikes to borrow, and home-cooked meals. Perfect for downtime after adventures. 🛵 Bonus Tip – Rent a scooter to weave around the rice paddies. Our family of 3 fit nicely into one scooter. It was our daughter’s favorite experience! 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #familytravelvietnam #vietnamwithkids #digitalnomadfamily #worldschoolers
6 days ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
“Is Pakistan really safe to visit? Isn’t it irresponsible to bring your kid there?!” 🇵🇰 Pakistan is a place I’d dreamt of traveling for years. I did the research and decided to finally visit with my family — and it turned out to be everything I’d imagined, and more. 📺 What you see on the news is never the whole picture — Pakistan is not a terrorist-filled war zone or a shell-shocked wasteland. 🏔️ As we discovered, Pakistan is a country power–packed with mountains more impressive than anything I’ve seen elsewhere. Landscapes here are of truly epic proportions, framed by dramatic valleys, crackling glaciers and dreamy waterfalls. People are incredibly warm, welcoming and kind. 🕊️ There are still security issues in more remote areas of the country, such as Balochistan, KPK and the Tribal Areas, but many parts of Pakistan are considered safe for locals and foreigners alike. So if you’re considering traveling Pakistan, take this as a sign to just GO! I highly recommend exploring with @hannanbalti, an experienced Gilgit guide who’s great with kids. 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling #travelpakistan #pakistanzindabad #visitpakistan #pakistandiaries #gilgitbaltistan #pakistanwithkids
7 days ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
Traveling well is something kids aren’t born how to do — even we adults had to learn how to travel! 🧳 It’s a skill just like learning to read or ride a bike. It takes time and practice to master. Many moms tell me how lucky I am to have an easygoing kid who’s a great traveler. Truth is she’s had lots of practice! We’ve traveled with her since she was 5 months old and we haven’t stopped. I remember the days when she screamed her head off in the plane, refused to walk in the middle of the Costa Rican jungle and had a meltdown in a mosque. 😂 But we kept going and never gave up. The more we traveled, the better she got at traveling. She’s an incredible traveler now, always up for adventures and ready to try anything! So keep going, things will get easier!!! 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #adventurefamily #worldschooling
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
@wildjunket
@wildjunket
•
Follow
This was the craziest thing I’ve ever done. 🤪 When I traveled New Zealand, I knew I had to do this canyon swing or I would totally regret it! It was such an epic experience thanks to the ridiculously fun crew at @shotovercanyonswing! They made me laugh, calmed my nerves and kept me safe (You can still see the look of fear in my face thou)! YOLO!!! So glad I did it. 🏔️ When I showed my kid this video, she went “I wanna do it too!” ☺️ That’s my girl! 👋🏻 Hi! I’m Nellie, a travel writer and I share all I’ve learned about digital nomad family travel here. So glad you’re here! 🌏 Digital nomad family | traveling with kids | worldschooling | family travels | family adventures | digital nomad family travel #familytravel #travelwithkids #shotovercanyonswing #newzealand #newzealandtravel
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2025 Mexico. All Rights Reserved.Site Powered by Pix & Hue.