See one of the highest waterfalls near Palenque and swim in its large natural pool. Enjoy this great place to refresh yourself and appreciate nature.
The beautiful Misol-Ha Waterfalls (Cascadas de Misol-Ha) is an impressive single cascade about 115 feet (35 meters) high. Enjoy the sight of water falling dramatically off a cliff into a wide pool far below and swim surrounded by tropical jungle.
The water usually has a pleasant temperature and a nice blue color, due to its high mineral content. Swim in the calm swimming zone while enjoying the view of lush vegetation around you. If you are lucky, you may spot a howler monkey in the trees above your head. These amazing creatures are typical in the area and are famous for their loud howls, which can travel long distances through dense rainforest.
Go exploring. Find the main path that goes behind the cascade and marvel at being so close to a powerful waterfall. Enjoy the spectacular views and take some photos. Wear non-slip shoes for this walk, as it’s usually wet and slippery. At the end of the path is a dark rocky cave that you can explore. Pay a fee to get in, use one of the flashlights available and venture into the cave to discover another pool and a smaller but equally lovely waterfall. After swimming and exploring, have a tasty lunch in the restaurant near the parking lot. You’ll also find convenient public bathrooms.
Misol-Ha is smaller than other waterfalls in the area, such as Cascadas de Agua Azul or Cascada de Roberto Barrios. In those places, you’ll find several cascades and natural pools, but neither of them is as high as the one in Misol-Ha. In Palenque, join a guided tour and visit more than one of these famous falls in the same day.
Find this picturesque cascade in the municipality of Salto de Agua, about 14 miles (22 kilometers) from Palenque’s town center. Reach the falls by car or colectivo (local bus) running from Palenque. If you are driving, be aware that you will be charged a small road tax and a parking lot entrance fee.
