The springs were used in a Zapotec irrigation system dating back to around 1300 B.C. The water has a high calcium carbonate and magnesium content that has resulted in the heavy deposits seen in the photo at right. The water bubbles with escaping air giving the appearance that it is boiling. It is actually a warm spring with a temperature in the 71-77°F range. You can go for a swim in the pools.
There are cabins at the site for overnight stays and a few small restaurants. A nearby mezcal distillery may be visited. Local crafts include items made from palm leaves.
A trail leads down to the base of the feature shown at right and takes 40 minutes to an hour to hike.
The site has experienced some openings and closings due to local disputes over entrance fees among the communities of San Bartolo, San Isidro Roagui, and San Lorenzo Albarradas. The fee is usually 20 pesos.
If traveling from Oaxaca City, some places of interest along the way include El Tule and the small archaeological sites of Dainzú, Lambityeco, and Yagul. The route passes through a mezcal-producing region.
