The Cola de Caballo (Horse's Tail) waterfall is one of Mexico's most spectacular natural wonders, tucked away in the rugged landscapes near Monterrey. This 90-meter cascading wonder gets its name from its distinctive appearance - when water flows at full force, it really does look like a horse's flowing tail! I was absolutely blown away the first time I saw it, and trust me, photos don't do it justice.
Key Features
• A magnificent 90-meter waterfall that creates a misty veil as it tumbles down the rocky cliff face
• Well-maintained hiking trails that wind through tree-covered cliffs
• Multiple scenic viewpoints offering different perspectives of the falls
• Crystal-clear pools at the base of the waterfall
• Rich biodiversity with local flora and fauna
• Natural rock formations that tell the geological story of the region
• Several smaller cascades along the hiking route
• Cool microclimate created by the waterfall's mist
• Perfect photo opportunities from various angles
• Peaceful picnic areas surrounded by nature
Best Time to Visit
Y'know what? Timing can make or break your visit to Cola de Caballo. The waterfall is at its most impressive during and right after the rainy season (June to October) when the water flow is at its peak. But honestly? I've been here during the dry season too, and it has its own charm - you can get closer to the falls and even explore some of the rock formations better.
Early mornings are pure magic here. The crowds are thinner, and the morning light creates these gorgeous rainbow effects in the mist. If you're like me and hate bustling crowds, try to avoid weekends and Mexican holidays when local families flock to the site. The temperature is usually most comfortable between October and April, making these months ideal for hiking and exploring.
How to Get There
Getting to Cola de Caballo is part of the adventure! The waterfall is located about an hour's drive from Monterrey. The most straightforward way is to rent a car - the roads are well-maintained and the scenery along the way is stunning. But if you're not comfortable driving in Mexico (trust me, I get it), there are plenty of guided tours that depart from Monterrey at around 9:00 AM.
If you're feeling adventurous and want to do it like a local, you can catch a bus from Monterrey's central bus station to Santiago, then take a taxi to the falls. I did this once and ended up having the most amazing conversation with my taxi driver about local legends surrounding the waterfall!
Tips for Visiting
Listen, I've learned a few things the hard way during my visits, so let me save you some trouble. First off, wear proper hiking shoes - those rocks can get super slippery, especially near the waterfall. Don't be that person in flip-flops (been there, regretted that).
Bring cash! Some of the local vendors and parking areas don't accept cards. And speaking of local vendors, try the fresh fruit with chile - it's a local specialty that'll change your life.
Pack a light raincoat or poncho because you WILL get sprayed by the falls if you get close enough (and trust me, you'll want to). Don't forget your camera, but protect it from the mist. I ruined my first DSLR here because I wasn't prepared for how much spray the falls create.
The altitude isn't too bad, but you'll still want to bring plenty of water and take breaks if you're not used to hiking. Oh, and get there early! The lighting is better for photos, and you'll beat both the crowds and the afternoon heat.
And here's a pro tip that most guidebooks won't tell you: follow the trail beyond the main viewpoint. There's a less-visited spot about 15 minutes further up that offers an incredible bird's-eye view of the falls. Just be careful and respect any warning signs - mother nature deserves our respect!
Remember to leave no trace - pack out what you pack in. This natural wonder has been here for thousands of years, and it's up to us to keep it pristine for future generations to enjoy. The local ecosystem is delicate, so stick to marked trails and don't disturb the wildlife.
