Explore Hierve el Agua, Mitla, Tule, Textile and Mezcal for a day

Exploring Oaxaca through a single day tour offers a fantastic way to experience its natural wonders, ancient sites, and rich cultural traditions. Priced at $60.99 per person, this 11-hour journey covers a well-curated selection of the region’s most iconic spots, making it an excellent option for those eager to see a lot in one day. The tour is led by Zapotecos Tours, a company with over five years of experience, and consistently earns a perfect 5.0 rating based on 387 reviews, with 100% recommending it.

The trip includes admission to Hierve el Agua and Mitla, plus a mezcal tasting and visits to the Tule Tree and a textile workshop. The focus on local culture, history, and traditions shines through, with guides sharing engaging stories and insights. While the tour does not include lunch, bottled water is provided, and the stops are packed with memorable sights. This tour suits travelers with moderate physical fitness who enjoy a mix of outdoor exploration and cultural learning.

Key Points

• Full-day experience covering key sites like Hierve el Agua, Mitla, and Tule.
• Expert guides, such as Ricardo and Pavel, provide engaging narration and historical context.
• All entry fees for Hierve el Agua and Mitla are included, with water bottles supplied throughout.
• Stops at traditional textile and mezcal houses offer insight into Oaxaca’s craftsmanship and beverage culture.
• Long but well-paced itinerary, with about 11 hours of exploring.
• No included lunch, so plan to bring extra clothes for Hierve el Agua’s natural pools and any personal snacks.

The Unique Charm of Hierve el Agua’s Petrified Waterfalls

The tour starts with a visit to Hierve el Agua, a site famous for its natural mineral-rich pools and petrified waterfalls. Spending about 2 hours and 30 minutes here offers enough time for a walk around and a relaxing dip in the natural pools, which are known for their mineral content. Travelers should bring comfortable clothes and an extra set of clothes to enjoy the water and the surroundings fully.

The site’s mineral-encrusted formations create a landscape that looks like waterfalls frozen in time. The guides explain the geological processes behind these formations while sharing stories about local legends. Visitors appreciate how well-organized the visit is, with plenty of opportunity to take photos and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Archaeological Site of Mitla

Next, the tour leads to Mitla, a Zapotec archaeological site celebrated for its intricate mosaics and stonework. The site is a window into ancient Zapotec culture and their cosmovision, with a guided explanation provided by knowledgeable staff.

The one-hour visit allows time to walk through the ruins and learn about their historical and cultural significance. Visitors find the guided insights particularly valuable for understanding the symbols and construction techniques. Mitla’s impressive geometric patterns and well-preserved structures make it a standout stop that enriches the overall experience.

Visiting the Tule Tree: The Widest Tree in the World

Santa Maria del Tule hosts the Tule Tree, a Sabino or Ahuehuete that is considered the widest tree in the world. The 40-minute stop provides a chance to see this natural wonder up close. The guide shares fascinating facts about its size, age, and historical importance, making it more than just a photo opportunity.

This tree has been a landmark for centuries, and its enormous trunk attracts many visitors. The stop is brief but impactful, offering an easy walk and plenty of opportunities to capture memorable photos.

Discovering Oaxaca’s Textile Traditions

A visit to a local textile workshop offers a glimpse into Oaxaca’s rich weaving heritage. Here, visitors learn about ancestral pedal loom techniques used to produce handmade wool rugs, often using natural pigments extracted from local plants.

Although the exact duration of this stop isn’t specified, it provides an immersive experience into Oaxacan craftsmanship. The textile artisans share their process, emphasizing the cultural importance of their work. This stop is praised for showcasing authentic local traditions and supporting community artisans.

Mezcal Tasting at El Rey de Matatlan

The tour includes a mezcal house visit at El Rey de Matatlan, where the production process of Oaxaca’s iconic beverage is explained in detail. Visitors have the chance to taste different varieties of mezcal and learn about agave plants used for distillation.

This one-hour stop is a highlight for those interested in local drinks and gastronomy. The guided tasting sessions are both educational and enjoyable, with the opportunity to appreciate the diversity of mezcal flavors. The informative tour helps deepen understanding of Oaxaca’s distilling traditions.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from Melchor Ocampo 1017A, Barrio de la Noria at 8:00 am and ends at the Oaxaca Zocalo on Av. de la Independencia. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the group size promotes intimacy and easier interaction with guides.

The small group setting helps ensure personalized attention, and the meeting logistics are straightforward. The tour is suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity, as some stops involve walking and outdoor exploration.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $60.99 covers admission to Hierve el Agua and Mitla, bottled water, and the mezcal tasting. However, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly—either bringing snacks or opting to purchase food at stops.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, creating an engaging atmosphere throughout the day. The tour also permits service animals and is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Reviews highlight guides like Ricardo and Pavel as knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging storytellers. Many mention the guides’ ability to explain complex history clearly while maintaining a lively, welcoming tone.

The well-organized itinerary and enthusiastic guides are often praised for making the long day enjoyable. Visitors also appreciate the attention to detail, from taking photos to sharing interesting anecdotes, which makes the experience feel personalized.

Pacing and Physical Considerations

The tour spans about 11 hours, so travelers should be prepared for a full day of walking and outdoor activities. It is ideal for moderate physically fit individuals who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and cultural discovery.

Since the tour involves visits to outdoor sites with uneven terrain, comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing are highly recommended. Pack an extra clothes for Hierve el Agua’s pools and stay hydrated with bottled water.

Value for Money and Overall Impressions

At $60.99, this tour provides excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of entry fees, transportation, expert guides, and tastings. Stops like Hierve el Agua, Mitla, and the mezcal house are top highlights, giving a well-rounded view of Oaxaca’s natural and cultural riches.

The consistent 5-star reviews reflect high satisfaction, emphasizing knowledgeable guides, beautiful sites, and a thoughtfully organized schedule. The only drawback noted by some is the lack of included lunch, but many find the overall experience more than worth the cost.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day experience appeals to culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and curious travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Oaxaca’s highlights. It is especially suited for those comfortable with walking and outdoor exploration, and who appreciate guided storytelling about local traditions and history.

Those seeking a relaxed experience with plenty of time to enjoy each site will find this tour rewarding. It offers a great balance of natural beauty, archaeology, and cultural insight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending at the Oaxaca Zocalo.

Are the sites accessible for people with moderate physical fitness?
Yes, the tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, but be prepared for walking and outdoor activity.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, extra clothes for Hierve el Agua, water, and any personal snacks or items needed for outdoor sites.

Are guides bilingual?
Guides are capable of explaining in detail and handle bilingual groups well, with some reviews mentioning translation from Spanish to English.

Is the tour suitable for children or service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and the tour can accommodate children, provided they meet the physical activity requirements.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, promoting an engaging and personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The mixture of natural wonders, archaeological sites, and cultural experiences, combined with expert guides and value for money, makes this tour a popular choice in Oaxaca.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is arranged as part of the tour, with pickup at the meeting point and drop-off at the Oaxaca Zocalo.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Melchor Ocampo 1017A and ends at the Oaxaca Zocalo, making it easy to access from central Oaxaca.

This full-day tour of Oaxaca’s natural and cultural highlights offers a balanced itinerary, expert guides, and a rich insight into the region’s traditions. Perfect for curious visitors eager to maximize their day with memorable sites and engaging stories.