Small Group Boerve del Agua and Mezcal Tour from Oaxaca Centro

Discover the Small Group Boerve del Agua and Mezcal Tour from Oaxaca Centro

This $67.15 per person tour offers an engaging day exploring Hierve el Agua, a natural wonder with mineral pools and stunning vistas, along with an authentic mezcal tasting at a traditional distillery. The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, making it perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.

What sets this tour apart is its small-group size, capped at 18 travelers, which means you get more personalized attention, flexibility, and time at each stop. The tour begins at 9:00 am from Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca and includes private transportation, free entrance to Hierve el Agua, and bottomless mezcal tastings. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, delicious local food, and breathtaking views, making it a top choice for those seeking an authentic day trip in Oaxaca.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-paced tour lasting 7 to 8 hours, ideal for a full day of exploration
• Small-group size with a maximum of 18 travelers ensures personalized service
• Includes entrance to Hierve el Agua, artisanal bread tasting, and mezcal tasting with bottomless samples
• Delicious Oaxacan lunch at a local buffet, away from tourist spots
• Knowledgeable guides share insights into local culture, history, and mezcal production
• Flexible timing at key stops like Hierve el Agua for swimming and hiking

Starting Point and Transportation Convenience

The tour kicks off at Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, which serves as the main meeting point. From there, travelers are transported in private vehicles to each destination, with small groups ensuring comfort and attentiveness. The group size, capped at 18 people, fosters a friendly atmosphere and allows for more interaction with the guides.

The guide provides clear instructions especially at locations where foreign guides are not permitted, such as Hierve el Agua, due to local regulations. This setup guarantees a smooth experience with minimal hassle and maximum enjoyment.

Exploring Hierve el Agua’s Natural Pools and Viewpoints

Hierve el Agua is the highlight of the tour, famous for its mineral pools that resemble waterfalls frozen in stone. Visitors are granted access to the water birth area, where they can swim in natural mineral pools with incredible valley views. The site offers the chance to take a short hiking trek and even relax in the pools, though the tour allows flexibility for those who prefer just to enjoy the scenery.

The visit lasts about 2 hours and 50 minutes, giving enough time for a good swim, photographs, and taking in the unique petrified waterfalls. The tour ensures you arrive early enough to avoid crowds and maximize your time at this stunning spot.

Delicious Oaxacan Lunch at a Local Spot

After exploring Hierve el Agua, the tour takes you to a buffet restaurant where you can enjoy an authentic Oaxacan meal. The lunch costs approximately $200 MXN (around $10 USD) per person and features traditional dishes like mole and enchiladas. This local dining experience is carefully chosen to avoid tourist traps and provide genuine flavors of Oaxaca.

The break is well-timed, allowing travelers to recharge before heading to the mezcal distillery. The relaxed pace and authentic setting contribute to the overall charm of this tour.

Visit to San Pablo Villa de Mitla and Mezcal Tasting

Next, the group visits San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a site with historical significance and striking architecture. On the way, guides offer insights into local customs and the importance of these regions in Oaxaca’s cultural landscape.

The final stop is the Santa Maria de la Asuncion Tlacolula, where the tour delves into the mezcal production process. Here, visitors learn about traditional methods and get to enjoy a bottomless mezcal tasting. The tasting session lasts for about 2 hours, allowing ample opportunity to sample different varieties and appreciate the craftsmanship behind this sacred drink.

The mezcal distillery tour is genuinely memorable, with knowledgeable guides explaining each step of the process and sharing stories about mezcal’s cultural significance.

The Unique Experience of Artisanal Bread Tasting

One of the delightful surprises on this tour is a stop at Panaderia Artesal Yazmin, where the group learns about artisanal bread making from Tlacolula de Matamoros. The guide explains the process, and visitors get to taste three main types of bread, offering a taste of local baking traditions. This stop adds a charming, authentic touch to the day and showcases Oaxaca’s culinary richness.

The bread tasting lasts about 40 minutes and is included in the tour, providing a wonderful glimpse into regional food crafts.

The Role of Guides and Local Regulations

While the tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable and friendly guides, such as Adriel and Santiago, it’s important to note that at Hierve el Agua, the local community does not permit foreign guides to accompany visitors inside the site. However, the guides provide detailed instructions and explanations before arriving, ensuring you still get a meaningful experience.

Guests consistently comment on the personalized attention, friendly demeanor, and extensive knowledge of guides like Adriel, who share valuable insights into Oaxaca’s history, culture, and mezcal traditions throughout the day.

Pacing, Group Size, and Overall Value

The small-group format means that the tour doesn’t feel rushed, and there’s plenty of time at each stop to relax, explore, and take photos. The pacing is praised in reviews, with many noting that they appreciated the leisurely schedule that allows for swimming at Hierve el Agua, tasting local foods, and enjoying mezcal without feeling hurried.

At $67.15 per person, this tour offers excellent value for money, considering the included entrance fees, tastings, private transportation, and authentic experiences. The tour’s flexible structure and attentiveness make it especially appealing for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking an immersive day in Oaxaca.

Final Thoughts on the Boerve del Agua and Mezcal Tour

This small-group tour from Oaxaca delivers a well-rounded mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and authentic local flavors. The expert guides, delicious food, and bottomless mezcal tastings create a memorable experience that showcases Oaxaca’s diverse offerings.

While the visit to Hierve el Agua might be limited to about 2 hours and 50 minutes, this is enough time to enjoy the pools and views without feeling rushed. The tour’s emphasis on small-group intimacy and personalized attention makes it stand out among other excursions.

This tour is an excellent choice for those who want a comprehensive day trip that balances adventure, culture, and cuisine in one affordable package. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, appreciate local food and drinks, and prefer travel in a small, friendly group.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $67.15?
The tour includes entrance to Hierve el Agua, private transportation, artisanal bread tasting, mezcal tasting with bottomless samples, and a delicious Oaxacan buffet lunch.

What stops are part of the itinerary?
Stops include Jardín Etnobotanico de Oaxaca, Panaderia Artesal Yazmin, Hierve el Agua, San Pablo Villa de Mitla, and Santa Maria de la Asuncion Tlacolula.

How long does the tour last?
The overall experience takes about 7 to 8 hours, departing at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point afterward.

Are guides available at Hierve el Agua?
Guides do not accompany visitors inside Hierve el Agua due to local regulations, but they provide detailed instructions and explanations beforehand.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour has received positive feedback from families, including those traveling with children as young as 11 years old.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include swimming in mineral pools at Hierve el Agua, tasting artisan bread, and enjoying bottomless mezcal tastings at a traditional distillery.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear for Hierve el Agua, comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, and cash for optional extras like additional food or souvenirs.

Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour caps at 18 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Lunch at a local buffet is included in the tour, with a cost of approximately $200 MXN paid directly at the restaurant.

What makes this tour a good value?
Considering the included activities, entrance fees, private transport, and authentic experiences, this tour offers excellent value for the money spent.