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Exploring Hierve el Agua and a mezcal distillery in one day offers a balanced mix of nature and culture. This 8-hour tour departs from Oaxaca de Juarez, guided by Oaxaca by Locals, and is highly rated at 4.9 out of 5 from 596 reviews. Travelers get three hours at Hierve el Agua to hike, swim, and take in the views of the petrified waterfalls, followed by a mezcal tasting at a popular local distillery. The tour is praised for its well-organized schedule, knowledgeable guides, and generous mezcal samples.
The trip suits those who enjoy outdoor activities, landscape photography, and learning about mezcal production. It’s especially ideal for visitors wanting a comprehensive day trip that balances scenic exploration and cultural insight. A key consideration is the physically active nature of the hike and the hot climate at certain stops, which makes comfortable shoes and sun protection essential.
Key Points
- Duration: 8 hours, including transportation and stops
- Highlights: Hiking and swimming at Hierve el Agua, mezcal tasting at a famous distillery
- Location: Starts in Oaxaca de Juarez and visits Hierve el Agua and a local mezcal distillery
- Pacing: Three hours at Hierve el Agua for hiking and swimming, plus 1.5 hours at the distillery
- Group Size: Small groups with personalized attention, guided by local experts
- Included: Free mezcal samples, scenic views, optional hikes, and photo stops
How the Tour Begins at the Meeting Point in Oaxaca
The tour starts at Cosijoeza 110A in Oaxaca’s city center, a convenient and easy-to-find location. From there, a comfortable van takes you on the approximately 105-minute drive to Hierve el Agua, with scenic views en route. The meeting spot often offers snacks and coffee for those arriving early, setting a welcoming tone for the day.
Travelers appreciate the smooth transportation, and the driver ensures a relaxed ride. The group size remains manageable, allowing for personalized explanations and flexibility during the stops. The departure timing varies, so checking the availability and starting times is recommended to fit your schedule.
Visiting the Natural Wonder of Hierve el Agua
Hierve el Agua is the tour’s centerpiece, famous for its rock formations resembling frozen waterfalls. The area offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the petrified waterfalls that are unique to this site. The three-hour stop provides ample time to hike, take photos, and enjoy the natural pools.
Visitors often choose to hike around the formations, exploring different viewpoints, or simply relax by the pools. The pools are naturally fed and are perfect for a refreshing dip, especially after the hike. The local guides can assist with hiking routes, but note that inside Hierve el Agua, only community guides speak Spanish, and guides from Oaxaca by Locals cannot guide inside the natural park.
The hot climate and altitude make it advisable to wear comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear. The scenery is breathtaking, and many find the combination of nature and tranquility to be a highlight of the tour.
Scenic Drive and Stop at a Bakery
On the way back from Hierve el Agua, the tour makes a photo stop at a local bakery. This brief visit allows an opportunity to sample traditional Oaxacan bread and stretch legs. The bakery stop adds a touch of local flavor and culture to the journey, and the snacks often receive praise for their authentic taste.
This stop typically lasts around 1.5 hours, giving enough time for shopping, photo opportunities, or trying local treats. The drive between the natural site and the distillery is scenic, providing mountain views and a chance to relax after the hike.
Visiting a Popular Mezcal Distillery in Oaxaca
The final stop occurs at a well-known mezcal distillery, celebrated for its variety of flavors and traditional production methods. Here, visitors enjoy a free tasting of different mezcals, with explanations on how each variety is made, whether from wild agave plants or farmed crops.
The distillery tour typically lasts around 1.5 hours, and offers the chance to sample multiple types of mezcal. Many reviews highlight the generosity of the tastings and the expertise of the guides in explaining the process. Visitors often purchase bottles to bring home as souvenirs.
The experience emphasizes local craftsmanship, making it a notable highlight for those interested in Oaxacan spirits. Since inside the distillery, guides are from the community and primarily speak Spanish, the tour from Oaxaca by Locals provides insightful explanations and friendly service.
More Great Tours NearbyPhysical Activity and Accessibility
The hike at Hierve el Agua involves walking on reasonably sized steps, with some steep sections that are manageable for most physically active visitors. It is not suitable for individuals with back problems, heart conditions, vertigo, epilepsy, or high blood pressure.
The swimming pools are a cooling reward after the hike, but accessibility inside the natural park is limited, as guides there only speak Spanish and are community members. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash for purchases.
Pacing, Guide Quality, and Group Dynamics
The tour has a well-paced schedule, with ample time at each stop. The guides from Oaxaca by Locals are praised for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to adapt to group needs. They share interesting facts about the landscape, culture, and mezcal production.
The small group sizes foster a personalized experience, and the optional hikes cater to different energy levels. The timing and flow of the day** are designed to avoid long car rides, with scenic stops and free time built into the itinerary.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
This full-day experience combines scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and delicious mezcal tasting at a competitive price. The generous three hours at Hierve el Agua allow for relaxation and exploration without feeling rushed, and the mezcals are sampled freely with expert explanations.
Many reviews highlight the friendly guides like Margarita, Stephanie, and Adriel, who make the trip informative and fun. The comfortable transportation and flexible schedule further amplify the overall value of this tour.
Limitations and Considerations
While the tour suits most active adults and fitness levels, it may not be appropriate for those with mobility issues or certain health conditions. The hike can be steep and hot, requiring comfortable shoes and sun protection.
Inside Hierve el Agua, guides are community members who speak Spanish, so language barriers could arise if not accompanied by a guide from Oaxaca by Locals. The bus ride is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours in total, so travelers should be prepared for some time on the road.
Final Thoughts on the Oaxaca, Hierve el Agua, and Mezcal Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive view of Oaxaca’s stunning natural landscapes and local culture. The combination of hiking, swimming, and mezcal tasting makes it a well-rounded experience. The high rating of 4.9 from 596 reviews underscores its popularity and quality.
It is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and mezcal fans who want a full day of diverse activities. The expert guides ensure you learn interesting facts while enjoying beautiful scenery. Advance booking and flexible cancellation policies make it an accessible option for planning your Oaxaca visit.
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From Oaxaca de Juarez: Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 8 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and tasting stops.
Where does the tour start?
It departs from Cosijoeza 110A in Oaxaca’s city center.
Is there time for swimming at Hierve el Agua?
Yes, you have three hours at Hierve el Agua to hike, take photos, and swim in the natural pools.
How is the transport arranged?
A comfortable van with a driver picks up and drops off guests, ensuring a relaxed journey.
Are the guides bilingual?
Guides from Oaxaca by Locals speak English and Spanish, with inside guides at Hierve el Agua speaking mainly Spanish.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, cash, and biodegradable insect repellent.
Can I customize or extend the itinerary?
Some stops, like Arbol del Tule, can be added upon request, but the standard tour follows the outlined schedule.
Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not recommended for those with back problems, vertigo, or mobility limitations due to the hike and terrain.
What is included in the price?
Transportation, entrance fees for Hierve el Agua and the distillery, and free mezcal tastings are included. Food and souvenirs are not included.
How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention that solo travelers enjoy the balanced group size and opportunities to meet others during the day.