Oaxaca overnight guided tour from Huatulco

Exploring the Oaxaca Overnight Guided Tour from Huatulco

For those looking to add a deep cultural experience to their trip, the Oaxaca overnight guided tour from Huatulco offers a well-rounded glimpse into southern Mexico’s vibrant traditions and history. Priced at $310 per person, this two-day journey is designed for travel enthusiasts eager to explore archaeological sites, local markets, and artisan towns with a knowledgeable bilingual guide. The tour departs early at 6:00 a.m. and includes one night of hotel lodging, making it a convenient option for a short yet immersive getaway.

What stands out about this tour is its carefully curated stops, from ancient ruins to handcraft markets, all in a manageable two-day format. The maximum group size of 8 travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. While the tour does not include food and drinks, it offers admission to key archaeological zones and shopping opportunities in artisan communities. It’s ideal for those who enjoy cultural sightseeing combined with scenic drives, with a moderate physical requirement for walking and exploring.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour from Huatulco to Oaxaca with hotel accommodation included
• Visits to major archaeological sites — Mitla and Monte Albán, with admission included
• Stops in artisan towns like Teotitlán del Valle and San Martín Tilcajete for rug and alebrije shopping
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with liability insurance
• Limited group size of 8 travelers ensures a personalized experience
• Free cancellation available with at least 24 hours’ notice

Departure and Transportation Details from Huatulco

The tour begins early at 6:00 a.m. with a pickup service from Huatulco, making for a smooth start to this two-day adventure. The air-conditioned vehicle provides comfort during the roughly three-hour drive to Oaxaca, giving travelers time to relax or enjoy scenic views. The tour emphasizes convenience, with most stops occurring at well-known sites, and it includes liability insurance for peace of mind throughout the journey.

Visiting Santa Maria Jalapa del Marques for Breakfast

The trip kicks off with a stop at Santa Maria Jalapa del Marques around 6:00 a.m.. Here, travelers enjoy a breakfast break and a chance to stretch after the drive. This stop is ideal for a quick refreshment and to appreciate the local atmosphere before heading further into the region.

Exploring the Mezcal Route and Local Markets

After the initial stop, the tour continues to Tlacolula, where visitors explore the Mezcal Route. This includes insights into mezcal production processes and tastings. It’s a highlight for those interested in Mexico’s iconic spirit, with the opportunity to browse in local mezcal palenques like Santiago Matatlán and San Pablo Villa de Mitla.

Following this, the group visits Tlacolula de Matamoros, famous for its vibrant market, and Teotitlán del Valle, renowned for handmade rugs and blankets. The guide explains the elaboration process at artisan workshops, with ample time for browsing and shopping. These stops offer authentic glimpses into regional crafts and traditions.

Discovering Mitla’s Archaeological Significance

The Mitla Archaeological Zone is a key highlight, with a 1 hour 30 minute guided tour included. Travelers explore the ancient Zapotec site, marveling at its intricate mosaics and structural remains. This site provides insight into pre-Hispanic architecture and the cultural importance of Mitla in Oaxaca’s history.

Visiting Santa María El Tule and Oaxaca City Center

Next, a quick visit to Santa María El Tule offers the chance to photograph the millenary Tree, one of the region’s natural wonders. The stop includes time to admire the Santa María church and enjoy regional ice cream (nieves).

Arriving in Oaxaca city, visitors spend about 40 minutes exploring the historic downtown. The tour includes a visit to Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a convent and church with impressive architecture. Although internal visits are not included in the tour price, the exterior and surroundings offer plenty to see.

Free Evening in Oaxaca’s Historic Center

After checking into the hotel, the evening is free for dinner or a stroll around Oaxaca’s zocalo (main square), with options to visit shops, cafes, and the Cathedral. This flexible time allows travelers to soak in the city’s lively atmosphere at their own pace.

Day 2: Archaeological and Artisan Stops

The second day begins with a 8:00 a.m. departure from the hotel, heading first to Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec archaeological zone. The 2-hour guided visit provides insights into the site’s pyramids, plazas, and tombs.

Following Monte Albán, the tour explores the Benito Juárez Market, where visitors can enjoy breakfast, sample local cuisine, and purchase regional products. The 1 hour 30 minutes here is perfect for sightseeing, tasting, and shopping.

Artisan Villages: San Martín Tilcajete and San José del Pacifico

Next, the tour visits San Martín Tilcajete and San Bartolo Coyotepec, famous for alebrije figurines and black clay crafts, respectively. These artisan towns showcase traditional techniques and provide shopping opportunities.

A scenic drive then takes travelers to San José del Pacifico, located at 2600 meters above sea level, where a brunch can be enjoyed (optional). The peaceful mountain village offers spectacular views and a chance to relax amid pine forests and coffee plantations.

Return to Huatulco

After exploring San José del Pacifico, the journey back to Huatulco features a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes before arriving at the hotel, approximately 4 hours later. This drive provides a relaxing conclusion to the trip.

Included & Not Included Services

The tour price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, liability insurance, and admission tickets to Mitla, Monte Albán, and the Tule Tree. The bilingual guide offers expert commentary throughout.

Not included are food and drinks, personal purchases, and guided visits inside the archaeological zones, which are optional but available at additional cost.

Suitable for Moderate Physical Fitness

The tour involves walking at archaeological sites and artisan towns, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended. The group size is limited to 8 travelers for a more intimate experience, and the pace is designed to balance sightseeing with comfortable exploration.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Travelers can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins. The tour relies on good weather, and if canceled due to weather conditions, a different date or full refund is offered. Changes or cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not accepted.

Final Thoughts on the Oaxaca From Huatulco Tour

This well-organized two-day tour offers a practical way to experience key sights of Oaxaca without the need for extensive planning. The combination of archaeological exploration, artisan visits, and local markets makes it a balanced cultural adventure. The inclusion of hotel accommodation and admission tickets adds convenience and value.

Ideal for travelers seeking a rundown in a short time, this tour suits those interested in history, crafts, and authentic local experiences. Its small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized touch, making the trip both informative and relaxed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $310.00 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It spans approximately 2 days with a hotel stay included.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Santa Maria Jalapa del Marques, the Mezcal Route in Tlacolula, Mitla Archaeological Zone, Teotitlán del Valle, Santa María El Tule, Oaxaca city, Monte Albán, and artisan towns like San Martín Tilcajete and San José del Pacifico.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available at stops like Santa María Jalapa del Marques and San José del Pacifico.

Are entrance fees covered?
Yes, entry to Mitla, Monte Albán, and the Tule Tree are included.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 8 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended due to outdoor walking.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a bilingual guide accompanies the group, providing insights at each site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Changes are not specified, but optional stops like brunch at San José del Pacifico are available.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Moderate physical activity is involved; travelers should have moderate fitness for walking and exploring sites.