MTB Bike Tour: Local Trails in Monte Albán and Atzompa

Discover the Exciting MTB Bike Tour in Oaxaca City

The MTB Bike Tour: Local Trails in Monte Albán and Atzompa offers a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural sites of Oaxaca. Priced at $89.14 per person, this 5.5-hour adventure combines scenic climbs, technical descents, and impressive views of the city and surrounding mountains. It is designed specifically for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers, requiring good physical condition and proficient bike control skills.

This tour departs from Bike Flow Oaxaca in the city center and takes riders through a mix of paved and dirt trails, making it ideal for those seeking a challenging yet rewarding experience. The tour’s highlights include a climb to the Monte Albán ruins, a scenic overlook of the central valleys, and a descent through ecological trails that lead directly into Oaxaca’s vibrant historic streets. With professional guides and mechanical support, participants enjoy safety, expert navigation, and insider knowledge along the way.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $89.14 for approximately 5.5 hours of riding.
• Trail Types: A balanced mix of 50% paved roads and 50% mountain dirt trails covering a total of 30 km.
• Physical Requirements: Suitable for intermediate/advanced riders with good physical fitness, braking, gear shifting, and cornering skills.
• Guided Experience: Led by professional MTB guides offering safety, mechanical assistance, and local insights.
• Key Stops: Climb to Monte Albán for panoramic views and descend through trails to Atzompa ruins before returning to the city.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at Bike Flow Oaxaca, located at Mártires de Tacubaya 101 in Oaxaca City’s Centro district. The meeting time is 8:00 am, and the activity ends back at the same location. The ride is entirely bike-based, with no shuttle service included, so all transportation to the start point is the participant’s responsibility.

The tour is limited to 10 participants maximum, ensuring personalized guidance and safety. Riders should be prepared for moderate climbing, with positive elevation gain totaling about 600 meters. The experience is best suited for those with a strong physical fitness level, and bike sizes are available for those over 4’92” (1.50 meters).

What to Expect on the Trail: From Oaxaca City to Monte Albán

The adventure kicks off with a 20-minute pedal through the city outskirts on a bike path, leading to the ascent of 400 meters on the road to reach the Monte Albán ruins. This climb takes roughly 40 minutes and serves as a warm-up before the main trail descent. Once at the top, riders enjoy a rest period with snacks, while taking in spectacular views of the central valleys, mountains, and clouds—perfect for photos.

Following the break, the guides lead you through ecological dirt trails, characterized by fast, fun sections of medium difficulty. These trails showcase the natural terrain and offer a taste of local mountain biking culture. An important stop is at a local store, where water and food can be resupplied, breaking up the ride and providing a chance to rest and refuel.

Descending to the Historic Center of Oaxaca

After the ecological trail segment, the ascent resumes with a 200-meter climb on asphalt to reach the Atzompa ruins. This site offers a stunning view and is the final elevation before the last descent, which is the highlight of the tour. The descent takes riders through local trails and scenic routes directly into the historic center of Oaxaca.

This final stretch allows bikers to enjoy a cultural ride through the city’s vibrant streets, filled with colors, art, and local life. The ride ends back at the starting point, completing a route that blends outdoor adventure with cultural exploration.

What Equipment and Inclusions Are Provided?

Participants receive a premium mountain bike equipped with a 100mm fork, along with a helmet featuring MIPS technology for safety. Hydration is taken care of with 1-liter bottled water or free refills, plus snacks like coconut water, Gatorade, and fruit or wheat bars to keep energy levels high.

Guidance and safety are managed by professional MTB guides who offer mechanical assistance if needed. Entry to Monte Albán is included, though the tour does not cover the ruins’ internal visit.

Considerations and Physical Demands

While the tour promises a fun and scenic experience, it’s important to note that intermediate/advanced riding skills are required. Riders should be in good physical shape, comfortable with braking, gear shifting, and cornering on both paved and dirt surfaces. The total distance covered is 30 km, with significant elevation changes, making it suitable for those with mountain biking experience.

There is no shuttle service; the entire ride is on bikes, so participants should be prepared for moderate to challenging climbs and technical descents. Bike sizes are available only for individuals taller than 1.50 meters, which is important for those considering participation.

The Ride’s Highlights: Breathtaking Views and Cultural Trails

One of the standout features of this tour is the spectacular view from Monte Albán. After a manageable climb, the panoramic vista encompasses the central valleys, mountains, and cloud formations, creating perfect photo opportunities.

Descending through ecological dirt trails adds a fast-paced, fun element to the ride, with medium difficulty sections that showcase Oaxaca’s natural beauty. The final descent into the city brings bikers through lively streets filled with local art and culture, offering a seamless blend of outdoor activity and culture.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Supportive

The tour is led by experienced professional guides who prioritize safety and provide mechanical support if needed. Humberto and Clement are praised for their friendly approach and expertise. They explain the terrain, help with bike control techniques, and ensure everyone feels comfortable throughout the ride.

Their local knowledge enriches the experience, especially during the scenic stops at Monte Albán and Atzompa, where they share insights into the area’s cultural significance.

Pricing Value and Booking Tips

At $89.14, this tour offers a comprehensive mountain biking experience, including bike rental, guide services, safety gear, snacks, water, and entrance to Monte Albán. Booking is recommended about two weeks in advance, as the tour is popular and limited to 10 participants per day.

The activity is best suited for those with intermediate or advanced skills who want a physically engaging ride that combines adventure and cultural highlights. The full experience is designed to be both challenging and enjoyable, with a perfect balance of climbs, technical descents, and sightseeing.

The Sum Up: An Unmissable Oaxaca Mountain Biking Adventure

The MTB Bike Tour in Oaxaca stands out as an exciting way to explore the region’s natural beauty and historic sites. With professional guidance, a challenging but manageable route, and spectacular views, it offers a memorable outdoor experience for mountain biking enthusiasts.

While the physical demands are notable, the ride’s mix of scenic climbs, technical descents, and cultural stops makes it highly rewarding. This tour is ideal for those who want an active, immersive day that combines adventure with a glimpse into Oaxaca’s rich heritage.

If you have the skills and physical fitness, this tour promises a fun, scenic, and culturally enriching ride through one of Mexico’s most vibrant cities and its surrounding landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this tour is designed for intermediate to advanced riders with good bike control skills and physical fitness.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a premium mountain bike with a 100mm fork, a helmet with MIPS, water, snacks, professional guides, mechanical assistance, and entry to Monte Albán.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish, including stops and breaks.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Bike Flow Oaxaca in the city center, located at Mártires de Tacubaya 101.

What is the average distance covered?
The total distance biked is about 30 km, with significant elevation gain of around 600 meters.

Are shuttles provided?
No, the tour is entirely bike-based, so participants are responsible for their transportation to the start point.

Can I join if I’m shorter than 1.50 meters?
Bike sizes are only available for individuals taller than 1.50 meters, so shorter participants may not be able to join.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring good physical fitness, and wear suitable mountain biking gear. Water bottles and snacks are provided.

What are the weather considerations?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made in advance, typically about 14 days ahead, through the provided platform or directly with Bike Flow Oaxaca.