Mitla, Tule, Hierve el agua and Teotilán

Discover Oaxaca with a Day Trip to Historic and Natural Wonders

This $56 tour from Oaxaca City offers a full-day journey through some of the most intriguing sights in the region. Lasting around 9 to 10 hours, it combines archaeological sites, natural formations, artisan villages, and a mezcal distillery visit. The tour features hotel pickup, a small group size, and a knowledgeable guide, making it a practical choice for those interested in cultural and scenic highlights.

While the tour covers impressive locations, it is worth noting that food and drinks are not included, and some guests have expressed concerns about the transport arrangements. Nevertheless, the stops for Mitla, Tule, Hierve el Agua, and Teotilán showcase the diverse beauty and history of the Oaxaca region, making it an appealing option for curious travelers eager to explore with ease.

Key Points

• Price: $56 per person, includes admission tickets for Mitla and Hierve el Agua
• Duration: Around 9 to 10 hours, with hotel pickup offered
• Major stops: Santa Maria del Tule, Mitla archaeological site, Hierve el Agua, Teotilán del Valle
• Highlights: Ancient Zapotec sites, natural petrified waterfalls, artisan wool rugs, and mezcal tasting
• Group size: Limited to a maximum of 20 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Limitations: Food and drinks are not included, and transport issues have been noted by some guests

Starting from Oaxaca City: Convenient Pickup and Small Group Atmosphere

This tour departs from Oaxaca City with an easy pickup at designated hotels or from the central meeting point. The small group size ensures more personalized attention from the guide, which many guests appreciate. The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drive comfortable, and a professional driver handles the logistics smoothly.

The pickup time begins early in the morning, around 8:00AM, allowing a full day of sightseeing. Among the benefits is the hassle-free transfer, removing the need for independent planning and transportation. This setup is ideal for travelers who prefer a structured day with minimal stress.

Visiting Santa Maria del Tule: The 2,000-Year-Old Tree

The tour starts with a 30-minute stop at Santa Maria del Tule, home to one of the world’s most famous trees. This approximately 2000-year-old tree is notable for its enormous trunk and whimsical shapes, which resemble figures or creatures with a little imagination. Visitors can admire its impressive size and take photographs.

Though the visit is brief, it offers a quick glimpse into Oaxaca’s natural wonder and provides insight into local stories about the tree’s significance. No admission fee is required, making it an easy and free photo opportunity before heading to the archaeological site.

Exploring the Zona Arqueologica de Mitla: The ‘Place of the Dead’

The Mitla archaeological site is a major highlight, with a 2-hour visit included in the tour. It is only accessible from Wednesday to Sunday, which is an important consideration for planning. Mitla features fine geometric decorations, including stepped fretwork on its ancient palaces, showcasing Zapotec craftsmanship.

The site’s name, derived from Nahuatl, means “place of the dead,” emphasizing its historical and ceremonial significance. Visitors will learn about the Zapotec civilization and see well-preserved ruins that reflect their architectural ingenuity. The admission ticket is included, making the visit straightforward for travelers.

Climbing the White Terraces at Hierve el Agua

One of the most striking natural attractions, Hierve el Agua, is known for its series of petrified waterfalls that measure over 200 meters high. Formed millions of years ago, these white mineral formations resemble cascading waterfalls frozen in time.

Guests spend about 2 hours at Hierve el Agua, during which they can admire the stunning views and explore the area. The site offers opportunities for photos and optional walks, though the tour generally limits the visit to a brief, scenic stop. The admission ticket is included, enabling easy access.

Visiting Teotitlán del Valle: Artisans and Wool Rugs

Next, the tour heads to Teotitlán del Valle, an artisan village renowned for its wool rug making using natural dyes, including cochineal red. This stop lasts approximately 30 minutes, allowing visitors to observe demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques and learn about local crafts.

While no entrance fee is required, this stop provides a chance to appreciate Oaxaca’s artisan traditions firsthand. It also offers an opportunity to purchase unique woven products directly from the artisans, supporting local livelihoods.

Mezcal Tasting at a Local Distillery

The final highlight is a visit to a mezcal distillery, where guests sample the locally produced spirit and learn about its manufacturing process. This experience typically lasts about 1 hour and 20 minutes, including tasting and explanation.

Guests get to savor mezcal in a relaxed setting, gaining insight into the cultural importance of this drink in Oaxaca. Since food and drinks are not included in the tour price, the tasting is an excellent addition to the day’s activities, though it is optional.

Practical Details and Limitations of the Tour

The tour operates daily from 8:00AM to 8:30AM, with a full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance. It is suitable for most travelers, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The group size is capped at 20 for a more intimate experience.

A notable limitation is that lunch is not included, and some guests have expressed dissatisfaction with the lunch arrangements in the past. The tour typically allows about 1 hour for meals, which can be flexible depending on the group’s pace.

Guests should also be aware of potential transport issues as reported by some, including dropped-off locations that do not match original agreements. Nonetheless, guide expertise and the sights visited generally compensate for these concerns.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This day trip is well-suited for travelers interested in Oaxaca’s archaeological sites, natural landscapes, and artisan culture. It offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local crafts in a manageable timeframe, making it ideal for those who prefer organized tours with minimal planning.

However, guests expecting culinary experiences or extensive free time might find the schedule somewhat limited. The moderate price and inclusion of admission tickets make it a practical choice, especially for first-time visitors eager to cover multiple highlights efficiently.

The Sum Up: A Convenient Way to Experience Oaxaca’s Highlights

This $56 tour delivers a rundown of Oaxaca’s historic and natural sites, with small group intimacy and expert guide narration. Highlights like Mitla and Hierve el Agua deliver memorable views and cultural insights, while stops at Tule and Teotilán add local flavor and artisan traditions.

Despite some concerns raised about transport and lunch arrangements, the value for money remains solid, especially with included admission tickets and hotel pickup. It is a good option for first-time visitors who want an engaging day without hassle and are comfortable with a busy schedule.

This tour suits those eager for a well-organized, educational, and scenic introduction to Oaxaca’s treasures, provided they are prepared for the brief stops and some logistical quirks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup from selected hotels in Oaxaca City is offered as part of the package.

How long does the tour last?
The tour generally lasts around 9 to 10 hours from start to finish.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is about 1 hour 20 minutes allocated for lunch.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Guests visit Santa Maria del Tule, Mitla archaeological site, Hierve el Agua, Teotilán del Valle, and a mezcal distillery.

Are admission tickets to sites included?
Yes, tickets for Mitla and Hierve el Agua are included, while Tule and Teotilán are free stops.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, water, and camera are recommended, as well as any personal items needed for the day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally suitable for most ages.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The data does not specify accessibility details, so travelers with mobility issues should inquire directly with the provider.

Who is the guide?
The guide is a professional, with positive reviews praising knowledgeable and friendly service, though experiences may vary.