Hierve el Agua, Mitla, El Tule Tree, Rugs, Mezcal Distillery Tour

Discover the Best of Oaxaca in a Single Day

This 11-hour tour from Oaxaca by locals offers an immersive look into the region’s natural wonders, ancient sites, vibrant traditions, and flavorful mezcal. For just one day, travelers get to visit Hierve el Agua’s petrified waterfalls, the Mitla archaeological zone, and the famous Tule Tree—an enormous Zapotec marvel. The tour also includes a deep dive into local rug weaving traditions at Teotitlán del Valle and a mezcal distillery tour with tastings that highlight this iconic Mexican spirit.

The tour’s strength lies in its well-paced schedule, allowing enough time at each location without feeling rushed, according to many positive reviews. Its comprehensive approach appeals especially to those who want a rich, authentic experience of Oaxaca’s diverse culture and landscapes in one full day. However, the long duration and physical activity involved—like the hike down to Hierve el Agua—mean it suits active travelers and those prepared for a busy itinerary.

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Key Points

• Duration: 11 hours, including a lunch stop
• Highlights: Hierve el Agua, Mitla, El Tule Tree, Teotitlán rugs, mezcal distillery with tastings
• Transport: Comfortable transportation with a friendly driver
• Guides: Knowledgeable, bilingual guides fluent in both English and Spanish
• Reviews: Outstanding score of 4.9/5 from over 460 reviews
• Considerations: The tour involves physical activity, so it’s best for those comfortable with walking and some hiking

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Oaxaca

The tour begins at the Oaxaca by locals office, located next to a café with coordinates 17.06589698791504, -96.71919250488281. Guests are advised to arrive by 7:30 am if they plan to enjoy breakfast or coffee, as the tour departs early in the morning. The guides meet guests inside the office, making the check-in process straightforward. The tour includes transportation, which is highly rated, with 94% of reviews giving it a perfect score.

The provider offers flexible booking options, allowing reservations with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later choices for those who prefer to keep their plans open. The group size typically remains manageable, ensuring a comfortable experience with plenty of interaction with guides.

Visiting the Tule Tree: The Enormous Zapotec Landmark

The tour’s first stop is the Tule Tree, which receives 30 minutes on-site. Known as one of the world’s most iconic trees, this massive Montezuma cypress spans over 11 meters around its trunk and is estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Visitors get a brief but impactful visit, with guides sharing stories about its historical and cultural significance.

Many reviews emphasize the Tule Tree’s impressive size, with some mentioning how it exceeds expectations. The short visit allows time for photos and a quick walk around the market area nearby, where some vendors might be open for snacks and souvenirs.

Exploring the Art of Rug Weaving in Teotitlán del Valle

After Tule, the tour proceeds to Teotitlán del Valle, a village famed for its traditional rug weaving. The stop lasts about 1 hour, giving guests a chance to see artisans at work and learn about natural dyes and weaving techniques. The guides explain the artistic process, which involves dyeing wool with plant-based colors and creating intricate patterns.

Visitors often appreciate this stop for its authenticity and craftsmanship, with many noting the beautiful textiles and the friendly local artisans. It’s a chance to see Oaxacan culture alive through its textiles, making this a favorite among art lovers.

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Discovering the Archaeological Site of Mitla

The Mitla archaeological zone receives 1 hour of exploration. Recognized for its unique Zapotec architecture and mosaic stonework, Mitla stands out among Oaxaca’s ancient sites. The mystical atmosphere and intricate carvings make it a fascinating stop, especially for history buffs.

Guided by a local expert, visitors learn about Zapotec civilization and the significance of Mitla as a religious and ceremonial center. The site also features ruins and well-preserved mosaics, which visitors can admire at their own pace. Some reviews mention that the Mitla visit feels a bit short, but it offers enough time to appreciate the key highlights.

Walking Through Hierve el Agua’s Petrified Waterfalls

One of the tour’s most celebrated stops is Hierve el Agua, where visitors spend around 2 hours. The petrified waterfalls—formed by mineral-rich water over millennia—create a surreal landscape often compared to cascading waterfalls. The site also features natural mineral pools where visitors can relax.

The hike down to the waterfalls can be intense, especially under the hot sun, with reviews advising travelers to bring lots of water and sunscreen. Many note that it’s worth the effort, as the views from halfway down are already breathtaking, and some choose to skip the descent if they prefer to enjoy the scenery from above. Guides do not lead the hike inside the park but provide assistance in exploring the area.

Lunch and Rest at a Local Restaurant

Midway through the day, the tour stops for approximately 1 hour at a local restaurant. The meal is a buffet, offering a variety of authentic Mexican dishes. Reviewers mention that the food is tasty, though some note it’s a small portion size. It’s a good opportunity to rest and recharge before the next stops.

Guests can enjoy traditional flavors and sometimes try regional specialties like Tejate, a traditional Oaxacan drink. The timing of the lunch is well-placed, ensuring everyone is ready for afternoon activities.

Visiting a Mezcal Distillery with Tasting

The tour concludes with a mezcal distillery visit, a highlight for many. Here, guests learn about mezcal production from local experts, who guide through the step-by-step process. The tasting session features over 20 types of mezcal, allowing ample opportunity to sample different flavors.

Many reviews praise the quality and variety of mezcal offered, with some calling the tasting “wild” due to the numerous options. Guides share interesting stories and facts about mezcal, making this stop both educational and enjoyable. The end of the day is often described as a fun, flavorful experience, especially appreciated by those who enjoy spirits.

Practicalities: Transportation, Group Size, and Accessibility

Transportation is highly rated, with 94% of reviewers giving it a perfect score. The vehicle is described as spacious and comfortable, with a professional driver ensuring safe travel between sites. The group size is manageable, allowing for easier interaction with guides and fellow travelers.

However, the tour involves some physical activity, like hiking at Hierve el Agua and walking around archaeological sites. The long duration of over 10 hours** means it’s best suited for active guests who can handle a full day of sightseeing. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility issues, heart problems, or those sensitive to altitude sickness.

How the Tour Compares to Similar Experiences

The variety of stops makes this tour stand out from others that might focus solely on Hierve el Agua or archaeological sites. Many reviews highlight the balance of nature, history, and culture, with well-paced exploration at each location. The inclusion of a mezcal tasting and rugs visit adds authentic local experiences not always found in similar tours.

Price-wise, the tour offers good value considering the multiple sites and tastings included. It’s a comprehensive day trip for those wanting to maximize their Oaxaca experience without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Final Thoughts on the Hierve el Agua, Mitla, El Tule Tree, Rugs, and Mezcal Tour

This full-day adventure provides a diverse look at Oaxaca’s natural beauty, ancient ruins, and cultural arts. The expert guides earn high praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience engaging and informative. The timing at each stop is generally generous, ensuring visitors have time to explore without feeling rushed.

While the long day involves some physical effort, especially at Hierve el Agua, the memorable landscapes and cultural insights make it worthwhile. This tour is best suited for active travelers eager to see a variety of highlights in one day, with an appreciation for authentic experiences like rug weaving and mezcal tastings.

This tour offers a well-rounded, satisfying day in Oaxaca, combining stunning scenery, historical sites, and lively traditions—all in a carefully curated itinerary that many reviewers rate nearly perfect.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 11 hours, including all stops and a meal break.

What locations are visited on this tour?
You visit Hierve el Agua, Mitla archaeological zone, El Tule Tree, Teotitlán del Valle for rug weaving, and a mezcal distillery.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transportation is highly rated, with professional drivers and spacious vehicles.

What should I bring?
Bring cash in Mexican pesos for entrance fees and small purchases, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for those with mobility problems, heart issues, or height and altitude sensitivities.

Are meals included?
The tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant. The mezcal tasting is part of the experience but not a meal.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date, and pay later options are offered.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua and the mezcal tasting are often cited as the most memorable parts.

How good are the guides?
Guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and fluent in both English and Spanish.

Is this tour value for money?
Absolutely, given the multiple attractions and tastings included, many consider it excellent value for a full day of sightseeing.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized day with authentic local experiences in Oaxaca.

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