Oaxaca: Hiking Tour In the Sierra Norte With Lunch

Exploring the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca through this Hiking Tour offers a fantastic combination of history, nature, and local flavor. Starting with a convenient hotel pickup in Oaxaca City, the tour takes you on a 15 km trek along the Camino Real, a historic trail used by indigenous communities for thousands of years. The day includes walking through lush forests and farmland, enjoying river swims, and ending with a delicious traditional meal in the village of Lachatao.

This tour suits those with a moderate level of fitness who appreciate outdoor activity and cultural history. It provides a unique chance to connect with nature while learning about the ancient pathways that once linked different civilizations in Mexico. The small group size, limited to 6 participants, ensures a personalized experience, but travelers should be prepared for uneven terrain and some uphill sections.

Key Points

• Duration: 10 hours, including pickup and drop-off
• Start & Finish: from Oaxaca City with hotel pickup
• Walk along the historic Camino Real trail, used by indigenous communities for thousands of years
• Hike 15 km through forests, farmland, and mountainous terrain
• Swim in rivers (optional) and enjoy wild flora and fauna, including exotic birds and orchids
• End your day with a traditional lunch in Lachatao village
• Requires moderate fitness and comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain

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From Oaxaca City to Latuvi: Starting the Adventure

The tour begins with a pickup in Oaxaca City, where the guide waits in the hotel lobby or outside an Airbnb. The two-hour drive takes you through scenic landscapes to the mountain village of Latuvi. This relaxed start allows travelers to enjoy views of Oaxaca’s mountainous terrain before the trek begins.

Once in Latuvi, the group prepares to follow the Camino Real, a trail with thousands of years of use connecting different indigenous communities. The path historically served as a trade route and cultural link, and today it provides a walk through forests, ancient farmland, and mountain scenery. The atmosphere is peaceful, with lush flora like wild orchids and carnivorous plants, and the chance to spot exotic birds or lizards.

Exploring the Historic Camino Real Trail

The Camino Real offers an engaging journey through Oaxaca’s mountain landscapes. The trail’s thousands of years of history make it more than just a hike; it’s a walk through the layered stories of indigenous civilizations. The guide shares insights into how this route connected regions from the center north to the southeast of Mexico.

While walking, the scenery includes diverse plant life and the sounds of native birds. The trail’s gentle descents and ascents are manageable for those with a moderate fitness level, but the uneven terrain calls for comfortable hiking shoes. The flora and fauna are highlights, with opportunities to see wild orchids, carnivorous plants, and local wildlife like coatis and lizards.

Trekking to Lachatao: The 15 km Journey

The main hike spans 15 km (around 9.3 miles), divided into sections with notable stops. The group descends into a river area after about 2 km, where taking a refreshing swim is an option. The trail then continues through forests and traditional farmland, covering approximately 5 km before making a 20-minute rest with snacks.

Post-rest, the path involves some uphill walking and descents over another 3.5 km until reaching a second river. Crossing this river and then navigating another 4.5 km across gentle inclines and declines leads to the village of Lachatao. The varied terrain keeps the walk engaging but requires a moderate fitness level.

River Swims and Natural Scenery

Swimming in the rivers along the trail adds a refreshing break to the hike. While optional, many choose to dip into the clear waters, enjoying a moment of cool relaxation amidst the mountains. The rivers also serve as scenic spots for taking photos of the surrounding lush forests and mountain vistas.

Along With river stops, the hike offers a close look at the diverse plant life, including orchids and potentially carnivorous plants, as well as the chance to observe local wildlife like exotic birds, coatis, and lizards. The natural beauty of Sierra Norte shines brightly throughout the journey.

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Arriving in Lachatao and Tasting Local Cuisine

Reaching Lachatao marks the end of the physical trek. Here, the group enjoys a delicious traditional lunch, giving a taste of local flavors and rural Oaxaca cuisine. The meal provides a well-earned break and a chance to relax after several hours of hiking.

The village atmosphere is peaceful, and the meal typically features regional dishes, making it a memorable culinary experience. After lunch, the guide facilitates the return journey to Oaxaca City, ending the day with a comfortable drive back.

Practical Details: Timing, Group Size, and Equipment

The entire tour lasts 10 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off. It operates in small groups of up to 6 participants, which allows for personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. The starting times vary depending on availability, so checking ahead is recommended.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, snacks, drinks, water, and appropriate clothing suitable for outdoor activity. Since the hike involves uneven terrain, it is not suitable for those with back problems, mobility issues, or heart and respiratory conditions. The uphill sections could be challenging for individuals with low fitness levels.

The Guide and Language Support

The tour is led by Oaxkiando, with guides speaking English and Spanish. Their explanations enrich the experience, offering insights into the trail’s history, local flora, and cultural significance. The small group setting enhances the opportunity for questions and engaging storytelling.

Suitability and Physical Requirements

This tour is ideal for those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy outdoor walking, nature, and cultural history. It involves walking on uneven terrain with both ascents and descents, so participants should be prepared with hiking shoes and comfortable clothing.

It is not suitable for children under 7 or people with significant mobility or health issues, particularly heart, respiratory, or back problems. The river swim is optional, offering some flexibility for those less inclined to take a dip.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

Travelers who value historical trails, natural beauty, and authentic rural experiences will find this tour rewarding. It provides a peaceful escape from city life and a chance to connect with Oaxaca’s indigenous heritage and mountain landscapes. The delicious local lunch adds a flavorful conclusion to the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 7 due to the uneven terrain and physical demands.

What should I bring?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, snacks, drinks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Can I swim in the rivers?
Yes, swimming in the rivers is optional and depends on individual comfort and weather conditions.

How long is the hike?
The total walking distance is approximately 15 km (around 9.3 miles), with varied terrain including ascents and descents.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, guide services in English and Spanish, and lunch in Lachatao. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also part of the package.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, the guides from Oaxkiando are experienced and provide insights into the trail’s history, flora, and local culture.

Is the tour physically demanding?
It requires a moderate fitness level due to uneven terrain and uphill sections but is manageable for most physically active people.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This hiking tour in the Sierra Norte offers an authentic and scenic way to explore Oaxaca’s mountains, forests, and cultural history, making it an enriching addition to any adventure-focused itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby