Shared Santa Maria Del Tule Bike Tour

Cycle through the lively streets and scenic landscapes of Oaxaca on the Shared Santa Maria Del Tule Bike Tour for around 3 hours. Priced at $44.57 per person, this tour offers a perfect blend of outdoor activity, cultural discovery, and local flavor. Starting from La Ciclovía Bike shop, the route covers 10 km of urban and rural scenery, culminating at the world’s widest tree—the Tule—which is around 2000 years old. With a focus on accessibility and engaging guides, this tour suits anyone looking to enjoy Oaxaca’s natural and cultural highlights at a relaxed pace, with the option to explore vibrant markets at the end.

While the price includes a bicycle, helmet, lights (if needed), and entry to the Tule area, food is not included, which allows flexibility for those wanting to sample local cuisine independently. The small group size — a maximum of 5 travelers — helps ensure a personalized experience, and reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see the city from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Affordable outdoor activity combining cycling, culture, and nature for $44.57
• Visit the Tule tree, the widest in the world, and learn about its 2,000-year history
• Explore Santa María El Tule’s markets, featuring local textiles, crafts, mezcal, and chocolates
• Guided route of 10 km, passing through both urban streets and rural landscapes
• Includes bicycle, helmet, and entry ticket to the Tule tree area, with optional local drinks and snacks
• Small group experience with a maximum of 5 travelers for a more personalized tour

Starting Point at La Ciclovía Bike Shop in Oaxaca

The tour begins at La Ciclovía Bike shop, located at Calz. Cuauhtémoc 200 in Trinidad de las Huertas. This shop provides the bicycles, helmets, and lights necessary for the ride, making it easy for visitors to start without needing to rent equipment elsewhere. The meeting point’s proximity to public transportation adds convenience for those staying in or near downtown Oaxaca.

The tour wraps up back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple. Most travelers find this setup ideal to combine with other activities around Oaxaca without the hassle of complicated pickups.

Discovering the Tule Tree: The Crown Jewel of the Tour

The first stop is the Tule Tree, a true natural wonder with the widest trunk in Mexico. This ancient 2000-year-old tree is a heritage symbol for Oaxaca, and legends surround its impressive size and longevity. Visitors get 15 minutes to admire this marvel and learn about its significance from the guide.

The Tule tree’s enormous trunk provides a striking visual contrast against its surrounding landscape, making it a key highlight. The admission ticket is included, ensuring there’s no extra hassle or expense to see this famous natural monument.

Santa Maria del Tule’s Markets and Local Flavors

The second stop takes visitors into the heart of the Santa María El Tule town, where 20 minutes are allocated for exploring markets. These markets are lively hubs for local textiles, crafts, mezcal, chocolates, and other regional products. Visitors can browse and shop for souvenirs or simply soak in the bustling atmosphere.

This part of the tour is free of charge for admission, giving flexibility to spend more or less time according to personal interest. While the markets are vibrant and full of local artistry, some reviews suggest that staying longer might allow more time for shopping and sampling food, which the guide will be happy to accommodate if possible.

Guided Bicycle Ride Through Urban and Rural Oaxaca

The 10 km route starts at La Ciclovía and leads through a mix of urban streets and rural scenery. The guide offers brief stops along the way, sharing insights into the area’s history, culture, and natural features. This makes the ride more than just exercise—it becomes a storytelling journey through Oaxaca’s neighborhoods and countryside.

Riders should feel comfortable on city streets, though some reviews note that parts of the route may be slightly challenging or have traffic without traffic lights for pedestrians or cyclists. The guide’s vigilance helps keep the group safe, making it suitable for most fitness levels with some basic cycling experience.

Experience the Flavors of Oaxaca at Markets

While the tour does not include meals, visitors receive a bottle of water, free tejate, beer, or mezcal cup during the experience. After the bicycle ride and Tule visit, travelers can choose to enjoy local gastronomy and drinks at their own pace in the markets.

The markets showcase Oaxacan craftsmanship and culinary delights, from textiles to chocolates, making them an ideal spot for souvenir shopping or tasting regional specialties. Some reviews mention wishing for more time at this stop, indicating that the markets are a true highlight worth exploring thoroughly.

The Role of the Guide and Tour Pacing

The tour is led by an experienced guide who provides short, informative commentary throughout the ride. Reviews highlight the guide’s attentiveness, making the experience comfortable and engaging. The small group size—up to 5 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

The pacing is generally considered comfortable, with brief pauses for explanations and photos. Some visitors note that a slightly longer duration at certain stops, especially the markets, might enhance the experience further.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for those staying in central Oaxaca. The meeting point is clearly specified, and the confirmation is received immediately after booking, with a full refund available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

Most travelers can participate, as the tour involves moderate cycling with safety equipment provided. The maximum group size of 5 helps maintain a friendly environment, and the tour finishes at the start point, simplifying logistics.

Comparing to Other Oaxaca Tours

This bike tour stands out for its focus on the Tule tree, a major natural landmark, combined with market visits that showcase local crafts and gastronomy. Unlike some other tours that might focus only on historical sites or cultural museums, this experience offers outdoor activity and authentic local markets in one package.

The price point of $44.57 makes it a well-priced option for those wanting a relaxed but enriching half-day in Oaxaca. The small group size and personalized guide service add value compared to larger, bus-based excursions.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy cycling, want to see Oaxaca’s natural wonders, and are interested in local markets and crafts, this tour is ideal. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, though some comfort on city streets is helpful. The small group setting and expert guide make for a personalized experience, perfect for those seeking a more intimate exploration.

However, if you prefer longer visits or extensive shopping time, you might want to plan extra time at the markets after the tour. The absence of included meals gives flexibility but also means you should be prepared to explore local eateries on your own.

Final Thoughts on the Santa Maria Del Tule Bike Tour

This 3-hour guided bike adventure offers a memorable mix of nature, culture, and local flavor in Oaxaca. The highlight of the Tule tree provides a perfect photo opportunity and story-worthy experience, complemented by visits to vibrant markets. The small group size and attention from the guide ensure a comfortable, engaging journey suited to travelers who like to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery.

While some might wish for longer at certain stops, the overall balance of activity and relaxation makes this tour a worthwhile addition to any Oaxaca itinerary. It’s friendly for most fitness levels, easy to organize, and offers genuine insights into one of Mexico’s most beloved regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
The tour involves moderate cycling, so basic comfort on bikes is recommended. The small group size and attentive guide make it accessible for most ages and fitness levels.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, a hat, sun protection, and any personal items you might want. Bottled water is included, but additional snacks or souvenirs can be purchased at the markets.

Can I join the tour if I don’t want to cycle the entire route?
The tour is designed as a cycling experience, but the route and stops are manageable for most riders. The guide can provide tips for those who prefer shorter rides or need breaks.

Are there options for food or drinks during the tour?
Food is not included in the tour price, but drinks like mezcal, tequila, or local beverages are available at the markets. You can enjoy local snacks and meals afterward independently.

How long do I have at each stop?
The Tule Tree visit lasts about 15 minutes, while the time at markets is approximately 20 minutes. Longer visits are possible for those who wish to explore more thoroughly.