The Mezcal Journey

If you’re considering an authentic look into one of Oaxaca’s most iconic products—mezcal—this tour promises a comprehensive, engaging experience. While we haven’t personally taken it, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded adventure that combines education, culture, and a generous dose of tasting.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances learning about the craft of mezcal with ample tasting opportunities—no rushed or superficial stops here. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Oaxacan meal at a local restaurant makes it feel like a true cultural dive rather than just a commercial tasting.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing of the lunch—it’s served later in the day, around 3 p.m., so a hearty breakfast beforehand is advisable. This tour is best suited for travelers genuinely interested in the artisan process, local traditions, and who enjoy a relaxed, immersive experience. It’s perfect if you’re a foodie, a spirit enthusiast, or someone simply eager to discover Oaxaca beyond the usual sights.

Key Points

• Authentic craftsmanship: Visit an artisan mezcal distillery for a hands-on look at how mezcal is made.
• Beautiful scenery: Walk through sprawling agave fields and capture stunning photos of the plants.
• Expert guides: Guides are knowledgeable, passionate, and patient, making the experience more engaging.
• Tasting galore: Unlimited tastings of different mezcal varieties, making this a true spirit lover’s tour.
• Local food: Enjoy a traditional Oaxacan meal included at a local restaurant.
• Small group: The tour keeps group sizes to a maximum of 10, ensuring a more personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: The Heart of Oaxaca City

The tour begins in the vibrant Jalatlaco neighborhood, specifically at the Templo de San Matías. This location is convenient for travelers staying in or near Oaxaca’s historic center. The group departs around 11:00 a.m., setting the tone for a relaxed, manageable day without feeling rushed.

First Stop: Santiago Matatlán — The Mezcal Heartland

This is the star of the tour—a visit to a mezcal factory where you’ll witness the artisan process of mezcal production. Unlike commercial brands, this distillery focuses on traditional methods, giving you a true appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. According to reviews, guides walk you through each step—from the harvesting of agave, roasting, fermenting, to distillation.

One reviewer mentioned how knowledgeable the guide was, explaining every detail slowly and clearly, making sure everyone understood the process. The fact that this stop is free and lasts around two hours indicates it’s a substantial part of the experience, offering both education and tastings.

Second Stop: San Pablo Villa de Mitla — Agave Fields

Next is a walk through majestic agave fields where thousands of these spiky plants grow. This part is especially photogenic—it’s a great chance to snap some memorable pictures, or simply soak in the scenery. The guide discusses the different types of agave, their growth cycles, and how they’re cultivated for mezcal.

Guests consistently mention how much they enjoyed wandering among the plants, learning about their role in local traditions, and having plenty of time for activities or photos. This stop is about appreciating the raw materials behind the spirit.

Final Stop: Doña Chica — The Local Meal

After soaking in the sights and learning about the process, the tour concludes with a traditional Oaxacan meal at a local restaurant. It’s included in the price, which adds serious value, given how much food in Oaxaca can cost elsewhere. Reviewers rave about the size and quality of the lunch, noting it’s a hearty, authentic experience.

The meal also features more mezcal, so you can continue tasting while enjoying local dishes. The timing is a bit late—around 3 p.m.—so bringing a big breakfast is recommended to avoid hunger. Some guests mentioned that this meal was a highlight, not just for the food but for the chance to chat with locals and understand more about regional cuisine.

Tour Logistics & Overall Experience

The tour is designed to be intimate, with no more than 10 travelers, ensuring everyone gets personal attention. The small group size also fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere where questions flow easily, and the guide can tailor the experience slightly to the group’s interests.

The price of just over $100 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusiveness—transport, multiple tastings, and a full meal. Reviewers agree: it’s excellent value for money given the depth of learning and quality of tastings.

The tour lasts approximately six hours, starting at 11 a.m., which leaves the afternoon free to explore more of Oaxaca or relax afterward. The overall feedback highlights how informative and fun the experience is, especially praising guides like Leyda for their passion and patience.

The Experience from the Visitor’s Perspective

From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make all the difference. Guides who are passionate about mezcal and willing to share their expertise turn a simple tasting into a memorable education. Many travelers appreciated how the guides explained the process clearly and patiently, making sure everyone was involved.

The agave fields are not only beautiful but also educational. Guests learn to differentiate types of agave and understand the process from plant to bottle. Given that the tour is focused solely on mezcal (rather than a mixed itinerary), it provides a more immersive experience—perfect for those genuinely interested in the spirit.

The tastings are abundant—multiple varieties of mezcal are offered, with some reviews mentioning they bought bottles to take home. The inclusion of unlimited tastings is generous and ensures everyone finds some favorites. The lunch is another high point—hearty, authentic, and paired well with the spirits.

What Could Be Improved?

While most reviews are glowing, some mention the timing of the lunch—it’s quite late in the day, which might be challenging for some. A suggestion from a reviewer is to consider offering food earlier in the day, especially for those arriving hungry after a hearty breakfast.

The air conditioning in the transportation was noted as a minor issue, but that’s a small comfort concern compared to the overall quality of the experience.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re looking to understand Oaxaca’s mezcal production on a deeper level, this tour delivers. It’s more than just tasting; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship, the culture, and the people behind this iconic spirit.

The value for money is evident in the quality of the guide, the number of tastings, and the inclusion of a traditional meal. For those who love spirits, local culture, or simply want a well-rounded, educational day out, this tour hits the mark.

However, it’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in mezcal and a good appetite, considering the late lunch. If you’re traveling with children or looking for a quick snapshot, this might feel a bit too involved.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for spirit enthusiasts, culture lovers, or foodies eager to see the actual process of mezcal production. It’s perfect if you want a small, personalized group experience with knowledgeable guides who are passionate about their craft.

Travelers who enjoy learning on-site and appreciate a good meal along the way will find this tour very rewarding. It’s also suited for those comfortable with walking through fields and spending time in rural settings, as part of the day is spent outdoors among agave plants.

If you prefer a quick overview or are on a tight schedule, consider the timing and the full day commitment, but for those wanting a detailed, authentic experience—this trip offers plenty.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best suited for adults or older children who can handle walking outdoors and tasting mezcal. The tour doesn’t specify restrictions but focuses heavily on adult spirits.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at about $100.72 per person, which covers transportation, guided visits, unlimited mezcal tastings, and a traditional meal. Considering all these inclusions, the value is quite good.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, starting at 11:00 a.m. and ending back at the meeting point. The late lunch means you’ll want to plan the rest of your day accordingly.

Are the tastings truly unlimited?
Yes, many reviews confirm that there’s a generous, unlimited tasting of different mezcal varieties, making it ideal for spirits lovers.

Can I buy mezcal to take home?
Absolutely. Several guests mentioned purchasing bottles from the distillery or during tastings, so bring some extra space in your luggage.

Is transportation included?
The tour starts at a central location and includes transport between stops, making it convenient to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

What’s the best way to prepare for this tour?
Eat a hearty breakfast, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and bring a small bag for any bottles you might buy. Also, prepare for a full day of learning, tasting, and enjoying.

This mezcal tour in Oaxaca offers a genuine, tasty, and visually appealing look at local traditions. Whether you’re a spirits connoisseur or just curious about Mexican culture, it’s a day well spent. Just remember to pace yourself, bring your appetite, and enjoy the stories behind every sip.