If you’re looking for a way to combine culture, adventure, and delicious food during your time in Oaxaca, this 6-hour bike tour might just be what you need. It’s a well-rounded experience that offers a taste of everything—archaeology, local crafts, scenic countryside, and the flavors of Oaxaca’s famous gastronomy. Given its high provider rating and long-standing experience, it seems to hit a lot of the right notes.
What we really like about this tour is how it balances active exploration with culture. You get to pedal through peaceful rural areas, visit iconic historical sites, and learn about local art forms like alebrijes, all in just one day. Plus, the included food and fruits add a tasty touch that makes the experience even more memorable.
That said, a key consideration is the cycling difficulty—while it’s largely suitable for most, the ride does include some faster descents and uneven terrain, which might not be perfect for everyone. Also, keep in mind that some entrance fees, like those for Monte Alban or the Cuilapam Convent, are not included, so budget accordingly.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, arts, scenic rides, and good eats. If you’re the kind of person who likes to pack your day with diverse experiences but prefers to keep it relaxed, this could be a great fit.
Key Points
- Diverse Experiences: Combines archaeology, crafts, landscapes, and gastronomy in one package.
- Scenic Rides: Enjoy peaceful countryside, hilltop views, and rural towns on a bicycle.
- Cultural Insights: Learn about Alebrijes and visit important historic sites like Monte Alban and Cuilapam.
- Flexible Options: Choose to start from Monte Alban or Santa María Atzompa depending on your interests.
- Food & Refreshments: Includes local fruits, lunch, and stops for rehydration and snacks.
- Active but Accessible: Suitable for beginners to more advanced riders, with some caution on descents.
The Experience: What to Expect on This Tour
This tour is a thoughtful blend of activity and cultural discovery, designed to give you a comprehensive glimpse into what makes Oaxaca special. Starting from your hotel (or Airbnb) in Oaxaca City, the guide picks you up and takes you on a short drive—about 35 minutes—to your starting point, which could be either Monte Alban or Santa Maria Atzompa. Your choice here impacts the tour’s focus: Monte Alban for archaeology enthusiasts, Santa Maria Atzompa for craft lovers.
Starting at Monte Alban
If you opt for Monte Alban, you’ll first have some time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. Keep in mind, entrance fees and guides inside Monte Alban are not included in the tour price, so you might want to budget a little extra if you plan to go inside. Once you’ve admired the ancient ruins, you’ll gear up with bicycles, ready to descend the main road leading away from the site. Be aware that this descent can be quick and somewhat steep, which might not be suitable for complete novices or those uncomfortable with fast rides.
Starting at Santa Maria Atzompa
Choosing Atzompa means you get a more relaxed start, visiting a picturesque town famous for its ceramics—particularly its green pottery made with pre-Hispanic techniques. Here, you can browse local markets and see artisans at work, which is a fantastic way to understand the crafts that define the region. After your bike prep, the ride begins on mainly flat, paved roads, making it accessible for most skill levels. It then transitions into rural dirt and paved roads, with some gentle hills and small climbs, perfect for those wanting a bit of a physical challenge without going overboard.
The Scenic and Cultural Stops
One of the more unique features of this tour is the visit to San Antonio Arrazola to see alebrijes—colorful wooden sculptures that are quintessentially Mexican. The guide can take you to a local museum where you’ll learn about how these fantastical figures are made, and you can even buy a piece directly from the artist. For many, this is a highlight, especially if you love artisanal crafts or want a memorable souvenir.
Next, you’ll visit the Ex-convent of Cuilapam, an architectural marvel from the late 16th century. While access might sometimes be restricted during special occasions, the site is worth a quick stop for its historical significance and impressive ruins. It’s a peaceful spot that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, perfect for a photo or just soaking in the tranquility.
More Great Tours NearbyEnding in Zaachila and the Food Tour
The final stretch takes you through farmland, crossing neighborhoods and passing by local homes and farms, giving you a glimpse into rural life. The ride culminates in Zaachila, a town renowned for its vibrant gastronomy. Here, you’ll indulge in authentic Oaxacan dishes, complemented by the tour’s famous ice creams—”las nieves,” which means ice creams or snowcones. These natural fruit ice-creams are a perfect refreshment after a morning of cycling and exploration.
Support and Logistics
The return to Oaxaca City involves a comfortable support vehicle ride lasting around 40 minutes, depending on traffic. This means you won’t have to worry about the long ride back or fatigue spoiling your day. The tour includes water and fruits along the way, which help keep you refreshed, plus a guide speaking both English and Spanish.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The price of $120 per person is reasonable considering everything involved—guided cycling, transportation, food, and the chance to see a variety of sites. However, keep in mind that entrance fees for Monte Alban and Cuilapam are not included, so plan a bit extra if you want to go inside these sites. Alcoholic beverages are not included, but that’s pretty typical for a tour like this.
The tour is designed for travelers who enjoy active days but aren’t necessarily seasoned cyclists. It’s suitable for beginners, with some caution needed during descents. It’s also not recommended for children under 10, or for anyone with mobility issues or difficulty riding a bike. The group size is small, which adds a personalized feel and allows for better interaction with guides.
Practical Tips for Booking
To get the most out of this experience, send the tour provider your bike size, height, and any food or medical restrictions beforehand. Be sure to bring sun protection—hat, sunscreen—and insect repellent, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors in rural areas. Dress in cycling gear and closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort.
Since the meeting point is inside a parking lot in front of Hotel Villa Vazari, it’s straightforward to find, just a short walk from Mercado 20 de Noviembre and Benito Juarez.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?
If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of history, art, and local food, and you enjoy a moderate physical challenge, this tour offers a rich experience without feeling rushed. It’s perfect if you want to see a lot in one day—ruins, crafts, scenic views, and delicious eats—all with the comfort of a guided setup and support vehicle.
For those who love cultural authenticity, the stops at artisan villages and the chance to learn about alebrijes set this tour apart. The opportunity to enjoy authentic Oaxacan gastronomy and natural fruit ice-creams makes the experience feel complete and satisfying.
However, if you’re not comfortable cycling on varying terrains or steep descents, or if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. Also, if you’re expecting an in-depth archaeological or craft workshop experience, remember that entrance fees and in-depth guides inside the sites are extra.
In all, this tour offers a practical and rewarding way to see Oaxaca beyond the typical tourist spots—covering history, art, nature, and food in just one day.
Las Nieves Monte Albán, Arrazola, Cuilapam 6h Bike Tour
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is designed to be accessible for a range of cycling abilities, from beginners to more experienced riders. Just be aware that some descents can be fast and are not suitable for everyone.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), insect repellent, a camera, comfortable cycling clothing, closed-toe shoes, and cash for optional entrance fees or souvenirs. Also, long-sleeved shirts are recommended for sun and insect protection.
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Monte Alban and Cuilapam are not included, so you might want to budget extra for those if you plan to visit inside the sites.
Can I book this tour for a group?
Yes, the tour offers small group options, making it more personal and flexible. It’s ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.
Is it family-friendly?
The activity isn’t recommended for children under 10 or those with mobility issues or difficulty riding a bike, due to the physical nature and terrain of the ride.
If you’re eager to combine outdoor activity with cultural discovery and local cuisine, this bike tour promises an engaging day out in Oaxaca that covers all those bases without feeling rushed. It’s a chance to see some of the most iconic sights while enjoying the relaxed pace and flavors of this beautiful region.
You can check availability for your dates here: