Boil the Water, Mitla, Tule, Mezcal and more

Planning a trip to Oaxaca and trying to squeeze in as much as possible? This comprehensive day tour promises to take you through some of the most iconic sights and flavors of the region. It’s designed for those who want a full, immersive experience without spending days on the road. From ancient archaeological sites to stunning natural vistas and mezcal tastings, you get a well-rounded look at what makes Oaxaca special.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines cultural insights with natural beauty. The guides, all family members from Lescas Co Tours, are genuinely passionate about sharing their love for Oaxaca—this makes all the difference when you’re trying to truly understand a place. Plus, the variety of stops means you’ll see everything from the world’s widest tree to picturesque waterfalls, all in one long but very rewarding day.

One potential downside is that it’s quite a long day — around 11 to 12 hours — so it’s not ideal if you prefer relaxed sightseeing or traveling with young children. The schedule is packed, and some stops may feel rushed, especially for those who want more time at each location. Still, if you’re okay with a full itinerary and want to maximize your time, this tour hits many highlights.

This experience is best suited for travelers who don’t mind long days, enjoy guided tours, and want a broad overview of Oaxaca’s top attractions in one go. If you’re eager to learn about local traditions, see stunning landscapes, and sample authentic mezcal, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Covers 5 key sites, offering a complete snapshot of Oaxaca’s culture and scenery.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides are family members who are fun, friendly, and deeply familiar with the sights and traditions.
• Value for money: At around $41.82, it’s a budget-friendly way to see a lot without multiple bookings.
• Long but rewarding day: Expect 11–12 hours, so pack snacks and be ready for a full schedule.
• Includes transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drives.
• Limited admission costs: You pay only for entrance fees, with some stops like Mitla and Tule being free, but others like Hierve el Agua will cost extra.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off in Oaxaca City

Your day begins bright and early, with pickup from your accommodation or designated meeting point. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, which helps keep things personal and manageable. From the start, the tour sets a relaxed yet purposeful tone, with a friendly guide ready to share stories and answer questions in both Spanish and English.

First Stop: Santa Maria del Tule

The first highlight is the Tule Tree — a true marvel as the widest tree in the world. It’s a quick stop, about 20 minutes, but it’s worth taking a moment to marvel at this natural wonder. The entrance fee here is optional, around 20 MXN, and many reviews mention how impressive it is to see such an ancient, massive tree.

Second Stop: Teotitlán del Valle

Next, you’ll visit a family workshop famous for natural dyes made from roots, flowers, and insects. This is a great chance to see traditional textile craftsmanship firsthand. We loved the way guides explained how these vibrant colors are created using natural ingredients, making it a more meaningful experience. The visit lasts about 45 minutes and is free of charge, though you might want to buy some textiles if something catches your eye.

Third Stop: Archaeological Zone of Mitla

Mitla is often called Oaxaca’s second most important archaeological site after Monte Albán. The intricate fretwork decorating its palaces is breathtaking — a detail that shows the sophistication of the Zapotec civilization. Your guide will fill you in on the history as you explore the ruins, which take around an hour. Entrance here isn’t included but costs about MX$100, a reasonable fee for such a well-preserved site. Reviewers say the guide’s storytelling makes the experience even richer.

Lunch Break at Donaji Restaurant

Midday, you’ll enjoy a buffet featuring traditional Oaxacan dishes. We recommend having a light breakfast beforehand since this is a significant meal, and the buffet is quite generous. The restaurant is a convenient stop to recharge and soak in local flavors. Many travelers appreciate the quality of the food, though some note that it’s a typical buffet; don’t expect gourmet, but it’s decent and filling.

The Highlight: Hierve el Agua

One of the standout moments is the visit to Hierve el Agua — stunning natural rock formations that resemble waterfalls frozen in time. You get about two hours here, plenty of time to take photos, dip into the mineral-rich pools, or just relax while soaking in the views. Travelers often mention how the scenery surpasses expectations, with some saying it’s even more impressive in person than photos suggest. Be prepared for the drive; it’s the furthest stop, around two hours from Oaxaca, but many agree it’s well worth the journey.

Mezcal Factory Visit: El Rey de Matatlán

The final stop is at an artisan mezcal distillery. Here, you’ll learn briefly about the mezcal-making process and get to taste over 40 different flavors. This part is often highlighted as the most fun — a chance to sample and appreciate the diversity of Oaxaca’s famous spirit. Many reviews mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the high-quality tasting experience. It’s free to taste, though you might want to buy a bottle or two as souvenirs.

What the Tour Means for You

The Value of a Full-Day Tour

For just over 11 hours, this tour packs in a lot of sights and experiences. It’s an efficient way to cover the highlights without multiple separate trips. The price point of $41.82 per person makes it accessible, especially when you factor in transportation, guide service, and the variety of stops. Overall, many travelers felt it’s a good balance of value and experience — especially considering some of the reviews that praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness.

The Guides Make a Difference

Multiple reviews emphasize how much guides enhance the experience. They’re described as fun, knowledgeable, and passionate about Oaxaca. The fact that they’re all part of the Lescas family adds a personal touch, which travelers find authentic and engaging. One reviewer even said her tour guide Angel was “outstanding,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in making the day memorable.

Flexibility and Comfort

Transportation is in air-conditioned vehicles, which is much appreciated on a full-day trip. Meeting points are convenient, near public transportation, and the tour includes travel insurance, adding peace of mind. However, be prepared for a long day — some stops may feel a bit rushed if you’re a slow walker or prefer more leisure time.

Considerations and Downsides

The trip’s length might be a lot for some, especially if you’re traveling with young children or prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, some reviews mention disorganization at certain points, like the second half of the tour, which may involve guiding by a driver unfamiliar with English or navigating tricky terrains. The entrance fees aren’t included in the price, so budget for those if you want to visit all sites.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to see many of Oaxaca’s top sights in one day without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It suits those who don’t mind a busy schedule and are interested in local culture, archaeological sites, natural wonders, and mezcal. If you’re short on time but want a rundown, this experience delivers.

It’s not ideal if you prefer a slow pace, have mobility issues, or are traveling with young children who might find the long day tiring. But for curious, active travelers who love learning from passionate guides and enjoy full days of sightseeing and tasting, it’s a dependable choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation between stops.
What is the tour duration? Expect around 11 to 12 hours, including all stops and travel time.
Are admission fees included? No, some sites like Mitla and Hierve el Agua have separate entrance fees, which you’ll need to pay on-site.
Can I customize the itinerary? Not really, as it’s a set full-day tour. However, the guides are known for their friendly and engaging approach.
Is this tour suitable for families? It’s more suited to travelers comfortable with a long day. If your family enjoys adventure and cultural exploration, it can work, but keep in mind the length.
What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, water, and possibly a swimsuit for Hierve el Agua.
Are meals included? No, but there’s a buffet lunch at Donaji Restaurant.
How many people are in each group? The maximum is 20, which helps keep it intimate and manageable.
What language are the guides? Guides speak both Spanish and English, so communication is accessible for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

For anyone with a day to spare in Oaxaca, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into the region’s natural beauty, ancient ruins, and local traditions. The guides’ enthusiasm and personal touch really add to the experience, making the long day feel more personal and engaging. While it may be a bit hectic and involves some extra costs for entrance fees, the diversity of sights and flavors packed into one day can make it a highlight of your trip.

It’s especially ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time and absorb a broad sense of Oaxaca’s culture in a single, well-organized outing. If you’re prepared for a full day and eager to learn from passionate locals, this tour could be just the right fit for your adventure.