Check out Hierve el Agua, Mitla, the Tule Tree, Rugs, and a Mezcal Distillery Tour

Traveling in Oaxaca? If you’re after a full day packed with iconic sights, traditional crafts, and local flavors, this guided tour offers a fantastic way to see a lot in one go. From breathtaking landscapes to ancient ruins and artisan markets, it’s designed to give you a taste of what makes Oaxaca special.

What really draws us in is the variety—one moment you’re marveling at the natural wonder of Hierve el Agua, and the next, you’re learning how traditional rugs are made in a vibrant village. Plus, the mezcal tasting at the end caps the day with a true local touch.

A possible downside? The tour is long, about 11 hours, so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a busy day on the move and some walking or hiking involved. Also, some entry fees and meals aren’t included, so a little extra cash is worth packing.

All in all, this tour is a solid pick for travelers eager to explore Oaxaca’s highlights with an engaging guide. It’s especially great for those who want a well-rounded experience—culture, nature, and delicious drinks in one day.

Key Points

• Excellent guide service with knowledgeable, friendly bilingual guides making the experience engaging.
• Diverse itinerary covering natural wonders, archaeological sites, artisan workshops, and local distilleries.
• Good value for money considering the number of attractions, transportation, and included tastings.
• Long but well-paced day, with ample time at each stop and some free moments to explore on your own.
• Entry fees not included for some sites, so budget accordingly.
• Ideal for curious travelers who enjoy a mixture of culture, nature, and food, and are comfortable with a full-day tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Oaxaca: What to Expect

This tour is a comprehensive snapshot of Oaxaca’s natural beauty, history, and craftsmanship. You’ll spend a full day with a small group, led by a capable bilingual guide who brings insight and warmth to each stop. Expect to start early and finish somewhat tired but with a head full of stories and memories.

The main attractions are spread across the region, so transportation is key. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Oaxaca, so it’s hassle-free. The group sizes tend to be small, making it easier to ask questions and stay engaged—many travelers mention how the personalized approach elevates the experience.

The Tule Tree: A Natural Wonder

Your day begins with a visit to the Tule Tree, a legendary Zapotec landmark. Described as “more impressive than expected,” this massive, ancient tree has become a symbol of Oaxaca. You’ll have about 30 minutes here, which is enough to snap photos, browse nearby stalls, and soak in the atmosphere. Multiple reviews highlight how much people love seeing this awe-inspiring natural monument.

Art and Tradition in Teotitlán del Valle

Next, you head to Teotitlán del Valle, a town renowned for its traditional rug weaving. Here, you get to observe artisans at work and learn about natural dyes and weaving techniques. The process is fascinating and offers a peek into local craftsmanship that’s been passed down for generations. Travelers mention enjoying the chance to see the art behind the textiles and to browse local shops, although some noted the sales element felt a bit “salesy,” which is common in craft tours.

The Archaeological Site of Mitla

Later, you visit Mitla, a site less crowded than Monte Albán but equally rich in Zapotec history. An enthusiastic local guide leads you through the intricate stone mosaics and ruins, helping you understand the spiritual and historical significance. Visitors often say Mitla is an “amazing site” and appreciate the depth of storytelling from the guides, making the ruins come alive.

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The Marvel of Hierve el Agua

The highlight for many is Hierve el Agua, known for its natural mineral pools and “petrified waterfalls.” You’ll spend around two hours here, exploring the terraces and enjoying the views. The hike to the waterfalls can be a bit strenuous, especially during hot months, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Reviewers love the scenery but caution that the area can look a bit dried out depending on the season. Still, the photos and vistas are often described as “breathtaking,” and it’s a perfect spot for photos and a true sense of nature’s wonder.

Lunch and Mezcal Tasting

Midday, you’ll pause at a local restaurant for a buffet lunch, typically costing around 220 MXN. Some travelers find the food average and wish for more authentic local dishes, so consider eating at Hierve el Agua if you want fresher options. After lunch, the tour concludes with a visit to a mezcal distillery. Here, you get to learn about the traditional process and sample various kinds, often around 16 different varieties, as some reviews mention. The mezcal tasting is a highlight—an authentic experience that many say is both educational and fun.

The Practical Details

For just $49 per person, this tour offers a lot—transportation, guiding, and tasting included. Entry fees for sites like Hierve el Agua ($70 MXN) and Mitla ($100 MXN) are not included, so you’ll want to carry some cash. The Tule Tree’s close-up view costs an additional $20 MXN, but you can also enjoy the surroundings without that.

The tour lasts about 11 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening. This makes it a long day, but many reviews note that the group’s good pacing and the engaging guide make it manageable. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with walking and spending most of the day outdoors.

Group Size and Guide Quality

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides—Adriel, Miguel, and others. They’re described as enthusiastic, passionate, and fluent in both English and Spanish, which enhances the experience. The small group size (around 4 to 8 people) makes for a more intimate outing, giving everyone space to explore and ask questions.

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is included and described as comfortable, with air conditioning in the bus. The driver is credited with keeping everyone safe and on schedule. The long drives between sites are typically well-managed with plenty of chatting and good info from the guide.

Cost and Value

While there’s an extra cost for site entry and meals, many feel the overall value is good considering the number of sights and activities packed into the day. The mezcal tasting alone is often highlighted as a memorable part, and the guides’ local insights add depth to each visit.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience is ideal if you’re curious about multiple aspects of Oaxaca—natural wonders, archaeological sites, artisan crafts, and local spirits. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a full day of activity and want to maximize their exposure without planning each stop independently. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy learning from enthusiastic guides and appreciate small group settings.

If you’re traveling with family or have mobility issues, bear in mind the walking involved around Hierve el Agua and Mitla. The tour isn’t tailored for those with significant mobility challenges due to the nature of some stops.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves walking and some hiking, it’s better suited for older children or teenagers who are comfortable with outdoor activities. Always consider your kids’ stamina and interest in cultural sites.

Are meals included?
No, the tour includes a buffet lunch at a local restaurant, but it’s an optional extra and not part of the base price. Many find it adequate, but some might prefer to eat at the site if they want fresher or more authentic options.

How much does entry to the attractions cost?
Entry fees for Hierve el Agua ($70 MXN), Mitla ($100 MXN), and a close-up view of the Tule Tree ($20 MXN) are not included. It’s wise to bring some cash for these.

What is the group size like?
Expect small groups of around 4 to 8 people, which allows for a personalized experience and easier interaction with guides.

What language are the guides?
Guides are bilingual, speaking both Spanish and English, ensuring clear explanations and engaging storytelling.

Is the tour flexible or customizable?
The itinerary is fixed, but the small group size and knowledgeable guides mean you can ask questions and sometimes adjust your focus a bit if desired.

How strenuous is the tour?
It involves some walking and hiking, especially at Hierve el Agua, so be prepared with comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection.

Wrapping Up

If you’re looking to see Oaxaca’s most loved natural and cultural sites without the hassle of organizing transport and guides yourself, this tour offers excellent value. Its mix of natural beauty, ancient ruins, artisan traditions, and local spirits makes it a well-rounded experience that captures the spirit of Oaxaca.

The knowledgeable guides, small-group vibe, and variety of attractions make it a compelling choice for curious travelers eager to understand and appreciate this vibrant region. Be ready for a long day, but one filled with discovery, stunning views, and memorable tastes.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour can add a meaningful layer to your Oaxaca adventure—just pack some cash, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy every moment.

You can check availability for your dates here: