Small group tours: Hierve el Agua, Mezcal, Teotitlán, Mitla and Tule.

If you’re curious about experiencing some of Oaxaca’s most significant and beautiful sights without the overwhelming crowds, this small group tour may be just what you need. It promises a curated adventure that combines natural wonders, ancient ruins, indigenous crafts, and a taste of Oaxaca’s famed mezcal—all in one day. We haven’t done it ourselves but based on the detailed itinerary and reviews, it looks like a well-rounded way to get a taste of the region’s rich culture and stunning landscapes.

One thing we love about this tour is its focus on quality over quantity. With only five main stops, you’re not rushed through a bucket list but instead given enough time to truly enjoy each spot, from the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua to the historic site of Mitla. Plus, the small group size means you’re more likely to have a comfortable, personalized experience, with a friendly local guide to answer your questions and share insights. Another highlight is the inclusion of interactive experiences, like visiting a Zapotec artisan’s workshop in Teotitlán del Valle, which offers a genuine look at local traditions.

However, a potential consideration is the duration and pace. At 12 hours, this is a long day, and some travelers might find it tiring, especially if they prefer more relaxed sightseeing or are traveling with small children. Also, note that Hierve el Agua’s most popular feature, the petrified waterfalls, is only described as a general instruction from local guides because foreign guides are not permitted at that site. If you’re hoping for a guided hike there, that might be a limitation.

This tour is best suited for those who want an immersive, multi-faceted Oaxaca experience without the hassle of planning individual visits. It appeals especially to travelers who appreciate cultural depth, scenic landscapes, and tasting local spirits, all wrapped up in a manageable day trip.

Key Points

• Curated Experience: Combines five of Oaxaca’s must-see attractions into one seamless day.
• Small Group Comfort: More personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Cultural Insights: Visit artisan workshops and learn about traditional weaving and mezcal production.
• Natural Beauty & History: From Hierve el Agua’s mineral pools to Mitla’s ancient ruins.
• Flexible & Accessible: Tours offered in both English and Spanish, with options to cancel or reserve flexibly.
• Cost-Effective: At $60 per person, you get a comprehensive day out that covers transportation, guide, and tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect from Each Stop

Starting at the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden

The tour begins here, a lush and tranquil spot that sets a peaceful tone for the day. It’s a practical meeting point for the group before heading out into the countryside. From this point, you’ll hop into an air-conditioned van that whisks you away for the day’s adventures.

Tule Tree: The Natural Wonder

Your first stop is the famous Tule tree, known for its enormous trunk and impressive age—over 2,000 years old, if you’re into dates. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately 15 minutes, where your guide will share facts about this natural marvel. It’s a quick but memorable encounter, perfect for snapping some photos and marveling at nature’s longevity.

Teotitlán del Valle: Art and Tradition

Next, your journey takes you into Teotitlán del Valle, a quaint Zapotec village renowned for its weaving traditions. Here, the visit is guided for about an hour and includes an exclusive, invitation-only look into a traditional tapestry workshop. You’ll learn about the dyeing and weaving process and see artisans at work. Many travelers love this part for its authenticity—getting a behind-the-scenes peek at local craftsmanship.

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Hierve el Agua: Natural Wonder and Scenic Views

Perhaps the highlight of the day, Hierve el Agua is an extraordinary site—petrified waterfalls that look like they’ve frozen in time. The site offers natural pools and scenic vistas, perfect for photos or a refreshing dip if you choose. The tour allows about two hours of free time, so you can explore at your own pace. The description notes that guides are not permitted at the site for general instructions, but local guides offer tips if you want to do the optional hike.

Lunch Break: Savor Local Flavors

After Hierve el Agua, you’ll stop at a buffet restaurant for a quick lunch (not included in the tour price). This is a good chance to enjoy some local dishes and recharge before heading into the archaeological and cultural highlights ahead.

Mitla: The Ancient Ruins

Then, it’s time to visit Mitla, a significant archaeological site full of Zapotec history and intricate stone mosaics. The visit lasts about 45 minutes, giving you enough time to walk through the ruins and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient city. It’s a quieter spot compared to Monte Albán, but no less impressive for its unique stonework.

Mezcal Tasting at Bitao Artesanal

Next, the journey takes you to a mezcal distillery, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting about an hour. This includes tasting different types of mezcal and observing the interesting species of maguey used to produce the spirit. The guide’s insights give you an appreciation for the craftsmanship involved—many reviewers note that the mezcal tasting is both educational and enjoyable.

Final Stop: The Tule Tree again or Nature

The tour wraps up back at the Tule, where you can snap more photos and reflect on the day’s adventures. The entire experience concludes after about 50 minutes of travel back to the Oaxaca ethnobotanical garden, where you started.

Transportation & Logistics

Traveling in an air-conditioned van is a standard feature, ensuring comfort as you cover the roughly 12-hour itinerary. The group size is small, fostering a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere. The tour departs from the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden, a central and accessible location. This setup makes it easy to join from your hotel or other nearby accommodations.

The entire day is well-paced, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the sights and learn from guides. Keep in mind that Hierve el Agua’s most popular features are only explained generally due to local regulations, so if guided hikes or detailed explanations are your priority, you might find that limiting.

Price & Value

At a cost of $60 per person, this tour provides excellent value. It covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, mezcal tastings, and an interactive artisan visit—quite a bit for the price. Meals are not included, but the lunch stop is quick and offers local flavors. Entrance fees to Mitla are extra (100MXN), so budget accordingly.

What We’re Taking Away from This Tour

Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, this experience seems to hit a sweet spot for those interested in Oaxaca’s cultural and natural highlights. The brief but meaningful visits allow you to absorb the essence of each place without feeling overwhelmed. The guides are praised for being attentive and friendly, which makes a big difference when navigating a busy day.

The inclusion of a Zapotec artisan’s workshop is a real highlight—giving insight into local tradition and craftsmanship—something that many travelers appreciate deeply. The mezcal tasting adds a flavorful touch, giving you a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s most famous spirit.

The scenic stops like Hierve el Agua and Tule are visually stunning, and the overall pacing helps avoid burnout. However, be prepared for a long day, especially if you’re not used to the pace or the altitude at Hierve el Agua. Some travelers mention that the tour does not include guided hikes at Hierve el Agua, which might be a minor disappointment if you were hoping for a detailed nature walk.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for culture lovers and those wanting a rundown of Oaxaca’s highlights in one day. If you enjoy learning about local crafts and spirits while enjoying beautiful landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer small-group tours for a more personalized experience.

Those on a tight schedule or looking for a relaxed, slow-paced day might find it a bit packed, but overall, it offers good value for a full day of sightseeing. Families with older children or teenagers who can handle a full day of touring may also find it a rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for older children who can handle a full day of activity. Be mindful that the day is long and involves walking and some altitude at Hierve el Agua.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. There is a stop at a buffet restaurant for about 45 minutes, where you can try local dishes.

How much does entry to Mitla cost?
Entrance to Mitla costs about 100MXN, payable separately. The tour price covers transportation and guide services.

Is the tour available in English and Spanish?
Yes, the tours are offered in both languages, catering to a broader range of travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, beachwear if you plan to swim, cash for extras, and a child safety seat if traveling with kids.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Does the tour include guide explanations at Hierve el Agua?
Guides do not give general instructions at Hierve el Agua due to local regulations, but local guides are available for tips if you want an explanation or do the hike.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts around 12 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, an air-conditioned van takes you comfortably between sites, with small group sizes enhancing the experience.

Is this experience worth the price?
Considering the guided visits, tastings, and transportation, $60 is quite reasonable for a full day exploring several top spots in Oaxaca.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, culturally immersive day in Oaxaca that balances natural beauty, ancient sites, and local craftsmanship, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially good for travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning each detail themselves. The knowledgeable guides and thoughtfully curated stops make it a reliable and enriching way to deepen your understanding of this vibrant region.

While it’s a long day and some details are limited (like guided hikes at Hierve el Agua), the variety of stops and the authenticity of experiences—such as the artisan workshop and mezcal tasting—offer a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s diverse appeal. If you’re comfortable with a full schedule and eager to discover the best that this part of Mexico has to offer, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

In essence, this tour is best for curious travelers who value cultural depth, scenic beauty, and local flavors, all delivered in a comfortable, small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: