Southern Mexico’s Oaxaca state packs impressive cultural and natural tours into its diverse landscape. The standout Hierve El Agua excursion combines stunning petrified waterfalls with stops at both the ancient Tule Tree and traditional weaving village of Teotitlán del Valle. Two authentic artisanal experiences – the San Agustín Etla tour focusing on local cheese and papermaking, and the hands-on Crafts & Cuisine Culture tour – showcase the region’s rich traditions. For coastal adventures, the Huatulco boat and snorkel trip offers pristine bays and marine life viewing. The “Boil the Water” cultural tour gets my vote for its no-nonsense look at local food traditions. Let’s explore the top tour options in detail.
Key Points
- The Hierve El Agua Tour offers a 10-hour experience featuring petrified waterfalls, the Árbol del Tule, and a mezcal tasting, priced at €30.41 per person.
- The San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour provides a 4.5-hour exploration of traditional papermaking and cheesemaking, priced from €33.68 per person.
- The Huatulco Premium Boat Tour with Snorkel Experience offers a 7-hour tour including hotel pickup, a boat cruise, and snorkeling in Chachacual Bay, priced at $41.38 per person.
- The Oaxaca Crafts & Cuisine Culture Tour is a 9.5-hour tour featuring visits to family-owned pottery studios, Alebrijes sculptures, and a local cuisine feast with mezcal sampling, priced from £163.43 per person.
- The Boil the Water Cultural and Gastronomic Tour is a 10-hour tour highlighting the ancient Tule tree, a workshop on sheep wool crafts, and a visit to Hierve el Agua, priced at €215.21 for up to 3 participants.
Oaxaca: Hierve El Agua Tour
The Oaxaca: Hierve el Agua Tour offers visitors a chance to marvel at the stunning natural wonder of the Petrified Waterfalls. This 10-hour tour, available in English and Spanish, takes travelers to explore the iconic Árbol del Tule, the legendary Tule Tree.
They’ll then visit Teotitlán del Valle to witness the artisanal heritage of Zapotec weavers. The tour culminates at the Hierve el Agua, where guests can explore the unique geological formations and enjoy a mezcal tasting.
With admission tickets and a knowledgeable guide included, this tour provides an immersive experience for only €30.41 per person. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, making it a flexible and convenient option for visitors to Oaxaca.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Hierve El Agua Tour Review
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From Oaxaca: San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour
Moving from the breathtaking Hierve el Agua, the San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour offers a unique glimpse into Oaxaca’s artisanal heritage.
Priced from €33.68 per person, the 4.5-hour tour includes hotel pickup and a bilingual guide. Travelers will learn about traditional papermaking, visit a renowned arts center, and discover the time-honored Quesillo cheesemaking process.
Though not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour provides an immersive cultural experience. While reviews are mixed, many praise the unique activities and local interactions.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this tour is an enticing way to explore Oaxaca’s vibrant crafts and cuisine.
Read our full review: From Oaxaca: San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour Review
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Huatulco: Premium Boat Tour With Snorkel Experience.
Boasting a 7-hour duration, the Premium Boat Tour with snorkel experience in Huatulco promises an unforgettable day exploring the region’s natural wonders.
Priced at $41.38 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, a boat cruise to Chachacual Bay, and 1.5 hours of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
After the aquatic adventure, guests can relax for 2.33 hours at Maguey Beach, savoring local cuisine and 4 beers per person.
Liability insurance is included, though snorkel rentals and park tickets cost extra.
Based on 22 reviews, the tour earns an overall rating of 4/5, with high praise for the knowledgeable staff and stunning scenery.
Read our full review: Huatulco: Premium Boat Tour With Snorkel Experience. Review
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Oaxaca: Crafts & Cuisine Culture Tour
Though Oaxaca is renowned for its vibrant arts, crafts, and cuisine, truly immersing oneself in the city’s deep-rooted traditions can be a challenge for many visitors.
The Oaxaca: Crafts & Cuisine Culture Tour offers a remarkable opportunity to do just that. Priced from £163.43 per person, this 9.5-hour tour immerses guests in the region’s artistic and gastronomic heritage.
Highlights include visiting family-owned pottery studios, discovering the renowned Alebrijes sculptures, savoring a feast of local cuisine, and sampling Mezcal at a sustainable distillery.
With an English-speaking guide, all inclusions, and a minimum of 4 participants required, this comprehensive tour provides a truly authentic Oaxacan experience.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Crafts & Cuisine Culture Tour Review
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Boil the Water: Cultural and Gastronomic Tour
The Boil the Water: Cultural and Gastronomic Tour offers a captivating way to delve deeper into Oaxaca’s rich heritage. Priced at €215.21 for up to 3 participants, this 10-hour tour showcases the region’s vibrant culture and cuisine.
Highlights include a visit to the ancient Tule tree, a workshop on traditional sheep wool crafts, and exploring the stunning Hierve el Agua petrified waterfalls. Participants can savor regional dishes during a break and enjoy a mezcal tasting.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this tour provides a flexible and immersive experience, though it’s not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues. Comfortable attire and a charged phone are recommended.
Read our full review: Boil the Water: Cultural and Gastronomic Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book Tours on the Same Day?
You can typically book tours on the same day in Oaxaca, but it’s best to check availability with the tour operator. Same-day bookings are convenient, but advance reservations may be required for popular tours during peak season.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tours?
The dress code for tours in Oaxaca is generally casual and comfortable. Visitors should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Sunhats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended to protect against the region’s warm climate.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The tours do accommodate dietary restrictions. They’ll work with you to ensure your needs are met, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary requirements. Just let the tour operator know in advance.
How Do I Get to the Tour Starting Point?
To get to the tour starting point, travelers can arrange for transportation through the tour company. Many offer pick-up and drop-off services from local hotels or designated meeting spots to ensure a seamless beginning to the excursion.
What Should I Bring on the Tours?
When going on a tour, it’s best to bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and snacks or water. Layering clothes is also recommended to prepare for changing weather conditions. Packing light and bringing a small backpack or daypack can make the experience more enjoyable.
Recap
Oaxaca offers a diverse range of tours that showcase its rich cultural heritage, from the stunning natural wonder of Hierve El Agua to the artisanal traditions of papermaking and quesillo production. Visitors can also enjoy Huatulco’s marine life, Oaxaca’s culinary delights, and the unique cultural experiences of local communities. These tours provide an immersive and unforgettable way to explore the captivating state of Oaxaca.