Oaxaca, a vibrant Mexican state, boasts a rich cultural heritage that captivates visitors. One way to take in this tapestry of traditions is the San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour. This 4.5-hour excursion takes travelers to the charming Etla District, where they’ll uncover the art of hydroelectric-powered papermaking and witness the time-honored craft of quesillo cheesemaking. But the tour’s allure extends beyond these hands-on experiences, promising a deeper exploration of the region’s artistic and culinary treasures that may just leave you craving for more.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Oaxaca State.
Key Points
- This 4.5-hour tour from Oaxaca explores the traditional papermaking and Quesillo cheesemaking processes in the Etla district.
- Highlights include visiting a hydroelectric plant producing paper from natural fibers, watching a Quesillo-making demonstration, and exploring the Etla market.
- The tour includes bilingual (Spanish and English) guided experiences and round-trip transportation from central Oaxaca hotels.
- The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
- Optional add-ons include a Quesillo-making class and a visit to the paper factory.
Tour Overview and Details
The San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca.
Priced from €33.62 per person, the 4.5-hour tour provides a bilingual (Spanish and English) experience. Pickup from central Oaxaca hotels is included, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Highlights include learning about local papermaking, visiting the Arts Center of St. Augustine, discovering Quesillo cheesemaking techniques, and exploring the Etla market.
The tour includes transportation, a guide, food, drinks, and souvenirs, with optional activities available at additional cost.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Oaxaca.
Experience Highlights
Visitors can learn about the intricate process of local papermaking with natural fibers during this tour.
They’ll visit a hydroelectric plant that produces paper from tree bark, flowers, and cotton. The tour also includes a stop at the Arts Center of St. Augustine, a renovated textile factory showcasing contemporary art.
Participants will discover the techniques for making Quesillo, a traditional Oaxacan cheese, and have the opportunity to taste it.
The excursion also explores the Etla market, known as the origin of Quesillo.
Itinerary
The tour commences with hotel pickup, followed by a 20-kilometer (12.5-mile) drive to the Etla District.
Upon arrival, guests visit a hydroelectric plant that produces paper from natural materials like tree bark, flowers, and cotton.
Next, the group tours the Arts Center of St. Augustine, a renovated textile factory showcasing contemporary art.
Afterward, participants engage in a Quesillo-making demonstration and tasting, learning about the traditional Oaxacan cheese.
Local Papermaking
After exploring the historic Arts Center of St. Augustine, the tour heads to a unique hydroelectric plant producing paper from natural fibers.
Visitors learn about the local tradition of papermaking, which utilizes tree bark, flowers, and cotton to create beautiful handmade sheets. The artisans demonstrate the intricate process, from pulp preparation to drying and finishing.
Guests have the opportunity to witness the skill and craftsmanship that goes into each piece, gaining a deeper appreciation for this sustainable practice.
The combination of renewable materials and renewable energy makes this stop a true highlight of the Etla tour, showcasing Oaxaca’s commitment to eco-friendly innovation.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyQuesillo Cheesemaking
Following the tour of the Arts Center of St. Augustine, the group moves on to learn about the local specialty – Quesillo.
This traditional Oaxacan cheese is made through a fascinating demonstration. The guide explains the intricate process, from curdling the fresh milk to the final stretching and shaping of the cheese.
Participants have the opportunity to try their hand at Quesillo-making, getting a firsthand appreciation for the skill and technique involved.
The group then samples the delicious final product, savoring the unique flavor and texture that has made Quesillo a beloved staple in the Etla region.
This hands-on experience provides a deeper understanding of the area’s culinary heritage.
Arts Center of St. Augustine
Next, the tour heads to the Arts Center of St. Augustine, a renovated textile factory showcasing contemporary art.
Visitors explore the vibrant exhibition spaces and learn about the center’s mission to preserve local artistic traditions. The guide explains how this community-driven initiative transforms an industrial site into a hub for creative expression.
Guests wander through the galleries, admiring sculptures, paintings, and handcrafted textiles that reflect Oaxaca’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour offers an insider’s look at the thriving arts scene, providing a deeper appreciation for the region’s artistic talent and innovative spirit.
This stop on the itinerary promises to inspire and delight anyone with an interest in Oaxacan art and design.
Etla Market Exploration
The tour then ventures to the renowned Etla market, a hub renowned for the origins of Quesillo, the traditional Oaxacan cheese.
Visitors explore the lively market, browsing the stalls that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. They witness the skilled vendors expertly crafting the fresh, soft Quesillo, sharing insights into the traditional techniques passed down through generations.
The market’s vibrant atmosphere and array of local produce provide a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the Etla community.
Travelers can interact with the friendly vendors, gaining a deeper appreciation for the origins of this beloved Oaxacan specialty.
Additional Information
The tour includes round-trip air-conditioned transportation from central Oaxaca hotels, as well as a bilingual tour guide to provide insights throughout the experience.
Optional add-ons include a $7 Quesillo-making class and a $2.20 visit to the paper factory. Guests are advised to bring sunglasses, a sun hat, comfortable clothes, and cash.
Pets, luggage, and large bags aren’t allowed.
Based on 7 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5, with positive feedback highlighting knowledgeable guides, delicious cheese, and engaging art exhibits.
Some reviewers noted minor issues with organization and suggested incorporating more historical context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour information explicitly states that pets are not permitted. Participants should leave their pets at home and bring only comfortable clothing and a small amount of cash for any optional costs.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour does not offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price is a flat rate of €33.62 per person, regardless of age. There’s no mention of reduced pricing options in the tour details provided.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?
The tour spends about 1.5 hours at the paper factory, 1 hour at the Arts Center, and 1 hour learning about and tasting Quesillo. The remaining time is for transportation and transitions between locations.
Can I Purchase the Products Made During the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase the products made during the tour. The tour includes optional visits to the paper factory and Quesillo class, where participants can buy handmade paper and artisanal cheese as souvenirs.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration on the San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour. The tour is scheduled for 4.5 hours, and the itinerary doesn’t mention any possibilities for extending the experience.
Recap
The San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour offers an immersive cultural experience in Oaxaca. Visitors can explore traditional papermaking techniques, partake in a hands-on quesillo cheesemaking demonstration, and discover the vibrant Etla market and Arts Center. Led by knowledgeable experts, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the region’s artistic and culinary heritage.
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