Monte Albán, the Water Boils, Mezcal and Teotitlán

Nestled in the heart of Oaxaca, Mexico, Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, and the surrounding region offer a captivating blend of ancient history, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. From the impressive pre-Columbian ruins to the mesmerizing petrified waterfalls, this area invites visitors to enjoy the rich tapestry of Zapotec heritage. Beyond the archaeological sites, the artisanal mezcal industry and vibrant textile traditions of Teotitlán del Valle provide a tantalizing glimpse into the vibrant living culture of Oaxaca. It’s a destination that promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression on those who venture to explore its many facets.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient archaeological site of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the architectural wonders of the Zapotec civilization.
• Witness the stunning petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, a natural wonder in Oaxaca.
• Discover the traditional textile-making techniques and artisanal workshops in Teotitlán del Valle.
• Explore the production process and diverse flavors of Oaxacan mezcal at a local distillery.
• Savor regional cuisine and culinary experiences that highlight the rich flavors of Oaxaca.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

This tour offers visitors a comprehensive experience, exploring the rich cultural and natural wonders of Oaxaca.

Priced at €230.11 for a private group of up to 1 person, the tour includes guided visits to the archaeological site of Monte Albán, the textile workshop in Teotitlán del Valle, and the mezcal distillery in Matatlan.

Participants can also enjoy a brunch at Rancho Zapata and marvel at the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua.

Reservation is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour lasts 9 hours and is available in English and Spanish, with pickup from hotels or Airbnbs in Oaxaca.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a pickup from the participant’s hotel or Airbnb in Oaxaca.

The first stop is the Monte Albán archaeological site, where a certified tourist guide will lead a 1.5-hour guided tour, providing insights into the history and significance of this ancient Zapotec city.

Next, the group will visit Teotitlán del Valle, known for its traditional textiles, wool rugs, and natural dyes. Here, participants can explore the workshops and have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs.

The final stop is the Mezcal El Rey de Matatlan distillery, where visitors can learn about the mezcal production process and sample various agave spirits.

Highlights and Experiences

Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region by exploring the highlights of this tour. At the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, certified tourist guides share the history of this Zapotec civilization. The natural wonder of Hierve el Agua, with its petrified waterfalls, offers breathtaking vistas. The tour delves into the artisanal traditions of Teotitlán del Valle, where you can learn about natural dyes and browse handwoven textiles. Finally, a guided tour and tasting at a mezcal distillery uncovers the secrets behind the production of this iconic Oaxacan spirit.

Experience	Duration	Fee
Monte Albán Guided Tour	1.5 hours	Included
Teotitlán del Valle Textiles	45 minutes	Included
Mezcal Tasting	1 hour	100 pesos
Hierve el Agua Photo Stop	1.5 hours	Included
Optional Brunch at Rancho Zapata	1 hour	Extra Fee

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package covers essential inclusions, such as private transportation, certified tourist guides, and federal transportation licensed drivers.

Admission fees to key sites like Monte Albán and Hierve el Agua are also included, along with tolls and parking costs.

Additional experiences, such as:

• A textile workshop in Teotitlán del Valle
• Mezcal tasting at a local distillery
• Brunch at Rancho Zapata (optional extra fee)

are available to enhance the culture.

Guests can expect to spend anywhere from $100MX to $500MX per person on food, with the option to purchase souvenirs at their leisure.

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Pickup and Transportation

Private transportation, including either a sedan or luxury van, is provided based on the number of participants.

The vehicle comes equipped with a certified tourist guide who’s licensed by Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism. They’ll drive you safely to each destination, handling all tolls and parking fees along the way.

You’ll be picked up directly from your hotel or Airbnb in Oaxaca, and the transportation is wheelchair accessible.

Throughout the journey, you’ll have access to a cooler stocked with water, soft drinks, and beer to keep you refreshed.

Attractions and Activities

Embarking on the journey, visitors can explore the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Monte Albán, where certified tourist guides bring the rich history to life through a guided tour spanning 1.5 hours.

The tour offers a captivating glimpse into the ancient Zapotec civilization, revealing the grandeur of their architectural wonders.

• Next, the itinerary takes travelers to the renowned Teotitlán del Valle, where they can enjoy the vibrant textile traditions, witnessing the creation of wool rugs and experiencing the natural dye workshop.

• The highlight of the day is the visit to a Mezcal distillery, where guests can learn about the intricate distillation process and sample over 15 unique agave varieties endemic to Oaxaca.

Local Food and Drinks

Along With exploring the cultural heritage, the tour also delights visitors with a taste of Oaxaca’s renowned local cuisine and drinks.

Guests enjoy a hearty brunch at Rancho Zapata, featuring regional specialties. The tour also includes a visit to Mezcal El Rey de Matatlan, where participants learn about the distillation process and sample over 15 varieties of agave spirits endemic to Oaxaca.

Plus, the tour provides an opportunity to immerse in the textile traditions of Teotitlán del Valle, witnessing the artisanal techniques used to create vibrant wool rugs and textiles.

These culinary and cultural experiences offer a well-rounded introduction to the rich flavors and heritage that define Oaxaca’s identity.

Important Tips

Visitors should come prepared for their excursion to make the most of the experience.

Consider the following recommendations:

• Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• Pack sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the sites can be exposed to the elements.
• Bring cash for optional activities, souvenirs, and incidentals, as some vendors may not accept cards.

Adhering to the guidelines and packing appropriately will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey through the cultural and natural wonders of Oaxaca.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Visit Any Other Archaeological Sites Besides Monte Albán?

While the tour focuses on Monte Albán, the itinerary doesn’t mention visiting any other archaeological sites. The tour covers a range of cultural experiences like mezcal tastings and textile workshops, but no additional archaeological sites are included.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour operator and customize the itinerary to include additional archaeological sites or activities within the available time and budget.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available?

The tour offers vegetarian and vegan options for the optional brunch at Rancho Zapata. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice. Guests should inform the provider of any special dietary needs when booking the tour.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit your preferences. The provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on your interests and dietary requirements. You can discuss your needs with the tour representative when booking.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for This Tour?

The tour operator doesn’t currently offer any discounts or special offers, but they’re open to customizing the itinerary to suit your preferences. You can discuss any special requests or needs with them when you make your booking.

Recap

The ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, the natural wonder of Hierve el Agua, the artisanal mezcal distilleries, and the vibrant textile traditions of Teotitlán del Valle make this region of Oaxaca a truly captivating destination. Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty that this UNESCO World Heritage site has to offer.

You can check if your dates are available here: