Oaxaca is a captivating region of Mexico that boasts a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural wonders. The Full Day Guided Tour on the Hierve El Agua Route promises an immersive exploration of this vibrant destination, from the ancient Tree of Tule to the stunning petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua. Travelers can look forward to a traditional Oaxacan buffet lunch, a mezcal tasting, and insights into the region’s history, all while enjoying the comfort of a small group setting. However, the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to uncover the hidden gems that make Oaxaca a truly remarkable destination.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Santa Maria Del Tule.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day guided tour exploring the cultural and natural wonders of Oaxaca, including visits to the Tree of Tule, Hierve el Agua, Mitla, and Teotitlán del Valle.
- Immersive cultural experiences such as a traditional Oaxacan buffet lunch, mezcal tasting, and a weaving demonstration in Teotitlán del Valle.
- Discover the ancient Zapotec city of Mitla, known for its intricate stone carvings and impressive architectural structures.
- Explore the unique geological formation of Hierve el Agua, featuring petrified waterfalls and mineral-rich pools.
- Air-conditioned transportation, certified guide, admission tickets, and all necessary amenities included in the tour package.
Tour Overview and Details
This full-day guided tour from Oaxaca provides an immersive experience to discover the region’s natural wonders, ancient ruins, and cultural traditions.
Priced from $38.46 per person, the 11-hour tour runs from 8 AM to 7 PM and is limited to 12 participants.
Offering pickup from hotels or central locations, the tour includes visits to the Tree of Tule, Hierve el Agua, Mitla Archaeological Zone, and Teotitlán del Valle.
Travelers will enjoy a traditional Oaxacan buffet lunch and mezcal tasting.
With transportation, guide services, and entry fees included, this comprehensive tour allows visitors to fully experience the cultural and culinary delights of Oaxaca.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour kicks off with a visit to the colossal Tree of Tule, a majestic Montezuma cypress estimated to be over 2,000 years old.
Next, guests will marvel at Hierve el Agua, a natural rock formation resembling a petrified waterfall. After exploring the site and taking a refreshing dip, the tour continues to the archaeological zone of Mitla, known for its intricate stone carvings.
Participants will then savor a traditional Oaxacan buffet lunch.
The itinerary also includes a secret stop and a visit to Teotitlán del Valle, where they’ll witness a weaving demonstration and sample the region’s renowned mezcal.
Cultural and Culinary Experiences
Through the Oaxaca guided tour, visitors discover the rich cultural and culinary tapestry of the region. This immersive experience showcases the area’s natural wonders, ancient ruins, and traditional crafts, offering an intimate glimpse into the local way of life.
Highlights include:
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Exploring the iconic Hierve el Agua, a unique natural wonder with petrified waterfall formations.
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Visiting the ancient Mitla Archaeological Zone, renowned for its intricate stone carvings and mosaics.
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Indulging in a traditional Oaxacan buffet, savoring the diverse flavors of the region’s renowned cuisine.
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Participating in a mezcal tasting, learning about the production and history of this iconic Mexican spirit.
This tour provides an engaging and authentic introduction to the cultural and culinary treasures of Oaxaca.
Transportation and Amenities
Air-conditioned transportation is provided for the Oaxaca guided tour, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the day.
The tour includes a certified guide, admission tickets, drinks, and tips, so guests can focus on the cultural and culinary experiences.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, respiratory issues, or children under 2 years old.
Guests are advised to bring comfortable shoes, water, cash, and appropriate clothing.
Weapons, large bags, smoking, and alcohol aren’t allowed.
The itinerary may change due to unforeseen circumstances, and shared tours with reserved seating are available.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Tree of Tule
After the comfortable transportation and amenities were taken care of, the tour takes visitors to the first stop – the renowned Tree of Tule.
This ancient and massive Montezuma cypress tree is located in the town of Santa María del Tule and is considered one of the widest trees in the world.
Visitors can:
- Admire the awe-inspiring dimensions of the tree, which measures over 190 feet in circumference.
- Explore the unique features and formations of the tree’s twisted and gnarled trunk.
- Learn about the tree’s cultural significance and the local legends that surround it.
- Engage with the knowledgeable guide to gain insights into the Tree of Tule’s remarkable history and ecosystem.
Hierve El Agua
From the Tree of Tule, the tour moves on to the stunning natural wonder of Hierve el Agua. This unique geological formation features petrified waterfalls and mineral-rich pools that seem to cascade down the mountainside.
Visitors can spend up to two hours exploring the site, walking along the trails and taking in the breathtaking views. The guides provide insights into the formation of these natural pools and explain the significance of this sacred site to the indigenous Zapotec people.
Guests can also cool off by dipping their feet in the refreshing waters before continuing on to the next destination on the tour.
Mitla Archaeological Zone
After departing Hierve el Agua, the tour continues to the Mitla Archaeological Zone, an ancient Zapotec city renowned for its intricate stone carvings and architectural wonders.
The group will have the opportunity to explore the site’s highlights, including:
- The magnificent Columns Plaza, featuring elaborately decorated stone facades.
- The North Group, known for its impressive religious structures and ceremonial plazas.
- The detailed mosaics and geometric patterns that adorn the walls, showcasing the Zapotec’s advanced construction techniques.
- The on-site museum, which provides insights into the site’s history and cultural significance.
Through this guided tour, visitors can explore the rich Zapotec heritage and witness the enduring legacy of this ancient civilization.
Mezcal Tasting
Following the exploration of the Mitla Archaeological Zone, the tour takes visitors to a local mezcal distillery. Here, you will get an inside look at the traditional production process of this iconic Mexican spirit. They’ll witness the roasting of the agave, the crushing, and the distillation, gaining an appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. The experience culminates in a guided mezcal tasting, allowing guests to savor the smoky, complex flavors that have made mezcal a celebrated and integral part of Oaxacan culture.
| Mezcal Production | ||
|---|---|---|
| Roasting Agave | Crushing | Distillation |
| Agave hearts are slow-cooked in earthen pits | Crushed using a tahona (large stone wheel) | Double distilled in copper or clay pot stills |
| Caramelizes sugars, develops smoky flavors | Extracts agave juice | Concentrates and refines the spirit |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
You can bring your own food and drinks, but the tour includes a traditional Oaxacan buffet lunch. Guests are not allowed to bring alcohol, and large bags are not permitted during the tour.
Is There an Option for a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, there is an option for a private tour. Private tours are available upon request, allowing for a more personalized experience with a dedicated guide and the flexibility to customize the itinerary to your preferences.
What Is the Weather Like During the Tour and What Should I Wear?
The weather is typically warm and sunny throughout the day, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is also advised, as temperatures may cool in the evening. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for This Tour?
The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts or promotions. However, they provide a flexible cancellation policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Specific Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Guests can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary based on their preferences, such as spending more time at certain sites or adding additional cultural experiences.
Recap
The Oaxaca Full Day Guided Tour on the Hierve el Agua Route offers an immersive cultural experience, showcasing the region’s ancient heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Travelers can explore the iconic Tree of Tule, marvel at the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, and discover the archaeological wonders of Mitla, all while savoring traditional Oaxacan cuisine and learning about the local mezcal production. This tour provides a well-rounded and intimate exploration of Oaxaca’s unique treasures.
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