Oaxaca: Monte Alban and the Art of Oaxaca

Oaxaca’s rich cultural tapestry unfolds through the captivating "Monte Alban and the Art of Oaxaca" tour. Visitors embark on a 7-hour journey, exploring the ancient Zapotec capital of Monte Albán and gaining insights into its historical significance. The tour then delves into the vibrant artisan communities, where skilled craftspeople demonstrate the creation of Alebrijes – the colorful wood carvings – and the traditional black pottery of San Bartolo Coyotepec. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the depth and diversity of Oaxaca’s artistic heritage. As the tour progresses, one can’t help but wonder what other captivating discoveries await.

Key Points

• This 7-hour tour explores the ancient Zapotec capital of Monte Albán and the traditional art forms of Oaxaca, including Alebrijes carvings and black clay pottery.
• The tour includes guided exploration of Monte Albán’s archaeological ruins, on-site museum, and visits to artisan towns like San Antonio Arrazola and San Bartolo Coyotepec.
• Highlights include understanding the cultural and historical significance of Monte Albán, observing Alebrijes carving demonstrations, and witnessing the creation of traditional black clay figures.
• The tour is family-friendly, with flexible pickup times and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall experience, though some note communication issues regarding pickup and drop-off logistics.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Oaxaca: Monte Alban and the Art of Oaxaca," offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultural and archaeological wonders of Oaxaca.

Priced from €34.33 per person, this 7-hour tour is available in Spanish and English. Pickup is included, and the timing is flexible to accommodate your schedule. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour welcomes adults, children, and infants, making it suitable for families. With a focus on Monte Alban, San Antonio Arrazola, Cuilapam de Guerrero, and San Bartolo Coyotepec, this tour promises a well-rounded experience of Oaxaca’s rich heritage and vibrant art scene.

Itinerary Highlights

One of the key highlights of the tour is the exploration of Monte Albán, the archaeological site that was once the capital city of the Zapotec civilization.

Visitors will discover the religious, political, and economic significance of this ancient site, and visit the on-site museum to learn more.

Plus, the tour includes a stop in San Antonio Arrazola, where travelers can witness the traditional art of Alebrijes carving from local artisans.

In Cuilapam de Guerrero, an optional visit to the 16th-century Dominican ex-monastery is offered.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour, and visits to the artisan towns of San Antonio Arrazola, Cuilapam de Guerrero, and San Bartolo Coyotepec. The highlight is a trip to the iconic Monte Albán archaeological site, where travelers can explore the ancient Zapotec capital and visit the on-site museum. The tour also covers the entrance fee to Monte Albán. However, meals, drinks, and tips are not included in the price. To help you plan, here’s a breakdown of what’s covered and what’s not:

Included	Not Included
Hotel pickup and drop-off	Food and drinks
Guided tour	Tips
Monte Albán entrance fee	–
Visits to artisan towns	–

Important Information

To help you prepare for the tour, it’s essential to be aware of the important information.

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash are recommended to make the most of your experience.

Plus, it’s crucial to note that pets and oversize luggage aren’t allowed.

The tour’s pickup and drop-off locations may vary depending on the season, with a set meeting point during the high season.

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Customer Reviews

Reviewers have generally praised the Oaxaca: Monte Alban and the Art of Oaxaca tour, with an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 68 reviews.

Standouts include the tour’s 4.8/5 guide rating and a 4.3/5 transportation rating. However, the value for money rating of 3.9/5 suggests some room for improvement.

Common feedback highlights the tour’s excellent guides, a good mix of activities, and occasional communication issues regarding pickup and drop-off locations.

Key customer takeaways include:

1. Highly knowledgeable and engaging guides
2. Diverse range of cultural and historical experiences
3. Room for enhanced coordination on logistics
4. Generally good value, with opportunities to enhance the overall experience.

Exploring Monte Albán

Nestled atop a hilltop in the Oaxaca valley, the ancient Zapotec capital of Monte Albán stands as a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of its former inhabitants.

Visitors can explore the well-preserved archaeological ruins, which include grand plazas, intricate carvings, and temple structures that offer a glimpse into the civilization’s religious, political, and economic significance.

The on-site museum displays an impressive collection of artifacts, allowing travelers to delve deeper into the Zapotec culture.

Whether scaling the structures for panoramic views or wandering the grounds, the Monte Albán experience promises an immersive encounter with Oaxaca’s rich pre-Hispanic heritage.

Traditional Alebrijes Carving

One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to learn about the traditional Alebrijes carving in San Antonio Arrazola.

Alebrijes are colorful, fantastical wood carvings that have become synonymous with Mexican folk art. Visitors can observe local artisans skillfully transforming ordinary wood into whimsical creatures.

The process involves:

1. Selecting the right wood, typically copal or cedar, for its durability and carving properties.
2. Painstakingly carving the desired figure, often with intricate details and patterns.
3. Meticulously painting the carvings with vibrant, traditional designs using natural pigments.
4. Applying a protective varnish to ensure the Alebrijes maintain their vibrant colors and intricate details.

This immersive experience allows travelers to appreciate the artistry, creativity, and cultural significance of this beloved Mexican craft.

Black Clay Figures of San Bartolo Coyotepec

Another highlight of the tour is the opportunity to witness the process of creating the renowned black clay figures in San Bartolo Coyotepec.

This small town is famous for its distinctive black pottery, a tradition dating back hundreds of years. Visitors can observe the artisans skillfully shaping the clay, polishing it with river stones, and firing the pieces in wood-fired kilns to achieve the iconic matte black finish.

These intricate figurines and vessels are highly sought-after for their unique aesthetic and cultural significance.

Exploring this artistic heritage provides a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca’s vibrant craft traditions and the skilled hands that preserve them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions being accommodated. Guests should plan to provide their own food and drinks during the tour, as these are not included in the tour price.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring for Souvenirs?

Visitors should plan to bring around $20-50 for souvenir shopping, depending on their interests and budget. Most traditional artisanal crafts and souvenirs from the tour sites range from a few dollars to $30 or more per item.

Can I Take Photos During the Tour Activities?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the tour activities. However, some sites or parts of the tour may have restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide before taking photos.

Is There Any Handicap Accessibility for the Archaeological Site?

The tour does not explicitly mention handicap accessibility at the Monte Alban archaeological site. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest updates on accessibility accommodations, as they may vary based on the site’s infrastructure and facilities.

Are There Any Opportunities to Interact With Local Artisans?

The tour includes opportunities to interact with local artisans. Visitors can learn about traditional Alebrijes carving from artisans in San Antonio Arrazola and witness the process of making black clay figures in San Bartolo Coyotepec.

Recap

The "Oaxaca: Monte Alban and the Art of Oaxaca" tour offers a captivating immersion into the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca. Participants can explore the ancient Zapotec capital of Monte Albán, witness the creation of vibrant Alebrijes, and discover the artistry of black pottery. This comprehensive tour provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the diverse talents and traditions that make Oaxaca a truly enchanting destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: