Our adventure begins with a visit to the Hierve el Agua community nature park. We will pick you up at your lodging and drive approximately 90 minutes east from Oaxaca city. Along the way we will see important archaeological sites, such as Yagul, and fields of agave plants for the preparation of mezcal. Upon arriving at Hierve el Agua we will meet our local guide who would lead our way to the petrified waterfall.
We will begin our walk through the mountains of Hierve el Agua, arriving at the bottom of the canyon to view this beautiful petrified waterfall. During the tour we will enjoy the majestic mountain scenery of the Sierra Mixe, which is especially green during the rainy season from July to December.
At the end of our walk, you will have time to relax; and there will be ample time for those who would like to swim in the pools. Once the experience in the mineral-rich water is over, we will drive to the archaeological zone of Mitla.
Mitla is the second most important archaeological site after Monte Albán. The architecture and facades show designs that are unique in all of Mesoamerica. The site played a central role in the Zapotec culture cosmovision of life and death. This ancient city’s impressive mosaics and murals, while more than a thousand years are still visible. The geometric designs, reminiscent of ancient Greece, have intrigued and baffled experts and visitors from around the world.
Now is the time to visit Teotitlán Del Valle, a beautiful town founded by the Zapotecs. There is evidence of human existence in this area 8,000 years ago. Here you will be invited to the picturesque house of a Zapotec family who will share their passion with you: Zapotec weaving on a foot loom. They will talk with us about how their art has transformed over the years and other aspects of their personal life stories. Not only will you have the opportunity to see a weaving demonstration, but the family will also reveal their natural-dye secrets and explain which products (insects, stones, etc.) are used to create the vibrant colors.
Last but not least, we will visit the Tule tree: the widest tree in the world. Located in the middle of the central square of Santa María del Tule is this world famous ahuehuete, affectionately called “Arbol del Tule”, which is more than 2,000 years old. Its trunk is more than 120 feet in diameter. It takes more than 30 people to surround it, and its shade can protect 500 people. A wonderful sight not to be missed!
Recommendations for the tour:
➡️ Bring extra water.
➡️ Light clothing. Especially in rainy season, please bring a long sleave t-shirt, mosquito repellent, comfortable shoes, cap and sunglasses. If you brought hiking shoes on your trip, you should consider wearing them.
➡️ Swimsuit if you would like to swim in the pools.
➡️ Small groups for an in-depth and intimate experience.
➡️ We hope you enjoy these amazing and unforgettable experiences.
➡️ Hours for the tour: 8-9 hours
Pick up and drop off at your lodging
Hierve el Agua (approximate 400 pesos per group)
7:00 am Pick-up at your lodging
09:00 – 11:30 Visit waterfall of Hierve el Agua with time for relaxing at or in the pools
12:00 – 13:00 Guided tour in Mitla
13:30-14:30 Lunch
15:00 – 16:30 Visit Teotitlán del Valle
17:00 – 17:30 Visit the Tule treee
18:00 Back to Oaxaca, dropp-off at your lodging
