Boil the Water, Mitla, Tule, Mezcal and more

Planning a day in Oaxaca? This tour promises a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic sights and flavors of the region. With five key stops—Tule’s giant tree, Mitla’s archaeological marvels, Hierve el Agua’s petrified waterfalls, plus mezcal tasting and a traditional Oaxacan meal—it’s a full schedule packed into roughly 11 to 12 hours. Whether you’re short on time or a first-timer eager to get a broad sense of Oaxaca’s cultural riches, this trip gives you a lot for your money.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the guides—part of the Lescas family—who are described as personable, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing their Oaxaca. Their enthusiasm and local insights elevate the experience beyond just ticking off sights. However, the tour’s length and busy schedule might be a challenge for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at each stop. Still, for those wanting a well-rounded introduction, this tour hits many highlights in a single day.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, nature, and local flavors, and who don’t mind a long day on the road. It’s also ideal for those who want genuine, friendly guidance and a chance to sample Oaxaca’s famous mezcal and cuisine without the hassle of planning each stop independently. If your goal is to see a lot without sacrificing authenticity, this could be your best pick—just be prepared for a tight schedule.

Key Points

Comprehensive coverage: See five major sites and enjoy tastings all in one day.
Authentic guides: Guides who are passionate locals, making history and traditions come alive.
Value for money: For about $42, you get transportation, guided insights, and multiple stops.
Long but rewarding: Expect a full day with some early starts and late returns, but plenty of memorable moments.
Diverse experiences: From ancient ruins to natural wonders, and from cultural workshops to mezcal tasting.
Practical details: Pickup included, free cancelation, and manageable group sizes (max 20).

Introduction: Why Choose This Tour?

For travelers with limited time in Oaxaca, this tour offers a practical way to see some of the city’s most celebrated sights without the stress of organizing multiple excursions. Its biggest draw is how it combines history, nature, and local flavors into one big, cohesive journey.

What we especially like is the attention to local guides—members of the Lescas family—who are described as fun, friendly, and deeply knowledgeable about Oaxaca’s customs and stories. Their enthusiasm turns what might be a busy itinerary into a lively, engaging experience. Plus, the tour’s inclusion of traditional mezcal tasting and a hearty Oaxacan buffet adds a delicious cultural layer that many travelers appreciate.

A potential drawback? The tour is quite long, spanning most of the day, which might be tiring for some. It’s a fast-paced trip with many stops, so if you prefer a leisurely, detailed exploration of each site, you might find it a bit rushed. Still, if your goal is to get a broad, authentic snapshot of Oaxaca, this tour does the job admirably.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Teotitlán del Valle – Natural Dyes and Artisanship

We start with the enchanting village of Teotitlán del Valle, renowned for its handmade textiles dyed with natural colors. Visiting a family workshop here, you’ll see how roots, flowers, and even insects produce vibrant hues—particularly the famous red dye. It’s a chance to observe artisans at work and maybe pick up a souvenir.

Travelers have commented on how this stop offers a genuine glimpse into local craftsmanship. One reviewer highlighted the “impressive demonstration” of traditional dyeing techniques, which is both educative and inspiring.

Stop 2: Santa María del Tule – The World’s Widest Tree

Next, we visit the Tule Tree, a massive Montezuma cypress that’s over 2,000 years old and holds the Guinness World Record for its circumference. The tree’s enormous trunk makes for fantastic photos, and the brief stop is enough to marvel at this natural wonder.

Some guests note that the entrance fee is minimal (around 20 MXN), and viewing the tree is free. It’s a quick but memorable photo op that adds a touch of natural grandeur to the day.

Stop 3: Mitla Archaeological Site – Unique Fretwork and Ancient History

Mitla is the second most important archaeological site in Oaxaca, famous for its intricate fretwork and well-preserved ruins. Our guides will explain the significance of the site, which served as a ceremonial center long before the Spanish arrived.

Visitors often mention the fine stonework and how the guide’s stories bring the ruins to life. The entrance fee (around 100 MXN) isn’t included but is a worthwhile small expense to access these remarkable structures.

Stop 4: Oaxacan Buffet Lunch – Savor Traditional Flavors

Around midday, we pause for about an hour at a local restaurant, where a buffet of Oaxacan staples awaits. This is a great way to refuel with regional dishes, especially if you’re advised to have a light breakfast beforehand.

Guests have praised the quality and variety of the food, with some noting it as a highlight of the tour. Remember, the meal is not included in the tour price, so factor that into your budget.

Stop 5: Hierve el Agua – Natural Waterfalls and Mountain Views

Arguably the tour’s star attraction, Hierve el Agua features stunning “petrified waterfalls” that cascade down mountain cliffs. Here, you get about two hours of free time—enough to walk around, take photos, or even dip into the mineral-rich pools if you’re brave.

Tour reviews rave about the scenery, with one traveler describing the waterfalls as “better than any photograph,” and the vistas offering plenty of Instagram-worthy moments. Wear suitable footwear and bring a towel if you plan to swim.

Stop 6: Mezcal Factory – Tasting and Cultural Insights

The final stop is at a traditional mezcal distillery, where you’ll learn about the process and sample over 40 different flavors. Visitors consistently say this is a highlight, enjoying the chance to taste the smoky spirit and learn how it’s crafted.

Many reviews mention the guides’ enthusiasm and the high quality of the tasting. It’s a fun, tasty way to end the day, offering a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s famous spirits.

Transportation, Pricing, and Group Dynamics

You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a comfort given the long hours and sometimes hot weather. With groups capped at 20, it’s a manageable size that allows for friendly interactions and personalized attention from your guides.

The tour costs around $42 per person, which covers transport, insurance, and guided commentary. Admission fees at sites like Mitla, Tule, and Hierve el Agua are extra, but the overall value is high considering the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Guests consistently mention the guides’ expertise and friendliness as a major plus — one reviewer called Angel “outstanding,” praising his storytelling and humor. The tour’s organization gets mixed feedback; some find it seamless, while others note the schedule can feel quite tight, especially at larger sites like Hierve el Agua.

Practical Tips

• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for outdoor stops.
• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain.
• Have some cash handy for entrance fees and any souvenirs or extra snacks.
• A light breakfast is recommended since the buffet lunch is substantial.
• Check the pickup point in advance and arrive early to ensure a smooth start.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want an all-in-one introduction to Oaxaca’s natural wonders, archaeological sites, and cultural pursuits. It’s excellent if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights with knowledgeable guides who share their passion.

It suits those comfortable with a long, busy day and who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, tasting, and cultural stories. If you’re traveling with family or friends eager to experience Oaxaca’s diversity in one shot, this tour offers great value for a full day of discoveries.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are highly interested in spending more time at each site, you might find this schedule a bit brisk. Still, for many, the balance of guided insights, variety, and convenience outweighs the long hours.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

For curious travelers eager to see a broad slice of Oaxaca’s rich tapestry—be it ancient ruins, natural beauty, or traditional mezcal—this tour offers a lively, engaging way to do so. Its greatest strength lies in the guides’ depth of knowledge and their ability to make each stop meaningful and fun.

The price makes it a good deal for the number of sites visited, especially considering transportation and guided commentary are included. The experience is most suitable for those who don’t mind a full day on the road and are looking for a rundown rather than a leisurely exploration.

If your priority is authentic, engaging storytelling, and you’re excited by the idea of sampling local flavors in a lively group setting, this tour will serve you well. Just pack some patience, a sense of adventure, and a camera—these sights are worth capturing.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from a designated meeting point in Oaxaca City, making it easy to start your day stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 11 to 12 hours, starting at 8:00am and returning in the evening. Be prepared for a long but fulfilling day.

Do I need to buy tickets for the sites?
No, the tour price does not include site admission fees. You’ll need around 100 MXN for Mitla, 20 MXN for Tule, and additional fees for Hierve el Agua if applicable.

Is food included?
No, the buffet lunch at the local restaurant is not included, but it’s highly recommended and offers a variety of regional dishes for a reasonable price.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, cash for entrance fees and souvenirs, and a swimsuit if you want to swim at Hierve el Agua.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say it’s suitable for most ages, but note the long hours and outdoor activities. Check with the provider if your children have specific needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Choosing this Oaxaca tour means embracing a well-organized, lively exploration of many of the region’s most beloved sights. It’s a practical, value-packed option for travelers wanting a meaningful, guided experience that covers history, scenery, and local flavors in one satisfying day.