MTB Bike Tour: Tule Tree through the country-side

If you’re looking for an active way to see some of Oaxaca’s most iconic sights, this mountain bike tour offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and fun. It’s a well-crafted experience that combines scenic riding with stops at key attractions, from the world-famous Tule Tree to an ancient mine, topped off with time to savor local flavors.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is for those with some basic cycling skills yet still offers a dash of adventure. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the ride feel both relaxed and engaging. Plus, the views along the countryside trails are genuinely stunning.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves some moderate mountain biking—so if you’re not comfortable on uneven terrain or have limitations that prevent cycling, this may not be the right fit. It’s best suited for travelers who want a physically active experience but aren’t looking for something overly strenuous.

This tour appeals most to curious travelers eager for a mix of outdoor activity, authentic sights, and local cuisine — especially those who appreciate good guides and manageable distances.

Key Points

• Active exploration: Combines cycling with visits to iconic sites and scenic views.
• Authentic experiences: Learn about the Tule Tree’s cultural importance and explore an ancient mine.
• Local flavors: Enjoy free time at the market to try pre-Hispanic treats like Tejate.
• Expert guides: Guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and adapt to your pace.
• Value for money: At $38, it offers a comprehensive experience with all fees included.
• Ideal for: Those with some cycling experience, love outdoor adventures, and want authentic local insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the Tule Tree countryside bike tour

How the tour begins and what to expect

We loved the smooth start at Bike Flow Oaxaca, where you’re fitted with a premium MTB bike equipped with a 100mm fork, plus a helmet with MIPS technology for safety. The small group size (limited to 10 people) ensures you get personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those new to mountain biking or seasoned riders alike.

The tour kicks off with a ride along a dedicated cyclist path connecting Oaxaca City to Santa María del Tule. This initial stretch is fairly flat and easy, giving everyone time to settle in and enjoy the sights of the city transitioning into the countryside. Expect about an hour of scenic riding before the adventure takes a slightly more rugged turn.

The countryside trail and ancient mine

After about 30-40 minutes, your guide will lead you on a detour into a basic to intermediate level MTB trail, promising a bit of challenge and plenty of beautiful landscapes. This part of the ride explores an ancient mine, which adds a layer of history and intrigue to the trip. The terrain here can be gravely and overgrown during the rainy season, but it’s manageable with the bikes provided.

The trail also offers the chance to climb to a viewpoint if your group is up for it — the panoramic view of the Central Valleys is well worth the effort. We found this segment particularly appealing because it combines off-road riding with a sense of discovery, away from busy streets.

Arrival at Santa María del Tule and the Tule Tree

Reaching the town of Santa María del Tule is a highlight, and the famous Tule Tree is the star attraction. This enormous, ancient Bristlecone pine is considered the widest tree in the world, and learning about its history and significance adds depth to the visit.

The guides do a great job explaining why the Tule Tree is culturally and environmentally important. After the explanation, you’ll have about 15 minutes of free time to wander the town’s market and try local delicacies like Tejate, a pre-Hispanic cacao and mamey seed drink. One reviewer raved, “The visit to the Tule Tree was incredible and so satisfying, having biked there,” which captures the sense of achievement and awe.

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Exploring further and returning

The tour includes a secret stop, which offers additional scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities. This segment is perfect for those who want to see more of Oaxaca’s countryside and get a true feel for the landscape beyond the main attractions.

After exploring and taking photos, you’ll cycle back to Oaxaca City along the scenic cyclist path. The return ride usually takes about an hour, giving you a relaxed pace and more chances to enjoy the views.

Practical details and value

The 3-hour experience is packed with activity and sights, and at just $38 per person, it’s a very good value for what you get. All fees and taxes are included, and the bikes are top-quality, making the ride more comfortable and safe. The tour runs twice daily—morning and afternoon—and you are free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance if your plans change.

What reviewers say

Multiple reviews praise the guides, describing them as “friendly,” “professional,” and “engaging.” Nicole from the US mentioned, “Our guide was super kind and willing to slow down or speed up to match our comfort level,” emphasizing how personalized the experience can be.

Participants also highlight the stunning views and how the trail into the countryside offers a different perspective of Oaxaca — away from crowded streets, into the natural world. One guest called it “a great way to see another side of Oaxaca,” and another appreciated the superior bikes that made the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Who is this tour for?

This experience is especially suitable for those who are comfortable riding a bike on moderate terrain and enjoy a mix of adventure and culture. It may not be ideal for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those who cannot ride a bike or are very inexperienced.

It’s perfect for travelers who want a more active way to see Oaxaca’s countryside, appreciate local culture, and enjoy some light physical activity. If you’re after a relaxing day, this might be a bit too energetic, but for those craving outdoor fun, it’s hard to beat.

Final thoughts

This bike tour to Tule and the countryside offers a wonderful blend of scenery, history, and authentic local flavors, all at an accessible price point. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge really bring the experience alive, making it suitable for curious travelers of various fitness levels—especially those with some basic cycling skills.

The stops at the famous Tule Tree and the ancient mine are memorable highlights that elevate this tour beyond a simple bike ride. Plus, the opportunity to taste Tejate and explore a local market adds a delicious, tangible connection to Oaxaca’s traditions.

While the terrain involves some moderate off-road cycling, it’s designed to be manageable for most riders, with options to walk climbs if needed. The scenic paths, combined with the educational and cultural stops, make this a worthwhile activity for those looking to add an outdoorsy, authentic experience to their Oaxaca trip.

To sum it up, this tour is a fantastic choice for active travelers who want to see the countryside, learn about local history, and enjoy delicious regional treats—all while pedaling through some of Oaxaca’s most beautiful landscapes. It offers great value, friendly guidance, and a chance to create lasting memories of your time in Mexico.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
While the tour involves some moderate mountain biking, it’s designed with a basic to intermediate level in mind. If you are comfortable riding a bike on uneven terrain, you should be fine. No advanced skills are required, but a little experience helps.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen, wear comfortable clothes, and consider carrying extra water if you’re prone to thirst. The bikes come with bottled water, but additional hydration may enhance your comfort.

How physically demanding is this tour?
It involves some off-road cycling, including gravelly climbs and overgrown trails, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. If you struggle with physical activity, this might be a bit tiring.

Can children join this tour?
The minimum height is 4 ft 9 in (150 cm), and it’s recommended for participants with some biking experience. Very young children or those without cycling experience may find it challenging.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those unable to ride a bike should consider other options. The tour also prohibits weapons, alcohol, and littering for safety and respect for local sites.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. The booking offers flexibility, making it a low-risk choice for planning your Oaxaca adventure.

This bike tour combines active exploration with cultural depth, making it a memorable addition to any Oaxaca itinerary. Whether you’re seeking adventure, scenic beauty, or a taste of local life, it’s a well-rounded experience that’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby