Oaxaca: Horseback Riding and Mezcal Tasting Tour

Planning a day that combines culture, stunning landscapes, and a taste of authentic Mexican spirits? The Oaxaca: Horseback Riding and Mezcal Tasting Tour offers just that—a full day exploring rural Oaxaca’s traditions with a dash of adventure. While it’s rated only 3 out of 5, the experience packs enough highlights to make it worthwhile for those eager to see a different side of Oaxaca beyond the city streets.

What we particularly appreciate are the beautiful agave fields you get to ride through and the chance to sample a variety of mezcal straight from the distillery. The inclusion of a regional buffet and visits to local bakeries add tasty, cultural layers to the day. A minor consideration is the tour’s relatively short duration and the fact that it’s a private group, which might not appeal to travelers seeking a more social or longer experience. Overall, it’s a solid choice for adventurous food and spirits lovers or those interested in rural life and traditional crafts.

Key Points

• Authentic rural experience with horseback riding through agave fields
• Educational mezcal tastings at a local distillery
• Cultural stops in towns like Unión Zapata and Tlacolula
• Delicious regional cuisine included in a local restaurant
• Insight into traditional production of “pan de cazuela”
• Private group ensures personalized attention, but may come at a premium

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This 8-hour tour from Oaxaca offers a mix of countryside exploration, cultural insights, and culinary delights. It’s designed for those who want a hands-on look at rural Oaxaca—not just in photographs but in actual activities. You’ll leave the city behind and venture into some of the most picturesque and tradition-rich parts of the state.

The tour begins with a drive from Oaxaca to Tlacolula de Matamoros, a town famous for its vibrant market and historic church. Here, you get a glimpse of local bread-making traditions with a visit to a bakery producing “pan de cazuela,” a traditional bread baked in clay pots. This stops adds a fascinating peek into regional food heritage, and many reviews note the cultural value of these kinds of visits.

Next, the journey takes you to Unión Zapata, a lesser-known yet historically significant town, where you’ll learn about its past and the lives of its inhabitants. It’s a chance to see local traditions in action, away from the tourist crowds.

The Horseback Riding Adventure

One of the highlights is a horseback ride through the maguey (agave) fields surrounding Matatlán. The ride is generally suitable for beginners, but it’s worth noting that the emphasis is on sightseeing and enjoyment rather than rigorous riding. We loved the way this activity combines gentle adventure with the serenity of rural Oaxaca.

The fields are lush and expansive, and you’ll be able to see the different types of agave grown specifically for mezcal production. As one traveler put it, “we loved the way the landscape opened up, revealing the techniques used to cultivate the plants for mezcal—it’s quite eye-opening.”

The horseback riding segment offers stunning views and a break from typical tourist spots, making for memorable photos and a chance to connect with the land.

Visiting the Mezcal Distillery

No trip to Oaxaca is complete without tasting mezcal, and this tour includes a visit to a local distillery—the King of Matatlán. Here, the process of making mezcal is explained in straightforward terms, and you’ll get to sample different types to compare flavors. Many reviews appreciated the informal, approachable tasting, which makes the complex spirit more accessible.

The distillery visit is a strong point of the tour, with the opportunity to learn about the traditional production methods. As one guest noted, “it was fascinating to see how mezcal is made from start to finish, and the tasting was very generous.”

This stop also highlights the diversity of mezcal, with different types and flavors on offer—perfect for spirits enthusiasts or those simply curious about the local drink.

Food and Cultural Stops

The included regional buffet offers a taste of Oaxaca’s culinary richness, often praised for its delicious and hearty offerings. The meal is typically served at a local restaurant, providing a relaxed environment to enjoy traditional dishes.

In addition, the visit to the bakery producing “pan de cazuela” adds a tangible connection to local baking customs. Reviewers mention that these stops are an authentic glimpse into everyday life that larger tours might overlook.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, local history, and spirits tasting. It suits those who appreciate a personalized, private group setting, which enhances the experience but may come at a higher cost. The tour is also a great choice for foodies and spirits enthusiasts, given the focus on mezcal, regional cuisine, and traditional baking.

However, it’s worth noting that the duration is only 8 hours, so if you’re craving a more extensive or social outing, you might want to look for longer or more energetic alternatives. The tour’s pace is mellow, making it less suited for those who prefer fast-paced sightseeing.

The Practical Details

The tour lasts eight hours, departing from Oaxaca, with a private group setting. You’ll be traveling in comfortable transportation, with the day organized to include stops at key cultural and culinary sites. The tour is guided in Spanish, so some basic knowledge or willingness to listen closely is helpful.

You will need to bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash—the latter for additional purchases or tips. The price reflects the private, tailored nature of the experience, offering personalized attention rather than large group dynamics.

The tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

Authenticity, Value, and Final Thoughts

While it’s rated only 3 stars, many travelers find this tour offers genuine value, especially for those interested in rural Oaxaca’s customs and the art of mezcal-making. The combination of scenic horseback riding, tasting different mezcals, and sampling traditional foods makes for a well-rounded experience.

Some reviews mention the delicious food and tapas as particular highlights, reinforcing how well the meal complements the day’s culture. Others appreciate the opportunity to learn about local history and production methods in an informal setting.

If you’re someone who enjoys a relaxed pace, authentic sights, and tasting local flavors, this tour can be a memorable way to spend a day outside the city. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those eager to touch the land, learn about its crafts, and enjoy good food in a private setting.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation from Oaxaca, visits to towns and a bakery, horseback riding in agave fields, a mezcal tasting, and a regional buffet meal.

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes, the ride is generally suitable for beginners, with a focus on sightseeing rather than technical riding skills.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, starting and ending in Oaxaca.

What language is the tour guided in?
The tour is guided in Spanish, so some basic understanding or a willingness to listen carefully is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s organized as a private group, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and cash for extras.

Are there any food restrictions or allergies?
The tour features a regional buffet, so if you have specific dietary concerns, it’s best to inquire beforehand.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It’s moderate, with horseback riding and walking involved, but nothing too strenuous.

Would this tour suit families?
Yes, it can be suitable for families, especially those with children comfortable around horses and outdoor activities.

To sum it up, this Oaxaca horseback riding and mezcal tasting tour offers a genuine glimpse into the rural life and artisanal traditions of the region. It’s perfect for those who love good food, spirits, and scenic outdoor experiences in an intimate setting. While it may not be the most action-packed day, it’s a well-balanced introduction to some of Oaxaca’s most authentic aspects, making it a memorable addition to your travel itinerary.

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