Oaxaca: Horseback Riding and Mezcal Tasting Tour

Exploring Oaxaca’s countryside with a horseback riding and mezcal tasting tour offers a blend of scenic views, cultural insights, and delicious food. While the experience promises a full day of discovering traditional towns, local drinks, and regional specialties, it’s worth noting that not all activities may meet expectations, especially the horseback riding segment.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see authentic rural Oaxaca, the chance to learn from passionate guides, and the opportunity to sample a variety of mezcal brews directly from local distilleries. The regional buffet and visit to a traditional bakery make for a nourishing, flavorful addition to the day. However, some travelers have found the horseback riding component less impressive, citing poorly maintained horses and a short ride that feels more like a quick commute than a proper adventure.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a well-rounded cultural experience, enjoy tasting local spirits, and don’t mind a bit of a drive with some short rides. If authentic regional food, mezcal, and exploring small towns appeal to you, this could be a great fit. Just keep in mind that the horseback riding may not be the highlight for everyone—and that’s okay.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Exposure: Visit local towns, learn about traditional bread (“pan de cazuela”) and artisanal mezcal production.
• Scenic Drive: Ride through picturesque agave fields and charming villages like Unión Zapata and Tlacolula de Matamoros.
• Food & Drink: Enjoy a regional buffet and a mezcal tasting session with multiple varieties.
• Guided Experience: Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour offers insights into Oaxaca’s traditions and history.
• Group Type: Private tour, perfect for personalized attention.
• Duration & Flexibility: Around 8 hours, with a flexible starting time based on availability. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Oaxaca Horseback Riding and Mezcal Tasting Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup, covering your transportation from Oaxaca city to the surrounding countryside. The ride itself is part of the experience, offering glimpses of Oaxaca’s lush landscapes and small towns. After being picked up, you’ll settle into a comfortable vehicle, ready for a day of exploration. The total duration is approximately 8 hours, which includes stops, tastings, meals, and some driving time, so prepare for a full but enjoyable day.

First Stops: Tlacolula de Matamoros and the Bakery

Your first destination is the town of Tlacolula de Matamoros, famed for its traditional bread called “pan de cazuela.” Here, you’ll see local bakers at work, preparing this regional specialty in clay ovens that give the bread its distinctive texture and flavor. The visit provides a snapshot of Oaxaca’s culinary traditions, and you’ll have the chance to learn about local baking techniques and the significance of this bread in regional culture.

Next, a quick visit to the Church of the Mirrors offers a brief cultural stop, with its unique architecture and historical significance. This part of the tour highlights the blend of indigenous and colonial influences characteristic of Oaxaca.

The Horseback Ride: What to Expect

After the town visit, the tour heads to Unión Zapata, where you’ll meet the horses and start your horseback journey. Here’s where reviews have been mixed—while the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, the actual riding experience has drawn some criticism. The horses are described as skinny and poorly maintained, with saddles and reins in poor condition, which can impact comfort and safety.

The ride is relatively short, mainly serving as a scenic commute between points rather than a lengthy trek through the countryside. You’ll pass through agave fields outside Matatlán, a town famous for mezcal production, giving you a glimpse of the landscape that produces this iconic spirit.

While the guide will share some information about the agave plants and local traditions, don’t expect an in-depth riding adventure. For some, this short jaunt might feel more like a quick photo opportunity than a true equestrian experience. Still, it’s a lovely way to see the rural environment and understand the setting for mezcal production.

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Mezcal Tasting and Learning

One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to a mezcal distillery, often called the “King of Matatlán.” Here, you’ll learn about the intricate process of making mezcal, from roasting the agave hearts to distillation. The guide will explain the different types of agave used and how flavor profiles vary.

Tastings include multiple varieties of mezcal, allowing you to compare smoky, sweet, or earthy notes. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who convey interesting facts about production and regional differences. Expect to sample some of the best mezcal Oaxaca offers, often paired with local snacks.

Exploring Unión Zapata

After the distillery visit, you’ll explore Unión Zapata, a town with a modest but proud population engaged in agriculture and mezcal production. The guide shares insights into the community’s history and everyday life, adding depth to your visit. It’s a chance to see how traditional crafts and farming coexist in modern Oaxaca.

Lunch and Regional Cuisine

The tour includes a regional buffet meal at a local restaurant. The food is hearty and flavorful, often featuring traditional dishes like tlayudas, tamales, and other Oaxacan specialties. Reviewers have appreciated the delicious, authentic flavors and generous portions, making this a satisfying break in the day.

Ending the Day and Return

After the meal and some last moments exploring local shops or sights, the tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel in Oaxaca. The entire experience is designed to be full but manageable, giving you a well-rounded taste of Oaxaca’s countryside, culture, and spirits.

Analyzing Value and Suitability

At $140 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Oaxaca’s rural traditions, along with memorable tastings and scenic drives. The price includes transportation, a local guide, and insurance, making it a convenient all-in-one package. The personalized, private group setup adds a layer of comfort and flexibility rare in larger tours.

However, the horseback riding segment deserves a note of caution. Based on reviews, the quality of the horses and equipment varies, and the ride itself is quite short. If riding is your main goal, you might find this part underwhelming. But if you’re more interested in cultural insights, food, and mezcal, you’ll find plenty of value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to see authentic Oaxaca beyond the city streets—those curious about traditional food, spirits, and small-town life. If you enjoy scenic drives, learning about local crafts, and tasting regional drinks, it’s a good fit.

It’s best suited for:

• Those who want a balanced mix of culture, food, and spirits
• Travelers comfortable with a short horseback ride, despite some reviews about the horses’ condition
• Visitors looking for a private guide and personalized attention
• Food lovers who enjoy hearty regional cuisine
• People seeking a full-day experience with flexible start times

It may be less appealing for riders or those expecting a “serious” horseback riding adventure, as the activity leans more toward sightseeing than expert riding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children can join the tour, but keep in mind the horseback riding is quite short. It’s best suited for families with older kids comfortable around horses.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals are not included in the price. You’ll stop for a regional buffet that many find delicious and filling.

What should I bring?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash for any additional purchases or tips.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s offered as a private group, allowing a more personalized experience.

Are drinks included?
No, beverages are not included; you may want to bring cash if you wish to purchase drinks on your own.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride itself is brief, mainly serving as a scenic connection between stop points, not a lengthy trek.

What language is the guide?
The tour is led by a Spanish-speaking guide. Confirm if an English-speaking guide is available if needed.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While not specified, the best months are likely during dry seasons when the countryside is lush but access is easier.

Final Thoughts

This Oaxaca horseback riding and mezcal tasting tour offers a window into the region’s traditions, landscapes, and flavors. For those wanting a day of cultural discovery in a private setting, it’s a flexible and enjoyable option. You’ll especially appreciate the authentic food, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to learn about mezcal directly from locals.

However, if your main goal is a serious horseback adventure, you might want to manage expectations—some reviews highlight the condition of the horses and the brief ride. That being said, the experience’s true value lies in its cultural and culinary elements, making it a good pick for curious travelers with a sense of adventure.

In summary, this tour suits those eager to taste Oaxaca’s spirits, explore quaint towns, and enjoy hearty regional food—all wrapped in a culturally rich, private experience. Just remember that the horseback riding may be more about scenery and fun than an equestrian thrill.

Enjoy your trip and savor every authentic moment Oaxaca has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: