The "From Oaxaca: San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour" invites visitors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of San Agustín Etla. Travelers can explore the intricate art of handmade papermaking, discover the secrets behind the region’s iconic Quesillo cheese, and engage with the vibrant local arts scene. This comprehensive experience promises to transport participants on a captivating journey through Oaxaca’s traditions, leaving them with a deeper appreciation for the community’s enduring craftsmanship.
Key Points
- This 4.5-hour tour from Oaxaca explores the traditional arts and culinary heritage of San Agustín Etla, including a hydroelectric plant visit, Arts Center exploration, and Quesillo cheese discovery.
- Participants can engage in hands-on papermaking, learning about the intricate craft of using natural fibers to create handmade paper.
- The tour includes a visit to the renovated Arts Center of St. Augustine, featuring rotating exhibitions and interactive workshops to experience various artistic disciplines.
- Discover the secrets of Quesillo, a key ingredient in Mexican cuisine, by visiting the Etla market and learning the four essential steps in its making.
- The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a bilingual guide, and food and drinks for the Quesillo and paper factory visits, with souvenirs and gratuities included in the price.
Tour Overview
This tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the traditional arts and culinary heritage of San Agustín Etla, a charming town just outside Oaxaca City.
The 4.5-hour experience includes a visit to a hydroelectric plant to learn about artisanal paper production, an exploration of the town’s Arts Center, and a discovery of the secrets behind Oaxaca’s famous quesillo cheese.
Priced from €32.48 per person, the tour includes pickup from central Oaxaca hotels and features bilingual guides.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no upfront payment required to reserve a spot.
Looking for more options in Oaxaca State? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Papermaking at San Agustín Etla
How does the papermaking portion of the tour begin? Visitors first head to a hydroelectric plant in San Agustín Etla to learn about traditional paper production. Here, they discover how natural fibers like tree bark, branches, flowers, and pigments are used to create handmade paper. The process involves intricate steps, as shown in the table below:
| Step | Activity |
| — | — |
| 1 | Gather raw materials |
| 2 | Boil and pulp the fibers |
| 3 | Pour the pulp onto a mold |
| 4 | Press and dry the sheets |
| 5 | Apply color and finish the paper |
Participants can try their hand at papermaking, gaining a newfound appreciation for this age-old craft.
Exploring the Arts Center of St. Augustine
After learning about the ancient art of papermaking, the tour proceeds to the renovated former La Soledad Yarns and Fabrics Factory, now known as the Arts Center of St. Augustine.
Visitors can explore this vibrant hub of contemporary art and culture. The Arts Center features:
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Rotating exhibitions showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
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Interactive workshops where guests can try their hand at various artistic disciplines.
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A lively event calendar with live music, dance performances, and cultural celebrations.
Immersing oneself in the creative spirit of the Arts Center is a highlight of the San Agustín Etla tour.
Discovering the Secrets of Quesillo
As the tour continues, visitors are invited to discover the secrets behind the making of Quesillo, a key ingredient in Mexican cuisine. At the Etla market, known as the origin of Quesillo, the group observes the intricate process firsthand.
| Steps | Description |
|———–|————-|
| Curdling | Heating and curdling fresh cheese curds |
| Stretching| Carefully stretching and folding the curds |
| Shaping | Molding the soft cheese into its signature loops |
| Flavoring | Adding salt and other traditional seasonings |
The tantalizing aroma and texture of the freshly made Quesillo captivate the senses, offering a delectable insight into Oaxacan culinary traditions.
More Great Tours NearbyVisiting the Etla Market
The tour then takes visitors to the Etla market, known as the origin of the iconic Oaxacan cheese, Quesillo.
Here, guests can explore the bustling stalls and learn about the production process firsthand. The market offers a unique opportunity to:
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Observe skilled Quesillo makers hand-pulling and stretching the cheese.
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Interact with local vendors and learn about the history and cultural significance of this traditional delicacy.
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Purchase freshly made Quesillo to take home and incorporate into authentic Mexican dishes.
This immersive market experience adds depth to the tour, providing a glimpse into the vibrant food culture of the region.
Included Features of the Tour
The tour includes several key features to enhance the overall experience. Travelers can expect air-conditioned transportation and a bilingual guide to lead the way. Plus, the price includes food and drinks at the quesillo class ($7.00) and paper factory ($2.20). Souvenirs and gratuities are also provided, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves without additional costs.
| Included Features | Details |
| — | — |
| Transportation | Air-conditioned |
| Tour Guide | Bilingual |
| Food & Drinks | Quesillo Class ($7.00), Paper Factory ($2.20) |
| Souvenirs | Included |
| Gratuities | Included |
It’s a comprehensive package designed to deliver a seamless and enriching cultural experience in San Agustín Etla.
Important Information for Participants
Travelers should bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and comfortable clothes to the tour. It’s important to come prepared, as the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.
Pets, luggage, and large bags are also not allowed.
The tour includes:
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Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
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A bilingual guide to lead the experience.
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Food and drinks related to the quesillo cheesemaking and paper factory visits.
Souvenirs and gratuities are included in the tour price.
With these details in mind, participants can expect an engaging culture in San Agustín Etla.
Customer Feedback on the Tour
Customers have provided a mixed set of reviews for the San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour.
While some customers praised the engaging experiences with local cheese-making and art exhibitions, others reported issues with the tour.
Some felt the guide lacked communication skills, and certain activities didn’t meet their expectations.
The tour holds an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 7 reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. Customers can book individually, and the tour will run regardless of how many people sign up, providing a personalized experience tailored to the group size.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on the Tour?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any dietary restrictions being accommodated. However, guests can expect to taste Quesillo, a local cheese, during the tour. It’s best to inquire with the tour provider about any special dietary needs prior to booking.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?
Yes, the tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator offers flexible options to tailor the itinerary and activities to meet the specific needs and interests of each private group.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have age restrictions, but it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Children are welcome, though parents should ensure they can participate safely in the activities.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?
The tour doesn’t allow participants to bring their own food and drinks. However, it includes some food and drinks as part of the activities, such as the quesillo class and a visit to the paper factory.
The Sum Up
The "From Oaxaca: San Agustín Etla Quesillo and Papermaking Tour" offers a unique cultural experience, blending traditional arts, culinary heritage, and eco-friendly practices. Participants can enjoy the intricate process of handmade papermaking, explore local art, and discover the art of crafting Quesillo, a Oaxacan staple. This tour provides a well-rounded, enriching adventure for those seeking to connect with the vibrant culture of San Agustín Etla.
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