Oaxaca’s rich cultural heritage comes alive on this comprehensive full-day tour. Visitors explore the ancient Maya city of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover the stunning 16th-century Convent of Cuilapam. Along the way, they engage with local artisans, gaining insights into Oaxaca’s vibrant traditions. With transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees included, this tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the region’s history and artistry. What secrets await those who embark on this journey?
Key Points
- The tour provides a guided exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Monte Albán and the 16th-century Convent of Cuilapam in Oaxaca.
- Participants can discover the artisanal traditions of Arrazola, known for intricate wood carvings, and the unique black mud ceramics of San Bartolo Coyotepec.
- The tour is conducted in English and Spanish, with a certified bilingual guide, and includes transportation and entrance tickets.
- The tour lasts 8 hours and is priced at $34.35 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Based on 30 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5, with positive feedback on the guides, transportation, and value for money.
Tour Overview
This guided tour takes visitors on an exploration of Oaxaca’s rich cultural heritage. Priced at $34.35 per person, it offers 8 hours of immersion in the region’s history and craftsmanship.
Conducted in English and Spanish, the tour is available for booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Highlights include the archaeological site of Monte Albán, the 16th-century Convent of Cuilapam, and visits to artisan workshops in Arrazola and San Bartolo Coyotepec.
Transportation, a certified bilingual guide, and entrance tickets are included, though meals and drinks are not. Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and value for money.
Looking for more options in San Bartolo Coyotepec? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary
Starting at the Quinta Real Oaxaca, the tour first takes visitors to the Monte Albán Archaeological Site for a guided tour lasting approximately 3 hours.
After exploring the ancient pyramids, the group heads to Arrazola, where they’ll spend an hour visiting local artisans.
Visitors explore local artisans in Arrazola for an hour after touring the ancient pyramids of Monte Albán.
Next, they’ll travel to the Convent of Cuilapam for a guided tour and a 1-hour lunch break.
The final stop is San Bartolo Coyotepec, where they’ll learn about the region’s renowned black mud ceramics during a 1-hour guided tour.
The tour then returns to the Quinta Real Oaxaca.
Tour Highlights
The tour highlights a variety of engaging experiences for visitors.
Explore the ancient pyramids of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage site with over 1,500 years of history.
Visit the 16th-century Dominican convent in Cuilapam de Guerrero and learn about its rich architectural and cultural significance.
Discover the vibrant artisan workshops in Arrazola, renowned for their intricate wood carvings.
Experience the unique black mud ceramics of San Bartolo Coyotepec, a true testament to the region’s artistic heritage.
These diverse attractions offer an immersive glimpse into Oaxaca’s captivating history and vibrant traditions.
Inclusions
The tour includes transportation, a certified bilingual guide, and hotel/Airbnb drop-off at the end of the day.
Entrance tickets to the Monte Albán archaeological site and the Cuilapam Museum are also covered. However, food and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.
Participants should have breakfast before the tour, as it lasts around 8 hours. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 6 ft 6 in, 95 years old, or 309 lbs, due to potential physical limitations.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Reviews
Reviewers have overwhelmingly praised the Oaxaca tour, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 30 reviews.
Customers highlighted the knowledgeable and engaging guides, Moses and Antonio, who received a 4.4 rating. The transportation was also highly rated at 4.7, and the tour was considered excellent value for money, scoring 4.7.
Visitors raved about the must-see sites, such as the pyramids of Monte Albán and the 16th-century convent in Cuilapam, as well as the fascinating workshops in Arrazola and San Bartolo Coyotepec.
Important Information
Regarding the important information, the tour may not be suitable for individuals over 6 feet 6 inches (200 cm), 95 years of age, or 309 pounds (140 kg).
This is likely due to physical constraints and safety considerations. The tour organizers recommend having breakfast before the tour, which suggests that the schedule is packed and active.
The important information provides essential guidance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for participants who meet the specified criteria.
Exploring Monte Albán
One of the highlights of the Oaxaca tour is the guided exploration of the ancient archaeological site of Monte Albán.
Towering pyramids and plazas reveal the architectural prowess of the Zapotec civilization, which flourished here for over 1,500 years.
Visitors can:
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Admire the impressive stone carvings and hieroglyphic inscriptions that provide glimpses into the site’s rich history and culture.
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Climb to the top of the Great Pyramid for panoramic views of the surrounding valley and distant mountain ranges.
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Discover the remnants of impressive palace complexes and ceremonial centers that once bustled with activity.
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Ponder the mysteries of this sacred place, where the Zapotec people once worshipped their gods and celebrated their way of life.
Discovering Cuilapam De Guerrero
After exploring the ancient Zapotec site of Monte Albán, the tour continues to the 16th-century Dominican convent in Cuilapam de Guerrero.
Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the convent and learn about its fascinating history. During the visit, travelers can indulge in a traditional local lunch.
Visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the convent and learn about its intriguing history while indulging in a traditional local lunch.
The convent’s museum showcases religious artifacts and provides insights into the region’s colonial past.
Following the convent tour, the group travels to San Bartolo Coyotepec, known for its production of black mud ceramics.
Here, guests can witness the intricate pottery-making process and purchase unique artisanal creations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Time Does the Tour Start in the Morning?
The tour doesn’t specify an exact start time in the morning. However, it’s recommended to have breakfast before the tour begins, indicating an early morning departure, likely around 8-9 AM.
Does the Tour Include Transportation From Oaxaca City Center?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from your hotel or Airbnb in Oaxaca City center. The tour starts from the Quinta Real Oaxaca hotel and provides round-trip transportation to the various sites on the itinerary.
Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Full-Day Tour?
Yes, the tour includes restroom breaks. The itinerary allows for visits to various sites, which likely provide opportunities for restroom access during the full-day excursion. Participants can expect to have adequate access to facilities throughout the tour.
Can Vegetarian or Special Dietary Options Be Accommodated?
The tour company can accommodate vegetarian and other special dietary requests. Guests simply need to provide any dietary restrictions when booking the tour, and the company will ensure appropriate meals are provided during the lunch stop.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?
The tour offers no option to extend or add additional activities. However, customers may inquire with the tour provider about customizing the itinerary or booking a private tour to accommodate any special requests.
The Sum Up
The Oaxaca: Mount Albán & Cuilapam De Guerrero Full-Day Tour offers travelers an immersive experience to uncover Oaxaca’s rich history and vibrant artistry. From the ancient ruins of Monte Albán to the 16th-century Convent of Cuilapam, the tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage. With transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees included, this tour is an excellent value for those seeking to explore the best of Oaxaca.
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