Oaxaca: Sierra Norte Tour with Zipline and Hanging Bridge

Oaxaca: Sierra Norte Tour with Zipline and Hanging Bridge — A Wild Day in the Mountains

If you’re craving a day packed with adventure, nature, and genuine local charm, the Oaxaca Sierra Norte Tour offers just that. We’ve reviewed this experience based on detailed information and guest insights to give you the clearest picture of what to expect. It’s a full-day outing that balances adrenaline, scenic beauty, and culture, making it a solid choice for those with a sense of adventure and a love for authentic experiences.

Three things we love about this tour are: the chance to soar over lush landscapes on Oaxaca’s longest zipline, the opportunity to explore traditional mountain communities, and the inclusion of a local breakfast that gives a taste of Oaxaca’s hearty cuisine. The one thing to consider is the full 11-hour duration, which is quite long, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy full days of activity and don’t mind a packed schedule. This tour will appeal most to adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those curious about local culture beyond the city.

Key Points

• Stunning Views & Adventure: The zipline and hanging bridge provide breathtaking perspectives of the Sierra Norte’s forests.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting local workshops and mountain villages offers a glimpse into authentic traditions.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The day is carefully planned to include scenic and adrenaline-filled stops, plus a traditional breakfast.
• Inclusive Price & Quality: Covering transportation, guides, admissions, and safety gear offers good value for a comprehensive experience.
• Physical & Weather Preparedness: Expect a full day outside; dressing warmly and bringing water is essential.
• Limited Meals: Meals are not included, so you might want to prepare for a simple, energizing breakfast and bring snacks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Sierra Norte Tour

Starting with Oaxaca’s Charm

The day kicks off early from the Historic Center of Oaxaca, which is ideal if you’re staying nearby. The tour includes transportation and a trip coordinator, ensuring a smooth start to an action-packed day. The small, private group setting (with the guide speaking Spanish) helps keep things intimate and personalized.

Guests consistently appreciate the flexibility of booking and paying later—a perk that makes planning easier, especially if your schedule is uncertain. The tour’s duration is around 11 hours, making it a full day, but well worth the effort for the variety of experiences packed in.

First Stop: Traditional Oaxacan Breakfast

The tour begins with a local breakfast in a traditional restaurant. This is often highlighted as a delightful way to start the day—filling, authentic, and a chance to enjoy the flavors that make Oaxaca famous. Guests have mentioned that the breakfast sets the tone for the day, energizing you for the adventures ahead.

Exploring Teotitlán del Valle’s Wool Rug Workshop

After breakfast, the journey takes you to Teotitlán del Valle, a village renowned for its handwoven wool rugs. Visiting the workshop offers a chance to see this traditional craft in action. Many reviews point out that this stop is both educational and inspiring, as artisans demonstrate their skills. It’s a quiet, authentic contrast to the thrill of ziplining and a reminder of Oaxaca’s deep-rooted artisan culture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ascending to Cuajimoloyas

Next, you’ll head toward Cuajimoloyas, one of the highest-altitude mountain towns in the Sierra Norte. The drive itself offers spectacular views of the rugged terrain, with lush greenery and forested slopes. Once there, the landscape feels almost untouched—perfect for nature lovers. At 3,000 meters above sea level, the air is crisp, and the scenery is captivating.

Guests who have visited describe Cuajimoloyas as a small, friendly community that retains its traditional charm. It’s the kind of place where locals still live much as their ancestors did, preserving customs and crafts.

The Coyote Canyon Hike

A highlight of the tour is the 3-hour walk through Coyote Canyon. This trek is suitable for most fitness levels and offers a close-up look at the region’s diverse vegetation and natural beauty. Expect to see a variety of plants, trees, and possibly some local wildlife. Reviewers have praised the guides’ knowledge about flora and fauna, adding an educational element to the adventure.

The Zipline Experience

The main adrenaline rush comes with the longest zipline in Oaxaca, stretching about 1 kilometer across the community. Guests describe it as the thrill of a lifetime, with views of the lush forest below. The zipline is designed to be safe and accessible, with safety gear provided. Many reviews mention that the views are more stunning than expected, with the canopy of trees stretching endlessly.

Crossing the Hanging Bridge

After the zipline, you’ll be invited to walk across a hanging bridge, which adds a dash of excitement and provides yet another fantastic vantage point. The bridge offers a panoramic view of the forested landscape, making it an ideal spot for photos and a moment to appreciate nature’s grandeur.

Final Stop and Return

The tour concludes in Cuajimoloyas or nearby, with a return trip to Oaxaca in the late afternoon or early evening. The entire experience is carefully timed to maximize your day without feeling rushed, though it’s a long itinerary.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The price of $135 per person covers transportation, the guide, admissions, zipline, hanging bridge, comprehensive insurance, and beverages. This makes it a good value considering the variety of activities and the remote locations visited. However, meals are not included, so bringing snacks or planning for lunch on your own is advised.

Guests have expressed appreciation for the organized nature of the trip, with many praising the friendly guides for their professionalism and safety measures. One reviewer even mentioned that the zipline operator was particularly reassuring, making the experience enjoyable rather than intimidating.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Dress warmly, especially at higher altitudes where temperatures can drop quickly.
• Bring a camera — the vistas are unforgettable.
• Stay hydrated: a bottle of water is recommended since you’ll be active for hours.
• Prepare for a full day: good walking shoes, light snacks, and patience will make the experience more enjoyable.
• Arrive early if you want to explore Oaxaca’s city streets before the tour departs.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure enthusiasts eager to combine natural beauty with a rush of adrenaline. It’s also ideal for culture-curious travelers who want to see a different side of Oaxaca, away from the city’s bustling markets. The inclusion of local workshops and mountain villages makes it more than just an adrenaline fix—it’s a cultural day trip.

However, those with mobility issues or a dislike for long days outdoors may find the full 11-hour schedule a bit demanding. The tour involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure, so prep is essential.

Final Thoughts

The Oaxaca Sierra Norte Tour with Zipline and Hanging Bridge offers a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and adventure. It’s a well-rounded day that provides opportunities to see stunning landscapes, interact with local artisans, and get your adrenaline pumping with ziplining and hanging bridges.

The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip, with transportation, safety gear, and expert guidance included. While it’s a lengthy day, many travelers consider the experience a memorable highlight of their Oaxaca trip—perfect if you’re looking to combine outdoor fun and authentic local culture.

If you’re the type who loves a bit of thrill and a lot of spectacular scenery, this tour will definitely deliver. Just come prepared for a full day outdoors, and you’ll walk away with stories (and photos) to cherish.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided as part of the tour, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How long is the zipline?
The zipline is approximately 1 kilometer long, making it the longest in Oaxaca, and it offers spectacular views while being accessible and safe.

What should I bring?
You should bring warm clothing, a camera, and water. Weather can be cooler at higher altitudes, so layers are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour starts with a traditional breakfast, but you’ll need to bring snacks or plan for lunch independently.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the activities seem suitable for most able-bodied travelers. Always check with the provider if you have young children or specific concerns.

What’s the group size?
This is a private group experience, which generally means a more personalized and flexible approach compared to larger tours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

This tour offers a fantastic mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, perfect for travelers eager to experience the Sierra Norte in a memorable, active way.

You can check availability for your dates here: