Oaxacan Journey

If you’re seeking a well-rounded day in Oaxaca that offers both natural beauty and cultural authenticity, the Oaxacan Journey tour is an excellent choice. This 9.5-hour adventure takes you far beyond the usual tourist spots, with a focus on avoiding crowds and connecting with local traditions. It’s a carefully curated mix of outdoor exploration, vibrant markets, artisan workshops, and iconic natural landmarks.

What makes this tour stand out for us is the chance to see the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua privately and hike at your own pace, explore the bustling Tlacolula Market for authentic Oaxacan cuisine and crafts, and learn about traditional wool rug weaving in Teotitlán del Valle. Plus, a visit to the ancient Tule Tree adds a touch of natural wonder. A possible drawback? The full-day commitment might be long if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility. This tour is best suited for travelers who love a mix of outdoor activity, culture, and expert-guided insights.

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Key Points

Private Access and Hiking: Early start allows you to enjoy Hierve el Agua with fewer people and experience an immersive hike.
Authentic Cultural Stops: Visits to local markets and artisan workshops reveal real Oaxaca traditions.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with local insights and stories.
Well-Organized Itinerary: The itinerary balances outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and free time effectively.
Value for Money: At $104, the tour includes transportation, all tickets, lunch, and a small group size, making it a great value.
Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 6) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Oaxacan Journey Tour

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Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early at the Templo de San Matías Jalatlaco, a charming local meeting point in Oaxaca’s historic center. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned van, which sets the tone for a smooth and hassle-free day. The transportation component is essential because it allows you to cover diverse locations efficiently, giving you maximum time at each site. The drive to Hierve el Agua takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Visiting Hierve el Agua: The Petrified Waterfalls

The highlight of the trip—Hierve el Agua—are a pair of natural rock formations that resemble waterfalls frozen in time. What makes this experience extraordinary is the chance to visit before the crowds arrive, thanks to the early start. This means you can explore the site at your own pace, take stunning photos, and even hike down to the natural pools for a swim.

Leisha’s review praises this part of the trip, sharing that the early departure and small group made the visit more intimate and enjoyable. She notes that her guide, Gilberto, was particularly skilled at providing detailed local knowledge and making the experience engaging. You’ll love the views from the top, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the hike down offers a different perspective of the site.

The Hike and Natural Pools

The guided tour at Hierve el Agua lasts about 3.5 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the scenery, wander around, and snap photos. The natural pools are a bonus for those who enjoy swimming, though note that you’ll need to bring your own towel if you plan to cool off. The site’s uniqueness—being one of only two waterfalls of its type in the world—means you’ll get a rare glimpse of geological phenomena not found elsewhere.

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Exploring Tlacolula Market

After the outdoor adventure, the tour heads to the Tlacolula Market, a lively hub of local life. Here, you’ll have about an hour to walk through stalls packed with fresh produce, traditional foods, and colorful handicrafts. The market’s folklore and vibrant atmosphere are highlights, and your guide will help you navigate and appreciate local culinary staples.

Enjoy a traditional Oaxacan lunch in the area, which is included in the tour. This is a true taste of regional flavors, giving you the chance to sample dishes and ingredients that are central to Oaxaca’s identity. The market experience is more than just eating—it’s about understanding the daily life and culture of the community.

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Learning Traditional Wool Rug Weaving in Teotitlán del Valle

Next, you’ll visit the artisan town of Teotitlán del Valle, famous for its wool rugs woven with natural pigments. The workshop lasts about an hour, during which you’ll witness local artisans at work, applying techniques passed down through generations. You may even have the opportunity to participate, gaining firsthand insight into the skill and patience involved.

This stop isn’t just about observing; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship that makes Oaxaca’s textiles renowned worldwide. The guides are skilled at explaining the symbolism and process behind each rug, making it a memorable part of the trip.

Ending at the Tule Tree

The final stop is at Santa María del Tule to see the Tule Tree, known globally for its enormous trunk and incredible age. The guided tour here lasts approximately 40 minutes, giving you time to marvel at this natural wonder and learn about its fascinating history. It’s a peaceful, contemplative way to close the day.

Practicalities and What’s Included

The tour price of $104 per person offers good value considering all inclusions: air-conditioned transport, all entrance fees, a traditional lunch, and bottled water. The small group size (maximum six participants) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, which many travelers appreciate based on reviews.

What to Bring and Consider

To enjoy the day comfortably, bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a change of clothes, a towel if swimming, and water. The tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or people with mobility issues due to the physical activity involved.

Since the tour is quite full and involves outdoor activities, be prepared for a day that can get dusty or warm. The guide recommends wearing clothes that can get dirty, and you’ll want closed-toe shoes for hiking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and artisan appreciation. It suits those who appreciate small groups, personalized guides, and authentic encounters. If you love discovering local markets, seeing geological wonders, and learning about traditional crafts firsthand, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, if you prefer a more leisurely, less active day or have mobility restrictions, you might find parts of this experience challenging. It’s best suited for active, curious travelers eager to explore beyond the tourist trail.

FAQs About the Oaxacan Journey Tour

What time does the tour start?
Start times vary, so check availability for the specific departure on your preferred day.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a traditional Oaxacan lunch at the Tlacolula Market is part of the tour.

Do I need to bring my own towel?
If you plan to swim in Hierve el Agua’s natural pools, bringing a towel is recommended.

How long is the drive to Hierve el Agua?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned van.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years or those with mobility issues, as there’s hiking involved.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees and tickets are covered in the ticket price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility in your planning.

Final Thoughts

The Oaxacan Journey offers a well-rounded snapshot of Oaxaca’s natural scenery and cultural traditions. With expert guides, intimate group sizes, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary, it provides a meaningful and manageable way to experience some of the region’s highlights. From petrified waterfalls to local markets and artisan workshops, it’s a day that balances adventure with cultural discovery.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper connection to the local way of life and those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. The combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and small-group intimacy makes it a strong choice for anyone wanting to make the most of a day in Oaxaca.

If you’re eager to explore some of Oaxaca’s most fascinating natural and cultural sights comfortably and with a knowledgeable guide, the Oaxacan Journey tour could be just what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: