Hierve el Agua, our first stop, is a hidden jewel in the foothills 40 miles outside of Oaxaca City. There you can dip your toes or swim in the mineral-rich water, as you watch it cascading down the side of the canyon and creating the illusion of a shimmering waterfall. What looks like flowing water is actually the calcium deposits formed over thousands of years, now giving us a breathtaking view of the valley below. If this alone does not impress, the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains certainly will!
When we reach Hierve el Agua, we will stop at a local comedor (restaurant) where you will sample delicious Oaxacan food, including handmade tlayudas, memelas, and quesadillas, all prepared on the traditional comal (flat grill). Drinks include hot chocolate or coffee. This meal will provide energy before we start our hike to the waterfall of Hierve el Agua. The second stop of the tour is the distillery of a Master Mescalero, who will give us an in-depth talk about the process of making mezcal, followed by a tour to see each stage of the production process. After the educational tour, Alberto will invite us to taste three or four varieties of mezcal (Espadín Joven, Espadín Añejo, Tobala and Tepestate). Bottles will be available for purchase.
Our third stop will be at Mitla.
Mitla is the second most important archeological site in Oaxaca after Monte Albán. The architecture and facades display designs that are unique in all of Mesoamerica. The site played a central role in the cosmovision of the life-and-death cycle of Zapotec culture. The stunning above-ground mosaics and murals are still visible at the site. The geometric designs, reminiscent of ancient Greece, have mystified experts and visitors from around the world.
The tour by a certified guide lasts 90 minutes.
Our fourth stop is the Arbol del Tule (Tule Tree) – World’s Widest Tree. Located In the middle of the central plaza of Santa Maria del Tule is the world-famous ahuehuete, affectionately called the “Tule Tree.” The tree is more than 2,000 years old and has a trunk that is more than 120 feet in diameter. It takes more than 30 people to encircle it, and its shade can protect 500 people. A marvelous sight not to be missed!