Our adventure begins with a visit to the Hierve el Agua community nature park. We will pick you up at your lodging and drive approximately 90 minutes east from Oaxaca city. Along the way we will see important archaeological sites, such as Yagul, and fields of agave plants for the preparation of mezcal. Upon arriving at Hierve el Agua we will eat in a local dining room, where we will taste typical Oaxacan snacks such as: tlayudas, memelas, quesadillas, and drink hot chocolate or a café de olla (with cinnamon). Everything is fresh and homemade.
After the delicious breakfast, it is time to begin our walk through the mountains of Hierve el Agua, arriving at the bottom of the canyon to view this beautiful petrified waterfall. During the tour we will enjoy the majestic mountain scenery of the Sierra Mixe, which is especially green during the rainy season from July to December.
At the end of our walk, you will have time to relax; and there will be ample time for those who would like to swim in the pools. Once the experience in the mineral-rich water is over, we will drive to the archaeological zone of Mitla. Mitla is the second most important archaeological site after Monte Albán. The architecture and facades show designs that are unique in all of Mesoamerica. The site played a central role in the Zapotec culture cosmovision of life and death. This ancient city’s impressive mosaics and murals, while more than a thousand years are still visible. The geometric designs, reminiscent of ancient Greece, have intrigued and baffled experts and visitors from around the world.
Now is the time to visit Teotitlán Del Valle, a beautiful town founded by the Zapotecs. There is evidence of human existence in this area 8,000 years ago. Here you will be invited to the picturesque house of a Zapotec family who will share their passion with you: Zapotec weaving on a foot loom. They will talk with us about how their art has transformed over the years and other aspects of their personal life stories. Not only will you have the opportunity to see a weaving demonstration, but the family will also reveal their natural-dye secrets and explain which products (insects, stones, etc.) are used to create the vibrant colors.
Last but not least, we will visit the Tule tree: the widest tree in the world. Located in the middle of the central square of Santa María del Tule is this world famous ahuehuete, affectionately called “Arbol del Tule”, which is more than 2,000 years old. Its trunk is more than 120 feet in diameter. It takes more than 30 people to surround it, and its shade can protect 500 people. A wonderful sight not to be missed!
We hope you enjoy these amazing and unforgettable experiences