Mezcal, Gastronomy & Culture in Oaxaca City
Your TourHero
This trip is looking for a TourHero! If you love to travel and love to organize, get your crew together and make this trip your own! When 5 or more people book this trip, you can travel for free. Chat with us below to get started!
Duration
5 days · 4 nights
Travel Date
Mar 4 – 8, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 10
Transportation
Van
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
20 – 30
Travel interest
Food, culture, sightseeing, history
Your Local Guide
In operation since 2017, Rutopia seeks to connect travelers with its network of hand-picked local hosts in Mexico to help guests discover the country through the eyes of its people. With a focus on customizing trips for guests so that they can enjoy authentic and transformative experiences, Rutopia is committed to ensuring you have an unforgettable time in Mexico. The team takes safety seriously — all destinations, activities, and hosts are carefully reviewed and verified remote assistance is provided every step of the way to ensure a smooth trip.
Journey to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oaxaca, Mexico, and dive into the deep history and culture that can be found nowhere else on Earth. Enjoy the local flavors at an array of restaurants, explore the archeological sites and crafts surrounding the city, and immerse yourself in the mezcal traditions by touring and tasting in the small village distilleries. With free time embedded in your trip to explore at your leisure, you’ll have it all on this 5-day excursion.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
Your TourHero
This trip is looking for a TourHero! If you love to travel and love to organize, get your crew together and make this trip your own! When 5 or more people book this trip, you can travel for free. Chat with us below to get started!
Duration
5 days · 4 nights
Travel Date
Mar 4 – 8, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 10
Transportation
Van
Journey to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oaxaca, Mexico, and dive into the deep history and culture that can be found nowhere else on Earth. Enjoy the local flavors at an array of restaurants, explore the archeological sites and crafts surrounding the city, and immerse yourself in the mezcal traditions by touring and tasting in the small village distilleries. With free time embedded in your trip to explore at your leisure, you’ll have it all on this 5-day excursion.
Timeline
- Day 1 · Oaxaca de Juarez
- Arrive in Oaxaca
- ~ 30 mins van
- Check-in at Selina Oaxaca Hostel
- Welcome dinner at Teocintle in Oaxaca
- Day 2 · Oaxaca
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Archeology and handicrafts in Monte Alban, Arrazola, Cuilapam, and Coyotepec
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Return to Selina Oaxaca
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · Oaxaca de Juarez
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Free day in the city of Oaxaca de Juarez
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · Oaxaca
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Mezcal route tour - between agave fields and mountains (alcoholic beverages, water, and snacks included)
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Return to Selina Oaxaca
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · Departure
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Check out of accommodation
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Oaxaca, Mexico—featuring a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the beginning of a beautiful journey
Hola and Bienvenidos! Welcome to Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca’s bustling capital. Deemed one of the most culturally rich places in Mexico, you’ll enjoy the historic vibes and laid-back atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Known for its deep cultural roots, Oaxaca is home to 16 officially recognized indigenous groups, reflecting the traditional history, food, art, and music you’ll see throughout your trip. After a quick transfer from the airport, you’ll come home to Selina Oaxaca, 1.1 km from downtown Oaxaca de Juárez. Get settled in Selina’s traditional architecture immersed in vibrant colors and natural textiles. Freshen up and take some selfies in the cactus courtyard and on the rooftop terrace or take a quick nap in the hammock area to adjust from your day of traveling.
Group gastronomy to kick off the trip
Tonight, come together with the group and enjoy a stellar meal at Teocintle in Oaxaca. Share your travel adventures, your hopes for the trip ahead, and make lasting friends as you enjoy the Mixtec cuisine you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Learn about the history of the Mixtec people through each bite and let your palate welcome the Oaxacan flavors that make this place so special.
Day 2
Engage with history through archeological sites and ancient crafting
Immerse yourself in culture as you spend the day touring various sites throughout Oaxaca. Grab breakfast on your own, then head to the famous archaeological site of Monte Alban. Located on the top of a hill, right in the center of the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, gaze into the cradle of the Zapotec civilization as you walk through these pre-Colombian ruins. Next, journey to the community of Arrazola, known for its painting workshops and alebrijes, and the former convent of Santiago Cuilapam. The odyssey ends in Coyotepec at Dona Rosa’s black clay workshop where you’ll learn how her pieces are made and the history behind her craft. After an incredible day of culture, hit the town with the group, walk the majestic streets of the city, and see where the night takes you.
Day 3
Choose your own adventure in Oaxaca de Juarez—explore food, art, museums, music, and so much more
Wake up on your own time, start your day with a great meal, and hit the streets of Oaxaca, as today is a free day to explore as you please. Take a stroll through the Verde Antequera, a UNESCO world heritage site, eat some of the best food in the city at the Santo Domingo Cultural Center or the central market, and explore the latest contemporary and indigenous art at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo (MACO). From incredible local cuisine to seasonal festivals and live music, Oaxaca will fill your heart with each step you take. Head back to the hotel at your own pace and get ready for a night on the town. Grab a great meal downtown, have a cold drink, and dance the night away at one of the many clubs Oaxaca has to offer.
Day 4
Discover the magic of mezcal and the history of distillation
The day starts with a trip to the small town of Matatlán, deemed the world capital of mezcal. From traditional techniques of harvesting the agave in the fields to the complex distillation process, you’ll see it all with stories of ancient history woven into the tour. Learn about the creation of the traditional mezcal cantaritos and enjoy various samples during your trip as you chat with the locals about their craft. From here, travel to Chichicapam, where you’ll dine in the home of a local family and partake in a traditional Oaxacan meal. Lastly, travel to Ocotlan and visit one of the last places where the tradition of putting fruit in the mescal bottles still occurs. Try this cured mezcal and soak in this unique experience where culture and cocktails meet. With so many incredible memories to reflect on, this last meal will be one for the books. Get together with the group one more time and toast your favorite mezcal drink to your time in Oaxaca.
Day 5
Adios to Oaxaca and hello to the next adventure
It’s time to head home from this enriching adventure. Say your goodbyes, take a few last photos of the city, and hop in your private transfer to the airport. No matter your next destination, we hope it’s a good one!
Accommodation
Selina Oaxaca
Selina Oaxaca is a traveller’s dream, located in Oaxaca City, 1.1 km from downtown Oaxaca de Juárez. You can’t miss the pink exterior and the traditional charm of this vibrant building! The hotel features a rooftop terrace, chic cactus courtyard, bar/restaurant, air-conditioned rooms, live music, and free Wi-Fi. This dorm-style accommodation begs for guests to make new friends and share new experiences together in the common kitchen and coworking spaces. In your free time, chill in the hammock area or take a quick walk downtown and soak in the laid-back vibes. Room type: 10-bed dorm.
Included
- 4 nights at Selina Oaxaca (or similar)
- Shared occupancy in accommodation
- Cultural tour of the surroundings of Oaxaca (includes pick-up)
- Mezcal route tour; try, learn and live the traditional drink of Oaxaca (includes pick-up, alcohol, snacks, and water)
- Welcome dinner at Teocintle
- Private transfer Airport - Oaxaca - Airport
- 24/7 guest support
Not included
- Flights
- Optional add-ons
- All food not mentioned in inclusions
- Personal expenses
Available add-on
Hotel Las Mariposas - Double Room UPGRADE
For those looking for a little more privacy, upgrade to the Hotel Las Mariposas and enjoy a double room with a private bath. These spacious rooms feature modern standing fans and natural airflow. Located 10 minutes from Selina, you’ll be in the heart of the city with historic buildings all around. *Room type: Double room. Price per person: 70 USD *min 3 people upgrade *
Price: USD 70
20 spots left
Hands in the dough: rural cooking workshop in Oaxaca
In the Valley of Oaxaca, you’ll head to a Zapotec community to the home of a local family. Here, you will learn the secrets from a “comidera”, a woman who prepares the banquets/feasts for the community. Within a 4-hour timeframe, you will prepare 3 traditional dishes in this rural atmosphere, while learning about the history of the harvested crops and family traditions.
Price: USD 195
20 spots left
Historical tour of Oaxaca, considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO
Put on your walking shoes and charge that phone battery for a tour that will give you a new perspective on life. This 3-hour journey offers insight into the historical, cultural, and gastronomic depth of Oaxaca that will make you want to stay. Explore the aqueduct, Garcia Vigil Street, and the Seminary of the Holy Cross to learn about the legacies of historic presidents Benito Juarez and Porfirio Diaz. From here, you’ll explore the temple of Our Lady Carmen, the temple of Santo Domingo, and the treasures of the seventh tomb of Monte Alban. With so much to see, snap those photos and soak in the bold colors of the city, the baroque design, and the markets bustling with the sights and smells of Oaxaca.
Price: USD 55
20 spots left
Huautli Experience, getting to know amaranth in San Pablo de Etla
This experience is all about the preservation of culture using amaranth, a nutritious, gluten-free grain that has a deep history in Oaxaca. You’ll have the pleasure of meeting Margarita Barrita who is a member of the “Alegria de la vida,” a group of women who aim to mix joy with culture. During this 3-hour talk, you’ll learn about the plant, the grain, and all its uses, along with making your own tzoalli, a dessert that is said to be the food of the ancient gods.
Price: USD 50
20 spots left
Biking Tour and Street Art
For the art lovers and active explorers, take a 5 km ride through 3 neighborhoods of Oaxaca de Juarez and experience various galleries, graphic workshops, and street art of all kinds. As you cycle the streets, you’ll see the diverse Oaxacan art in the form of murals, stencils, posters, and so much more. This city is an open-air museum that will take your breath away at every turn. Get your camera ready on this 4-hour adventure and enjoy a delicious snack with your group at end of your excursion.
Price: USD 70
20 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
- Explore Monte Alban, a pre-Colombian archeological site dating back to 500BC. - Pixabay: Urik Amador
- Visit the former convent of Santiago Cuilapam, noting the majestic architecture and deep historical roots connected to General Vicente Guerrero. - Unsplash: Ari CG
- Marvel at the baroque church and former monastery of Santo Domingo de Guzman. - Pixabay: DEZALB
- Explore downtown Oaxaca de Juarez, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. - Unsplash: Roman Lopez
- Take some selfies in the cactus courtyard and enjoy the sunlight as you sink into Oaxaca living. - Rutopia
- Located in downtown Oaxaca de Juarez, you'll stay in the heart of the city in this hip pink hostel. - Rutopia
- Rest your head each night in this comfortable community room, equipped with everything you need for a relaxing stay. - Selina Oaxaca website
- Enjoy a traditional Oaxacan meal at the hostel's restaurant. - Rutopia
- Enjoy the vibrant sitting areas and open-air architecture at the Selina Oaxaca Hostel, perfect for selfies and R&R. - Rutopia
- Explore the colorful streets of Oaxaca filled with markets, history, and traditional food. - Unsplash: Samuel García
- Explore the historic architecture at every turn in downtown Oaxaca de Juarez. - Unsplash: Ari CG
- At your welcome dinner, expand your palate with scintillating Oaxacan flavors. - Rutopia
- Explore new and innovative Oaxacan creations at Teocintle. - Facebook
- Get adventurous on this trip with dishes such as crusted shrimp and bug mayo. - Facebook
- For the vegetarians in the group, try the croqueta, apple-stuffed mustard quelites with coffee and chicatan sauce. - Facebook
- Explore the markets in Oaxaca de Juarez and fill that suitcase with Oaxacan treasures. - Unsplash: Seema Miah
- Journey into history as you tour the Monte Alban ruins and learn about the rich history of Oaxaca. - Unsplash: Matthew Essman
- Walk through the ball court at Monte Alban and learn its purpose. - Wikimedia Commons
- Journey to the town of Arrazola, known for its alebrijes which are brightly painted sculptures of whimsical creatures. - Unsplash: analuisa gamboa
- Arrazola is known for its hand-painted crafts. - Rutopia
- In the village of Coyotepec, find an iconic black clay souvenir to take home with you. - Unsplash: Ursula Castillo
- Live like the locals and hang at one of the various coffee shops downtown. - Unsplash: Seema Miah
- Get lost in downtown Oaxaca City and let the laid-back vibes guide your way. - Unsplash: Max Böhme
- Explore the latest contemporary and indigenous art at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo (MACO). - MACO
- Head to the central market in downtown Oaxaca City and eat your way through the streets. - Pexels: Lan Yao
- Walk the agave fields and learn about the deeply rooted traditions of harvesting the crop. - Rutopia
- Learn how to make mezcal from harvesting to distillation. - Rutopia
- Enjoy various mezcal samples on your tour and chat with the locals while you taste the culture of Oaxaca. - Unsplash: Charlotte Harrison
- Head to a Zapotec community and learn 3 traditional dishes from a “comidera”. - Rutopia
- Learn the ins and outs of Oaxaca de Juarez through a historical walking tour of the city. - Rutopia
- Discover the history and importance of amaranth and how a group of women are preserving the tradition. - Rutopia
- Get your cameras ready as you embark on an art-focused bike tour through the streets of Oaxaca City. - Rutopia
- Upgrade to a double room at Hotel Las Mariposas, just down the street from Selina. - Rutopia