Boil the Water, Mitla, Tule, Mezcal and more

If you’re visiting Oaxaca and only have a day or two to explore, this full-day tour offers an excellent way to see five of the region’s most iconic sites. For just under $42 per person, you’re transported in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, with a friendly guide who genuinely loves their city. Expect a long but fulfilling 11 to 12 hours packed with history, natural beauty, and fascinating traditions.

We particularly appreciate the tour’s balance — it combines cultural sights like the Tule Tree and Mitla archaeological site with natural wonders like Hierve el Agua. Plus, the mezcal tasting at El Rey de Matatlan adds a flavorful touch to the experience. What stands out for us is the genuine enthusiasm of the guides, who are all part of the Lescas family, making the trip both informative and warm.

One thing to consider is the length of the day, which might be tiring for some travelers, especially if you’re not used to long excursions. Also, since tickets for some attractions aren’t included, be prepared for a few extra charges. This tour suits those eager to get a well-rounded glimpse of Oaxaca in just one day, especially if you value knowledgeable guides and authentic local experiences.

Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covers major sights like Tule, Mitla, Hierve el Agua, and mezcal, offering a full picture of Oaxaca.
Authentic guides are passionate, friendly, and deeply knowledgeable, enhancing every stop.
Natural and cultural highlights balance stunning landscapes with historical sites, enriching your understanding of the region.
Flexible options include a shorter half-day version focused on boiling water, perfect if you’re tight on time.
Value for money is high considering the diverse sights, expert guiding, and included amenities like travel insurance and transport.
Extra costs for admissions and meals are separate, so plan accordingly to avoid surprises.

How the Tour Starts and What to Expect

The adventure kicks off bright and early at 8:00am from a conveniently located meeting point in Oaxaca City. This tour is designed to maximize your time, so expect a packed day that covers five must-see sights in the region: Tule, Mitla, Hierve el Agua, a mezcal factory, and a traditional Oaxacan restaurant.

A key feature we love is the small group size, capped at 20 travelers, which ensures your guide can give personalized attention and foster a lively, friendly atmosphere. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long drives more comfortable, especially considering Hierve el Agua is about two hours from Oaxaca.

Exploring Teotitlan del Valle

Our first destination after departure is a family workshop in Teotitlan del Valle, famous for its natural dyes derived from roots, flowers, and insects. This stop is especially meaningful because it offers a glimpse into traditional craft techniques that have been passed down through generations.

We loved the way the guide explained how artisans create vibrant textiles using natural materials, a craft that’s both beautiful and sustainable. Expect around 45 minutes here, with free admission, making it an ideal warm-up for the day. It’s a great chance to see the local craft scene and perhaps buy some authentic souvenirs directly from the artisans.

The Tule Tree: Nature’s Wonder

Next, we stop at the Santa Maria del Tule to marvel at the widest tree in the world — the Tule Tree. This massive, centuries-old cypress is a quick 20-minute visit, but it’s well worth it. The tree’s enormous trunk and intriguing history make it a photo-worthy highlight. The entry fee is minimal (around 20 MXN), and many reviews mention it’s a very brief but surprisingly captivating stop.

As one traveler put it, “That it is a must when they visit Oaxaca,” and the size of the Tule Tree truly impresses everyone. It’s a perfect quick stop that adds a natural marvel to the tour’s mix.

Exploring Mitla’s Architectural Marvels

The Mitla archaeological site is next, and it’s a highlight for history buffs. Known for its fine fretwork, the site’s pyramids and palaces showcase the skill of ancient Oaxaca cultures. The guide’s storytelling here is a major plus — they’re passionate and eager to share the significance of Mitla’s design and history.

Expect about an hour at Mitla, with an entrance fee of 100 MXN not included in the tour price. According to reviews, this stop offers a deep dive into pre-Hispanic architecture and tradition, giving a tangible feel for Oaxaca’s past. We loved the way the guide explained the intricate fretwork, making us appreciate the craftsmanship behind it.

Lunch Break at Donají Restaurant

Around midday, the tour pauses for a buffet lunch at Donají, a local restaurant serving traditional Oaxacan cuisine. Travelers are advised to have a light breakfast beforehand, as this is one of the longer stops (about an hour). The buffet features local dishes—from moles to tlayudas—giving you a taste of Oaxaca’s culinary richness.

While some reviews mention the buffet as a highlight, others note that it’s a simple meal. Still, it’s an opportunity to relax and refuel before heading out to more natural wonders. Remember, meals are not included in the tour price, so this is an extra expense to budget for.

The Main Attraction: Hierve el Agua

This is the trip’s crown jewel—Hierve el Agua, known for its petrified waterfalls and stunning mountain views. The 2-hour stop here allows ample time for walking, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery. The mineral-rich waters sometimes form natural pools for a quick dip, but bring your towel and flip-flops.

Many travelers describe Hierve el Agua as breathtaking, with one reviewer saying, “The calcified waterfalls were better than any pictures I saw beforehand.” It’s an excellent spot for photos and relaxation, providing a true sense of Oaxaca’s dramatic natural landscape. The only drawback is the distance, which makes this the longest drive of the day.

Mezcal Tasting at El Rey de Matatlan

No visit to Oaxaca is complete without trying mezcal, and this tour offers a visit to a local mezcal factory. At El Rey de Matatlan, you’ll get a brief explanation of the distilling process and taste over 40 different flavors. This is a hit among guests, with praise for the friendly staff and the wide variety of flavors—something to savor and remember.

The tasting is free, and many reviews mention it being “the best part of the tour,” especially for those who enjoy spirits and want to learn about Oaxaca’s world-famous mezcal tradition.

Returning and Final Thoughts

The tour wraps up back at the meeting point around 7:30 pm, making it a long day but one that packs in a lot of Oaxacan culture, history, and landscapes. The guides, notably Angel and Miguel Angel, earn high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the long hours fly by.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see a broad selection of Oaxaca’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a 12-hour day, enjoy learning from passionate guides, and want to experience both natural beauty and cultural heritage in one trip. If you’re short on time but eager to get a rundown, this is a solid choice.

For around $42, this tour offers a very good value, considering the number of sites visited, the inclusion of transportation, and guided insights. The authentic guides—all part of the Lescas family—bring genuine enthusiasm and local knowledge that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

While there are some extra expenses for admissions and meals, the overall experience is well worth it if you’re after a full-immersion day into Oaxaca’s diverse offerings. The long duration might be tiring, but many reviews affirm that the sights, especially Hierve el Agua and the mezcal tasting, make it worthwhile.

This trip is best for adventurous travelers eager to cover quite a bit in one day, especially those interested in cultural stories, natural scenery, and local traditions.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drives comfortable.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending around 7:30 pm.

Are tickets to attractions included?
No, tickets for Mitla, Tule Tree, and Boil the Water are extra. Be prepared for additional costs (around MXN $20-$100).

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, but there’s a buffet lunch at Donají Restaurant, and you should plan for extra expenses.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Spanish?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What are the highlights?
Most travelers rave about Hierve el Agua, the mezcal tasting, and the Tule Tree. The guides’ storytelling also receives high praise.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say most people can participate, but consider the long day and walking involved—small children might find it tiring.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water, swimsuit if you want to swim at Hierve el Agua, and extra cash for admissions and souvenirs.

How large is the group?
The tour caps at 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

What’s the best way to book?
You can reserve through Viator or the Lescas Co Tours profile. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in peak season.

This Oaxaca tour offers a practical, authentic, and memorable way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights in just one day. If you enjoy engaging guides, natural beauty, and cultural depth, it’s a trip that won’t disappoint.