Enjoy Boerve Water and a mezcal factory from Oaxaca

A Day of Natural Wonders and Traditional Flavors in Oaxaca

This full-day tour takes you from the colorful streets of Oaxaca City into the heart of Oaxaca’s scenic mountains and ancient traditions. For $70.76 per person, you’ll explore the stunning Hierve el Agua petrified waterfalls, enjoy time to hike and relax in natural pools, and then visit a local mezcal distillery to see how this iconic spirit is made. The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, making it a manageable day for travelers eager to see some of the most authentic sights Oaxaca has to offer.

What we particularly like is how this experience balances nature, culture, and a taste of local life — all in a well-organized, comfortable setting. The natural pools at Hierve el Agua are a highlight, offering a chance to cool off amid breathtaking mountain vistas, while the mezcal tasting provides a genuine connection to Oaxaca’s treasured craft.

One point to consider is that it’s a shared tour with up to 15 travelers, which might mean some variability in pace and timing. However, the relaxed schedule and focus on authentic experiences make it a solid choice for those wanting an immersive day outside the city.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and local flavors without feeling hurried. It suits those who appreciate natural beauty and want a taste of Oaxaca’s artisanal spirit scene, all wrapped up in a convenient, guided package.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit natural waterfalls and a traditional mezcal factory, gaining insight into local craftsmanship.
• Flexible Duration: About 7 to 8 hours, with 3 hours at Hierve el Agua for hiking, swimming, or relaxing.
• All-Inclusive Value: Tickets, tolls, transport, and tastings are included, offering good value for the experience.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle makes the journey comfortable, especially considering the mountain terrain.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 15 travelers, you get a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• No Guide Included: You’ll be guided by local staff, so a bit of independent curiosity is encouraged.

Exploring the Wonders of Oaxaca’s Natural and Cultural Heritage

Oaxaca is a land of contrasts—vibrant streets, indigenous traditions, and striking landscapes. This tour captures a slice of that diversity, offering a day out that highlights both natural beauty and local craftsmanship.

Hierve el Agua: Nature’s Frozen Waterfalls

Your adventure begins with a trip to Hierve el Agua, a site famous for its petrified waterfalls that resemble cascading stone formations. These natural “cascades” are calcium carbonate deposits that formed over thousands of years, creating surreal, wine-colored rock formations.

We love the three hours allocated here — enough time to hike up trails, snap photos from different viewpoints, or soak in the natural mineral pools. The pools are a real treat, offering a refreshing escape and a chance to cool off while taking in views of the surrounding mountains.

Reviewers mention that the admission ticket is included, which simplifies planning. The landscape here is unlike anything else in Mexico, with panoramic vistas of terraced hills and rugged mountains. It’s a moment that feels both awe-inspiring and peaceful, making it clear why many travelers consider this a highlight.

The Journey to Authentic Mezcal

After soaking in the scenery, the tour continues to a mezcal distillery and expedition—a working factory where the traditional process of mezcal production is explained. Guided by local staff, you’ll learn how the agave is cooked, fermented, and distilled into the smoky spirit that’s synonymous with Oaxaca.

What’s especially appreciated is the tasting session afterward, where you can sample different mezcals and creams of mezcal. Many guests find the tastings to be a genuine encounter with local flavors, appreciating the diversity in aroma and potency. As one reviewer puts it, “The tasting was a real eye-opener; I never knew mezcal could have such depth.”

The visit to the factory is brief—about 40 minutes—but packed with insight. It’s a great way to connect with Oaxaca’s artisanal traditions and perhaps pick up a bottle or two for friends back home.

Practicalities and Comfort

Transportation is handled via an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable ride through mountain roads. Pickup and drop-off are convenient, with the tour starting at 8:00 am from C. Macedonio Alcalá, right in the heart of Oaxaca’s city center.

The tour is a shared experience, with a maximum of 15 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social and personal space. If you require extra room for personal items or travel gear, reservations can accommodate that.

The tour is flexible; the itinerary may shift slightly depending on weather, traffic, or local events. This flexibility is common in small-group tours and helps ensure you get the best possible experience on the day.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $70, the price includes all tickets, tolls, transportation, and tastings. Considering the cost of entry to other attractions, the convenience of round-trip transport, and the authentic experience offered, this tour represents good value. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want a curated experience without the hassle of organizing transportation or multiple tickets.

What Could Be Improved?

One potential downside is the lack of a dedicated guide—you’re guided by local staff, which is fine for the explanations but might leave some wanting a more narrative-driven experience. Also, since the tour is a shared group, some travelers might find the pace less flexible than private options.

However, the relaxed schedule and small group size help mitigate these issues, making it suitable for most travelers who enjoy a laid-back, insightful day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want to combine natural beauty with cultural insight in a manageable day. If you enjoy scenic hikes, swimming in natural pools, and learning about traditional spirits, you’ll find plenty to love here.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer small group tours and value authentic, locally guided experiences over large, impersonal excursions. Travelers interested in the history and process behind mezcal will appreciate the behind-the-scenes visit.

And, of course, if you’re curious about Oaxaca’s landscapes and local industry, this tour offers a meaningful, well-rounded taste of both.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicle from Oaxaca City to Hierve el Agua and the mezcal factory.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, with about 3 hours at Hierve el Agua for hiking and swimming.

Are tickets included?
Yes, tickets to Hierve el Agua are included. The mezcal factory visit is free of charge.

What is the starting point and time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am from C. Macedonio Alcalá 201 in Oaxaca City.

Is there a guide?
The tour does not include a certified guide; you’ll be guided by local staff during the factory visit and at Hierve el Agua.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a swimsuit if you want to swim, sun protection, and water.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility levels for walking and hiking at Hierve el Agua.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a more intimate experience.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This tour offers a practical, authentic slice of Oaxaca—combining scenic natural sites, a taste of local spirit-making, and a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. It’s a great way to see some of the region’s highlights without feeling rushed, making it a worthwhile addition to your Oaxaca itinerary.