Imagine pedaling through the scenic Oaxaca countryside on a well-maintained mountain bike, with the Sierra Norte towering nearby, and discovering some of the region’s most captivating natural and cultural gems. This 5-hour tour costs around $87 per person, guided by friendly experts from Bike Flow Oaxaca. It offers a perfect mix of adventure, history, and delicious local food—all tailored for intermediate cyclists.
What makes this experience truly stand out? First, the stunning ride along XC trails that thread through the lush landscape of Oaxaca’s Central Valleys. Second, the chance to visit the ancient Tule Tree, one of the oldest living organisms on earth, and the Monkey Tree, a fascinating natural monument. The tour also includes a peek into traditional bread-making at a local artisan bakery, where you can sample freshly baked bread straight from the oven.
A possible consideration? The route involves challenging climbs and descents, so it’s best suited for riders with some experience on mountain bikes. If you’re looking for a super relaxing ride or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re comfortable with a good workout and love authentic outdoor exploration, this tour offers excellent value and memorable sights.
This tour is ideal for active travelers who want to combine cycling, nature, and local culture in a single, well-organized outing. Families with older kids, adventure seekers, or anyone eager to see a different side of Oaxaca will find this trip rewarding.
Key Points
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- Scenic XC Trails: Ride through the countryside with views of the Sierra Norte, enjoying fun descents and climbs.
- Cultural and Natural Wonders: Visit the Tule Tree, one of the oldest trees in the world, and the Monkey Tree for memorable photo ops.
- Authentic Food Experience: Stop at a local bakery to see how traditional Oaxaca bread is made and taste it fresh from the oven.
- Professional Guides & Equipment: Well-maintained bikes, helmets, and expert guiding ensure safety and comfort.
- Balanced Itinerary: An active ride with meaningful stops, including bird sounds and farm animals, for a genuine local experience.
- Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
The Journey Begins: From Oaxaca City to the Countryside
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Starting at Bike Flow Oaxaca, the tour kicks off early in the morning, with a brief safety briefing and fitting of bikes and helmets. We appreciated the professional approach and the emphasis on safety. The bikes supplied are premium mountain bikes with 100mm forks, suitable for tackling the varied terrain.
From the city, we hop onto a cyclist-friendly path that links Oaxaca with Santa Maria del Tule. This urban stretch is surprisingly smooth, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Once we leave the urban environment behind, the landscape opens up into verdant countryside, with rolling hills and fields dotted with farm animals, including donkeys and chickens. As one guide, José, pointed out, this transition from city to rural scenery is part of what makes the trip special—you’re not just riding, you’re stepping into a different world.
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The XC Trails and Sierra Norte Views
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About 40 minutes into the ride, we veer onto a single-track trail that winds through the countryside. This section is a true highlight—technical enough to challenge intermediate riders but not so difficult as to be intimidating. The trail provides stunning views of the Sierra Norte and the valleys below, especially during the climbs that test your stamina.
These trails are carefully chosen to offer a mix of flat sections, exhilarating descents, and moderate climbs. The total positive elevation gain is about 350 meters, spread over 25 miles, making it a great workout without overdoing it. We loved how the guides kept the group motivated without rushing, allowing us to take in the scenery and enjoy the ride fully.
The Tule Tree – An Ancient Natural Wonder
Our first major stop is Santa Maria del Tule, home to the Tule Tree—a massive, ancient bald cypress that’s believed to be over 2,000 years old. The tree’s enormous circumference, over 42 meters, is impossible to ignore. We appreciated the entrance fee included in the tour, allowing us to get up close.
The guides shared stories about the Tule Tree’s significance and its resilience through centuries of change. As one participant remarked, “It’s incredible to think this tree has stood through so much history. Standing next to it, you feel connected to centuries of life.” The short photo stop is perfect for capturing memories, and the cool shade provides a welcome break from the sun.
The Ride to Santo Domingo Tomaltepec
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After the Tule, we continued along natural mountain bike trails that once served as vital inter-village pathways connecting remote communities. This stretch offers spectacular views of the central valleys and a sense of authentic rural life.
The route includes descent and flat sections, giving us a chance to recover after the climbs. The ride through this less-traveled terrain is appealing because it feels like a true local experience, away from tourist crowds. The guides pointed out native plants and wildlife, enriching the journey.
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At the end of this trail, we reached the Monkey Tree, a natural formation that’s a favorite local landmark. Here, we paused for about 15 minutes, listening to bird calls and observing local farm animals. The setting felt peaceful and unspoiled—perfect for a break.
The birdsong, combined with the soft murmur of the nearby river, created a calming atmosphere. We appreciated the chance to relax and reconnect with nature before heading back.
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The Water Reservoir Oasis
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On the return leg, we made a stop at a beautiful water reservoir surrounded by a small forest. This oasis-like spot is a refreshing pause, especially during the rainy season when the rivers are flowing generously. The snacks provided—electrolyte drinks and gluten-free protein bars—helped us recharge for the final stretch.
The descent back to Santa Maria del Tule is mostly downhill or flat, making it easier on tired legs and offering fantastic scenic views of the landscape.
The Artisanal Bread Experience
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Post-ride, the tour takes us to a local bakery, where we see how traditional Oaxaca bread is made. Watching the bakers work with wood-fired ovens is fascinating—and the smell alone is worth the visit. We got to sample bread fresh from the oven, which was warm, crusty, and delicious.
This stop is a real highlight for food lovers. The bread is a perfect culinary souvenir and a tasty way to understand local food traditions. Several reviews mention how delicious and authentic the baked goods are, making it a memorable part of the trip.
Return to Oaxaca City
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Finally, a dedicated cyclist path takes us back into Oaxaca, where the tour concludes at the shop. The total distance covered makes the adventure satisfying without being exhausting. Our guides, speaking both English and Spanish, were knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive to everyone’s pace.
This experience suits active travelers who enjoy challenging yet scenic rides. It’s perfect if you have intermediate cycling skills and are comfortable with some climbs and technical terrain. Families with older children or adventure lovers will likely find this a rewarding way to see Oaxaca’s countryside while staying active.
If you’re looking for a relaxing walk or a casual sightseeing tour, this might be a bit intense; however, for those who love combining nature, culture, and a bit of sweat, it’s hard to beat for value and authenticity.
This tour offers an excellent blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insight. The diverse stops—from the ancient Tule Tree to the artisanal bread bakery—add layers of interest that elevate it beyond a typical bike ride. The guides’ local knowledge and well-maintained bikes ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience, making it great value for the price.
What we appreciated most was how the tour balanced physical activity with educational and sensory experiences. You’ll leave with not only great memories but also a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca’s rich landscape and traditions.
This ride is best for those who want to get outdoors, challenge themselves a little, and discover authentic local sights—a rewarding day out for adventure-minded travelers.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is designed for intermediate cyclists comfortable with climbs and descents. Beginners might find some sections challenging, but experienced riders will enjoy the varied terrain.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, water, and light clothes suitable for physical activity. A hat or sunglasses is also recommended.
Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the bike rental, along with a premium mountain bike for optimal safety and comfort.
How long is the ride?
The total riding time is about 1.5 hours with stops, covering around 25 miles with a mix of climbs, flat sections, and descents.
Can I join if I don’t want to do the entire ride?
While the tour is designed as a continuous experience, guides are attentive and can suggest shorter options or provide breaks if needed.
Is food included?
Snacks such as electrolyte drinks and protein bars are provided, but lunch is not included. You might want to bring extra snacks or plan to enjoy local eateries afterward.
This bike tour to the Tule Tree, Monkey Tree, and local bakery offers a memorable way to see Oaxaca’s natural and cultural treasures. Whether you’re after a good workout, scenic vistas, or a taste of local life, it’s a well-rounded experience that brings a lot to the table.
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