The Mezcal Journey

Imagine wandering through sprawling agave fields, watching the rhythmic, almost meditative process of harvesting these iconic plants, then stepping into a hands-on artisanal distillery where every step of mezcal production reveals craftsmanship and patience. For $98 per person, this 7-hour tour offers a full immersion into Oaxaca’s mezcal culture, guided by locals who truly love sharing their heritage. From the bustling city center of Oaxaca, the journey takes you towards Santiago Matatlán, crowned as “The World’s Mezcal Capital,” where you’ll see traditional methods in action, taste a variety of mezcals, and enjoy a authentic Oaxacan meal.

What we particularly love about this experience is the chance to get full access—visiting private barrels and packing areas—that many travelers don’t see. Plus, the unlimited tastings mean you can truly appreciate the diversity of flavors, from smoky to fruity, depending on the agave and process. The tour also offers stunning views of agave landscapes perfect for photos and even hands-on activities like harvesting, depending on the season.

A potential consideration is that the tour’s physical aspect, such as walking through fields and participating in harvest activities, might not suit everyone—so comfort and mobility are worth considering. Also, the tour does not include mezcals for purchase or cocktails, so if you’re hoping to bring some bottles home, plan accordingly.

This experience suits those with a genuine interest in food, spirits, or local traditions—whether you’re a casual mezcal enthusiast or a curious traveler eager for an authentic, working-side-of-Oaxaca look at mezcal production.

Key Points

• Full immersion experience with access to all stages of mezcal production
• Unlimited tastings allow a genuine appreciation of different varieties
• Visiting private areas offers a rare glimpse into the craft behind the drink
• Agave fields provide stunning photo opportunities and hands-on activities
• Local Oaxacan cuisine included makes the tour a complete cultural experience
• Personal guides like Ricardo and Leyda bring passion and knowledge to every step

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Oaxaca’s Mezcal Culture

A Scenic Drive to Santiago Matatlán

Our adventure begins early, meeting at the iconic Templo de San Matías Jalatlaco in Oaxaca’s city center. From there, a comfortable van whisks us away in about 50 minutes towards Santiago Matatlán, affectionately known as “The World’s Mezcal Capital.” The drive offers glimpses of the surrounding landscape, with rolling hills and clusters of agave plants that hint at the bounty ahead.

The Agave Fields: Nature’s Green Canvas

Our first stop is Campo Enigma, where we get a guided tour of the agave landscape. We loved the way the guide explained the different types of agave, and how their shapes and sizes influence the flavor of mezcal. Walking among thousands of these plants, we appreciated the rhythm of traditional harvesting, seeing how each plant is carefully cut and prepared. These fields aren’t just beautiful—they’re a vital part of Oaxaca’s economy and cultural identity.

Many reviews highlight how stunning this part of the tour is. One guest from Canada mentioned, “We loved the way the fields looked like an endless sea of green, and the guide explained the harvesting process in a way that made it all feel alive.” If you’re into photography or simply enjoy nature’s scenery, this is a highlight not to miss.

Visiting an Artisanal Mezcal Distillery

Next, we headed to a small, artisanal distillery where the real magic happens. Here, we gained full access—from the cellar where barrels age mezcal to the packing area where bottles are filled and sealed. Our guide, Ricardo, shared his personal insights and explained every step, emphasizing the craftsmanship and patience involved.

What sets this apart from larger commercial operations is the handmade approach. We loved seeing private areas that are usually off-limits to travelers—like the barrel cellar, where mezcal rests for months to develop its character. We also took part in bottling, which added a fun, interactive element to the tour.

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeability of guides like Ricardo and Leyda. One from Denmark raved, “Very informative and interesting trip. Loved learning about how the mezcal is made from the plant till the bottle.” The transparency about production methods gives you a deeper appreciation for this traditional craft.

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Unlimited Mezcal Tasting

After understanding the process, it’s time for the most anticipated part: tasting. You’re encouraged to sample as many varieties as you like—an experience that can be eye-opening for newcomers and aficionados alike. We loved the casual, no-pressure atmosphere to try smoky, fruity, and earthy mezcals, each with distinctive profiles thanks to different agaves and production techniques.

Multiple reviews highlighted the value of this part. Helder from Canada noted, “We had the opportunity to see the complete mezcal process and try many different kinds—so many I lost count!” The tasting is also an educational moment; guides discuss categories, class, and flavor profiles, giving you much more than just a sip.

The Agave Harvest Experience

Our next stop was the agave fields again, but this time, we got to participate in activities like plantation, cutting, or harvesting, depending on the season. This hands-on element is especially memorable, and many guests find it both fun and educational. The views here are breathtaking, perfect for photos, and you’ll get a real sense of the labor involved in making mezcal.

Reviewers mention that this part of the tour elevates the experience. One guest from Singapore commented, “The views were incredible, and harvesting was surprisingly fun—I felt connected to the whole process.”

Traditional Oaxacan Cuisine at Doña Chica

No tour would be complete without experiencing local cuisine. We stopped at Doña Chica, a cozy spot serving authentic Oaxacan dishes. The included lunch is simple but flavorful—think rich moles, fresh tortillas, and local staples. As Reka from Denmark put it, “The food was delicious and complemented the mezcal perfectly.”

The meal provides a well-deserved break and a chance to reflect on what you’ve learned, while savoring the tastes that define Oaxaca’s culinary scene.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After lunch, we headed back to Oaxaca, feeling full of new knowledge, stunning images, and a few bottles of mezcal to take home (though bottles aren’t included in the tour price). The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, with comfortable transportation and a small group size—usually no more than 12 people—which keeps things intimate and lively.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour offers real value for anyone interested in authentic Oaxaca, spirits, and traditional craftsmanship. The full access to distillery areas, coupled with the chance to participate in harvesting activities, makes it more than just a tasting trip. It’s educational, visually stunning, and deeply connected to local culture.

Many reviews describe the guides as knowledgeable and friendly, adding warmth and context that elevate the experience. The inclusion of local food means you’re not just tasting mezcal but also experiencing the culinary side of Oaxaca.

While the tour doesn’t include mezcals for purchase or cocktails, the unlimited tastings more than compensate, and the scenic agave fields alone make it worth the price.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than a quick tasting. The opportunity to see how mezcal is made from start to finish appeals especially to those curious about traditional crafts or local culture. If you’re a food lover or spirits enthusiast, the variety and depth of this experience will satisfy your curiosity and palate alike.

However, if you’re not comfortable with walking or participating in harvest activities, or if you’re traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, you might find some aspects less suitable.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Oaxaca Centro is provided, making logistics straightforward.

Can I buy mezcal during the tour?
The tour price doesn’t include bottles for sale, but you’ll have plenty of tastings to help you decide what to buy afterward.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18, and participation in harvesting activities may not be appropriate for children under 18.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, typically in the morning, with scheduled stops and activities.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations and a friendly atmosphere.

What should I wear?
Bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking in fields and distilleries.

Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, people over 75, and those with mobility issues should consider their comfort level, as physical activities are involved.

What is the cost?
The tour is priced at $98 per person, which includes all transportation, tastings, and lunch—considered good value given the depth of experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at Oaxaca’s mezcal culture, this tour delivers. It balances education, stunning scenery, and authentic craft in a way that appeals to curious travelers who want more than just a surface-level taste. The guides’ passion and the intimate group size ensure a personal, engaging experience.

For those eager to understand and appreciate mezcal—not just sip it—this tour offers a rare opportunity to connect with local traditions while enjoying some of the best views and flavors Oaxaca has to offer.

Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves discovering vibrant local cultures, this journey is a rewarding way to spend a day in Oaxaca.

Note: If the date you want isn’t available, just reach out—the tour provider is flexible and willing to accommodate.

You can check availability for your dates here: