MTB Bike Tour: Tree of the Tule on mountain trails

Getting out to experience Oaxaca’s natural beauty on a mountain bike sounds like an ideal way to blend exercise, culture, and scenery. While we haven’t personally pedaled these trails, this detailed review gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the MTB tour to the Tule tree, one of Oaxaca’s most famous sights.

What we love about this experience? First, the accessible trails make it perfect for all levels—so you don’t need to be a pro cyclist to enjoy the ride. Second, the stunning mountain vistas and cultural stops add a meaningful layer to the trip. Finally, the attention to guide quality shines through in the reviews, with guides like Humberto and Alex winning praise for their local knowledge and friendly approach.

That said, a potential consideration is the moderate physical effort involved, especially if you’re not used to biking. The tour’s approximately 25 km route with some elevation change requires a fair bit of stamina, but the scenery and experiences make it worthwhile. This tour suits those who want an active day out combined with cultural discovery, especially if you’re eager to see the Tule tree and explore local towns on two wheels.

Good To Know

• All-level friendly trails make this accessible for beginners and intermediates
• Stunning mountain views and scenic rural landscapes provide excellent photo opportunities
• Authentic local flavor, including a stop at Tule’s gastronomic market for tasting local dishes
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and attentive care
• Flexible options for bike rental or guide-only service suit different preferences
• Affordable price point offers great value for a memorable half-day adventure

An In-Depth Look at the Tule Mountain Bike Tour

This MTB tour promises a fun, scenic ride that takes you away from the city’s traffic and into the heart of Oaxaca’s countryside. Starting at Bike Flow Oaxaca, the experience centers around riding along trails that are equally suited to novices and those with some biking experience. The total distance is about 25 km, with a vertical gain of +150 meters, so don’t expect a flat cruise—think rolling hills and gentle climbs that showcase the landscape without demanding extreme stamina.

The Route: From Oaxaca to Santa María del Tule

The first part of the journey involves a back-road ride that leaves behind busy city streets and instead offers peaceful views of the mountains. This section is especially appreciated for its absence of cars and the chance to see agave fields and local farmland, as some reviewers noted. With a ride time of around 2 hours, it’s a relaxed pace that allows you to soak in the scenery, chat with your guides, and get comfortable on your bike.

Santa María del Tule: The Town and Its Famous Tree

The highlight is a visit to the Tule Tree, known for its enormous trunk—claimed to be one of the widest in the world. The town itself is charming, with a lovely main square that offers a glimpse of local life. Guided by guides like Humberto, you’ll learn about the tree’s significance and history, making the visit both scenic and educational.

One reviewer loved the “nice trails and route to see the very wide Tule Tree,” emphasizing how the guides made the experience engaging. After some sightseeing, you’ll have time to explore the Tule gastronomic market, where a local breakfast or snack (not included) offers a taste of authentic regional cuisine. Be sure to bring cash, as cards aren’t accepted at many local stalls.

The Trails and Terrain

Half of the route is paved, providing smooth riding, but the other half consists of mountain tracks—some loose gravel, dirt, and natural terrain—adding a bit of adventure. The combination makes the ride interesting without being overly technical. Reviewers mention that the trails are fun and suitable for all levels, with guide Luis ensuring safety and pace, even when navigating onto an abandoned mine or other points of interest.

Guided Service & Bike Rental Options

The tour offers a guide-only service at the trail entrance, which is perfect if you prefer to rent your bike locally or bring your own. The rental bikes are equipped with helmets and safety locks, and you can choose from 2, 3, or 5-hour options, giving flexibility based on your energy and interest level. The guides are praised for their attentiveness and ability to cater to your needs, keeping the experience enjoyable and safe.

Duration, Price, and Booking

Priced at $39 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the knowledgeable guides and scenic routes included. Booking is typically done 11 days in advance, which is a good tip for securing a spot during busy travel seasons. The total experience lasts about 3 to 4 hours, fitting well into a morning or early afternoon adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the scenery, what reviewers consistently praise is the guides’ friendliness and expertise. Humberto, Alex, and Luis seem to go above and beyond to enhance the experience, sharing local insights and making sure everyone feels comfortable. The stunning views, combined with the chance to see a world-famous tree and enjoy authentic food, make this tour a well-rounded outing.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While most reviews highlight the positive aspects, some mention the moderate physical effort involved, so travelers should be comfortable biking for a couple of hours with some climbing. Also, since cash is recommended for local market stalls, those planning to purchase souvenirs or food should prepare accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This mountain biking experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to combine physical activity with cultural exploration. It suits beginners and intermediates, especially those who enjoy scenic routes and are okay with some light exertion. It’s also a fantastic outing for groups or families with older children (over 1.50 meters tall).

If you’re looking for a unique way to see Oaxaca’s countryside, appreciate good guides, and love the idea of a laid-back ride with plenty of photo stops and local flavor, this tour will fit the bill perfectly. It’s a great alternative to typical sightseeing, offering instead a chance to connect with the natural landscape on two wheels.

The Bottom Line

This MTB bike tour to the Tule tree strikes a nice balance between adventure, culture, and scenery. At just $39, it delivers solid value, especially with the positive feedback about guides and trail quality. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxed yet active half-day outing, feeling comfortable on a bike and eager to see a piece of Oaxaca’s iconic natural landmark.

The combination of scenic mountain views, local food stops, and friendly guides makes it a memorable experience—not just a bike ride, but a small cultural journey. Whether you’re a mountain biking novice or a seasoned rider looking to explore a new landscape, this tour offers a thoughtful and enjoyable way to spend part of your Oaxaca trip.

FAQs

What is the difficulty level of this bike tour?
The tour is suitable for beginners and intermediates, with about 50% paved and 50% mountain trails. It involves moderate effort, including some uphill sections.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 3 to 4 hours, including stops at Santa Maria del Tule, sightseeing, and the return ride.

Are bikes included in the price?
You can choose to rent a bike (helmet and lock included) from the provider or opt for a guide-only service if you prefer to bring your own.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring cash for market purchases, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and water. Comfortable biking clothes are recommended, and a camera for capturing the views.

Is prior biking experience required?
No, the tour is designed for all levels, but moderate physical fitness is recommended. The route is accessible, but some sections involve natural terrain.

Can I customize the duration of the bike rental?
Yes, bikes can be rented for 2, 3, or 5 hours, providing flexibility based on your pace and interest.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s advisable to book about 11 days ahead, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot.

Is there a guide at the entrance of the trail?
Yes, a guide will meet you at the trail entrance to ensure safety and provide local insights. Guide-only options are available.

What are the meeting points?
The tour starts and ends at Bike Flow Oaxaca on Mártires de Tacubaya 101.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

This MTB tour to the Tule Tree offers a fantastic way to explore Oaxaca’s natural beauty and cultural sights with ease and enjoyment. It’s a solid choice for active travelers seeking a memorable, authentic adventure with expert guidance and stunning views.