MTB Bike Tour: Tule Tree through the country-side

Planning a day that combines adventure, culture, and nature? This MTB Bike Tour from Oaxaca to the famed Tule Tree offers exactly that—an active way to see some of the region’s most iconic sights while enjoying the fresh air and scenic landscapes. While we haven’t personally pedaled through it, the detailed reviews and itinerary hint at a truly rewarding experience, especially for those who enjoy a bit of mountain biking mixed with cultural exploration.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s about the combination of countryside riding and cultural stops—you get a thrilling ride through varied terrain, including an ancient mine and a scenic viewpoint. Second, it offers insider access to the Tule Tree, the world’s widest tree, along with meaningful insights into its significance. Third, the local market time gives you a taste of Oaxaca’s delicious treats like Tejate and artisanal ice cream, adding a culinary layer to the adventure.

One thing to consider is that the trail includes basic to intermediate mountain biking terrain, so it’s not for absolute beginners or those with mobility issues. The tour is quite active, so some fitness and comfort on a bike are a must. It suits travelers who love outdoor activities, authentic local experiences, and don’t mind a bit of physical exertion.

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, this tour could be a fantastic choice—especially if you appreciate guides who are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to the group’s pace.

Good To Know

• Active exploration: Perfect for those who enjoy mountain biking and scenic countryside views.
• Cultural highlights: Visit to the Tule Tree, a natural wonder, with insider info on its history.
• Local flavor: Free time at a gastronomic market for authentic treats like Tejate and artisanal ice cream.
• Stunning landscapes: Breath-taking views from a mountain trail and a panoramic viewpoint.
• Guided experience: Small groups and friendly guides make for a personalized adventure.
• Value for the price: At $38, it’s a well-priced way to combine outdoor activity and cultural discovery.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Initial Ride

The tour kicks off at Bike Flow Oaxaca, a dedicated bike shop and rental point in downtown Oaxaca. Here, you’ll meet your guide—who’s usually friendly, professional, and well-versed in the local terrain—along with your fellow riders. The group size is limited to 10, which ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention.

Your first stretch is along a cyclist path that links Oaxaca City with Santa María del Tule. This path is smooth and manageable for most riders, providing a comfortable warm-up while enjoying views of the city’s outskirts. It’s a good chance to get familiar with your premium MTB bike, which features a 100mm fork to handle the varied terrain ahead.

The Countryside Detour and Mountain Trails

After about an hour of riding on paved paths, the tour diverges onto a 40-minute off-road trail. This trail is described as basic to intermediate, perfect for those with some mountain biking experience. It’s a mix of gravel, dirt, and overgrown sections—so some agility and confidence on your bike help here.

The trail takes you through an ancient mine site, where you can take in the views of the landscape and imagine what it was like for miners of the past. The reviews note the beautiful vistas along the way—we loved the mention of a climb to a viewpoint, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Central Valleys. This spot is a highlight, giving riders a chance to pause and soak in the scenery.

Exploring Santa María del Tule

Arriving in the quaint town of Santa María del Tule, you’ll notice its peaceful charm. The famous Tule Tree stands at the heart of this village. It’s not just a big tree; it’s a historic and environmental symbol. Your guide will share stories about its size, age, and cultural importance, making the visit meaningful.

Once at the Tule Tree, you can explore the area, walk around the town, and visit the local market. Reviewers mention that the free time at the market is a real treat—sampling Tejate, a traditional pre-Hispanic beverage made with cacao and mamey seeds, or enjoying artisanal ice cream like Nieve flavored with mango or tuna. The market gives a genuine taste of local life, far from touristy spots.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Secret Stop — Authentic and Scenic

The tour includes a “secret stop”—a guided visit that might involve wildlife viewing, a continuation of the off-road adventure, or a scenic lookout. While details are scarce, reviewers noted that guides are flexible and willing to adjust based on the group’s stamina and interests. This part offers an extra layer of adventure, providing more chance to enjoy nature and the landscape.

Return Journey: Scenic Cycling Back

After exploring Tule and experiencing local flavors, you’ll pedal back along a cyclist-friendly path. The ride is scenic, with the landscape changing from village scenery to more lush countryside views. The entire journey lasts about 3 hours, which includes stops, explanations, and free time.

The ride back is mostly downhill and on smooth paths, making it less strenuous. The tour concludes at the same shop, where your bikes are stored securely, and you can reflect on your day of active discovery.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour offers a lot of value for $38 per person. Included are premium MTB bikes with 100mm forks, helmets with MIPS technology, a professional guide, and all entrance fees to the Tule Tree. You also get bottled water (1L) to stay hydrated during the ride.

The small group size ensures more personalized attention, and the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The fact that guides can adjust the pace to match individual comfort levels is appreciated, especially on the more challenging trail sections.

What about food and extra expenses?

You’ll want to bring some extra cash or snacks for the market. The tour includes free time at the market but does not include food or drinks, so pack light snacks or plan to purchase local treats. Other personal expenses, like additional hydration or souvenirs, are not included.

Important tips

• Wear comfortable clothes and sunscreen for sun protection.
• Have a basic level of fitness; the terrain involves some uphill and off-road riding.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart issues, or those without cycling experience.
• Be prepared for a few short climbs and some overgrown trail sections, which might require dismounting and walking.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

From the reviews, it’s clear that Roberto, the owner, and his team make the experience memorable. They’re described as professional, caring, and personable, which helps create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned that Roberto was “incredibly professional but also caring, personable & didn’t rush us.”

Plus, the bikes are high quality, making a noticeable difference in comfort and safety. Riders appreciated that they could enjoy the ride without worrying about equipment issues, which enhances the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This mountain biking experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and are comfortable on a bike. It appeals to those interested in cultural sights like the Tule Tree, combined with scenic nature excursions. It’s ideal for travelers who want a small-group, personalized experience and appreciate guides who are attentive and knowledgeable.

It’s less suitable for people with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those with limited cycling experience. The tour requires a basic to intermediate level of fitness but is manageable for most healthy travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity.

Final Thoughts

This MTB tour offers an excellent way to see Oaxaca’s countryside with a dash of adventure and culture. The combination of scenic trail riding, visits to iconic landmarks, and local market treats makes it a well-rounded experience. The relatively low cost for a guided adventure with all gear included adds to its appeal, especially for travelers seeking authentic outdoor activities.

You’ll love the stunning views, the chance to explore a world-famous tree, and the warmth of guides who genuinely care about providing a memorable journey. The variety of terrain keeps the ride interesting, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious beginner, this tour offers a compelling way to connect with the land, local culture, and history—all while getting a good dose of fresh air and exercise.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The trail is classified as basic to intermediate mountain biking, so it’s suitable for those with some riding experience. If you’re a beginner but comfortable on a bike and willing to keep a steady pace, you’ll enjoy it.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including stops for sightseeing, breaks, and free time at the market.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a small amount of extra hydration or snacks for the market visit. No need for heavy gear—just be prepared for some sun and light activity.

Are the bikes good quality?
Yes, the tour provides premium MTB bikes with 100mm forks, praised for their comfort and reliability during the ride.

Can I customize the pace?
Guides are willing to adjust the pace based on your comfort level, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

Is lunch or food included?
No, but you’ll have free time at the market to try local specialties. It’s recommended to bring some cash or snacks for extra refreshment.

What is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized and attentive experience.

This tour is a fantastic pick for those craving a genuine outdoor adventure with cultural highlights in Oaxaca’s beautiful countryside. It combines active fun with meaningful sights, making it a memorable day for adventurous travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: