Oaxaca: Guided Bike Tour to the Largest Tree in the World

This guided bike tour offers a unique way to experience Oaxaca’s countryside, focusing on the awe-inspiring Tule tree—the widest and one of the oldest known trees in the world. With a mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and delicious local food, it promises a memorable half-day adventure.

What really makes this tour shine is the combination of a mostly flat, shaded bike ride, the chance to stand beneath the ancient Tule tree, and the relaxed exploration of Santa Maria del Tule’s charming square and market. The tour is thoughtfully designed for those who enjoy active outings with cultural highlights—though it does demand a fair bit of riding, which is worth considering if you’re not comfortable on a bike.

One possible snag? The 20 km distance might be a stretch for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to cycling or have mobility concerns. Still, for anyone in fair physical shape, the experience offers unbeatable views and access to authentic local scenes on a budget—only $20 per person. Perfect for curious travelers wanting an authentic and scenic day out in Oaxaca.

Good To Know

• Scenic route: Enjoy a 20 km bike ride through lush, shaded countryside with beautiful hill and farm views.
• Cultural highlights: Visit the world’s widest tree, Santa Maria square, and its lively market.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Affordable price: At $20, this tour offers excellent value for a full cultural and scenic experience.
• Small group size: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring a relaxed and personalized experience.
• Physical expectations: Requires good biking skills and a fair level of fitness; not suitable for those with mobility issues or recent surgeries.

This tour offers a well-structured blend of active exploration and culture, perfect for travelers who love combining physical activity with authentic sights. Starting in downtown Oaxaca, the journey begins with a brief 45-minute bike ride on a shaded bike lane. As you pedal out of the city, you’ll be treated to views of rolling hills and crop fields, with the busy urban atmosphere gradually giving way to peaceful rural scenery.

The ride itself is mostly flat and on dedicated bike lanes, making it manageable for those with basic cycling experience. We loved the way the guides, like Sergio and Ana, keep the group moving at a comfortable pace, sharing interesting facts along the way. They also offer on-the-go repair tools, should any minor bike troubles pop up—a thoughtful touch that adds to the safety and confidence of participants.

Santa Maria del Tule: The Star Attraction

Once you arrive at Santa Maria del Tule, the highlight is, of course, the El Tule tree. This massive, ancient specimen has a circumference of over 42 meters, making it the widest tree in the world. The guides emphasize its significance, noting it’s estimated to be over 2,000 years old. Visiting this marvel is like stepping into a natural monument that has silently witnessed centuries of local life.

Reviewers mention the guide’s detailed explanations about the tree’s history and biology. One noted, “Our guide, Luis, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the Tule tree—he even shared some local legends about it.” You’ll also find the town’s charming church and lush gardens nearby, perfect spots for photos and a peaceful stroll.

Santa Maria Square and Market: A Taste of Local Life

Following the tree visit, the tour takes you to the lively market and town square. Here, the focus shifts to food and local culture. You’ll have time to wander, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and sample authentic Oaxacan delicacies. While the tour price doesn’t include food or drinks, many reviewers say the market offers some of the best local snacks—think fresh tacos, tamales, and tropical fruit drinks.

One traveler shared, “We grabbed some tacos and cold agua fresca—such a delicious, affordable way to experience local flavors.” The market is a fantastic place to observe everyday life, chat with vendors, and pick up small souvenirs.

Returning to Oaxaca

After about an hour of exploring the market and gardens, the group then bikes back along the same scenic route, giving you a second chance to enjoy the countryside views and reflect on the morning’s highlights. The entire experience lasts around three hours, including breaks and sightseeing.

The tour departs from Valterra Excursiones, a centrally located point in Oaxaca. It’s suitable for travelers aged 16 and up, provided they’re comfortable riding a bike—minimum height is 1.55 meters (about 5’2”). The bikes are cross-country, brands like Scott, Trek, or Cannondale, with wheel sizes from 26” to 29”. The group is kept small—no more than 7 participants—to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.

What to bring: sunglasses, hat, water, cash, clothes that can get dirty, sportswear, a daypack, and closed-toe shoes. Pack light but be prepared for the sun and dirt. The guide recommends wearing comfortable sportswear and packing water, especially if it’s a warm day.

Not recommended for: pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, heart or respiratory conditions, or recent surgeries. The physical demand might be high for those not used to cycling or in poor shape.

Cost and value: At just $20, this tour packs in a lot—scenic riding, cultural insights, and access to a natural wonder. For the price, the value is high, especially considering the intimate group size and knowledgeable guides.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy active days combined with cultural and scenic immersion. It’s especially great if you’re curious about the natural wonders around Oaxaca but prefer a relaxed-paced, small-group tour over large bus trips. The inclusion of a bilingual guide ensures you get meaningful insights whether you speak English or Spanish.

The stop at the Tule tree isn’t just about snapping photos—it’s about understanding why this tree is so special, learning about its history, and appreciating its silent witness to centuries of local life. The market visit afterward means you get to taste authentic Oaxaca flavors in a lively setting, making this a full sensory experience.

In terms of value, the combination of biking, sightseeing, and culture for just $20 makes this tour a standout. It’s a budget-friendly way to see a natural wonder, explore a charming town, and enjoy some local snacks—all in a manageable three-hour window.

For adventurous travelers with a decent level of fitness and an appetite for authentic experiences, this bike tour is a fantastic choice. It combines the thrill of cycling with the wonder of visiting the world’s widest tree, along with cultural stops that give a real sense of local life. The small-group format and expert guides make it more engaging and personalized than larger tours.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, active way to explore Oaxaca’s countryside and learn about its natural and cultural treasures, you’ll find this tour delivers. It’s perfect for curious, outdoor-loving travelers who want to balance physical activity with cultural discovery in a relaxed setting.

However, if you have mobility challenges, are pregnant, or dislike cycling long distances, this might not be the best fit. But for everyone in good health and comfortable on a bike, it’s an experience worth considering.

Is this tour suitable for kids or teenagers?
It’s geared towards ages 16 and up, with a minimum height of 1.55 meters. It’s best for those who can comfortably handle a 20 km bike ride.

How hard is the cycling portion?
The ride covers about 20 km on mostly flat, shaded bike lanes. It requires basic biking skills and a fair level of fitness, but it’s manageable for most active travelers.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, water, cash, clothes suitable for dirt and sun, sportswear, a daypack, and closed-toe shoes for comfort and safety.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the market offers many local options, and you’ll likely want to try some snacks or beverages during the market visit.

What if I don’t know how to ride a bike?
This tour isn’t suitable for those who can’t ride a bike or have no experience. You should be comfortable cycling to participate.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

Does the tour operate in English and Spanish?
Yes, the guides speak both languages, making it easy for international travelers to follow along and ask questions.

What is the group size?
Limited to 7 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Is the Tule tree accessible for photos?
Absolutely. You’ll have plenty of time for photos and to walk around the tree’s base, appreciating its massive size up close.

This guided bike tour in Oaxaca offers a thoughtful mix of adventure, cultural insight, and natural beauty, all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a different way to see the sights, it’s a memorable way to connect with Oaxaca’s natural and cultural landscape.