Caminos del Condoy: Boiling water, Mitla. Mezcal

Traveling through Oaxaca offers a chance to see some of Mexico’s most striking natural and cultural wonders. This particular tour, offered by El Andador Travel & Tours, promises a full day exploring iconic sights like Hierve el Agua’s petrified waterfalls, the ancient ruins of Mitla, the mysterious Tule Tree, and a mezcal distillery. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out, what to expect, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

What gets us excited about this tour? For starters, the chance to see one of the world’s only petrified waterfalls—Hierve el Agua—is a real highlight. Then there’s the Tule Tree, a natural marvel with centuries of stories etched into its trunk. Plus, the inclusion of a mezcal tasting adds a flavorful touch to the day. On the flip side, some reviewers mention feeling a little rushed and suggest adding a guide for certain sites, which could enhance the experience.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive day trip that packs in a variety of sights without breaking the bank. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth exploration, this might not be ideal, but for an active day with plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, it hits the mark.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price: At just $16 per person, this tour offers great value for a full day of sightseeing.
• Diverse Sights: From natural wonders to archaeological sites, you’ll see a variety of Oaxaca’s top attractions.
• Expert Guide: The guide, like Alex, is praised for their energetic and informative approach, adding depth to your visit.
• Timing and Duration: About 10 hours from start to finish, making it a long but rewarding day.
• Inclusions and Extras: Transportation is covered, but some entrance fees and activities are paid separately.
• Considerations: Feel prepared for a busy schedule and potential small group dynamics; some sites have entrance fees not included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary and What to Expect

Starting early at 8:30 am, you’ll meet at the El Andador Travel & Tours office in Oaxaca’s city center. From there, the day begins with a comfortable round-trip ride— no worries about navigation or parking— allowing you to focus on the sights.

Hierve el Agua: The Petrified Waterfalls

This is the showstopper of the day. Known as one of only two petrified waterfalls in the world, Hierve el Agua looks like a scene straight out of a fantasy film. The mineral-rich waters have formed stunning calcified cascades that seem to tumble down the mountainside, creating dramatic natural sculptures. Visitors can walk around the terraces, take photos, or even dip into the natural pools if they bring their bathing suits (note: entrance fees are not included).

A reviewer mentions feeling that the waterfalls are “totally worth it,” highlighting the breathtaking views and the unique geological formations. The area also offers opportunities to hike around and capture incredible vistas of the surrounding valleys.

Millenary Tule Tree

Next, you’ll visit the Tule Tree, famous for its enormous trunk and age—estimated to be over 2,000 years old. The tree’s girth is so vast that it’s a must-see for anyone interested in natural history. Some reviews note that the Tule Tree is a quick stop, but its size and history make it an awe-inspiring sight.

Tip: Bring your camera! The twisting, ancient branches and the thick trunk are perfect for memorable photos. Access to the Tule Tree involves an entrance fee, which is not included in the tour price.

San Pablo Villa de Mitla: The Magical Town

Your journey then takes you to Mitla, an archaeological site renowned for its intricate mosaics and well-preserved ruins. The site offers a glimpse into the Mixtec and Zapotec civilizations, with fascinating geometric designs and ancient structures.

One reviewer suggests that hiring a local guide at Mitla for about 200 MXN per person could greatly enhance your understanding of the site’s significance. The tour does not include this guide, but it’s a worthwhile consideration if you want a deeper cultural appreciation.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Mezcal Palenque

Finally, the tour includes a visit to a mezcal distillery, where you’ll learn about the traditional production process. Sampling this local spirit is usually a highlight, and many appreciate the chance to taste authentic mezcal right at its source. It’s an engaging way to end the day, especially if you like spirits or want to understand more about Oaxaca’s famous beverage.

Transportation, Group Size, and Timing

The entire experience is centered around comfortable transportation from the designated meeting point in Oaxaca’s city center. The tour lasts about 10 hours, typically starting at 8:30 am and returning around 7:00 pm. The group size can be large—some reviews mention groups of about 40 people—so expect a lively, bustling atmosphere.

The driver is Spanish-speaking, and the tour includes passenger insurance. While the price covers transportation, entrance fees, and the guide’s service, some attractions like Hierve el Agua and Mitla have additional costs.

Value for Money

At only $16 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. However, keep in mind that access to certain sites and activities (like Hierve el Agua pools or Mitla entrance) are paid separately. This means budgeting some extra cash is wise if you wish to participate fully in all activities.

Several reviewers find the price to be excellent value, especially considering the variety of sights covered and the guidance provided. For example, one comment notes that the guide, Alex, was “very informative and had great energy,” which added much to the experience.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Bring a hat, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent to stay comfortable.
• Wear closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and light hikes.
• Pack a change of clothes if you plan to swim or want to freshen up.
• Cash is needed for entrance fees and optional guides at Mitla or Hierve el Agua.
• A daypack to carry your essentials makes exploring easier.
• Don’t forget your camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning views.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see a variety of Oaxaca’s highlights in one day. If you love natural wonders, ancient ruins, and tasting local spirits, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, it’s important to note that the long duration and busy schedule might not suit those seeking a very relaxed or intimate experience. If you’re sensitive to crowds or prefer a more leisurely pace, consider whether the large group format or the rushing between sites fits your style.

The Sum Up

Caminos del Condoy offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and local flavor at an affordable price point. The highlights—Hierve el Agua, the Tule Tree, and Mitla—are authentic sights that give you a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s diverse appeal. The guide’s lively energy and the picturesque stops make it a solid choice for anyone keen to pack in a lot of sights in a single day.

While it’s not perfect—some sites require additional entrance fees, and the group size can be large—the value and variety on offer make this a compelling option. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a full, active day with opportunities for great photos, learning, and mezcal tasting.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, well-organized tour that covers the essentials and leaves you with memorable moments, this experience hits the spot.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from the designated meeting point in Oaxaca is included, making logistics simple.

Are entrance fees to sites covered?
No, entrance fees for Hierve el Agua, Mitla, and the Tule Tree are paid separately, so budget accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning around 7:00 pm.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
The tour involves walking and some uneven terrain; it might not be ideal for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or young children under 1 year old.

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

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, cash, change of clothes, and a daypack are recommended for a smooth experience.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food during the day.

Will I get a guide?
Yes, a guide is provided, and the guide, like Alex, is praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, which enriches the experience. If desired, you can hire an additional guide at Mitla for a more detailed tour.

You can check if your dates are available here: