Oaxaca in 48 Hours: Mezcal, Monte Albán & Hierve el Agua
Covering mezcal palenques, the petrified falls of Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán’s ruins and artisan villages, this two-day guided tour condenses Oaxaca’s cultural and geological highlights into a practical, immersive trip. Ideal for travelers based in Huatulco who want a deep, curated introduction to the Central Valleys.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start Early
Pickup from Huatulco is at 6:00 AM — bring snacks and be prepared for a full driving day to reach the first attractions.
Bring Cash for Markets
Small workshops and local markets often accept only pesos for textiles, pottery, and alebrijes.
Footwear for Uneven Terrain
Wear sturdy shoes with good grip for terraces at Monte Albán and the mineral lanes at Hierve el Agua.
Hydrate and Pace Yourself
Altitude, sun, and walking combine quickly — carry a refillable water bottle and take breaks at viewpoints.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sip mezcal at small family palenques outside main tourist routes for candid demonstrations
- •Early-morning views from Monte Albán’s western plaza offer quieter light and cooler air before tour buses arrive
Wildlife
- •Hummingbirds around agave and garden flowers
- •Local highland lizards sunning on stone terraces
Conservation Note
Many artisan workshops use traditional, low-impact techniques, but visitors should avoid purchasing items made from endangered materials and stick to reputable producers; Hierve el Agua is protected and visitors should stay on marked paths to prevent erosion.
The Central Valleys were a Zapotec heartland; Monte Albán rose around 500 BC and served as a regional capital for centuries before colonial reorganization shaped city plazas like Oaxaca’s Santo Domingo.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking or trekking shoesEssential
Keeps footing secure on archaeological terraces, cobbled streets, and mineral formations.
Reusable water bottle with filterEssential
Hydration is critical during long drives and outdoor visits; refilling reduces plastic waste.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)Essential
High sun and reflective surfaces at Hierve el Agua make sun protection essential.
Light daypack
Carries water, snacks, a jacket, and purchases from markets during the day.
Common Questions
Is transportation included from Huatulco?
Yes — round-trip transportation from Bahías de Huatulco to Oaxaca and back is included in the tour price.
Are entrance fees and accommodation covered?
Tickets to the listed archaeological sites and one night in a 4-star hotel are included in the tour inclusions.
How much walking is involved?
Expect moderate walking at sites like Monte Albán and Hierve el Agua, often over uneven stone and short steep sections; comfortable shoes are recommended.
Will a guide speak English?
Yes — the tour provides a certified guide who offers explanations in both English and Spanish.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 days (approx. 48 hours)
Location
Oaxaca City, Oaxaca
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness — able to walk 1–2 miles over uneven, rocky surfaces and tolerate long vehicle transfers.
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