Ocotlan Highway Folk Art Study Tour

Dates

Custom Dates

price

$375
(1-2 people)
$175
(each additional person)

about

An artistic adventure through the villages of Ocotlán de Morelos to visit masters of traditional folk art, sculpture, and pottery.

Trip Highlights

Ocotlán de Morelos is the home of famed Mexican painter and muralist Rodolfo Morales (1925-2001). We’ll travel to villages in this region to visit talented artists we know and respect—a potter, a family of clay sculptors, a group of embroiderers, and a fine wood carver and painter who makes alebrijes.

In addition to a working demonstration and explanation of their craft, you’ll have the opportunity to buy from some of the artists directly. If you choose to make a purchase, every peso goes straight into their pocket to help support their family and keep their traditions alive. 

Duration

One day (9am-6pm)

Locations

Villages in the Oaxaca Valley

Physical Activity

Light

Itinerary:

Pick-up

We’ll pick you up at your hotel in Oaxaca City at 9am in a private luxury van, then drive along the Ocotlán de Morelos Highway to visit local villages.

Stop 1:

San Bartolo Coyotepec

We’ll start the day by visiting a famous pottery maker in San Bartolo Coyotepec who works with barro negro (black clay) to create mermaids, angels, birds, and other creatures of her imagination. But she’s not just a master potter. She’s also one of the first women in the region to serve as a volunteer official in village administration. Her stories and her voice are just as important as her art.

Stop 2:

San Martin Tilcajete

Next up is San Martin Tilcajete, known as the “alebrije village,” to visit one of the best alebrije makers in Oaxaca. In his workshop, this celebrated artist intricately carves copal wood into anthropomorphic figures, then paints them with the finest brush strokes to create incredibly detailed works of art that seem to come alive. We’ll follow this up with lunch prepared by a traditional cook out in the campo (countryside).

Stop 3:

San Antonino Castillo Velasco

After lunch, we’ll explore the life-size clay figures of sculptor Don Jose Garcia, Grand Master of Oaxaca Folk Art. Blind since the age of 18, he feels his work with his hands. Wander his family’s outdoor patio which is filled with completed pieces, works-in-progress, and a walk-in wood-fired kiln for the giant pieces he creates. He is a frequently invited guest to the Santa Fe International Folk Art Market in New Mexico.

Stop 4:

San Antonino Castillo Velasco

We’ll stay in San Antonino Castillo Velasco to visit a group of embroiderers. That’s actually what this town is best known for—its intricate, multicolored embroidery of flowers, birds, and other natural elements. Often adorning blouses and dresses, the designs are eye-catching and the craftsmanship is impeccable. At the end of the tour, we’ll drop you off at your hotel in Oaxaca City.

What's Included

Lodging

None

Guide

Trilingual guide and translator: English, Spanish, Zapotec

Transport

Private luxury van

Meals

None (you’ll pay for your own lunch)

Activities

Art demonstrations and expert explanations

Important Information

Pricing
$375 for 1-2 people
$175 for each additional person

Activity Level
Light- You should be able to stand for at least 30 minutes at a time and walk up to a mile at a leisurely pace, sometimes on unpaved paths.

We do not operate this tour on Fridays, the frenzied day of the Ocotlan Market. We want you to enjoy your experience, free from the throngs of market-goers. Please consider this before requesting your dates.

We require payment in full to secure your date. This is for a full day tour, from 9:30am-6pm. When requesting your date, please provide at least two options so we can best accommodate you. Once payment is made, we will send your confirmation and tour details by email.

Tour fee does not include lunch or beverages. You will cover the cost for all in your party, as well as the cost of food and beverage for your tour leader.

Cancellation Policy: If you cancel at least five (5) full days before your tour, we will refund 50% of your fee. After that, no refunds will be given. Please read our Terms & Conditions for more information.

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FAQs

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How many people are on each tour?

For private, custom date tours, you choose the number of people. Please refer to the tour details for any restrictions. Our group tours are usually 8-12 people, but no more than 15. We intentionally keep groups small for a more intimate experience – like a local friend showing you around their favorite places.

Airfare, airport transfers, travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, personal expenses, tips, and some meals (see the tour itinerary for what’s included).
There are several options here and we can offer suggestions after you register.
Absolutely not! Anyone who is interested in art, culture, history, traditions, and personally connecting with artisans is welcome.
No. Our mission is to help these artisans support their families and keep their traditions alive. 100% of any purchase you make (you’re not obligated to buy anything) goes directly into their pocket.
Absolutely! Our tours are a great way to meet other like-minded travelers and solo travelers often join us. Our tour prices are noted in both double and single occupancy. We welcome solo travelers and those who want to share a room.
After you register for your tour we can provide hotel contact information to arrive early or extend your stay. We also offer day tours and workshops you can add onto the beginning or end of any tour.

No, you are responsible for getting yourself to and from the airport, but once you register for a tour, we’ll recommend a few safe and reliable options.

There is an ATM at the Oaxaca International Airport and many throughout Oaxaca City. Airport transportation options accept credit cards, but some restaurants and shops are cash only.

We’ll provide a suggested packing list as your tour date approaches.

Dates

Custom Dates

price

$375
(1-2 people)
$175
(each additional person)
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Dates

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