Ruta de Mezcal Tour

Dates

Custom Dates

price

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

about

This is a collection of our favorite hidden gems along the Pan American Highway in the Tlacolula valley—pottery, textiles, mole, and (of course) mezcal!

Trip Highlights

We call this the Ruta del Mezcal—the Mezcal Route Tour—because we travel along the Pan American Highway in the Tlacolula Valley to visit some of the hidden gems of the area, culminating at a small, family-run palenque you’d never find on your own.

We’ll visit a women’s red clay pottery co-op, our favorite cotton textile weaver, a tiny restaurant up in the hills that specializes in traditional moles, and finish at a family-run palenque with no signage. What do they all have in common? Aside from being off the beaten path, the quality of what they produce is incredible, with prices far below what you’d expect. We should call this the ultimate bargain tour.

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 9:30am in a private luxury van, then drive along the Tlacolula Highway to visit local villages.

Stop 1:

San Marcos Tlapazola

We’ll start the day in the pottery-making village of San Marcos Tlapazola, where women have been making red clay pottery for hundreds of years, digging the clay from the foothills above town. This co-op of women processes and forms the clay by hand, transforming it into extraordinary vessels. You’ll meet the women, watch them work, and have an opportunity to buy directly from them. Fun fact: some of their pieces have been featured at MOMA!

Stop 2:

Tlacolula

We’ll stop for lunch at a local comedor that’s hidden up in the hills of Tlacolula. Here, a renowned traditional cook makes the best mole we’ve tasted anywhere—and you’ll get to sample the famous “7 moles of Oaxaca,” all prepared by hand. Choose your favorite as your meal, then wash it all down with cerveza or aqua fresca.

Stop 3:

San Pablo Villa de Mitla

After lunch, we’ll visit our dear friend Arturo who works on a traditional back strap loom and flying shuttle loom, mostly using all-natural dyes. His specialties are blankets, table linens, clothes, and scarves made from cotton, wool, or a blend. Some of his products are sold at high-end boutiques in the U.S. Shop directly from him for incredible savings.

Stop 4:

Santiago Matatlan

This hidden palenque has no sign, yet they’re turning out some of the best mezcal we’ve tasted—using traditional methods, of course. After a tour of their modest production facility, where you’ll learn about each stage of the process, you’ll be treated to a magnificent tasting. Sample multiple varieties of wild agave and flavored espadins, but consider yourself warned: their prices are far below comparable offerings from bigger brands. If you’re like us, you’ll struggle to narrow your purchases to what your airline allows. 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

Weaving and pottery demonstrations plus mezcal tasting

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 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 include the mezcal tasting, but 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 ten (10) 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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