Description

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Oaxaca with a day-long adventure that takes you through the scenic countryside to Teotitlán del Valle and Hierve el Agua. This journey is designed for those eager to experience authentic Zapotec culture, witness the craftsmanship behind Oaxacan textiles, and be awestruck by natural wonders. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect from this unforgettable experience: 1. Visit to a Zapotec Household in Teotitlán del Valle: The heart of this cultural experience begins in Teotitlán del Valle, a picturesque village nestled in the Sierra Juárez mountains. Known for its deep-rooted Zapotec heritage, the village is renowned for its traditional weaving techniques that have been passed down through generations. Key Features & Activities: - Meet Local Artisans: Step into a Zapotec household where you'll meet skilled artisans who practice the ancient art of backstrap weaving. The weaving process here is done by hand, using techniques that are hundreds of years old, often passed down within families. - Textile Workshop: You'll have the chance to witness the entire process of textile creation, from spinning thread to the intricate hand-dyeing process. The vibrant dyes used are made from local plants, insects, and minerals—each color rich in meaning and history. - Shop Local Crafts: Teotitlán is famous for its handwoven rugs, textiles, and other handcrafted goods. After the workshop, there’s plenty of time to browse these beautiful pieces, many of which can be purchased directly from the artisans. After the cultural immersion in Teotitlán, the tour continues to Hierve el Agua, a natural wonder just a short drive away. This surreal landscape, meaning "the water boils" in Spanish, is home to mineral springs that have created striking formations resembling waterfalls frozen in time. Key Features & Activities: Breathtaking Views: Arriving at Hierve el Agua, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The mineral-rich waters have cascaded over centuries, creating stunning limestone formations that appear as waterfalls, though the water no longer flows. Relaxing in Natural Pools: You’ll have the opportunity to take a dip in one of the natural, spring-fed pools that sit at the edge of the cliff. The water is rich in minerals and thought to have healing properties—making this an ideal place to relax and take in the awe-inspiring scenery. Photography and Scenic Walks: For those interested in photography, Hierve el Agua offers one of the most unique and picturesque settings. Capture the contrast between the green, mountainous landscape and the ethereal, stone-like formations. Take a scenic walk along the trails to get different angles and perspectives of this natural marvel.

Itinerary

Day 1

• Meeting point: The entrance of jardín etnobotánico at 9 o’clock.
• First we will visit Teotitlan del Valle.
• Hierve el Agua: We will visit this beautiful spot for 2 hours, where you will have enough time to go for a 45 min hike and to swim at the natural pools.
• Lunch Break: after visiting hierve el agua we will stop at a restaurant buffet that offers Oaxaca traditional food for $200 MXN ($10 USD approximately) per person, plus drinks.
• Back to Oaxaca city at the same meeting point.