Discover the 16th-century Tlacolula market on this immersive food and mezcal tour with Oaxacool Tours & Experiences. Taste authentic dishes and artisanal spirits just outside Oaxaca city.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
No specialized fitness needed, suitable for most activity levels comfortable with moderate walking and standing.
Wildlife
History
The Tlacolula market traces its roots to the 16th century, serving as a vital trading post for indigenous communities in Oaxaca’s Central Valleys.
Conservation
Oaxacool emphasizes supporting local artisans and sustainable mezcal production methods that protect native agave species and traditional knowledge.
Oaxacool Tours & Experiences
Discover the 16th-century Tlacolula market on this immersive food and mezcal tour with Oaxacool Tours & Experiences. Taste authentic dishes and artisanal spirits just outside Oaxaca city.
Oaxacool Tours & Experiences operates guided cultural and culinary tours in and around Oaxaca, Mexico. The company organizes small-group excursions that highlight the region’s Zapotec heritage, traditional crafts, and mezcal culture. Popular offerings include the Tlacolula Market Food Tour + Mezcal, which visits the 16th-century Tlacolula de Matamoros market to sample street food and artisanal mezcal with an expert guide; the Full Oaxaca Experience, a one-day itinerary visiting the Tule Tree, a private tapestry workshop, Hierve el Agua, Mitla, and a local distillery with bottomless mezcal tasting; and the Hierve el Agua + Textile Rug Art tour that combines natural sites with a visit to a Zapotec artisan workshop.
Other curated options include the Mezcal and Food City Tour Deluxe, a walking tour of top mezcalerias concluding with dinner at La Olla Restaurant; the Monte Alban + Alebrijes + Clay Experience, which visits Monte Albán and artisan communities in San Martin Tilcajete and San Bartolo Coyotepec; and a half-day Hierve el Agua & Mezcal Experience featuring a swim, Oaxacan buffet, and family-run distillery visit. Each itinerary focuses on authentic encounters with artisans, archaeological sites, markets, and mezcal producers, often in small groups to allow personalized attention. The company’s structured tours provide clear, activity-based experiences for travelers seeking cultural immersion, traditional food and drink tastings, and hands-on textile and pottery demonstrations. Tours range from half-day to full-day options and include market visits, archaeological sites, artisan workshops, swimming at Hierve el Agua, and multiple mezcal tastings in small, guided groups for travelers.
Tours Offered
6
Six curated cultural and culinary itineraries
Small Groups
Small groups
Personalized attention on many tours
Mezcal Tastings
Bottomless options
Multiple tours include tastings
Natural Sites
Hierve el Agua
Tours include swimming and views
Choose a small-group itinerary for Tlacolula market visits, Hierve el Agua swims, Monte Albán exploration, artisan workshops, and mezcal tastings.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The market is expansive with uneven surfaces; sturdy, closed-toe shoes will keep your feet comfortable throughout the tour.
Bring Cash for Extras
While the tour covers most costs, small vendors and extra drinks require cash; Mexican pesos are preferred.
Stay Hydrated
Tasting mezcal and spicy street foods can be dehydrating; carry a refillable water bottle to stay refreshed.
Tour Runs Sundays Only
The Tlacolula market tour is only available on Sundays when the market operates at full capacity.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Protect your feet and navigate the market with confidence on varied surfaces.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while sampling foods and mezcal, especially in warm weather.
summer
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protect yourself from strong sun exposure during outdoor portions of the tour.
spring|summer|fall
Light Jacket or Layer
Chilly mornings and evenings call for an extra layer to stay comfortable.
winter