A day trip from Oaxaca de Juárez sequencing the ancient and the elemental—visit the thousand-year Tule Tree, the ornate Zapotec ruins at Mitla, swim in the petrified pools of Hierve el Agua, and end with a mezcal tasting at a traditional palenque.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn lifts the valley light above Oaxaca City as a small bus rolls east through agave fields toward the colossal Tule Tree. The trunk—wider than a house—waits like an ancient storyteller; tourists circle its base, fingers tracing bark worn by centuries.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Good for travelers comfortable with several hours of walking on uneven ground and short hikes
Wildlife
History
Mitla became a major Zapotec religious and funerary center noted for its unique geometric stone mosaicwork; the Tule Tree near Santa María del Tule is an ancient Montezuma cypress with a trunk centuries old.
Conservation
Hierve el Agua’s fragile travertine terraces are vulnerable to erosion and overuse—stay on designated paths, don’t introduce contaminants to pools, and support local guides who reinvest tourism income into communities.
Reserve your spot on the Shared Zapotec Highlights Tour in Oaxaca today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early to beat heat
Morning departure reduces midday sun at Hierve el Agua and gives you cooler walking conditions at Mitla.
Bring swimwear and quick-dry towel
Pools at Hierve el Agua are a highlight—pack a swimsuit and towel so you can take full advantage of the terraces.
Carry cash for markets & tips
Small vendors and some palenques prefer pesos for crafts, snacks and extra tastings; ATMs are limited outside the city.
Wear sturdy shoes with grip
Uneven stone at Mitla and mineral-slick surfaces at Hierve el Agua demand supportive footwear with traction.
Sturdy walking shoes
Protects ankles on uneven archaeological stones and rocky trails at Hierve el Agua.
Swimwear & quick-dry towel
Needed to enjoy the mineral pools and cooling swims at Hierve el Agua.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Open highland sun is strong; shade is limited between sites.
Small daypack & refillable water bottle
Carry layers, camera, cash and extra water for a seven-hour tour.