The Oaxaca Cultural Trek
Day 1 – Arrival in Mexico – Jet down to Oaxaca and meet your guide for an orientation and walking tour of the Zócalo, Oaxaca’s bustling city center.
Day 2 – Oaxaca City – This morning, our guide will introduce you to the ancient ruins of Monte Alban. After a yummy local lunch, we head out to the valley around Oaxaca and the famous pottery and woodcrafts villages of San Bartolo de Coyotepec and San Martin Tilcajete.
Day 3 – Oaxaca City - Today, we journey to Teotitlan del Valle, an artisan village in the valley. We visit the homes of the craftsmen at work and learn how to weave carpets with natural plant and animal dyes. Our day will finish with a visit to the ancient Mixtec ruins of Mitla.
Day 4 – Sierra Norte – After breakfast, we head to the pine forests of the little known Sierra Norte Mountains and the small village of Llano Grande. We will hike through the forest here towards the village of Cuajimaloyas. Our night’s accommodation is in the community owned lodge which offers bunk beds and shared bathrooms. The lodge is very warm, clean, and accommodating. By staying here we are contributing directly to the community and ensuring the preservation of the surrounding forest.
Day 5 – Sierra Norte – A day of hiking awaits us today as we explore deep into this pristine forest. Today, we will hike through small farms and valleys, encountering varying vegetative zones en route to the lovely mountaintop village of Benito Juarez. Here we learn about traditional agriculture, local culture, and history. Accommodation is in community owned cabins with dinner served family-style at the community diner.
Day 6 – Sierra Norte – On our last day hiking and exploring the mountains along a remote pre-Columbian trade route, we will hike into the village of Lachatao. After a short drive to the village and Latuvi, we will hike to our final destination of Lachatao to engage in discussions of environmental degradation and conservation efforts, including sustainable tourism initiatives and interaction with local communities.
Day 7-8 – Oaxaca City – We return to the colonial gem of Oaxaca to explore the deepest corners of the city with our local guide. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Oaxaca City is a recognized wondrous blend of colonial charm and indigenous culture! We depart home on Day 8.
