An adventure for the senses: Mezcal, fields and crafts.

This Oaxaca tour promises a full day of exploring the heart of Mexican craftsmanship and flavors. It’s an experience that combines vibrant scenery, hands-on activities, and authentic tastings — perfect if you’re eager to go beyond the usual tourist spots. While the journey covers several stops, what really makes this tour stand out is its focus on local artisanship — from mezcal production to traditional crafts in Teotitlán del Valle.

What we love about this tour are two key things: first, the depth of engagement — you’re not just a passive observer but actively participate in the mezcal-making process, from cutting agave to bottling your own bottle. Second, the variety of flavors and sights — tasting more than 12 different mezcales along with pulque, cured, mead, and tepache. A potential drawback? The tour is quite full, and some might find the schedule a bit packed if they prefer slower, more relaxed visits.

This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits who appreciate authentic craftsmanship and are eager to understand the process behind one of Mexico’s most iconic beverages. It’s perfect for curious travelers, foodies, or anyone wanting to enhance their Oaxaca experience with a hands-on culture.

Key Points

• Authentic craft experiences: Participate directly in mezcal production and learn about traditional techniques.
• Diverse tastings: Sample over 12 different mezcales plus pulque, cured, mead, and tepache.
• Cultural insight: Visit artisan villages like Teotitlán del Valle to see local crafts such as woollen mats and shell candles.
• Vivid scenery: Ride through maguey fields aboard a barrel-shaped truck, enjoying stunning views and informative commentary.
• All-in-one tour: Transportation, tasting, souvenirs, and expert guides make it a comprehensive experience.
• Small group: With a maximum of 17 travelers, you’ll get a personalized, engaging day.

This 7-hour tour from Oaxaca City offers a genuinely rich experience, blending scenic views, cultural insights, and hands-on activities. Starting at the Mal de Amor Mezcal y Cocktail Room, the journey takes you out of the bustling historic center and into the calmer rural surroundings of Oaxaca’s countryside. It’s a chance to step into the world of mezcal, Mexico’s iconic spirit, and see how it’s crafted from start to finish.

First Stop: Teotitlán del Valle

Our first destination is the vibrant artisan village of Teotitlán del Valle. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore traditional workshops where artisans create woollen mats and shell candles. The craftsmanship in this village, passed down through generations, is tangible — you can see the skillful weaving and the intricate designs that tell stories of local culture. It’s a quiet, authentic place, far from commercial tourist traps, giving you a glimpse into rural Oaxaca’s artistic soul.

Reviewers often mention the beautiful craftsmanship on display, with one noting, “It’s inspiring to see artisans still working using traditional methods.” Visiting here enhances your understanding of how local culture is kept alive through everyday crafts.

Maguey Fields and the Mural Barrel Ride

Next, the tour heads toward the maguey fields, which are vital for mezcal production. This is where the magic begins: you’ll ride on a barrel-shaped truck through lush plantations, listening as guides explain the importance of different agave varieties and how they influence flavor. During the ride, you might be surprised by how noble and versatile the agave plant truly is.

This part of the experience is both scenic and educational. You’ll see the agave plants in various stages of growth, and if you’re lucky, you might witness locals harvesting or preparing the plants for distillation. The commentary highlights why maguey is such a treasured resource in Oaxaca.

Hands-On Mezcal Making in a Traditional Distillery

After the fields, it’s time to get into the heart of mezcal craftsmanship at a small-scale, artisanal distillery. Here, you’re encouraged to participate in the production process — from cutting agave to tasting cooked maguey. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share details about the distillation and aging processes, as well as the importance of Designations of Origin.

One reviewer appreciated the interactive nature of this stop: “It’s not just a tour — you actually get to see and do, which makes the tasting even more meaningful.” Visiting a ripening winery, you also get to learn how the mezcal is matured, adding depth to your understanding of its complex flavors.

Extensive Tasting Session: Over 12 Mezcales

The highlight for many is the mezcal tasting, where you’ll sample more than a dozen varieties. The guide explains how to taste mezcal properly, emphasizing aroma, flavor, and finish. Expect a diverse array: different agaves, maturation levels, and production styles.

Several reviews mention the quality of the guide’s explanations, making it easier for newcomers to appreciate the nuances. One person said, “The selection was incredible — I loved the chance to try so many different types and learn what makes each unique.” This variety showcases the diversity within artisanal mezcal, a key point for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Final Stop: Traditional Drinks and Cultural Insights

The tour wraps up in the maguey/agave fields, where you’ll taste drinks like pulque, curados, mead, and tepache. These beverages, often overlooked, are part of local tradition and add to your appreciation of regional beverages beyond mezcal.

The guides encourage photography and enjoyment, making this a relaxed opportunity to soak in Oaxaca’s flavors and scenery.

At a cost of $78.21 per person, this tour offers a strong bang for your buck. It includes transportation, tastings, souvenirs, and guided insight — all within a manageable 7-hour window. The inclusion of multiple tastings and the chance to participate hands-on in mezcal production adds real value, especially since many visitors might only get a glimpse of the process otherwise.

The small group size (max 17) ensures a more intimate experience, allowing plenty of interaction with guides and fellow travelers. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning views as key strengths, making the experience both educational and visually rewarding.

Practical Tips

• The tour starts at 9:00 am, so arriving on time is advisable.
• You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes, especially if you plan to participate in activities like cutting agave.
• Since the tour involves tasting multiple drinks, it’s best to have a moderate amount of alcohol and consider your personal tolerance.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and is accessible via public transportation, making it fairly convenient.

This experience is ideal for food and drink enthusiasts eager to understand the roots of mezcal. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic craftsmanship and want to see the production process firsthand. The scenic rides and cultural stops add an extra layer of enjoyment for travelers seeking a well-rounded introduction to Oaxaca’s rural traditions.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging day that blends education, flavor, and scenery — this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a busy schedule — but in return, you’ll come away with meaningful insights and memorable tastes.

In the end, this tour offers a compelling mix of culture, craftsmanship, and flavor. You’ll enjoy a well-organized, engaging day that takes you out of the city and into the heart of Oaxaca’s artisanal world. The knowledgeable guides and excellent selection of mezcales make it stand out, especially if you’re curious about the local spirits.

It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who want to participate actively and learn about Oaxaca’s traditions, but it also offers enough flexibility for those simply looking to enjoy some authentic tastings in a beautiful setting. The value is solid, considering the inclusions, and the experience will leave you with stories to tell and a deeper appreciation for mezcal and rural Mexican crafts.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is provided as part of the tour, including a ride aboard a barrel-shaped truck through the maguey fields.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guided experience, mezcal tastings (more than 12 varieties), souvenirs, transportation, and bottled water.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast is not included, so it’s recommended to eat beforehand or bring snacks.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, but it’s advisable to confirm specific mobility needs with the provider.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and possibly warm weather, as well as sturdy shoes for walking in fields and workshops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s focus on alcohol tastings and active participation makes it more appropriate for adults, but children might enjoy the scenic views and artisan visits with adult supervision.