Oaxaca: Legends Tour Mezcalbús

If you’re visiting Oaxaca and looking for a fun, inexpensive way to learn about the city’s myths and legends, the Oaxaca: Legends Tour Mezcalbús might catch your eye. Priced at just $7 per person for a one-hour ride, this tour promises an evening journey through the city’s most notable sights, paired with storytelling and a splash of mezcal tasting. It’s a quick, light-hearted way to get a taste of Oaxaca’s culture—at least, that’s the idea.

What’s appealing here? First, the opportunity to hear local myths and legends from a knowledgeable guide adds a layer of storytelling that many tours skip. Second, the tour visits several iconic spots, like the Zócalo, the scenic lookout, and the La Soledad Neighborhood, giving you a visual taste of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. That said, there are some caveats: the mezcal tasting is advertised but often not included, and the overall experience might feel a bit brief or casual for those expecting a more in-depth exploration. Still, if you’re after a quick, entertaining overview and love a bit of local flavor, this could work well for you—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy light, cultural outings.

Key Points

• Affordable fun: The tour costs just $7, making it a budget-friendly activity.
• Storytelling focus: It emphasizes myths, legends, and local stories, making it lively and memorable.
• City viewpoints: You’ll visit the main scenic lookout and iconic neighborhoods.
• Limited mezcal experience: Despite promotional claims, reviews suggest the actual mezcal tasting might not happen.
• Short but lively: The hour-long tour is a quick snapshot of Oaxaca’s highlights.
• Group experience: It’s ideal for small groups or families looking for casual evening entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at Oaxaca’s Legends Tour Mezcalbús

What the Tour Is All About

This tour, operated by El Andador Travel & Tours, offers a one-hour evening ride through Oaxaca’s lively streets aboard a specially decorated bus known as the Mezcalbús. The focus is on sharing popular myths and local legends in a lively, informal manner. The tour also includes a mezcal tasting, although some reviewers note it might not be available every time, which is worth knowing before setting expectations.

How It’s Structured

You’ll meet at the office located at Av. José Maria Morelos #701, just a block from the main square, the Zócalo. From there, you’ll hop aboard the Mezcalbús, which circles around key city sights. The route encompasses the vibrant Zócalo, the scenic lookout point providing panoramic views of Oaxaca, the charming Ex-Marquezado Neighborhood, and the lively Azucenas Roundabout. The tour ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for those staying nearby.

Highlights of the Route

• Oaxaca’s Zócalo: The heart of the city, bustling with activity, street performers, and local vendors. It’s a perfect starting point to set the scene for stories of Oaxaca’s past and present.
• Scenic Lookout: The view from this vantage point offers a fantastic overlook of the city lit up at night—ideal for snapping photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.
• Ex-Marquezado Neighborhood: Known for its colonial charm, this neighborhood reveals a quieter, more traditional side of Oaxaca.
• Azucenas Roundabout: A lively hub with local character, perfect for hearing some of the legends associated with Oaxaca’s street life.
• La Soledad Neighborhood: Rich in history, this area offers a glimpse into the city’s past and its cultural tapestry.

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What You’ll Experience

The guide, typically Spanish-speaking, mixes storytelling with brief historical facts, making for an engaging and fun ride. Reviews praise the guide’s entertainment skills and their ability to spin local legends entertainingly. One traveler noted, “The tour guide was very entertaining, and we had a good time,” although some mention that the mezcal tasting isn’t always part of the package, despite what’s advertised.

The Mezcal Tasting — Worth It?

While the tour’s name features “Mezcalbús” and includes mezcal tasting in the listing, several reviews mention disappointment in not receiving any mezcal—some were told it wasn’t available or were simply not offered any. This inconsistency could be due to logistical reasons or just a miscommunication. If the mezcal tasting is a key reason for choosing this tour, you might want to confirm beforehand, but don’t rely on it being included every time.

Duration and Logistics

The hour-long tour generally takes place in the evening, making it perfect for after dinner or as an introduction to Oaxaca’s vibrant night atmosphere. The group size tends to be small, which adds a more intimate and lively feel. You’ll be riding in a colorful bus, which makes the experience visually appealing, although the actual sightseeing is brief.

Price and Value

At $7 per person, this tour offers great value for travelers on a budget. It’s not a deep dive into Oaxaca’s history but rather a lively, storytelling ride that’s perfect for those wanting a lighthearted overview. Keep in mind that if you’re hoping for a full-fledged mezcal experience, this might fall short, as the tasting may not always be included.

What the Reviews Say

The reviews are mostly positive about the guide’s entertainment and the fun atmosphere, with several praising the humor and storytelling. However, there’s a recurring theme of disappointment over the missing mezcal tasting—something to consider if this aspect is important. One reviewer remarked, “The tour is fine for the price, but the service is not good,” citing issues like being told to wait even with a reservation, and the lack of clarity about what’s included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy storytelling, local legends, and a casual atmosphere. It’s ideal for families, couples, or friends seeking a light, fun introduction to Oaxaca without a hefty price tag. If you’re looking for a serious cultural or historical tour, or if mezcal tasting is your priority, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a quick, budget-friendly way to get a sense of Oaxaca’s streets and legends. The entertaining guide and the visual route through notable neighborhoods are definite pluses, especially if you enjoy stories and local color. The lack of a consistent mezcal tasting is a drawback, but the overall experience provides a lively, informal snapshot that can make for a memorable evening, especially if you’re traveling with others who appreciate humor and storytelling.

However, for those craving a more substantial culture or authentic mezcal experience, this might feel a bit too fleeting or superficial. It’s best suited for travelers who want a fun, inexpensive evening and don’t mind the brief duration.

Who’s it best for?

• Budget travelers looking for a fun activity
• Families or groups wanting a relaxed evening
• Those interested in a storytelling-focused overview of Oaxaca
• Travelers who enjoy lively, informal city tours

Who might want to look elsewhere?

• Visitors craving a deep dive into Oaxaca’s history
• People expecting an authentic mezcal tasting experience
• Travelers with limited time who want more than a 1-hour snapshot

FAQs About the Oaxaca Legends Tour Mezcalbús

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly and engaging for all ages, as it’s a casual ride with stories and city views.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in Spanish. If you don’t speak Spanish, consider bringing a translation app or asking about available languages beforehand.

Where do I meet the tour?
You meet at Av. José Maria Morelos #701, just a block from the Zócalo, at the tour operator’s office.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about one hour, making it a quick activity perfect for fitting into a relaxed evening.

Is mezcal tasting guaranteed?
No, reviews suggest that the mezcal tasting is often not included or not available during the tour, despite advertising.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it available in the evening?
Yes, it’s generally offered in the evening, making it a nice way to conclude a day in Oaxaca.

What’s the group size like?
It tends to be small, which helps keep the experience lively and intimate.

Is the tour family-oriented?
Absolutely, it’s casual and fun enough for families with children interested in stories and city views.

Does the tour include food?
No, food is not included. It’s purely a sightseeing and storytelling experience along with the optional mezcal tasting.

Final Word

The Oaxaca: Legends Tour Mezcalbús is a budget-friendly, lively way to get a quick feel for the city’s streets, neighborhoods, and stories. If you’re after an inexpensive, informal activity that combines city sights with local legends—and are okay with the possibility of missing out on the mezcal tasting—this is a charming choice. It’s especially well-suited for families, casual travelers, or anyone wanting a lighthearted glimpse of Oaxaca’s nightlife. Just keep expectations in check regarding the mezcal, and you’ll likely enjoy the engaging storytelling and scenic route.

You can check availability for your dates here: