The Mezcal Journey

If you’re considering a trip to Oaxaca and have a penchant for spirits, the Mezcal Journey offers a compelling way to taste, learn, and see the craftsmanship behind Mexico’s most iconic drink. This 7-hour tour isn’t just about sipping mezcal; it’s a full immersion into the culture, tradition, and hard work that makes each bottle special. For those curious about the process, or just eager for a day of good food, beautiful scenery, and unlimited mezcal, this experience ticks many boxes.

What we love about this tour is its authenticity and depth. The chance to walk through vast agave fields with thousands of plants is a visual feast, and the full access to every stage of production at an artisanal distillery really makes you appreciate the craft. Plus, the inclusion of local Oaxacan food pairs perfectly with the tastings. A potential downside? The day’s pace is busy, and the tour does focus heavily on the production process, which might feel a bit technical if you’re just after a casual drink. This tour suits food and spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a true taste of Oaxaca’s mezcal culture.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Walk through agave fields and see traditional production methods.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts, like Ricardo and Leyda, enhance the experience with their insights.
• Unlimited Tastings: Sample a variety of mezcals and explore different categories.
• Cultural Deep Dive: Learn about each step from agave harvesting to bottling.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional Oaxacan meal included in the price.
• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 12 participants, making it intimate and personal.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Includes and How It Shapes Your Experience

This tour offers excellent value for its $98 price tag, especially considering the full transportation, entry fees, and unlimited tastings included. You’ll start your day at Templo de San Matías Jalatlaco, where your guide will meet you wearing a distinctive “Mezcal Journey” shirt, so no worries about getting lost. The small group size (max 12) means you’ll get a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact.

The Journey Begins: Transport and First Stops

A comfortable van whisks you out of Oaxaca’s busy streets and into the countryside. The drive alone is worth noting, as it takes you through scenic landscapes to Santiago Matatlán, famously known as “The World’s Mezcal Capital.” Here, you’ll get full access to artisanal distilleries, which is a real highlight. Unlike factory tours, this experience focuses on handcrafted methods, giving you a chance to see private areas such as barrel cellars and even participate in packing or harvesting activities, depending on the season.

Walking Through Agave Fields

One of the truly memorable moments is the walk through vast agave plantations. We loved the way the guide narrates the history and importance of these plants, which dominate the landscape. Expect to see thousands of agave plants, and depending on the time of year, you might even get to participate in activities like plantation or harvest. It’s a visual and tactile experience that helps you appreciate how much labor and patience go into each bottle of mezcal.

Observing the Production Process

Next, a full access tour of a traditional artisanal distillery reveals every step of mezcal production. You’ll see cooking pits where agave hearts are roasted, the fermentation tanks, and the distillation process. The guides go into detail, explaining the different types of agave and how they influence flavor. Several reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides—one even mentioned Leyda’s great insights into the process.

You’ll also get special access to normally private areas, such as the cellar where mezcals are aged in barrels, and bottling sections where you can observe—or even participate in—packing. This behind-the-scenes look elevates the experience from a simple tasting to a genuine appreciation of the artisanship involved.

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Tasting and Food

The unlimited mezcal tastings are a major selling point. Expect to sample different categories, classes, and varieties, which can range from smoky to fruitier styles. The guide will teach you how to identify flavors and aromas, turning the tasting into a learning opportunity. Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides enhance the tasting experience—one called Leyda “very lovely and very knowledgeable,” which adds confidence to how much you’ll learn.

The culinary highlight is a traditional Oaxacan lunch at Doña Chica, where you can enjoy local dishes that pair beautifully with the spirits. While one reviewer mentioned the food wasn’t their favorite, most agree it’s a solid, flavorful meal that complements the day’s drinks.

The Final Moments: Photos and Reflection

The tour concludes with a second drive back to Oaxaca, giving you time to reflect on what you’ve seen and tasted. Throughout the day, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos of the agave fields and the picturesque countryside.

The Practical Details that Matter

Timing, Transportation, and Group Size

The 7-hour day generally starts in the morning at the Templo de San Matías Jalatlaco. The van rides are comfortably paced, with 50 minutes to reach the agave fields and shorter transfers between stops. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, fostering more interaction and personalized attention.

Cost and Value

At $98 per person, the tour offers good value considering it includes transportation, entrance fees, unlimited tastings, and a local meal. While you should note that mezcals and bottles are not included, the experience itself is comprehensive enough to justify the expense, especially for those interested in learning about mezcal rather than just drinking it.

Accessibility and Limitations

The tour is not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or those over 75, mainly due to the physical nature of walking and the tasting focus. Also, travelers should bring sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and closed-toe shoes for walking in the fields and distilleries.

Authenticity and Real-World Insights from Reviewers

Many past participants praise the guides’ expertise. Helder from Canada mentioned how both Ricardo and Leyda treated everyone like family, which speaks to the friendly atmosphere. Olimpia from the UK called Leyda’s insights “highly recommended,” and Dione from the US appreciated the “amazing” tastings and delicious food.

Several reviews emphasize the visual beauty of the agave fields (“lovely views,” “stunning scenery”) and the value for money—not just in the tasting but in the opportunity to see the entire production chain.

This tour is best suited for spirits enthusiasts and curious travelers eager to understand the craftsmanship behind mezcal. It’s ideal if you want a hands-on experience—walking through the fields, participating in production steps, and tasting multiple varieties—rather than just a quick tasting session. The inclusion of local cuisine and the small group setting make it a well-rounded, intimate experience.

If you’re after a deep dive into Oaxaca’s mezcal culture, this tour will satisfy your curiosity while offering fantastic views, good company, and authentic food. However, if you’re simply after a casual drink or have mobility issues, you might want to consider your physical comfort and interest level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round transportation from Oaxaca Centro in a comfortable van, making logistics one less thing to worry about.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 7 hours, usually starting in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, entry to the distillery and agave fields, unlimited mezcal tastings, and a traditional Oaxacan lunch.

Can I buy bottles of mezcal during the tour?
Bottles are not included in the price, and you might find opportunities to purchase at the end of the day if you wish.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for ages 18 and above, mainly due to the tasting component and physical activity involved.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and be prepared for walking outdoors.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, tours are offered in English and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations for a diverse group.

What if I want a different date?
If your preferred date isn’t available, it’s worth messaging the provider—sometimes they can accommodate special requests.

The Mezcal Journey offers a well-rounded, authentic experience into Oaxaca’s renowned spirit. It’s a chance to see the entire process, from agave field to bottle, with plenty of tastings and cultural insights along the way. The small group size and knowledgeable guides turn what could be a simple tasting into a memorable, educational adventure.

For those who love discovering local traditions, enjoy good food, and want to understand what makes mezcal so special, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s a great choice for spirits lovers, curious travelers, or anyone eager to experience Oaxaca beyond its famous markets and ruins.

You can check availability for your dates here: