The Tour to Hierve El Agua and Mezcal Distillery offers a unique opportunity to explore Oaxaca’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Praised for its immersive experience and attentive service, this small-group adventure takes visitors on a journey to discover the captivating geological formations of Hierve El Agua and indulge in the art of mezcal production. With private transportation, a delicious local lunch, and knowledgeable guides, the tour promises an unforgettable day filled with adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing swim, a taste of artisanal mezcal, or a deeper appreciation for Oaxacan traditions, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Highly rated small-group tour (4.9/5 from 100 reviews) to Hierve el Agua and a local mezcal distillery, including transportation, lunch, and alcoholic beverages.
- Highlights include hiking, swimming in natural pools at Hierve el Agua, and visiting a local bakery and mezcal distillery for culture.
- Suitable for most travelers except those with serious medical conditions; not wheelchair accessible.
- Recommended attire includes swimwear, towels, and flip-flops, with a substantial breakfast advised before the mezcal tasting.
- Overall positive reviews emphasize the knowledgeable guides, memorable experiences, and the advantage of the small group size for enhanced interaction.
Tour Overview and Details
The tour to Hierve el Agua and a mezcal distillery offers visitors a comprehensive experience in Oaxaca, Mexico.
With a 4.9/5 rating from 100 reviews, the tour is recommended by 96% of travelers. It accommodates a maximum of 20 people and is priced at €53.69 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour includes entrance to Hierve el Agua, private transportation, alcoholic beverages, and lunch. It starts at 9:00 am at the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca and returns to the same meeting point.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, except those with serious medical conditions.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Oaxaca City.
Inclusions and Logistics
Included in the tour are the entrance to Hierve el Agua, private transportation, alcoholic beverages, and lunch.
The meeting point is at Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, with the tour starting at 9:00 am. It returns to the same meeting point at the end.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infants must sit on laps. It’s not suitable for those with serious medical conditions.
Guests should wear swimwear under their clothes, bring towels, and consider flip-flops for the hot ground at Hierve el Agua.
Travelers are advised to have a substantial breakfast before the mezcal tasting.
Tour Experience and Highlights
The tour offers a variety of activities for visitors, including self-directed hiking at Hierve el Agua, where they can swim in the natural pools.
The guides provide historical and cultural insights throughout the experience, giving travelers a deeper understanding of the region.
Stops at a local bakery and mezcal distillery allow for engagement with the community and its traditions.
Many travelers appreciate the personal touches, such as welcome gifts like chocolate, that enhance the overall experience.
The small group size facilitates interaction and a more personalized experience for participants.
Traveler Reviews and Feedback
Travelers largely praised the tour guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness, highlighting memorable moments at Hierve el Agua and during the mezcal tasting.
However, some travelers felt the tour was primarily transportation-focused. Issues with the mezcal distillery experience were also noted by a few.
The small group size was seen as an advantage, enhancing interaction and providing a more personalized experience.
Preparation Tips
To prepare for the tour, visitors should wear swimwear under their clothes and bring towels. Additionally:
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Consider wearing flip-flops or water shoes, as the ground at Hierve el Agua can get quite hot.
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Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the strong Oaxacan sun.
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Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during the hike and activities.
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Have a substantial breakfast before the mezcal tasting to avoid feeling lightheaded.
Following these tips will help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the day’s activities at Hierve el Agua and the mezcal distillery.
Timing Considerations
Adequate time should be allotted for hiking and swimming at Hierve el Agua.
Travelers suggest allowing enough time to explore the unique geological formations and take a dip in the natural pools. While the tour includes a visit to the site, some felt they could have spent more time there, as the experience is the highlight of the day.
The mezcal tasting at the distillery is also an important part of the tour, so visitors should plan to dedicate sufficient time to fully appreciate the process and flavors.
Food and Dining
The tour includes a lunch featuring local Oaxacan delicacies.
Travelers are advised to have a substantial breakfast before the mezcal tasting, as the lunch may not arrive until later in the day.
The lunch spread typically includes:
- Mole negro, a rich and complex sauce made from chiles, nuts, and spices.
- Tamales wrapped in banana leaves, filled with savory ingredients like chicken or cheese.
- Tlayudas, oversized crispy tortillas topped with refried beans, cheese, and other toppings.
- Fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty main dishes.
Lunch is included in the tour price, ensuring travelers can savor the flavors of Oaxaca without additional costs.
Overall Impression
The tour to Hierve el Agua and the Mezcal Distillery in Oaxaca, Mexico comes highly recommended by the vast majority of travelers.
With a 4.9/5 rating from over 100 reviews, 96% of travelers enthusiastically endorse this experience. The tour’s small group size enhances the personal touch, allowing guides to provide in-depth cultural insights and attentive service.
While some felt the mezcal distillery component could be improved, the highlights at Hierve el Agua, including hiking and swimming in the unique rock formations, are widely regarded as unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
The tour includes lunch, so bringing your own food and drinks is generally not necessary. However, you’re welcome to bring snacks or water if you have specific dietary requirements or preferences.
Is There an Option to Visit Only One Site?
According to the tour overview, there doesn’t seem to be an option to visit only one site. The tour is described as a combined experience at Hierve el Agua and a mezcal distillery, with no mention of visiting them separately.
Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book the tour in advance to secure your spot, as group sizes are limited and it’s a popular activity. Advance booking ensures you don’t miss out on this unique Oaxacan experience.
Are Children and Teenagers Allowed on the Tour?
According to the tour details, infants must sit on laps, but the tour is not suitable for those with serious medical conditions. It’s unclear if the tour specifically allows children or teenagers.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The dress code is casual, with swimwear recommended. Travelers should wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for hiking and swimming. Bringing a towel is also advised for the pools at Hierve el Agua.
The Sum Up
The Tour to Hierve El Agua and Mezcal Distillery offers an unforgettable day of adventure, relaxation, and culture in Oaxaca. With exclusive small group access, private transportation, and expertly guided experiences, it’s no wonder this tour boasts an exceptional rating and recommendation rate. For those seeking an authentic and memorable outing in Oaxaca, this tour delivers on all fronts.
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