Airport Pick-Up: Oaxaca de Juarez

Upon arriving at the airport, a Tour Leader will be waiting to escort you to Oaxaca's historic center via private shuttle for an approximately 25 to 40 minute drive to this dreamy town tucked between the Sierra Madre. Once in the heart of the Oaxaca, you will be checked into your hotel and given a brief orientation of the area.

Accommodation: Hotel Con Corazon

Staying at Hotel Con Corazón in Oaxaca is a unique and enriching experience. Hotel con Corazón is a social enterprise dedicated to creating impact. They operate hotels in developing countries with the purpose of supporting local communities to build a brighter future.

They do this by investing in education and work. 75% of the profits generated at the business go towards educational programs, set up in cooperation with local NGO’s that support and motivate students to complete their schooling.  One of the current NGOs they work with on the ground in Oaxaca is the Instituto de Integración y Asesoría Comunitaria (IIAC).  IIAC is a learning center attending the academic, psychological and social needs of marginalized youth between the ages of 14 - 24.  

We'll enjoy beautifully designed rooms with modern amenities, a peaceful courtyard, and a delicious breakfast made from local ingredients. The location is ideal, close to Oaxaca's historic sites such as the Plaza de la Danza. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, staying at Hotel Con Corazón not only provides relaxation but also contributes to significant social impact in Oaxaca.

Welcome Dinner at Levadura de Olla Restaurante

Jumping right into our immersion experience, we’ll take a quick stroll through the city for our first meal together at Levadura de Olla Restaurante, located in the center of Oaxaca. The 26-year-old chef/owner Thalía Barrios Garcia has created a menu rooted in the cuisine of her hometown in Oaxaca’s southern mountains, and her food is at once fresh and smoky, vegetable-forward and deeply nourishing.

Sip crisp white wine from Mexico and dig into sweet potato-filled tamales as the female cooks turn out fresh corn tortillas on the nearby comal.

Meals: D

Cooking Class with Doña Reyna: El Sabor Zapoteco

After breakfast, we'll spend our morning enveloped in the world of Zapotec cuisine with El Sabor Zapoteco.  Visiting Teotitlán del Valle immerses us into the world of one of Oaxaca's ancient indigenous civilizations, while observing how Zapotec ancestral traditions have been preserved over thousands of years continuing to flourish today.  One of the main areas where Zapotec traditions come to life is through Oaxacan food! 

Once we arrive in Teotitlán, we'll engage in a cooking class with our friend Doña Reyna beginning with a tour of the Teotitlán market.  At the market we'll select some fresh, seasonal ingredients for the menu we'll be preparing back in Reyna's beautiful home.  We'll also snag some sweet bread and chocolate for a little local breakfast. 

Back in Reyna's ample kitchen, she'll share some of the traditional Zapotec recipes of her ancestors, demonstrating cooking techniques passed down through generations. Under her guidance, we'll prepare authentic dishes, learning the cultural significance of each one. The class ends with a shared meal, where everyone enjoys the delicious results of their efforts, gaining not just cooking skills but also an appreciation for the rich culinary heritage of the region.

Textile Experience with Vida Nueva

Next we'll head to a women's cooperative Vida Nueva, where our textile experience begins with an introduction to the vibrant traditions of Zapotec weaving.

We'll meet the skilled artisans who demonstrate the intricate process of transforming raw wool into beautiful, handwoven textiles. Together, we'll learn about natural dyeing techniques using local plants and insects, and get the chance to try our hands at the loom. The experience highlights the cultural significance and craftsmanship behind each piece.

Our visit concludes with an opportunity to purchase unique, handcrafted items directly from the artisans, supporting the cooperative's mission to preserve and promote Zapotec heritage.

Siesta

In the afternoon you'll have the opportunity to take some free time to relax, rest or explore independently.

Dinner at Casa Taviche

Dinner at Casa Taviche is a delightful culinary journey into the expansive world of Oaxaca gastronomy. We are greeted with warm hospitality and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. The menu features a fusion of traditional Oaxacan flavors and contemporary twists, highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Each dish, from the starters to the desserts, is beautifully presented and bursting with rich, complex flavors. Our evening concludes with a profound satisfaction and deeper appreciation for the vibrant, diverse cuisine of Oaxaca.

Accommodations: Hotel Con Corazon

Meals: B, L, D

Hierve el Agua & Lunch

Today we will embark on an extraordinary private guided tour with our local guide to the archaeological site of Milta, the petrified waterfall of Hierve el Agua and the agave fields and production rooms of a locally owned "palenque".

Upon arriving at Hierve el Agua, you'll be greeted by the sight of petrified waterfalls, created over thousands of years by mineral-rich springs. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear pools, where the rejuvenating waters invite you to relax and unwind amidst the stunning natural surroundings.

After a refreshing swim, indulge in a delicious lunch that showcases the flavors of Oaxaca. Savor traditional culinary delights, from savory dishes bursting with local ingredients to refreshing beverages that quench your thirst and invigorate your senses.

For those seeking adventure, there is the option to embark on a guided hike to get closer to the petrified waterfalls, enjoying flora and fauna along the way. 

Milta

As you explore Milta, our guide's engaging commentary unveils the rich history, folklore, and traditions that shape this remarkable land.

You'll discover an archaeological site steeped in ancient history and explore the remnants of this once-thriving civilization, while learning about its significance and uncovering the secrets that lie within its structures.

From towering pyramids and intricately carved stone monuments to ancient dwellings and ceremonial spaces, the archaeological site provides a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Palenque Tour & Dinner

You'll end the day by Immersing yourself in the rich traditions and deep-rooted heritage of Mezcal production as knowledgeable guides share the intricate processes passed down through generations.

We'll step into the agave fields, where rows of majestic plants stretch as far as the eye can see. Learn about the different varieties of agave, their cultivation, and the crucial role they play in creating Mezcal's distinct flavors. Gain insights into the careful harvesting and traditional methods of extracting the heart of the agave, known as the "piña," which is the essence of Mezcal production.

We will appreciate this labor-intensive process of cooking, grinding, and fermenting the piñas to extract their precious distilled juices. Engage with skilled "Maestros Mezcaleros" as they showcase their expertise, sharing their knowledge and passion for preserving the ancestral techniques that contribute to Mezcal's unique character.

As the day draws to a close, indulge in a memorable dinner amidst the very agave fields that nurtured the Mezcal you have come to admire. Savor traditional Oaxacan dishes that showcase the region's culinary heritage, perfectly paired with Mezcal recommendations that enhance the flavors and create a harmonious culinary experience.

Accommodations: Hotel Con Corazon

Meals: B, L, D

Private Transport to Santa Catarina Lachatao

Driving through the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca to Santa Catarina Lachatao is a breathtaking experience. As we wind through the rugged mountain roads, the landscape shifts from dense forests to expansive vistas, with each turn revealing stunning views of mist-covered peaks and deep valleys.  Our ride out to the community should take approximately 2 hours.

The journey, though occasionally challenging with its steep and narrow passages, is rewarding, culminating in the serene and picturesque setting of Santa Catarina Lachatao, nestled high in the mountains.

Bienvenidos a Lachatao

We want to wish you a deep and sincere welcome to our home for the next two nights.  Santa Catarina Lachatao is a picturesque village set high in the Sierra Norte mountains of Oaxaca. Known for its serene beauty and cool, crisp mountain air, the village is surrounded by lush forests and breathtaking vistas.

Traditional adobe houses with red-tiled roofs line the cobblestone streets, and the community's rich cultural heritage is evident in the vibrant local customs and craftsmanship.  

This is a time for deep reflection.   For disconnection from the daily tasks and fast pace of urban life to connect with the mountains.  We will be deepening our knowledge of traditional medicine practices, hiking through the trails of Lachatao and setting aside time for profound rest and relaxation.  

This experience has been curated to ensure direct support to the community's local ecotourism project.  Lachatao has been combatting transnational mining projects attempting to encroach on their territory for decades, we believe providing direct economic support to these communities is fundamental when envisioning regenerative travel!

Whether we're walking through the forest trails, visiting the sacred mountainside, bathing in rives, or immersing ourselves in the ancient Temazcal tradition, Lachatao is a sacred space along our transformational journey.

Lunch at Lachatao Communal Kitchen

We'll be breaking bread with our friends in Lachatao who serve fresh local ingredients at the communal kitchen.  It is common that communities within the Sierra Norte have large communal kitchens to attend to visitors during festivities or other types of events.

Food in Lachatao is typical serrano cuisine often integrating stews, moles and some of the best tortillas you'll ever have in your life.  Get ready for some delicious, healthy food that nourishes the soul.  Our meals will be accompanied with aguas de sabor, locally sourced hot chocolates or te de poleo. There will always be options for vegetarians as well.  

Siesta

Take some free time to relax, rest or explore independently.

Sunset Hike to the Cerro del Jaguar

For the afternoon we'll venture to Lachatao's sacred mountaintop, the Cerro del Jaguar for a sunset hike.  This ancient place has been safeguarded by the community for generations and we'll have the opportunity to engage in a unique spiritual ceremony to further connect us to this indigenous territory.  

The hike to the Cerro is relatively simple and is not too steep.  It is approximately 3 miles there and bike. 

During our hike, our communal guide will present their territory by telling the stories of the mountains, the forests and their abuelitos.  To enter into the Cerro del Jaguar is to enter into a Zapotec archaeological site not protected by any federal institution, but by the community itself.  You'll be able to make connections to the symbology we witnessed in other Zapotec sites.  

Here, Lachatao organizes dynamic festivals that pay respect to Mother Earth, to the Zapotec gods and to the ancestors of the area.  We'll bring some offerings to leave at the cerro.  This will also be a reflection activity and an opportunity to share. 

Dinner at the Lachatao Communal Kitchen

Dinner at the communal kitchen in Lachatao offers a true taste of local hospitality and cuisine. As we gather in the rustic dining area, the aroma of freshly prepared traditional dishes fills the air. The meal features a variety of regional specialties, such as rich moles, tender meats, fresh vegetables, and handmade tortillas, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Dinners in Lachatao are often a little lighter, small vegetable stews and quesadillas will be served accompanied with real organic beans and rice. Get ready for some delicious, healthy food that nourishes the soul. Our meals will be accompanied with aguas de sabor, locally sourced hot chocolates or te de poleo. There will always be options for vegetarians as well.

Accommodations: Lachatao Communal Cabins

Staying at the communal cabins in Lachatao offers a rustic and serene retreat in the heart of the Sierra Norte mountains. The cabins, built with traditional materials, blend seamlessly into the natural landscape, providing a cozy and comfortable haven. Inside, we find simple yet charming furnishings, with warm blankets and a wood-burning stove to keep us snug in the cool mountain air. Large windows offer stunning views of the surrounding forests and mountains, allowing us to connect deeply with nature.

Mornings begin with the sounds of birds and the fresh scent of pine. The tranquility and natural beauty of Lachatao, combined with the warm hospitality of the local community, make for an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience.

Meals: B, L, D

Breakfast at the Communal Kitchen

Get ready for some delicious cafe de olla and fresh hand-made tortillas.

Breakfasts in Lachatao include traditional Oaxacan dishes like tamales, eggs with local herbs, black beans, quesillo, freshly baked serrano bread, and seasonal fruits. 

We'll sit at rustic wooden tables, enjoying the cozy, communal atmosphere as morning light streams through the windows. Our hosts share stories and insights about the dishes, enriching our understanding of the community. This hearty, nourishing breakfast provides the perfect start to our day.

Hike to the Ex-Hacienda de 5 Señores + Optional Cold Plunge

A hike to the Ex Hacienda de 5 Señores in Lachatao is an enriching journey through the scenic Sierra Norte mountains. Starting from the community, we'll follow a path that winds through lush forests and across babbling streams. The trail gradually descends, offering glimpses of panoramic views and really shows off the tremendous biodiversity of the Sierra. As we hike, the fresh mountain air will invigorate us, and the tranquil sounds of nature provide a peaceful backdrop.

The hike is approximately 2.5 hours and is considered intermediate.  It has some sections where the trail is a little steep so be sure to wear hiking shoes with good tread.  Also be sure to bring your bathing suit as there is a beautiful river by the Ex-hacienda thats a perfect spot for anyone interested in a little cold plunge!

The Ex Hacienda de 5 Señores is an evocative relic of the past set in a serene valley. The historic buildings, though weathered by time, still showcase the colonial architecture.  Our communal guide will bring the Hacienda to life telling us stories of a troubling past where indigenous peoples were enslaved to extract gold and other minerals from their territory in servitude of the colonizers.

We take a moment to explore the ruins, imagining the bustling industry that once filled these walls. The site exudes a sense of history and mystery, making the hike not just a physical journey but a step back in time. Finally, we rest and enjoy a picnic, surrounded by the beauty and quiet of this hidden gem, before making our way back to Lachatao.

Picnic Lunch

We'll find a scenic spot amidst towering pines or beside the river as we unpack handmade tortillas, artisanal cheeses, flavorful tamales, and ripe, juicy fruits. The crisp mountain air carries the scent of pine needles and wildflowers, enhancing our sensory experience. 

Siesta

Take some free time to relax, rest or explore independently.

Temazcal Ceremony

We'll participate in a temazcal ceremony in Lachatao, experiencing a deeply cleansing and spiritual tradition. We'll enter into a traditional sweat lodge made from stone and earth, guided by a local shaman or healer. Inside, the air will be thick with steam from heated volcanic rocks, infused with aromatic herbs like basil, ruda and rosemary.

This ceremony symbolizes an entering into the womb of Mother Earth.  In Mesoamerican rituals the balancing of hot and cold systems is fundamental to one's physical and spiritual health.

This Temazcal will involve a series of rituals, including chanting, meditation, and the pouring of water over the hot stones to create purifying steam. As the heat intensifies, we'll feel the physical detoxification and mental clarity it promotes. Emerging from the temazcal, we'll feel rejuvenated and spiritually refreshed, having connected deeply with ancient traditions and our own inner selves.

Temazcales are meant to be enjoyable and purifying.  There are a couple different recommendations we have for you:

• Come in with an open mind and be ready to get a little out of your comfort zone.

• Wear a bathing suit.

• Temazcales can be a little tight in space.  We are entering into the womb of Mother Earth so it is possible that you will be touching the person next to you.

• At any point if you would like to leave the Temazcal it is perfectly fine.  Just mention to the healer who is leading the ceremony that you need to step out.

Light Dinner at the Lachatao Communal Kitchen

Accommodations: Lachatao Communal Cabins

Meals: B, L, D

Breakfast at the Communal Kitchen

We'll start the day with another delicious breakfast at the communal kitchen before we hit the road.

Private Transport to Capulalpam

From here we'll head out to another community in the Sierra Norte region called Capulálpam de Mendez.  The drive over to the community should take approximately 45 minutes.

Traditional Medicinal Healing Center

Prepare to immerse yourself in the healing traditions of Oaxaca at the Ngula Yuu Clínica de Medicina Tradicional (Traditional Medicine Clinic), led by a cooperative of skilled midwives, including our beloved friend Reina. Here, you'll be warmly welcomed into a sanctuary of holistic wellness. Indulge in a range of therapeutic services tailored to rejuvenate both body and spirit, including soothing massages, invigorating temazcal experiences, revitalizing herbal baths, and more. For those seeking natural remedies, the clinic offers a selection of health products carefully crafted by the midwives themselves.

Among the offerings is the temazcal, a sacred sweat lodge ritual rooted in ancient Mesoamerican traditions. Beyond its physical benefits, the temazcal journey provides a profound spiritual and emotional cleanse, connecting participants with the wisdom of indigenous ancestors.

Prices for services range from $17 to $35 per person, with the first service incuded. Feel free to explore additional treatments at your discretion, as we'll be available to discuss and arrange your personalized healing experience in the foggy mountain town of Capulálpam. 

Lunch with Rogelio & Inés: Wooden Molinillos, Chocolate

Today we will be visiting our dear friend Rogelio's woodshop. Rogelio, a master artisan, will show us molinillos and other wooden tools that he elaborates in his family workshop. A molinillo is a traditional Mexican wooden whisk, meticulously crafted to create frothy and velvety hot chocolate. It consists of a long wooden handle with a grooved, cylindrical head adorned with intricate carvings and is used by skilled chocolatiers. This iconic utensil embodies the artistry and craftsmanship deeply rooted in Mexican culinary traditions.

Speaking of chocolate, Oaxaca is renowned for its exceptional cacao and the rich heritage of chocolate production. The region's unique terrain, with its fertile soil and favorable climate, cultivates high quality cacao beans. Oaxacan chocolate is distinct, characterized by its intense flavor profiles, often showcasing notes of roasted nuts, hints of spices like cinnamon, and a subtle bitterness that adds depth. 

Aztecs and Mayas consider cacao sacred and continue to use it in elaborate rituals and ceremonies, cherishing its status as the "food of the gods." During our visit, Rogelio will share the secrets of the traditional Oaxacan chocolate-making process and we'll learn about the process that preserves the authentic flavors and showcases the reverence for ancient techniques passed down through generations.

Finally, we'll share a traditional meal prepared by Rogelio and his family. This cozy mountainside home is the perfect place for a hearty meal and conversation with new friends!

Private Transfer: Capulálpam to Oaxaca de Juárez

After a memorable time in mountain, we will return to Oaxaca de Juárez for our farewell dinner and final night in Oaxaca!

Siesta

Take some free time to relax, rest or explore independently.

Farewell Dinner at Adamá

Tonight, we're going to switch it up a bit.  Now that you've tried many Oaxacan dishes from different regions, we'll enjoy a memorable dinner at mediterranean restaurant Adama in Oaxaca, where contemporary cuisine meets traditional flavors. As we step into the chic, inviting atmosphere, we'll be greeted by the warm, ambient lighting and stylish decor. The menu will offer an array of inventive dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, each plate a beautiful fusion of textures and tastes. 

We'll savor each course, from creative appetizers to delectable main courses, all paired with thoughtfully selected wines or craft cocktails. The attentive service and the vibrant, culinary artistry will make our dining experience at Adama truly exceptional, leaving us with a deep appreciation for Oaxaca's evolving gastronomic scene.

Accommodations: La Betulia Bed & Breakfast

Le Betulia is a charming bed and breakfast that invites you to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.

This peaceful retreat provides an authentic experience, combining comfortable accommodations, delightful culinary offerings, and personalized service.

Meals: B, L, D

it's farewell to Oaxaca (for now!) after an amazing adventure.

Private transportation will be coordinated to ensure you make it safely to the airport in time for your departure. 

Meals: B