Private Tour: Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, Teotitlán and Mezcal

This private tour of about eight hours (480 minutes in the itinerary) combines Monte Albán and Hierve el Agua in a single day, with crafts and mezcal added in between. It is led by certified local guides and travels in comfortable private transportation. The operator describes it as ideal for couples, friends or families, and says all admissions and activities are included.

The day starts at Monte Albán, which the listing places about 20 minutes from the city and describes as the great Zapotec capital. You take a guided tour of the site, about two hours, with historical detail about the place.

Next is Teotitlán del Valle, around 30 kilometers from the city of Oaxaca, whose name means place of the gods. It is known for wool textiles such as rugs, jackets, bags, sarapes and tapestries, made on large wooden looms and decorated with natural dyes. The process is handmade from start to finish, from washing the wool in the river and carding it to spinning the thread and weaving on pedal looms. A lunch stop of about an hour follows, and the guide suggests the best option, whether a market, a restaurant, a local eatery or a small stall; food is not included.

After lunch you head to Hierve el Agua, about 70 kilometers from the city, in the Sierra Mixe. You can walk around and, if the weather allows, swim in its pools, so bring a swimsuit and towel. About two hours are set aside here. The last stop is a mezcal producer where you see the artisanal process and try more than 15 different flavors; the tasting is only for those over 21.

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. It is wheelchair accessible, as are the transportation options; infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, specialized infant seats are available and service animals are allowed.

The listing recommends wearing comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat or cap and a jacket or sweater, plus a swimsuit if you want to swim. Included are water, gatorade or mineral water, entrance fees, air conditioning in the vehicle, private transportation and parking. Meals and gratuities are not included. No meeting point is given, so confirm pick-up details when you book.