Hierve el agua & Authentic Food Tour: Mole, Chocolate & Mezcal!

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Your day begins with an early Pickup from your hotel as we journey toward Hierve el Agua. Our first stop will be a Traditional family-owned small kitchen for an authentic Oaxacan breakfast. Enjoy handmade corn tortillas, traditional memelitas, eggs prepared on wood-fire comal, tacos of oaxacan cheese, beef or pork and quesadillas. It´s the perfect introduction to the real Oaxaca´s culinary traditions. (Drive time from Oaxaca city: Approx 1 hour and 30 minutes)

   30 minutes here

2. Hierve el Agua

   One of the highlights of this experience is arriving at Hierve el Agua early, before the crowds. Enjoy breathtaking views, capture stunning photos, swim in the natural pools or hike the scenic trails while taking in the peacefull morning atmosphere. Hierve el Agua is managed by the local Zapotec community according to their indigenous traditions. For this reason, certified guides are not permitted to accompany visitors inside the park. Don´t worry, it´s easy self-guided walk with clear paths leading to the pools and the main Viewpoints. We recommed bringing swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat and comfortable walking shoes.

   120 minutes here · Admission not included

3. Santiago Matatlan

   We will visit an Artisanal mezcal distillery and discover how Oaxaca’s most iconic spirit is crafted. Learn about the different varieties of agave and every step of the artisanal production process, from harvesting and cooking to fermentation and distillation. Your local hosts will also teach you the proper way to appreciate mezcal before you enjoy a guided tasting of a variety of handcrafted mezcals. Be ready—you’ll likely discover a new favorite! Or many!

   60 minutes here

4. Experience one of Oaxaca’s most treasured culinary traditions as you’re welcomed into the home of a traditional Zapotec cook. This is not a restaurant—it’s a family home, where recipes and cooking techniques have been passed down through generations. Enjoy a Mole tasting, three authentic Oaxacan moles, each showcasing the authentic flavors that have been preserved for generations in Oaxaca’s indigenous villages. Your tasting is accompanied by handmade tortillas using organic corn, refreshing fruit water and local mezcal. Vegetarian options are also available, ensuring every guest can enjoy this unforgettable culinary experience. More than a meal, this is a unique opportunity to connect with a local family and experience the warmth of Oaxacan hospitality in an intimate and authentic setting.

   60 minutes here

5. Continuing our experience with the same Zapotec family, you’ll step into the world of traditional Oaxacan chocolate. More than a cooking workshop, this is a cultural experience where you’ll discover the deep connection between cacao and the traditions of the Zapotec people. Your host will share part of their knowledge of cacao, explaining how it was once used as currency in pre-Hispanic times and how it continues to symbolize love, hospitality, and celebration during family gatherings, weddings, and Day of the Dead traditions. Guided by her, you’ll select cacao seeds on a table, roast them on a traditional wood-fired comal, peel them by hand, and grind them on a stone metate, just as chocolate has been traditionally prepared in Oaxaca’s indigenous communities for generations. Finally, you’ll whisk your own authentic hot chocolate using a traditional molinillo and enjoy it served with a local sweet bread. The perfect ending to this unforgettable cultural experience.

   60 minutes here

6. Teotitlan del Valle

   To conclude our day, we’ll visit a family textile workshop where generations of Zapotec artisans continue to preserve their traditional weaving techniques. Discover the fascinating process of handcrafting wool rugs, from preparing the wool and operating traditional looms to creating vibrant natural dyes from plants, flowers, insects, and minerals. The family will guide you through each step of the weaving process, answer your questions, and warmly welcome photos. Before we return, you’ll have time to browse their beautiful gallery, where every rug is handcrafted and available for purchase, offering a meaningful way to support the local artisan community.

   60 minutes here

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Toyota van 7 People

  Toyota Van for 7 people Pickup included

• Toyota Van for 8 people

  Toyota Van for 8 people Pickup included

• Private Toyota Van 6 People

  Toyota Van 6 People Pickup included

• Private Hierve Tour 4 People

  SUV OPTION FOR 4 PEOPLE Pickup included

• Hierve el agua & Food Tour

  Pickup included

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en, es

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 15 travelers per booking

Operated by

Oaxaca Conmigo Tours

Know before you go

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Photos

Traveler reviews

2 verified traveler reviews for Hierve el agua & Authentic Food Tour: Mole, Chocolate & Mezcal!. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.