Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 19 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs worth booking?
Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs is a 9-hour experience in Oaxaca City, Mexico, from $188 per person. It scores 67 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 19 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 67 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (19)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $188 per person
What makes this tour special is the unique opportunity to enjoy a hike in nature while supporting a noble cause. In collaboration with Caravana Canina, this tour not only takes you to explore the beautiful landscapes of Ixtepeji, a Zapotec village in the Sierra Norte, but also allows rescued dogs to participate in a socialization and training process. During the tour, dogs, who are in the process of recovering from past traumas, will enjoy the natural environment and interaction with participants. In addition, you can get up close and personal with the efforts of the local community in environmental conservation and ecotourism. In the end, you will enjoy traditional food from the Sierra Norte, contributing with your participation to the mission of helping dogs in street situations. An experience that combines nature, culture and solidarity.
What you get
About this experience
What makes this tour special is the unique opportunity to enjoy a hike in nature while supporting a noble cause. In collaboration with Caravana Canina, this tour not only takes you to explore the beautiful landscapes of Ixtepeji, a Zapotec village in the Sierra Norte, but also allows rescued dogs to participate in a socialization and training process. During the tour, dogs, who are in the process of recovering from past traumas, will enjoy the natural environment and interaction with participants. In addition, you can get up close and personal with the efforts of the local community in environmental conservation and ecotourism. In the end, you will enjoy traditional food from the Sierra Norte, contributing with your participation to the mission of helping dogs in street situations. An experience that combines nature, culture and solidarity.
What's included
Included
- Snacks
- Sure
- Bottled water
- Access to restricted areas
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Breakfast
- Certified Guide
- Tea and coffee
What you'll see and do
Visit the impressive mountains and the forest of Oaxaca as if by magic with a spectacular view of the city of Oax
540 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Oaxaca City
See you at the Coyote Aventuras Office, located at Alcalá 802, Timbre A, between Café Punto Paz and Bicibella.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
See you at the Coyote Aventuras Office, located at Alcalá 802, Timbre A, between Café Punto Paz and Bicibella.
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 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Coyote Aventuras
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 19 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Physical effort
9 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
7 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
5 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
19 verified traveler reviews for Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Rescue Pups, Great Hike -- what's not to like?!
I'm a dog lover who left his beloved rescue at home to take a vacation to Oaxaca, so this was right up my alley. It was everything I needed it to be: a good, heart-pumping hike; vistas unlike anything I'd expect in Oaxaca; an amazing guide in Cristian; and the opportunity to hang with Loki, the cutest rescue pup. (I would have totally taken her home if my own girl wouldn't have gotten jealous). Along the way, Christian talked us through plants, history, and culture, which made the 3 hours on the trail even more interesting. It was also quiet -- we never ran into anyone else, so it felt like the trail was all ours. Highly recommend this walk through the mysterious woods of Ixtepeji.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re really glad the experience had everything you were looking for—from the hike and the views to the connection with nature (and Loki!). Cristian will be happy to hear your kind words. It’s great to know you enjoyed the peacefulness of Ixtepeji as well. We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you again soon!
via Tripadvisor
Thank you Paola!
Had a magical day in the forest with Paola hiking with 3 amazing dogs. The forest is truly enchanted and wonderful. Paola was amazing and taught us so much about the eco systems, plants, and history. Thank you Paola for the best day! -B+L
via Tripadvisor
the most incredible hiking adventure!
This tour was amazing. Our guide Diego shared so many stories and histories about these beautiful mountains. We loved climbing the the viewpoint and enjoying the full panorama. Breakfast was delicious--fresh local honey, cheese, breads...For lunch we had a stunning view at a lovely restaurant where we enjoyed fresh mamelas and soups. The hike took us through mossy, shaded forests full of wildflowers. Would highly recommend this company for your tour!
via Tripadvisor
A steep climb rewarded with spectacular views
My 18yo daughter and I had a fantastic day out with our small group and our guide Diego was a wealth of information about the Ixtepeji Forest plants and Oaxacan history. We set off with 1 young dog and 3 puppies in the van, and wound our way up the Sierra Norte mountain range to our stop. After a short 30 min walk, we stopped for a delicious breakfast (Almuerza) of fresh bread (from Boulenc), sundried tomatoes, avocado, cheese, beans etc. We then hiked with the dogs up to the top of the range to the lookout to admire the spectacular view. I did struggle with the altitude and last steep section, but Diego was gracious in allowing plenty of time to stop and rest regularly. We then followed a creek all the way downhill, which is also a mountain bike path. It was a scramble in some sections with some uneven rocky bits, but again, we took our time. I had my own hiking pole, but Diego also offered these at the start, so highly recommend utilising at least one to help with balance. Definitely bring a long sleeves too, as it was chilly at the top. My daughter and I made the choice to stop at the cabins where our driver Jose Luis was waiting, and the remainder of the group hiked another 30 mins to the next pick up. We then stopped at a clifftop cafe with an amazing view for an enormous plate of memeles on the way down the mountain (at about 3.30). Back at 5pm with tired little dogs. Lastly, the company's mission to rehabilitate stray dogs and get them used to humans is commendable and having them trotting along with us made the hike even more enjoyable. Highly recommend for those who are reasonably fit.
via Tripadvisor
Great experience hiking in the forest (be sure to know your skill level though!).
Did a hike in the Ixtepeji forest with them. Overall a great experience for me. Beautiful scenery, guide was friendly and explained a lot about plants on the way. I would caution about the difficulty on the way down though - while I had no problem, my girlfriend who was sick and couldn't come, would have definitely struggled with the steep descent and one other person did actually get hurt while the guide was chatting away and not paying enough attention to the group. Also, I think they should take better care to bring a first aid kit and enough water.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for taking the time to write this review about your experience with Coyote Aventuras. Every comment like this helps us a lot! We hope to see you soon and, again, thank you!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Coyote Aventuras, who run 10 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 72.0.
See everything Coyote Aventuras runsWhy this scores 67
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Oaxaca City.
How much does Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs cost?
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Prices start at $188 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Oaxaca City usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Oaxaca City is not rushed.
Is Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 67 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 19 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Oaxaca City, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs?
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Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Oaxaca City can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Oaxaca City and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Oaxaca City within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Oaxaca City?
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On Outty we rank every Oaxaca City experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Hierve el Agua 2.5 hours, Mitla, Tule, Rugs and Mezcal for a Day, OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local., Monte Alban for 3hrs, Black Pottery and Alebrijes with Admissions. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Oaxaca City?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs?
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Included: Snacks; Sure; Bottled water; Access to restricted areas; and Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs?
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See you at the Coyote Aventuras Office, located at Alcalá 802, Timbre A, between Café Punto Paz and Bicibella. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Hiking in the Enchanted Forest of Ixtepeji with Rescue Dogs?
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Across 19 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
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