Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 19 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud worth booking?
Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud is a 8-hour experience in Oaxaca City, Mexico, from $320 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 19 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (19)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $320 per person
Let yourself go for a day full of flavors, colors and traditions that make Oaxaca unique. Start your experience with making Oaxaca cheese as it is called elsewhere and enjoying a breakfast with traditional memelitas (sma
What you get
About this experience
Let yourself go for a day full of flavors, colors and traditions that make Oaxaca unique. Start your experience with making Oaxaca cheese as it is called elsewhere and enjoying a breakfast with traditional memelitas (small corn tortillas), learning the secrets of local cuisine directly from the creators. Admire the grandeur of Monte Albán, the Zapotec city that dominates the valley with its ancient structures and breathtaking views. Enter San Antonio Arrazola, where artisans bring to life the colorful wooden figures called tones and nahuales — popularly known as alebrijes — and share with them the richness of their tradition. Finish in San Bartolo Coyotepec, home of the unmistakable black mud, and discover how clay is transformed into unique pieces through generations of techniques. You can take authentic souvenirs directly from the family workshops, preserving a piece of Oaxaca with you.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Carbonated beverages
- Bottled water
- Entrance fees
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Breakfast
- Parking fees
Not included
- Meals
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Start your day at the home of a local cook, where you will discover one of the best-kept secrets of Oaxacan cuisine: quesillo, known elsewhere as Oaxaca cheese. You can get up close and personal with the artisanal brewing process, from the curds to the characteristic strip-rolling that makes it unique. In addition, you will have the opportunity to taste fresh cheese accompanied by traditional memelitas,—thick corn tortillas, soft and slightly browned, typical of Oaxaca—freshly made and prepared with local ingredients. An authentic experience that connects with the culinary roots of Oaxaca and the work of the families that keep this tradition alive.
80 minutes here
Zona Arqueologica de Monte Alban
After breakfast, head to Monte Albán, the ancient Zapotec city that dominates the Oaxaca Valley. During the guided tour, you will explore its wide squares and archaeological structures while learning about the history, culture and traditions of this important civilization. You will know how its inhabitants lived, their social and ceremonial practices, and the influence that this city had in the region. In addition, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the valley, ideal for photographs and to appreciate the magnitude of this historic site. This visit offers a perfect combination of education, culture and natural beauty
120 minutes here · Admission included
San Antonio Arrazola
WOODEN BREWS In this colorful town at the foot of Monte Albán we will visit one of the artisan families that keep alive a unique tradition: the elaboration of figures in copal wood that many popularly know as alebrijes. However, in Oaxaca its origin is different: here they are called tones and nahuales. Tones represent protective animals that, according to Zapotec tradition, are linked to the day of birth of each person, while nahuals are mystical beings that link the human world with the animal and spiritual. Each hand-carved and hand-painted figure reflects a deep connection to the ancestral worldview. During the visit you can see the craft process up close, hear directly from the creators about the symbolism of their designs and, if you wish, acquire an authentic piece directly in the family workshop.
60 minutes here
Finally, we visit San Bartolo Coyotepec, a town famous around the world for its unrivalled black mud, one of the most emblematic craft expressions of Oaxaca. Here we will discover how the clay soil of the region, worked with ancient techniques, gives rise to pieces that are not only beautiful, but also bearers of history and symbolism. We will see the complete process: from mud preparation, modelling and natural drying, to cooking in traditional ovens. Most striking is the quartz stone burnishing technique, which gives each piece that characteristic metallic shine without the need for enamels or paints. Black mud is used for utilitarian objects, decorative pieces and figures representing the local worldview. During the visit you will see how each work comes to life in the hands of artisans and you will have the opportunity to purchase directly in the workshop unique pieces that carry centuries of tradition.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
SUV or Chevrolet Suburban
Guided service with transportation Private Duration: 8 hours: Being a private service can add more time Water and soft drinks SUV or Chevrolet Suburban Includes pickup: We move to the place where the traveler is staying Pickup included
Premium sedan
Guided service with transportation Private Duration: 8 hours: Being a private service can add time Water and soft drinks Premium sedan: New model vehicle with climate and wide coverage insurance Includes pickup: We move to the place where the traveler is staying Pickup included
Toyota Hiace (VAN)
Guided service with transportation Private Duration: 8 hours: Being a private service can add time Water and soft drinks Toyota Hiace: New model vehicle with climate and wide coverage insurance, ideal for groups of families or friends. Pickup included
SUV pickup truck
Guided service with transportation Private Duration: 8 hours: Being a private service can add time Water and soft drinks SUV pickup truck: New model large vehicle with climate and wide coverage insurance Includes pickup: We move to the place where the traveler is staying Pickup included
Luxury Mercedes Sprinter
Guided service with transportation Private Duration: 8 hours: Being a private service can add time Water and soft drinks Luxury Mercedes Sprinter: Climate-controlled vehicle with passenger insurance, larger than a standard van, ideal for groups of up to 15 people 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
- TONALLI TOURS OAXACA
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.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
5 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
19 verified traveler reviews for Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent tour to learn about gastronomy and history of Oaxaca
Fully recommended. Good weather for each place, and the tour in Monte Alban very complete. Super interesting the manufacture of cheese. Highly recommended all tour and excellent guide.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Fun and Informative!
We had an amazing time in this tour with our guide Armando. He was very knowledgeable about each of the stops and provided insights and details that we wouldn’t have gotten otherwise. It was a well balanced tour which gave a great mix of art, history, food and culture. I would highly recommend this to anyone who visits Oaxaca, especially if you are able to have Armando as your guide.
via Viator
Recommended experience in Oaxa with Cesar
Today we did a tour in Oaxaca with César and we were very satisfied. He was very friendly and attentive throughout the tour. He explained each place clearly and you could tell he knew the area well. He also acted as both a driver and a guide, always willing to lend a hand. Overall, a very pleasant and highly recommended experience.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Super recommended trip!!
The attention and knowledge of our guide Cesar Medina made our trip an unforgettable experience!! The times and places visited super nice, I highly recommend it! Oaxaca is beautiful in all its extension!
via Tripadvisor (translated)
The best option in Oaxaca
Excellent Service, very friendly driver and very punctual. The very professional Ricardo guide explaining the importance of Monte alban, we could visit three more places, we were marveled with Oaxaca and its gastronomy. 100% recommended
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $320 to $16500
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Oaxaca City.
How much does Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud cost?
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Prices start at $320 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 Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud take?
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Plan for about 8 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 Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 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 Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud?
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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 Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud?
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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 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Monte Alban Chesillo and handicrafts alebrijes and black mud 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 AUTHENTIC OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local., Hierve el Agua 2.5 hours, Mitla, Tule, Rugs and Mezcal for a Day, Traditional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma's Recipes. 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.
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