Pacific Beach Trip Bahías de Huatulco

The Oaxacan coast provides you with stunning cliffside views of thousands of small bays that dot its coastline. Join this weekend excursion to explore one of the most beautiful beach locations Mexico has to offer, the Bahías de Huatulco. Unlike other coastal areas of Mexico, the Oaxacan coast remains largely untouched and mainly plays host to local tourism. While in Huatulco, students visit several of the pristine beaches in the area nestled in small bays, and spend the day on a boat visiting some of the hidden coves. Do not miss this opportunity to explore untouched beaches and snorkel around coral reefs. This is the perfect opportunity to witness the vast biodiversity the Oaxacan coast has to offer.

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Monte Alban Pre-Hispanic Ruins

While in Oaxaca, you will visit the pre-Hispanic ruins of Monte Albán. This former Zapotec capital city is considered one of the most impressive archeological sites in Mexico. The well-preserved ruins sit atop a hill outside of Oaxaca City, which allows for amazing views of the surrounding valley. The numerous pyramids and ancient buildings found at Monte Albán fill the site with an air of awe and mystery.

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Mountain Springs (Hierve el Agua)

Hierve el Agua (or Boiling Water) is an impressive natural wonder located west of Oaxaca City. The name is derived from the abundant mineral springs that seethe from the ground, giving the appearance of boiling water. These extraordinary springs have been visited for over 2,500 years, with pre-Hispanic cultures revering their natural beauty and therapeutic properties. On this excursion, you will travel down beautiful mountain roads and experience the awe-inspiring views of the canyons and hillsides as well as soaking in the relaxing springs.

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Mitla Pyramids, Teotitlán Artisan Village, & Ancient El Tule Tree

The central valleys of Oaxaca State are filled with the echoes of the past. Mitla was known by the Zapotec people as “The Place of the Dead”. It was believed to be the entrance to the underworld and was used as a sacred burial site of great importance. At Mitla, you will find the most well-preserved mosaic designs in all of Mexico. Walking amongst the ruins, you can feel its incredible energy. After exploring Mitla, you will visit the classic Zapotec town of Teotitlán del Valle, famous for its time-honored tradition of hand-woven rugs. Finally, before returning to Oaxaca City, the excursion will take you to the gargantuan El Tule tree. Calculated to be over 3,000 years old, this behemoth is considered the largest biomass on the planet.

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Sierra Norte Mountains Hiking Trip

This expansive range of mountains, found just north of Oaxaca City, provides a stark contrast to the colonial city. Passing through dense cloud canopies and pine forests ideal for hiking, you will encounter ancient mountain villages. During the excursion, students will visit a remote Zapotec community and explore the area. Delicious meals feature the culinary cuisine of the area. A local indigenous Zapotec guide will make this trek one of the highlights of your stay in Oaxaca.

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Saint James Monastery

Travel back in time to the ancient monastery of Saint James built in 1535 and explore its elaborate Gothic cloister and splendid frescoes. The Saint James Convent is rich in history and is the site where Vicente Guerrero, father of the Mexican Republic, was infamously executed in 1831. Step onto the floor of the unfinished church (its massive roof was destroyed during an earthquake 200 years ago!) and search for the tomb of Princess Donají, a Zapotec princess and early convert to Christianity. Legends claims she fell in love with a Mixtec King, the Lord of Tilantongo. It is one of the most ornate yet hidden sites in the entire valley and is now considered a national treasure!

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Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a great way to explore the natural areas of Oaxaca and is an option both around the city of Oaxaca and at many of the excursion locations. Trails lead through the arid and mountainous landscape of the central valleys as well as through the cool and temperate cloud forests of the Sierra Norte. You can also gallop along the pristine coastline of Oaxaca’s Pacific coast. Horseback treks are led by experienced guides and no previous experience is required.

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Rock Climbing

Oaxaca has some amazing rock climbing locations! If you are interested in rock climbing this is a great place to hone your skills or go out for the first time. There is a local, limestone climbing area just 20 minutes outside of town called San Sebastian. As you hike in, you can enjoy the mountain lake below you!

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