Hiking Oaxaca's Mountains to the Pacific

Day 1: Arrival: Home/Oaxaca

Arrival: Home/Oaxaca: Welcome to the beautiful state of Oaxaca, Mexico! We meet at the Oaxaca airport and transfer to our charming colonial hotel only a stone’s throw from Oaxaca’s historic Plaza Principal or “Zócalo." The Zocalo consists of 2 squares: one with a bandstand and trees for shade; the other is full of shops and outdoor cafes. On a typical day, people from all walks of life are seen at the Zocalo - bands and groups of singing children or procession of one of the many festivals celebrated in the city and its surrounding pueblos. In addition, there is plenty of shopping for artisan crafts, paintings, jewelry, and much more! At night the area fills with street musicians and vendors selling a variety of foods and crafts. Today is a day to relax and wander the city after you arrive. We meet our guides in the lobby of the hotel at 9:00 pm for introductions and an orientation. (Overnight Hostal de la Noria or equivalent) (No meals Included)

Day 2: Monte Alban Ruins/Historic City Center

Monte Alban Ruins/Historic City Center: Today we explore the mysterious ruins of Monte Alban, the ancient capital of the Zapotecs and arguably the first metropolis of North America. This site began as the Toltecs migrated down from the present day states of Tabasco and Veracruz and encountered the Zapotec valley populations circa 500 BC. With Toltec influences, the Zapotec population flourished until about 750 AD where the population migrated to several smaller city states throughout valleys. Revered for it scenic mountaintop location just above Oaxaca City, this city played an important role in Meso-American history as it would serve as a major influence to both the Mayan civilizations in the Yucatan and later to the Aztec Empire that dominated the Central Valleys and beyond leading up to the arrival of the Spanish. Return to Oaxaca for lunch and a tour of the historic centro including the enormous Templo de Santo Domingo, nearby galleries, and one of the several quality museums such as the collection of pre-Hispanic art of the famous Oaxacan artist Rufino Tamayo. Group dinner near the Zocalo where we can get to know each other. (Overnight Hostal de la Noria or equivalent) (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)

Day 3: Milta Ruins & Transfer to the Sierra Norte Pueblo of Llano Grande

Today we delve deeper into the rich culture of Oaxaca visiting the colorful 16th century Templo y Ex-Convento de San Jerónimo in the village of Tlacochahuaya, which is a fascinating mix of native art and the Dominican influence that dominated much of the state of Oaxaca at the time of the conquest. Don’t forget to climb up to see the ornate 16th century French organ which is occasionally played for organ concerts. Continuing on to the ruins of Mitla (orginal name of Liobaa meaning “House of Tombs”), we will explore one of Mexico's most interesting sacred burial grounds. Evidence shows that the site has been occupied since about 900 B.C. Mitla's visible structural remains date between 200 AD to 900 A.D. Mitla is renowned for the rich variety of mosaic tile that is displayed throughout the site's buildings. Archeologists have determined these 14 unique geometric and intricate mosaic fretwork designs symbolize sun, earth, plumed serpent, and several other important beings. One design called the “greca” is an example the Mixtec influence that dominated for a short time in the 13th century before Zapotec reassertion. There is also a series of columns located in the “Sala de Columnas." Six enormous columns and several lintels, each weighing in excess several tons, were brought to Mitla from several kilometers away before the advent of the wheel. Next, we travel to Teotitlán del Valle where we visit local artisans and see a demonstration of local dying and weaving techniques practiced during the last 300 yrs. You will also learn about their integration of old and new traditions found is this Zapotec pueblo. Later this afternoon, we transfer to the little known Sierra Norte Mountains. Our night’s accommodation is in a very comfortable locally owned and operated cabins, which offers bunk beds, a group fireplace, and shared bathrooms with hot water. Depending on time of arrival and interest, we can opt for a short hike to a look out point. We enjoy a community dinner with delicious local fare. By staying at this local lodge, we contribute directly to the community and ensure the preservation of the surrounding forest. Relax and enjoy an evening chat by the fire. (Overnight Community Yu’u Sierra Norte Llano Grande) (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included) Optional One and a half hours hiking; 3 Miles Altitude gain/loss: 300 ft/300 ft

Day 4: Sierra Norte

Sierra Norte Day 2: Today, after a quick drive to our trail head at Cuajimoloyas, a guide from the community leads us on a hike through the pristine forests and mountains held sacred by the local people. We stroll through fields of wildflowers and enormous agave plants and past the pastures of community farms. Hiking in the Pueblos provides the unique opportunity to witness first hand the rural Oaxacan life and culture. This group of communities are friendly and inviting to visitors wanting to share their idyllic beautiful forest setting with you. After the day’s hike, we return to the pueblo for a home cooked meal and another peaceful night in the mountains. (Overnight Community Yu’u Sierra Norte Latuvi) (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included) Full Day Hike; 7.4 Miles Altitude gain/loss: 500 ft/200 ft

Day 5: Sierra Norte

Sierra Norte Day 3: A day of hiking awaits us today as we continue to explore the villages on our way into the cloud forests of the Sierra Norte. This hike descends through the local farming fields of potatoes, beans, and wheat down to a dense stand of pine, oak, and cedar forest including wildflowers, bromeliads, and even wild orchids in Spring and early Summer. This forest is usually filled with the songs of birds as you walk through the large trees covered with moss and ferns. You will then start the climb up and over a rocky ridge that provides a wonderful view back toward Cuajimaloyas. Now the vegetation changes to a bit drier of microclimate with cacti and yucca plants. Upon arriving at Benito Juarez, we can feast on locally raised trout for lunch. Transfer back to Oaxaca with a brief visit to the Tule tree that is claimed to be the largest tree in the Americas, leaving some time to wander the colonial streets before dinner. (Overnight Hostal La Noria or equivalent) (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included) ½ Day Hike; 4.1 Miles Altitude gain/loss: 750 ft/1,200 ft

Day 6: Market day in Zaachila, ExConveto de Culiapam, San Bartolo de Coyotepec

Market day in Zaachila, ExConveto de Culiapam, San Bartolo de Coyotepec: Today, we explore Zaachila, the last of the Zapotec capital following the fall of Monte Alban. The site flourished from 1100-1521 AD. The name "Zaachila" is derived from the term "House of Zaachila," a reference to the pre-Colombian Zapotec king Zaachila Yoo. Then you will visit the 16th Century Ex-convento de Santiago which began construction in 1535. In 1570, the Spanish king ruled construction should stop due to being so over budget. Then on to the San Bartolo Coyotecpec to witness the age old technique to create the famous shiny black pottery, made by using the an oxygen reduction kiln. This excursion offers you the interesting opportunity to explore these bustling market towns where villagers from the surrounding country side come to trade their goods and display their wares. Head back to your hotel or relax a bit before heading out to dinner and a night on the town. You are free to make your own plans for this last night in this magical city. (Overnight Hostal La Noria or equivalent) (Breakfast and Lunch Included)

Day 7: Oaxaca City/Puerto Escondido

Oaxaca City/Puerto Escondido - Flight to Puerto Escondido Free Day to Relax: We are up early today for an early morning flight like no other! We take a 14-passenger Caravan plane across the mountains and down to the tropical Pacific coast crossing coffee and banana plantations en-route. After checking into our beautiful seaside lodge, today is a free day to enjoy the coast, and you can choose from a number of options depending on the time of year including: Biking and visit to Chatino villages in the Mixteca Sur; a trip to the national Turtle museum and natural cosmetics factory founded by Anita Roddick (Body Shop Founder) in Masunte; an inner-tube float trip down the Colotepec river; and more. Of course, you may opt to just relax and stroll the beaches or explore the quaint fishing town. Lunch is on your own today. Don’t forget to return to our lodge overlooking the Pacific for margaritas as we watch the sun drop into the Pacific. Dinner tonight is served at the hotel restaurant and includes the best sea food in town and all organic produce with lots of options for vegetarians. (Overnight Hotel Santa Fe) (Breakfast and Dinner Included)

Day 8: Hiking San Juan Lachao / Kayaking Laguna Manialtepec

Hiking San Juan Lachao / Kayaking Laguna Manialtepec: After breakfast, we set out for a fantastic adventure in the lowland jungles of this little discovered coast. We will travel by vehicle (1:45 hrs.) to a small town on the slopes of the Sierra Madre Sur where we begin our hike into the jungle. We will hike for about and hour along the banks of a gurgling river with a gentle grade before arriving at the beautiful waterfall and swimming hole deep in the lush tropical forest. After ample time to enjoy the refreshing waters and relax, we return back along the same path and then back to our lovely hotel for lunch and some free time on your own. We will reconvene at about 3:00 pm for a guided exploration into the protected waters of Laguna Manialtepec. Upon arrival (:25 mins by car), we will board a speedy boat loaded with Kayaks, and we continue into the lagoon. We will unload the kayaks and then set out on a gentle paddle, kayaking where we can observe some of the 270 different species found there. After the 1-1.5 hour kayak, we will end up on a pristine beach La Barra as the sun is going down. We return back to our wonderful seafront lodge for private farewell dinner. (Overnight Hotel Santa Fe) (Breakfast and Dinner Included)

Day 9: Departure

Transfer to airport in Puerto Escondido for early morning flight back up to Oaxaca: We arrive at 8:30 am for our onward flights home or extensions in Oaxaca city. Coastal extensions are also available at Rancho Cerro Largo or the resorts of Huatulco. Please confirm departure flight if they are for same day as flight schedules are subject to change. (No Meals Included)