A walk around Oaxaca
Begin your day from the lively historical center, taking in the colorful sights and sounds at the main tree-lined Hidalgo Square. Steps away, soak in the exquisite interiors of the 18th century Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Oaxaca’s main cathedral, showcasing baroque architecture and gilded interiors. Within the adjoining monastery complex, visit the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca that showcases Mexico’s rich history and exotic artifacts including the Mixtec treasures. Next door, drop by the ethnobotanical garden that houses myriad exotic species of agave and cacti. Later, stroll on the pedestrianized street of Alcalá, flanked by brightly colored buildings, and enlivened by local artisan shops, buskers, and contemporary street art. Nearby, visit the Macedonio Alcala Theater, exquisitely decorated in Imperial style with marble staircases, elegant arches, and Corinthian accents. Hopping between attractions, sample mezcal, Oaxacan coffee, and hot chocolate along with the local favorite – fried grasshoppers! (Half Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Snacks not included; Fitness level: Easy; Notes: Bring sunscreen, wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Museum is closed on Mondays).
Chocolate Baking in Oaxaca
Set off from your hotel in the city and drive for about 30 minutes to reach the Zapotec community village. Stroll around the local market as you pick and choose ingredients such as sugar and cacao in preparation of your culinary experience. Head to the mill and get these ingredients ground finely before you head to the kitchen at the house of one of the villagers. Learn the process of making adorable chocolate figures with the milled paste. Make some rich chocolate by mixing these figures using milk or water in a traditional grinder. Bite into a piece of sweet bread dipped in this delicious chocolate and feel the flavors roll off your tongue before you start on your journey back to the hotel. (Half Day; Duration: 3 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that pick up and drop is included if your hotel is in the city square area.)
Mezcal Distillery and Tasting Tour
Head out of Oaxaca and make your way to a nearby distillery that produces mezcal, a local alcoholic beverage sourced from agave. One of Mexico’s most famous alcoholic beverages, mezcal has been popular since the time of Spanish Conquistadors! Learn all about the process of distilling this beverage in an artisanal technique that has been passed down over generations. You’ll also discover the different types of agave that can be used to produce mezcal – both cultivated and wild varieties. From how long it takes for the agave plant to mature to how young or old it needs to be – there’s a lot intricacy involved in mezcal production. Having learned the details, reward yourself with samples of fine mezcal to gain a better appreciation of its flavor and popularity. (Half Day; Duration: 3.5 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that pick up and drop is included from the city square area.)
