Active Mexico!
Hiking & rock climbing
| Mexico
Test your climbing skills on limestone crags and hike through mountain forests!
Climbing, hiking and swimming in mountain springs - for the outdoor enthusiast this Arcos Journey has it all! The program begins in Oaxaca City with rock climbing activities near town so that we start our rock climbing course and explore Oaxaca City. Travel to the Sierra Mixe mountains for hiking and an exploration of indigenous culture and villages. Returning to Oaxaca City, visit Hierve el Agua and swim in its majestic mountain springs while enjoying panoramic vistas. Then, on to Santiago de Apoala, a land of rivers, springs and striking limestone walls that tower high above. This is the ideal program for those who like to get outside and learn through movement and nature. Come and experience the great variety of outdoor activities and terrain that Oaxaca has to offer!
Dates & Prices
MAY 28 - Jun 07 (11 days) $2,195 CLOSED
Jun 4 - Jun 14 (11 days) $2,195 CLOSED
Jun 4 - Jun 14 (11 days) $2,195 CLOSED
Program at a Glance
Ages: 14 - 18
Minimum Group Size: 5 participants
Maximum Group Size: 10 participants
Focus: Hiking, rock climbing, outdoor education
Level of Spanish: No requirement
Level of Physical Activity: Able to walk long distances over varied terrain & have an interest in rock climbing. Program accommodates any climbing level.
Accommodation: Hostels / Guest Houses / Hotels
Airport Codes: OAX (Xoxocotlán Intl Airport)
Program Locations: Oaxaca City, Sierra Mixe, Santiago de Apoala
What's Included
Room & Board | Onsite Directors | Rock Climbing Lessons & Gear | Hiking Excursions | Cultural Activities | Airport Transfers | International Medical Insurance
Highlights
Oaxaca City tours to see the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2 days of rock climbing classes just outside of Oaxaca at San Sebastian.
3 days of hiking in the Sierra Mixe.
Visit Hierve el Agua for swimming and hiking.
3 days of rock climbing, hiking and swimming at Santiago de Apoala.
Enjoy delicious local meals - Oaxaca is world-famous for its unique cuisine and flavors!
See and experience a wide range of landscapes and activities.
Details
Start your journey in Oaxaca City, winner of the best travel destination in 2022.
Visit Oaxaca's historical district, a UNESCO World Heritage site, its famous markets, and taste the amazing cuisine Oaxaca is renowned for such as mole. Check out Oaxaca's famous street art scene.
Begin the rock-climbing course with two days of climbing at areas just outside of Oaxaca City. The first three days of the program stay at the program hotel in Oaxaca City.
Travel to the Sierra Mixe mountains for two nights. Begin each day with morning yoga and then hike during the day through forested mountain trails. Explore indigenous villages and take part in a meditation and cacao ceremony.
Return to Oaxaca City for two nights for an excursion to the iconic Hierve el Agua (Boiling Water). The high, rocky limestone cliffs possess some of the most striking vistas of Oaxaca state. Bathe in the clear, mineral rich pools that this ancient sacred site is known for.
Travel to the Sierra Mixteca and the village of Santiago de Apoala. This area is considered to be the cradle of Mixtec culture. Its name in Mixtec means "where the river starts". Explore a cave where the spring waters that form the main river well up from the earth. Hike to two waterfalls; Cascadas de Apoala and Cola de Serpiente with incredible swimming holes of crystalline waters.
Two days of rock climbing the limestone crags in and around Santiago de Apoala. We will even be able to see some pictographs!
The program accommodates a variety of rock climbing levels and abilities.
Tips & Advice
It is preferred that you bring your own harness, helmet and climbing shoes. This way, you can make sure you get what fits you best before you join the program. If you do not have these items we will advise on them in advance. It is possible to rent these items in Oaxaca if you prefer. A detailed packing list is sent in advance.
In addition to the climbing gear you will need:
Closed-toe trekking shoes
Swimsuit
Sturdy day pack
Sunscreen
Prescribed medications for the length of the program
