Excursions

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.

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. After your hike you will have an opportunity to soak in the relaxing springs.

Mitla‘s ancient Zapotec ruins date back to two or three centuries before the Spanish conquest and are one of the most significant archeological sites in Mesoamerica. Walking through the ruins with its intricate architecture and segments of beautifully preserved wall paintings transports you back to a time when this was the area’s most important religious center. Surrounding the ruins is a thriving Zapotec town with a large market filled with locally made handicrafts to explore.

The central valleys of Oaxaca State are filled with the echoes of the past. Bustling Tlacolula market is Oaxaca's most famous outdoor market where you can find anything from handicrafts to live turkeys. 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.

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.

Travel back in time to the ancient monastery of Saint James, or Cuilapam, 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!

The Oaxacan coast provides you with stunning cliffside views of thousands of small bays that dot its coastline. Unlike other coastal areas of Mexico, the Oaxacan coast remains largely untouched and mainly plays host to local tourism. On this trip, students will visit several beautiful beaches, have the opportunity to snorkel, take a boat trip to see dolphins and turtles, or take a surfing class. This is the perfect opportunity to witness the vast biodiversity the Oaxacan coast has to offer.