Teotitlán del Valle · Oaxaca
Descubre Oaxaca desde la mirada local.
Authentic cultural, culinary, artisan and nature experiences based in Teotitlán del Valle.
Local guides · Small groups · Private experiences · Español & English
Experiences
From living Zapotec traditions to traditional kitchens, textiles, mezcal and landscapes, discover Oaxaca through experiences created with local people.
2-hour Guelaguetza walk (free of charge) through Teotitlán Historical Center. We visit the local market, archaeological site and museum or cultural center. For up to 4 people. Starting time: 9:00am.
Meet weaving women cooperatives and families in Teotitlán del Valle and learn about natural dyeing pigments, ancient local Zapotec symbols and their meanings, and the different weaving techniques used to make beautiful rugs and tapestries on 2 or 4 pedal looms.
Meet at the Teotitlán del Valle Historical Center at 6:00am and walk out towards the ancient Zapotec peak known in the local language as Guie-Bets, reaching it around 7:30am. This is where our ancestors used to give tributes to the Sun and Rain deities. Along the way you will learn about local medicinal plants and herbs, and about the wildlife of the valley.
We meet at the Teotitlán del Valle Historical Center and head out to the agave fields, where you learn about the different agave species of the State of Oaxaca, the differences between the many mezcales, and the spiritual role mezcal plays in every celebration across our communities.
Meet at the Teotitlán del Valle Historical Center and walk to the local market to buy fresh produce, fruits and ingredients, then gather to prepare a local endemic dish and learn about the importance of corn, beans, peppers and squash for the ancient Zapotec.
Meet a family of traditional candle makers in Teotitlán del Valle and learn how beeswax candles are shaped by hand for weddings, festivals and community celebrations. You will see the natural wax, the hand-dipped and moulded flowers, the meaning of light in Zapotec ceremonies, and try shaping a piece yourself.
Discover by interest
Village life, history and living traditions
Weaving, natural dyes, family workshops
Markets, traditional kitchens, home cooking
Family palenques and agave culture
Sierra hikes, landscapes and valley walks
Create a trip around your interests and schedule.
Why travel with us?
We know the communities, people and places beyond the standard tourist route.
Our experiences are built around relationships with local people and artisans.
Travel at a more personal pace, with attention to your group.
Go beyond sightseeing and understand the culture behind the places you visit.
Signature experience · textiles
Meet weaving women cooperatives and families in Teotitlán del Valle and learn about natural dyeing pigments, ancient local Zapotec symbols and their meanings, and the different weaving techniques used to make beautiful rugs and tapestries on 2 or 4 pedal looms.
2 hours · from MX$1,000 / group (up to 4 travelers)
Our home
Our home is a living Zapotec community where textiles, food, traditions, spirituality and community life remain part of everyday life.
Forty-five minutes from the city, the valley opens up: wool dyed with cochineal and indigo drying in courtyards, a church built over a pre-Hispanic temple, kitchens where the fire is still made from wood. It is a good place to begin understanding Oaxaca — because here nothing has been arranged for visitors.
How it works
Find the experience that fits your interests.
Select your date, travelers and pay securely online.
Meet us and discover Oaxaca from a local perspective.
Reviews · Teotitlan Zapotec Local Guides
"We took a tour with Luis to Real Minero palenque (mezcal farm) in September. He was an excellent guide - knowledgeable and spoke great English. He provided a ride for us, and knew of a delicious and beautiful lunch spot on our way home that we never would have found by ourselves. We were incredibly lucky to be introduced to Luis and Teotitlan Tours for our trip. Highly recommend!"
"Teotitlán is a place full of magic and mysticism. With traditions going back hundreds of years, a purity in its customs and processes. Architectural and traditional beauty. Kind, warm people. Activities for adults and children. I can say this is a destination that is worth every single minute."
"Raul is a very knowledgeable and passionate ambassador for his pueblo of Teotitlán del Valle and of his Zapotec culture. We spent a very fun and jam-packed day with him and learned so much. We went bird-watching and hiking, visited weaving workshops and the market, had lunch, visited the famous and massive Tule tree, and toured the local cultural museum. When it was all over, our heads and hearts were full. Raul is a very personable guide and we highly recommend him!"
"Jose is one of the best guides I have ever met. He offers a complete tour and takes you to the best places, local shops and artisans who are truly passionate about what they do. Highly recommended tour."
Private tours
We are now accepting bookings for one of the most important Zapotec celebrations of the year. Discover the spiritual perspective of the community by visiting and decorating altars and the cemetery for Día de Muertos. Every experience can be adapted and customized into a full-day tour built around your main interests — a new way to live a deeper Oaxaca. Groups from 2 to 10 travelers. Contact us for a quote.
