Zapotec Culture & Sunset Hike at Teotitlán

WHAT YOU’LL DO

For this afternoon’s adventure we’ll meet at the Coyote Aventuras Office at 11:00 AM where you’ll ring doorbell A to let your trip leader know that you’re outside.  Once we’ve introduced ourselves and given you a brief description of our activities for the day we’ll hop into the Coyote Aventuras van and head out to Teotitlán del Valle. 

Teotitlán del Valle, which translates to “Land of the Gods” in the indigenous language, Náhutal, is nestled in the picturesque central valley of Oaxaca.  It’s a vibrant community renowned for its rich cultural heritage and traditional Zapotec weaving. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter colorful adobe houses adorned with intricate textile designs, a testament to the community’s multi-generational craftsmanship.

Once we arrive in Teotitlán, we’ll take a stroll around the community passing by important cultural landmarks such as the Teotitlán church.  The Church of San Juan Bautista in Teotitlán del Valle is a captivating example of colonial architecture in Oaxaca, Mexico. Built by the Spanish in the 16th century atop an ancient Zapotec temple, it stands as a symbol of the blending of indigenous and European cultures.  This visit serves as an excellent example how colonization occurred in the region as the church sits right atop the Zapotec archaeological site.  We’ll also pass by the Teotitlán market which is bustling with crafts, local produce, and delicious food made ready to order every morning. Teotitlán del Valle is one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the Americas, with a history spanning over two millennia. Archaeological evidence indicates that the area has been inhabited since at least the early preclassic period (around 1500 BCE).

Following our community tour, we’ll visit at an artisan candle workshop for you to see how traditional bees wax candles are elaborated for important festivities in the community.  Then, we’ll head to our dear friend Josefina’s home where she’ll have a traditional Zapotec lunch prepared for us.  After indulging in some exquisite quesadillas, mole negro and sopa de guías, we’ll participate in a natural dye workshop, where Josefina will demonstrate how she uses natural elements to paint the yarn that weaves the complex tapestries of her cultural heritage.  

Then we’ll take a stroll around the community pointing out essential points of interest like the central market, the archaeological site and the church, which is believed to have been built sometime in the mid-16th century, likely between the 1550s and 1570s. This church stands as a symbol of the blending of indigenous Zapotec traditions with Spanish colonial architecture and Catholicism, reflecting the complex history and cultural heritage of the region.    

Then, we’ll head up to the sacred Cerro Picacho trailhead to get ready for our sunset ascent. For the Zapotec people, Cerro Picacho is not only a physical landmark but also a spiritual one, often associated with rituals, ceremonies, and myths passed down through generations. The hill is believed to be a sacred site where ancestral spirits dwell, and it serves as a place for offerings, prayers, and connections to the natural world.  You’ll have the opportunity to visit this sacred site appreciating 360 views of an outstanding sunset on Oaxaca’s central valley.  This tour is a genuine immersion into Zapotec culture combining elements of adventure and ancestral artisanry.  As we descend the mountainside we’ll be able to reflect on a truly incredible day, arriving back in Oaxaca at 8:00 PM.

ACTIVITY ADVISORY

Outdoor activities carry risks, and you may be exposed to dangerous situations as part of this experience. Make sure you can participate safely given your abilities and the conditions (such as location, weather, and equipment).

NOTES:

– If you don’t see your desired date avaialble, please contact us! We’d be happy to design private tours for you and your friends!
– Please, inform yourself on the local weather conditions.