Scenic Bike Ride from the Sierra Norte to the Central Valley of Oaxaca

WHAT YOU’LL DO

For our mountain biking adventure, we’ll start by meeting at the Coyote Aventuras office at 8:00 AM.  Once you arrive, ring doorbell A to let your trip leader know that you’re outside.  Once we’ve gotten to know each other a bit and you’ve received a brief of the activities for the day, we’ll hop into the Coyote van and head out to the mystical Sierra Norte.  

We’ll first arrive at the town of Cuajimoloyas, a quant community that rises above much of Oaxaca at 3,000 meters (9,800 feet).  Cuajimoloyas is a Zapotec community surrounded by towering pines and beautiful oak trees teeming with life, forming the base of the Sierra Norte’s clouded forest ecosystem.  This region is one of the biodiverse regions in Oaxaca.  This incredible mountain biking adventure descends a total of 1,700 meters (5,570 feet)!

In Cuajimoloyas you’ll have the chance to sample some exquisite local cuisine with our friends at Restaurante Bélgica.  Bélgica prepares a traditional zapotec breakfast of memelas, quesadillas, huevos al comal and chorizo.  If you get a chance to go on this trip during the rainy season you might even try the locally harvested mushrooms!  Once we’re fueled up and ready to go, we’ll begin our scenic descent to Teotitlán del Valle!

If you weren’t able to bring your mountain bike to Oaxaca, don’t stress!  Our team has all high quality bikes and safety equipment that will be perfect for your adventure!  Once we’re set and ready to descend we’ll head out to the neighboring town of Benito Juárez, a 9km (5.5 mile) stretch that has a slight 2km (1.2 mile) ascent.  This is the only ascent of the experience, but if you choose to skip this part, it’s no problem, you can hope in the Coyote van which will bring you to the hanging bridge at the top of the mountain!  This hanging bridge is truly a special place that offers you some amazing 360 views of the valley. 

Now it’s time to descend into the central valley to Teotitlán del Valle.  As we ride down a well maintained trail you’ll feel the crisp air invigorate you as it winds its way down the mountainside.  You’ll be treated to some breathtaking views of the rugged Oaxacan landscapes! 

As you descend further, the landscape begins to change. The forests give way to open meadows dotted with wildflowers, and the terrain becomes less steep. You pick up speed as you cruise down smooth dirt tracks, the wind rushing past you as you take in the expansive views of the valley below.  Then, you arrive at Teotitlán del Valle.  In this world-renowned artisan community you’ll be able to appreciate the ancestral artisanal works of Zapotec people in vibrant tapestries and textile goods.  We’ll also have a delicious traditional meal with our good friend Josefina and her family.  After our meal you’ll see how Zapotec people have used wild herbs for centuries to natural dye yarn to weave these complex tapestries.  The process is truly amazing! 

We’ll head back to Oaxaca City at 5:00 PM after a truly exhilarating day combining adventure and culture!

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:

– Make this a private tour for your friends and family!
– Don’t see your desired date available? Please contact us! We will do our best to make special arrangements for you!
– Please, check out the local weather conditions and come prepared for the tour.