Oaxaca’s Winter Solstice: A Weekend of Sun, Culture, and Discovery
Experience the magic of Oaxaca’s winter solstice with a weekend filled with cultural exploration and natural wonders. With perfect weather and a rich tapestry of history and tradition, this is the ideal time to discover the essence of Oaxaca.
Embracing the Solstice: Oaxaca’s Cultural Tapestry
As the winter solstice approaches, Oaxaca, a city rich in history and culture, offers a unique blend of experiences that captivate the soul. The weekend of December 7th and 8th promises a delightful mix of cultural exploration and natural wonders, set against the backdrop of Oaxaca’s stunning landscapes and vibrant traditions.
On December 7th, the weather is perfect for a day of exploration, with temperatures ranging from a cool 47.9°F in the morning to a comfortable 73.1°F in the afternoon. Start your day with the Hierve el Agua Day Tour, which begins at 8:00 AM. This tour is a journey through Oaxaca’s rich cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the region’s history, art, and gastronomy. The highlight of the tour is the visit to the petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua, where you can spend two hours hiking and enjoying the breathtaking views. A review from August 26, 2024, captures the essence of this experience:
“Great day all around! - I really enjoyed the tour. Rocio, our guide, set a great mood from the start, and provided us with lots of details of the various sites. Hierve el Agua was beautiful, Mitla was interesting to see…and the Mezcal tasting a nice finish.”
After exploring Hierve el Agua, the tour continues to the archaeological site of Mitla, where you can immerse yourself in the magic and mysticism of the ancient Zapotec civilization. The day concludes with a visit to a mezcal factory, where you can savor the flavors of this traditional Oaxacan drink.
A Day of Sun and Discovery
December 8th dawns with clear skies and a promise of sunshine, making it an ideal day for outdoor adventures. With temperatures peaking at 74.6°F, it’s a perfect day to embark on the El Tule, Mitla & Hierve el Agua Tour, starting at 8:00 AM. This full-day tour takes you on a journey through some of Oaxaca’s most iconic sites.
Begin your adventure at the majestic Tule Tree, renowned for its impressive girth and age. As you stand before this ancient giant, you can’t help but feel a connection to the centuries of history it has witnessed. The tour then takes you to the archaeological site of Mitla, where the intricate mosaic designs and ancient architecture tell stories of a bygone era.
The highlight of the day is the visit to Hierve el Agua, where the petrified waterfalls create a surreal landscape that is perfect for photography. A review from September 18, 2024, perfectly encapsulates the experience:
“Highly recommended! - Full day with varied and interesting visits. From bath in Boil the water to visit a loom. Edelmira has been an excellent Guide and Marcos Alberto very good driver, I recommend it!”
Savoring Oaxaca’s Essence
No visit to Oaxaca is complete without indulging in its rich culinary traditions. Both tours offer a chance to savor authentic Oaxacan cuisine at a buffet restaurant, where you can taste the flavors that define this vibrant region. From mole to tlayudas, each dish is a testament to Oaxaca’s culinary heritage.
As the sun sets on December 8th, casting a golden glow over the city, take a moment to reflect on the experiences of the weekend. The tours not only offer a chance to explore Oaxaca’s natural and cultural wonders but also provide an opportunity to connect with the essence of this enchanting region.
Whether you’re hiking through the stunning landscapes of Hierve el Agua or savoring the rich flavors of mezcal, Oaxaca’s winter solstice weekend promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Mexico’s cultural and natural beauty.
