Join us on a 4-day adventure through the stunning Sierra Norte mountains of Mexico. You'll visit three classic Zapotec communities and spend your days trekking through the majestic forests, rivers, and lakes of the region, with daily hikes ranging from 14 to 5 miles. After each hike, you'll enjoy delicious local cuisine and rest in cozy cabins, getting to know the friendly local community.
This trip is perfect for the active traveler who loves the outdoors and wants to immerse themselves in the rich culture of the region. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the beauty and history of the Sierra Norte mountains firsthand. Book your trip now and get ready for a classic mountain adventure.
Right for You?
Details
The adventure begins leaving the city of Oaxaca, our team will pick you up at your hotel to start the trip to the Sierra Norte, passing through the Tlacolula valley, until reaching Llano Grande. (Estimated travel time 2 hours).
Once in Llano Grande, we will start our walk along the "Cueva Iglesia" route, a path that goes into the territory of San Miguel del Valle with impressive landscapes and natural viewpoints surrounded by mysticism and extraordinary nature. We will continue until we reach the town of Cuajimoloyas.
Trail distance: 14km (8.7 miles) Estimated walking time: 5 to 6 hours
Upon arrival to Cuajimoloyas we will go to one the local dining rooms to eat. We will check into the cabins and have free time until dinner. Rest in your cabin and enjoy the beautiful view.
Lodging: Cuajimoloyas Cabin
After a restful night in Cuajimoloyas and a nutritious breakfast, we prepare for a new day of adventure. Today we will walk from Cuajimoloyas to the town of Lachatao. An ideal trail for people with experience in hiking and who are looking for new challenges, this trail crosses the territory of the Pueblos Mancomunados; the change in elevation, vegetation and climate is pronounced and due to its length it requires good physical conditioning.
Trail distance: 23 km (14.2 miles) Estimated walking time: 7 hours
Upon arrival in Lachatao we will enjoy a delicious meal at the local restaurant while enjoying the views of the community.
Lodging: Lachatao Cabins
Todays route was part of a broader pre-Hispanic route that linked the Zapotec cities of the Central Valleys with the Gulf of Mexico. Along the route you will see vestiges of the original stone road, in excellent condition; You will be able to observe the vegetation, an example of the wonderful biological diversity of the Sierra Norte (bromeliads, mossy trees and figures carved in rock by nature itself).
Trail distance: 14km (8.7 miles) Estimated walking time: 5 hours
You will use the same route to return to the community, where a delicious meal awaits you. After lunch, you will go to the cabins and have free time to rest and enjoy the wonderful views of the region. We recommend you visit the 16th century Lachatao church, and the local museum that houses part of the history of the community and the region.
Lodging: Lachatao Cabins
The adventure is unfortunately about to end, and it's up to you to choose between 2 different routes. Depending on your energy, you can choose a hike to the "Embudo", with a mandatory visit to the "Los Sabinos" park, a historic place for the community, continuing along the old royal road that leads to the corner, to the "Las Pavas", where we can begin the transition zone to the mesophilic forest, an area of high conservation value for the community. Without a doubt, a walk that will allow us to enjoy the unmissable landscapes of the Sierra Norte.
Trail distance: 18km (11.2 miles) Estimated walking time: 5 to 6 hours
Or opt for a shorter route, along the "Los Molinos" route through the La Ventana viewpoint, until we reach the river and finish at Los Molinos restaurant, where we will have our last meal, but not before enjoying the crystal clear waters from the river.
Trail distance: 8 km (5 miles) Estimated walking time: 3 hours
Regardless of the route, the end of the adventure will be epic!
What's Included
Your Local Host
Expediciones Sierra Norte
Locally Owned Community Project
If you're looking for a unique and immersive travel experience that brings you close to nature and the culture of the Zapotec communities, look no further than the Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca. Nestled in the beautiful Sierra Norte mountain range, these communities are located at altitudes between 2,000 and 3,200 meters, and offer visitors the opportunity to explore more than 100 kilometers of rural trails that are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte are a group of eight indigenous communities that have joined forces to promote sustainable tourism in their region. These communities are committed to preserving their traditional way of life and their natural environment, and they welcome visitors with open arms. When you visit the Pueblos Mancomunados, you'll have the chance to experience the beauty of the Sierra Norte from a unique perspective. You'll be able to explore the stunning forests, rivers, and waterfalls that make this region so special, and you'll also have the opportunity to learn about the customs, traditions, and history of the Zapotec people. Whether you're an experienced hiker or mountain biker, or you're simply looking for a peaceful and scenic place to relax and unwind, the Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte have something for everyone. So why not plan your trip today and discover the hidden gems of the Sierra Norte for yourself? You won't be disappointed.
Getting There
