Ecotourism

In Oaxaca City’s surrounding areas you’ll find nature reserves and other areas that are ideal for observing flora and fauna. The experience puts you in direct contact with nature, allowing you to enjoy the excellent scenery of the Oaxacan sierras.

Santa Maria de Tule – Located 12 km (7 mi) east of Oaxaca City off Highway 190. Here you’ll find the legendary Arbol de Tule (Tule Tree), which is more than 2,000 years old and measures 42 meters (139 feet) in diameter, 40 meters (132 feet) tall and 750m³ in volume. Some of the branches appear to have the forms of human silhouettes, animals and fantastic creatures.

Sierra de Ixtlan – Located 68 km (42 mi) northeast of Oaxaca off Highway 175 in the direction of Ixtlan de Juarez. This beautiful place has more than 6,000 plant varieties, many of which are indigenous species. It is the ideal spot for researchers and nature enthusiasts.

Teotitlan del Valle – Located 27 km (17 mi) southeast of Oaxaca City off Highway 190.

This is the perfect spot for bird watching, particularly during the month of January when it’s common to see herons, kingfishers and other migratory birds from Canada.

Hierve el Agua – In addition to the incredible scenery of the sulfuric springs, here you can also observe endemic flora and fauna.