MTB Bike tour to the Monkey Tree + Bread Maker & Tule tree

This experience made our article of 2 Must-Try Bike Tours In Santa Maria Del Tule.

Overview of the MTB Bike Tour to the Monkey Tree + Bread Maker & Tule Tree

Exploring Oaxaca on two wheels offers more than just a workout; it’s an authentic way to see the countryside and connect with local traditions. The MTB Bike Tour to the Monkey Tree, Tule Tree, and a local bakery is designed for intermediate riders who want a mix of adventure, culture, and delicious food—all wrapped up in a five-hour package.

What makes this experience stand out is its combination of scenic off-road trails passing through Oaxaca’s rural landscapes with engaging stops at a famous ancient tree and an artisan bread maker. We also appreciate that it’s a well-balanced tour that offers both physical challenge and cultural insight, with small group sizes adding a personal touch.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves some challenging climbs and descents, so it’s best suited for those comfortable riding a mountain bike. If you’re looking for a leisurely cycle with lots of sightseeing, this might buckle up your adventure a bit more than you expected.

This tour is perfect for adventurous intermediate cyclists who want to explore Oaxaca’s countryside while sampling its rich traditions and scenery. It’s especially valuable for those who appreciate authentic local experiences and enjoy a good story behind their destinations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Off-Road Trails: Ride through Oaxaca’s countryside on well-maintained XC trails.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the ancient Tule Tree and learn about its significance.
• Authentic Food Experience: Watch and taste freshly baked artisanal bread at a local bakery.
• Physical Challenge: Moderate climbs and fun descents make it ideal for intermediate cyclists.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Expect views of the Central Valleys and Sierra Norte.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 10 participants for a personalized experience.

What To Expect from the Tour

Starting your day at Bike Flow Oaxaca, you’ll meet your guides at 8:00 am, where bikes, helmets, and safety gear are prepared. The tour begins with a casual ride along a dedicated cyclist path leading out of Oaxaca City toward Santa Maria del Tule, a small village famous for its spectacular ancient tree. This initial stretch is about 40 minutes and offers a gentle introduction to the terrain, allowing riders to warm up while enjoying views of the surrounding farmland.

Once in Santa Maria del Tule, you’ll have about 30 minutes to explore and take photos of the Tule Tree—considered one of the oldest and most impressive trees in the world. The guide will share stories about its history, making this stop both educational and awe-inspiring. This is an ideal photo opportunity, especially for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

The route then heads towards Santo Domingo Tomaltepec, along a trail that was once part of a natural network connecting mountain villages. Here, the landscape opens up with views of the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, where you can see the rolling hills and lush greenery typical of the region. Expect about 1.5 hours of riding on varied terrain, incorporating fun descents, flat sections, and three notable climbs totaling around 350 meters of positive elevation over roughly 25 miles.

As you ride, you’ll be treated to the sounds of local birds and the chance to observe donkeys, farm animals, and regional flora—adding an authentic rural flavor to your ride. The trail leads you to the Monkey Tree, a striking natural wonder that’s well worth the effort. You’ll have a short 15-minute break here to soak in the tranquility and listen to the birds, giving you a perfect moment to appreciate nature’s simplicity.

Scenic Water Reservoir & Rest Stop

After the Monkey Tree, the route takes you to an incredible water reservoir, surrounded by a tiny forest that feels like an oasis. This stop is ideal for snacking, rehydrating, and relaxing before the return ride. The group will enjoy some snacks, including energizing electrolytes and a protein bar (with gluten-free options), preparing you for the final leg.

Return Journey & Food Stop

Descending almost the entire way back, you’ll enjoy a smooth ride through the same trail used to reach the Monkey Tree. The constant downhill makes for a fun, momentum-filled ride, providing a satisfying sense of flow and accomplishment.

Upon returning to Santa Maria del Tule, a highlight awaits: a visit to a local artisanal bread maker. Here, you’ll witness how traditional breads are made, baked in a wood-fired oven, and taste them fresh from the oven. According to reviews, this is a real crowd favorite, with travelers raving about the “delicious bread and the chance to taste it hot from the fire,” making for a memorable culinary experience.

Finally, you’ll follow a dedicated cyclist path back to Oaxaca City, arriving at the starting point around the 5-hour mark.

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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point & Introduction

The tour kicks off at Bike Flow Oaxaca, where guides will fit your bikes and helmets and provide a quick safety briefing. The group is limited to 10 people, ensuring plenty of personalized attention. It’s recommended to have eaten lightly beforehand, as a snack is provided during breaks.

Ride to Santa Maria del Tule

The initial 40-minute ride is mostly along a cyclist path, offering a gentle start and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Once in Santa Maria del Tule, you’ll spend about 30 minutes exploring the village and marveling at the Tule Tree. This tree is one of the oldest living organisms in the world, estimated to be over 2,000 years old, and it’s a perfect spot for photographs and learning about local legends.

Mountain Bike Trail to Santo Domingo Tomaltepec

The ride continues on a trail that once connected mountain villages, giving you a sense of how locals traversed the landscape historically. The scenery here is pastoral—farmland, small farms, and distant mountains. Expect roughly 1.5 hours of riding with a variety of terrain, including climbs and descents, providing challenges for intermediate riders and plenty of fun.

Monkey Tree & Rest

After about 1.5 hours, you arrive at the Monkey Tree, a striking natural monument. Here, you can pause, absorb the peaceful surroundings, and listen for bird songs. It’s a quiet, contemplative spot—a chance to enjoy nature away from the bustle of city life.

Water Reservoir & Snack Break

The route then descends to a water reservoir surrounded by forest, offering a cool respite and a chance to savor some snacks. The setting feels like a natural oasis, and the environment is perfect for recharging before the final leg.

Return & Artisan Bread Experience

Descending along the same trail, you’ll reach Santa Maria del Tule once again, where a visit to a local artisan bakery awaits. The baker will demonstrate bread-making techniques, and you’ll have the chance to taste hot, freshly baked bread—an experience many reviewers highlight as a tour highlight. The connection to local food traditions adds a delightful culinary dimension after your physical effort.

Final Stretch & Return to Oaxaca

The last part of the ride is mostly downhill, making for a relaxed and enjoyable return along the cycle path to the starting point. The tour wraps up with a quick debrief, and if you wish, you can browse the bike shop or grab a local snack before heading back.

What Makes This Tour Special

The combination of scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and authentic food makes this tour stand out. Riding through the countryside on well-maintained XC trails provides a genuine outdoor adventure, while stops at the Tule Tree and Monkey Tree connect you with Oaxaca’s natural and historical treasures.

The visit to a local bakery gives you insight into regional culinary traditions—a highlight for food lovers. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the professional guides help navigate the trail confidently, which is reassuring for those with intermediate riding skills.

The Value of the Tour

At $87 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. It includes premium bikes, safety equipment, all entrance fees, snacks, and the bread tasting. Considering the scenic riding, cultural insights, and the chance to sample local food, it’s a well-rounded package that delivers more than just exercise—it’s a mini cultural exploration.

What Some Riders Say

One reviewer appreciated the “nice balance between physical activity and cultural experiences,” while others loved the “beautiful views and the delicious bread.” The variety of terrains and the opportunity to see rural life up close are often praised.

Considerations

This tour is best suited for intermediate riders comfortable with climbs and descents. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those who can’t ride a bike comfortably. The physical aspect, combined with some challenging sections, means it’s more than a casual ride but accessible enough for those with some experience.

The Sum Up

This MTB tour to Oaxaca’s countryside is a well-crafted blend of adventure, culture, and culinary delights. It’s perfect for travelers eager to go beyond the usual tourist spots and experience genuine local life from a bike saddle. The scenic trails, the awe-inspiring Tule Tree, and the chance to taste freshly baked bread make it a memorable day out.

If you’re someone who enjoys active travel and wants to see Oaxaca from a different perspective, this tour offers excellent value and authentic encounters. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a moderate physical challenge paired with meaningful cultural stops.

However, if you prefer a leisurely, less physically demanding experience or are traveling with very young children or those with mobility restrictions, this might be more demanding than you want.

This tour is a wonderful way to explore Oaxaca’s rural beauty, natural wonders, and local flavors in a single, well-organized package.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
This tour is designed for intermediate cyclists. It involves some climbs and descents, so comfort riding a mountain bike is recommended. Beginners might find the terrain challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, water, light clothes suitable for cycling, and sports shoes. A camera is perfect for capturing the scenic views and the ancient trees.

How physically demanding is the ride?
The ride covers about 25 miles with some challenging climbs totaling 350 meters of elevation. Expect a mix of flat, downhill, and hill sections, requiring a moderate fitness level.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but snacks are provided during the rest stops. You can also purchase food at the bakery or in the villages.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, offering a more personalized experience with attentive guides.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process also allows you to reserve now and pay later, giving flexibility.

Is the tour available in other languages?
Yes, guides speak both Spanish and English, accommodating international travelers.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour is available year-round, the rainy season (typically May to October) offers lush landscapes and fresh river water, enhancing the scenery.

This bike tour combines the thrill of riding beautiful trails with the richness of Oaxaca’s natural and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or an adventurous eater, it’s a rewarding way to spend a day in this vibrant region.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby