About the Hike: The Mitla caves date to the dawn of civilization, providing archaeological and rock-art evidence from nomadic hunter-gatherers to incipient farmers. Ten-thousand-year-old seeds have been found in the caves, the earliest known evidence of domesticated plants on the continent. We will honor this history and these ancestors as part of the Day of the Dead festivities with a talk and ritual conducted by Oaxacan Guide, Cirilo and usually his brother Pepe joins our walk. Lunch will be at the family comedor Yalnadoo. After lunch, hikers will visit the Mitla Panteon (cemetery) where the graves have been beautifully decorated by their families.

Notes: Reaching the caves involves steep narrow uneven steps with intermittent handrails. A walking stick will come in handy.

Driving Time: 1 hour each way

Type: Loop

Terrain: Cliffside

Difficulty: Moderate

Distance: 2KM

Elevation Change: +100 m./- 100 m

Starting Elevation: 5700 feet / 1738 meters

Additional Fees: $150 peso entrance to the community, + tips for local guides, OLL guide & driver

Meal: Lunch at local comedor, $150 - $200 pesos

Time Frame: 8AM - 4:30PM

Departure Location: Calle de Los Libres #710, between Zarate and San Martin, directly behind the Americana Hotel. See map on the Hoofing It introduction page