About the Hike:  Zaachila has been an active Zapotec commuity since approx. 2,000 BCE. After the decline of Monte Alban, around 800 CE, it rose to become the political center of Zapotec authority until the Spanish invasion. Our hike takes us between there and Cuilapam, a trade parter to Zaachila. Once we arrive in Cuilapam, we can visit the local historical museum, housed in the monastery.

Wall art abounds in Zaachila. Many streets in the community are adorned with murals, but none more so that the street leading from the parish church to the cemetery. This is the route used by funeral processions, and many buildings along the way display remarkable examples of “Day of the Dead” art. The archelogical ruins in Zaachila contained notable treasure in the tomb of Lord Nine Flower, now housed in Mexico City and the cultural museum next to Santo Domingo church in Oaxaca. 

Driving Time: 60 minutes

Type/Rating: Archeological & Sunny Countryside (bring water, a hat and sunscreen) / Easy

Distance: 7.4 km.

Elevation Change: + 73.6 / - 9.7 m

Starting Elevation: 5038 feet/1535 meters

Trail Map: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/71334879

Additional Fee: Small fee for entrance (about $100 pesos each) to the museum in Cuilapam

Meal: Lunch in Cuilapam at the comedors in front of the Ex-Convent, and a hat is passed at the end of the hike for tips for our guide and driver.

Time frame: 8:00 to 2:00 pm. Please arrive at the boarding location at least 15 minutes before departure.

Meeting Point: Calle de Los Libres, between Zarate and San Martin, directly behind the Grand Americana Hotel. See map on the hiking introduction page.