About the Hike: Dainzu is a small archeological site that sits on the floor of the Tlacolula Valley – the eastern of the three connecting valleys that together form the Valles Centrales of Oaxaca state – about 25 kilometers (16 miles) from the capital. It was first occupied 700-600 BC, but the main phase of occupation dates from about 200 BC to 350 AD. There is a pyramidal structure built into a hillside that doubtless once supported a temple. Nearby are foundations of a few buildings, three tomb sites and a large ball court. The most remarkable feature, though, is a series of bas-relief stone carvings that form a frieze along the front wall of the main structure. As one would expect, most of the panels are of Zapotec origin, but one is believed to be Mayan. There is a resident caretaker who has lived on-site for many years and will give a good explanation (in English or Spanish) of the site.

Type/Rating: Archeological Countryside / Easy

Distance: 4.8 km

Elevation change: + 105 m / - 48 m

Additional fee: there may be an entrance fee under $100

Meal: Sack lunch in the park next to the churchyard or one of two small restaurants in the town center.

Time Frame: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm.(Pleae arrive by 7:45 am. Ending time is approximate)

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