San Pablo Etla is a community committed to the nature conservation, and following the Permaculture methods designed in El Pedregal they created the Ecological Education Center “La Mesita”. This site contains hiking trails to observe alternative technologies used to rescue degraded lands. The community’s nursery produces diverse native tree species used in reforestation and they also cultivate Oaxacan medicinal plants for different uses. This tour will start with a visit to La Mesita and will include the many wonderful art features included within the site.

The tour will also feature a visit to the Xaquixe glassworks in Etla, founded as an enterprise that brings sustainability to every step of the process of making beautiful and functional glass pieces.Together with the engineer Salime Harp Cruces, artist Christian Thornton has developed a process that recycles glass from local communities. Xaquixe offers professional training in glass blowing and other employment opportunities to local residents. 

NOTE Wear comfortable walking shoes and a hat and bring water and mosquito repellant for La Mesita. The trails are well paved but may be steep.

Not included: Our lunch stop will be at either the Hacienda Santa Marta buffet restaurant or Mia Arroz - Asian-fusion dishes.

Expect to pay 200-300 pesos for food and beverage.

Additional Costs: Admission fee of 100 pesos at La Mesita

This tour will depart on time at 9:00 am  from the parking lot across from the south side of Llano Park. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Unclaimed seats may be re-sold at boarding time.

If this tour is sold out, you can take a chance that seats may be available and come to the boarding spot 15 minutes before departure. These seats must be paid for in cash.

No Refunds will be available. If you are not able to attend the event, you are welcome to sell your reservation to others. Please notify the library of change of name for reservation.