Hoofing it in Oaxaca, the Oaxaca Lending Library’s guided hike program, features a variety of day hikes in the Oaxaca Valley and the surrounding mountains, primarily offered from November through March. It’s a great opportunity to get out into the countryside for some fresh air and exercise and to see things you might not otherwise have a chance to enjoy. Our fee includes transportation to and from the trail head, as well as a bilingual expert guide who shares their substantial knowledge of the physical and cultural aspects of the area and a library representative.
Hikes are generally available to reserve 30 days prior to the the hike. Questions and volunteer interest can be directed to: hiio@oaxlibrary.org
Scroll down below the list of hikes for important safety, reservations, refunds, meeting point and newsletter information.
Download the full list of hikes planned for this season here.
Reservations: Advance reservations are recommended and can be made in person at the Oaxaca Lending Library circulation desk or online by clicking the button next to the hike you are interested in. Walk-in Registration: We sometimes have unclaimed seats at the time of boarding, even if registrations were filled. If you are unable to register for a hike, do come to the departure location on the morning of the hike to see if seats are available for purchase.
Please note: Due to the cost of transportation and guide fees, we have a minimum number of hiking participants for each hike (usually around 10). If reservations are below the minimum, the OLL may decide to cancel the hike and refund your reservation.
Refunds / Transfers: We do not offer refunds or transfers once a registration is confirmed. However, if your plans change, you can give or sell your reservation to someone else. You might accomplish this by word of mouth or by means of a post on the Friends of the Oaxaca Lending Library Facebook page, which you can access HERE. Your substitute can simply give your name when they check in the morning of the tour or hike.
Important Health and Safety Precautions: Oaxaca is at a high altitude with a dry climate and the sun’s energy is stronger here than in northern climes. We hike at altitudes of up to 3300 meters / 10,000 feet above sea level. As a result, visitors sometimes overestimate their physical endurance. If you’re not sure, register for a hike rated “easy” for your initial experience with us. In addition, wear sturdy footwear and bring a hat or umbrella and water.
Departure location and meeting times:
Hike participants will rendezvous on Calle de Los Libres #710, between Zarate and San Martin, directly behind the Grand Fiesta Americana Hotel.
Please arrive at the boarding location at least 15 minutes before the starting time listed for the hike.
Hoofing It Newsletter: When you sign up for a hike, you will be added to the mailing list for upcoming newsletter. When you receive that first mailing, you can update your mailing preferences or unsubscribe. Another way to learn more about our hikes is to go to the Hoofing it in Oaxaca website.
Lunch and Village fees: Hikers pay for their own lunch and any additional fees charged by a village. In recent years many villages have started charging a fee for groups entering their area and some require an additional guide, particularly in archeological locations. In addition, 5 and 10 peso coins are often required to use toilet facilities. Please bring additional pesos ($500 should be plenty) with you to cover these expenses.