Mexico with MAMA LOVE

Dates

Jan 22–27, 2026

Group Size

6–20 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

Explore Oaxaca, Mexico, where the rich tapestry of history, cuisine, and indigenous heritage unfolds in a vibrant symphony. Begin your journey at the ancient archaeological marvel of Monte Albán, where millennia-old ruins whisper tales of civilizations past amidst panoramic views of the Oaxacan Valley. Dive into the heart of Oaxacan gastronomy with a hands-on cooking class, immersing yourself in the art of crafting traditional delicacies. Continue your exploration in the mystical town of Mitla, where intricately designed Zapotec ruins showcase the architectural prowess of ancient civilizations. Savor the flavors of authenticity with a Zapotec lunch, a culinary voyage that encapsulates the essence of Oaxacan heritage. This itinerary promises an immersive encounter with the soul-stirring beauty and flavors of Oaxaca, inviting travelers to indulge in the richness of Mexico's cultural mosaic.
$2,864USD
$2,999USD
Jan 22–27, 2026
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

MAAT MYSTIC
MAAT MYSTIC

Hey there, I’m Alexandria — a farmer, creator, and lover of holistic living. I believe travel is a way to reconnect with ourselves, the earth, and each other. On my trips, expect community, laughter, and soul-nourishing experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Let’s make every journey a chance to grow, heal, and explore together.

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Trip Activities

  • Monte Alban tour

  • Oaxaca City Tour

  • Cooking Class

  • Tule Tree

  • Mitla Archeological Site

  • Beeswax Candle Making

  • Zapotec Textile Demonstration

  • Zapotec Lunch

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers

  • Tips for Guides

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome! Please be prepared to meet in the lobby at 5:30pm to depart for your welcome dinner. The dinner reservation time will be finalized closer to your trip date. If you plan on arriving today, we recommend flying into OAX

dinner

Welcome dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a 2-course set menu with an additional shared appetizer and 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Oaxaca Real (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/5

Overnight in Oaxaca

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Day 2

Info

This morning, fill up on breakfast then head out to Monte Alban! Explore this ancient archeological site and learn about the ancient civilization that once stood here. Then head back into town for lunch, after which you’ll transfer to a lookout point to get fantastic views of the city. Return back to the city center and start your walking tour. You’ll visit local landmarks and finish the tour at your hotel. Then you’ll have the rest of the evening at your leisure. Today you’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a water bottle, and don’t forget your camera!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Monte Alban tour

3 Hours

Depart your hotel on a 25 minute private transfer to Monte Alban. Then led by a local guide, you will explore the archaeological site of Monte Alban, which is among the largest in Mexico. It is the capital of Zapotec culture and perhaps the most important archaeological site in Oaxaca. Head to Monte Albán’s flat mountain top for views of the city, then explore the vast site’s temples, tombs, underground tunnels, and ball court. After a guided visit, spend some free time walking around, taking pictures (as this is probably one of the most picture-perfect views in Mexico!). Depending on how much you explore the archeological grounds, expect to walk 2-3 miles on hard dirt paths and be ready to encounter large stone steps. After your tour you’ll take a 20 minute transfer to lunch.

lunch

Lunch at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a la carte with 1 non-alcoholic drink included, subject to change.

Oaxaca City Tour

2 Hours

After lunch, you’ll transfer 15 minutes to Mirador de la Ciudad where you’ll get expansive views of the city. Then you’ll transfer roughly 15 minutes back to the city center and set out on foot to explore Oaxaca City. Led by your guide, you’ll visit important landmarks such as the Temple of Santo Domingo, the Fountain of the Seven Regions, and the Mercado Benito Juárez. You’ll finish your tour at your hotel. Expect to walk around 1-2 miles on paved roads.

Oaxaca Real (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/5

Overnight in Oaxaca

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Day 3

Info

I hope you're hungry! After breakfast, you’ll take a short transfer to meet a local chef who will be your culinary guide today. Spend time scouring the local market for ingredients, then make your way back to the kitchen to learn how to prepare them. Finally, you’ll enjoy your authentic creations for a delicious lunch! Then return to your hotel with the rest of the afternoon free.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Cooking Class

4 Hours

One of Oaxaca’s MUSTS is local gastronomy. Only a 10 minute transfer away, today you will completely indulge in local flavors with a cooking class led by a local chef. Spend about an hour visiting a local market, in which you will see different types of regional ingredients. After finding fresh ingredients for local traditional dishes, get in the kitchen and start preparing some Oaxacan dishes. Over the course of roughly 2 hours, you will learn how to make tortillas, 3 different salsas, an appetizer, a soup, and a mole (subject to change based on seasonal menus). Wrap up your meal with a dessert and an agua fresca (fruit water). Enjoy a meal with your group and take some of the best kept secrets in Oaxaca cuisine back home. After your meal you will transfer back to your hotel.

lunch

Lunch is included as part of the cooking class. You will enjoy 3 salsas, tortillas, an appetizer, a soup, a mole, a dessert, and an agua fresca as a beverage.

Oaxaca Real (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/5

Overnight in Oaxaca

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Day 4

Info

Today after breakfast, you’re heading out of the city. On your way to Mitla, you’ll stop at the Tule Tree, the world’s largest tree! Then you’ll continue on to Mitla, the second most important archeological site in Oaxaca. Compared to Monte Alban, Mitla became and functioned as a religious center for the Zapotec and eventually Mixtec people. After exploring these ruins, cool off with a local ice cream snack then you’ll head to a local town to observe and take part in some of the traditional crafts like beeswax candle making and a textile demonstration. After which, you’ll transfer to the home of local Zapotec people where you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch. After lunch you’ll transfer back to Oaxaca with the evening free.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Tule Tree

30 Mins

30 minutes after departing Oaxaca City, you’ll stop to see the world’s widest tree, the Tule Tree. At over 36 feet (11 meters) in diameter, the tree is located on church grounds in the town of Santa Maria del Tule. The tree is thousands of years old, but the exact age is debated with an estimated range between 1,200 and 3,000 years old. You’ll stop to learn more about this magnificent tree and take some photos before continuing on to Mitla.

Mitla Archeological Site

1 Hour

After another 45 minutes you’ll arrive at Mitla archeological site. Led by your guide admire and soak in the history at these ancient ruins. Mitla was once the religious center for the Zapotec people and later the Mixtec and considered the second most important archeological site in Oaxaca. Unlike Monte Alban, the construction of Mitla is lower to the ground, and characterized as being constructed for the comfort of the residents rather than for grandeur. Walk among these ruins as your guide explains to you the significance and history of this important site. Expect to walk 1 hour (2-3 miles) on stone, dirt, and gravel paths.

snack

After you’ve visited Mitla, stop for a short break and enjoy a scoop of local hand-churned ice cream! Perhaps try some Mexican vanilla, fresh fruit sorbet or even a scoop seasoned with chili.

Beeswax Candle Making

1 Hour

A 30 minute transfer away from Mitla will take you to a small town. Here you’ll partake in a beeswax candle-making workshop, led by a local family, and learn age-old processes passed down for generations. You’ll observe the intricate designs that are created, and you can take home your candle as a souvenir.

Zapotec Textile Demonstration

1 Hour

In the same location, you’ll watch as local families meticulously craft folk clothing and rugs, some of which take months to complete. This Zapotec weaving demonstration uses only traditional techniques, tools, patterns and organic dyes.

Zapotec Lunch

1 Hour

Transfer less than 10 minutes to the home of a local family that has been preserving traditional homemade foods and recipes for many generations. You’ll be welcomed with open arms into their home as you enjoy a delicious traditional and authentic Zapotec lunch of tortillas, mole, rice, beans, and more. Enjoy your lunch and then take a 45 minute transfer back to the hotel.

lunch

Lunch at a local family home is included. Your meal will typically be 1 main dish with water provided as a beverage, subject to change.

Oaxaca Real (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/5

Overnight in Oaxaca

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

Your final day in Oaxaca will be free for your own exploration. After breakfast, take some time to relax or create your own adventure! Cultural activities are plentiful in Oaxaca with scores of free museums, galleries, and workshops which showcase world-class, locally produced arts and crafts, such as intricately designed black pottery, hand-woven Zapotec rugs and surreal mythical animal sculptures. You can spend all day wandering the different markets.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

dinner

Farewell dinner at a local restaurant is included. Your meal will typically be a 2-course set menu with an additional shared appetizer and 1 non-alcoholic beverage included, subject to change.

Oaxaca Real (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 5/5

Overnight in Oaxaca

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until your next adventure! Enjoy a final breakfast and then make your own way onward. If departing directly from the hotel, we recommend flying out of OAX

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.