16 Apr 2023
The option of being collected from a hotel of your choice is a good idea but in practice, it would have been quicker for us to go to the main starting point. We were told that the bus would come sometime between 8 and 8.30 - we were picked up at 8.35 only to be brought to the starting point where we had to get out and were sorted into the "right" bus. I had read about this scenario on previous reviews, but I am glad to note that the transfer was well organised and went smoothly as opposed to the "musical chairs" hullabaloo of previous years.
Along with Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán is definitely a must-see while in Oaxaca and we thoroughly enjoyed our time there. I even saw a snake slithering its way towards one of the pyramids! Our guide, Gabriel, was friendly and interesting to listen to. The explanations did take up a good bit of time as there were both English and Spanish speakers in our group so all the explanations were done twice.
We visited two workshops on this tour: Alebrijes in San Antonio Arrazola right after Monte Albán and ceramics in San Bartolo Coyotepec after visiting the Cuilapam Convent, which I think, personally, was my favourite spot of the tour - another hidden gem with a historical and religious significance. The only thing I found a bit odd was that the gate was opened by a somewhat grumpy caretaker who insisted that some of us go back to the bus to get face masks in order to be let in. However, he then disappeared without a trace and masking was not policed once we were inside.
We had lunch after the second stop and this was another highlight - we were greeted with a welcome shot of mezcal and the all you can eat buffet was an excellent way to taste the different types of mole that Oaxaca is famous for.
The individual drop offs to our hotels at the end of the trip was much appreciated after this long but worthwhile tour. Definitely worth doing if you want to see more than just the "big" attractions.