Immerse yourself in the authentic experience of Oaxacan cuisine with a traditional cook, recognized by UNESCO as one of the guardians of Mexican gastronomy. These women, whose legacy has been passed down from generation to generation, represent the core of Mexico’s culinary richness, contributing to the designation of Mexican cuisine as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
In this class, you’ll be welcomed into the home of a culinary leader in Teotitlán del Valle. Your adventure begins at the local market, where you’ll discover the ingredients that bring ancestral dishes to life, then proceed to her home, where you’ll be greeted with Oaxaca’s traditional bread and chocolate for a warm start. You’ll learn to prepare tamales and traditional moles (green, red, and black), using authentic methods like the metate and comal.
The class lasts approximately three hours, and you’ll enjoy an artisanal mezcal tasting while savoring your culinary creations. With a full belly and a happy heart, the journey continues with a visit to a family-owned textile factory. Here, you’ll learn about the process of creating handmade rugs and explore their innovations, such as hats, pet beds, and bags, keeping alive the tradition and creativity of Teotitlán del Valle.
Total tour time: around 6 hours.
8:00 AM – Departure from Oaxaca City Center
Meet your local guide and begin your journey to the lesser-known side of the Central Valleys.
1st Stop– Artisanal Cheese in Reyes Etla
Visit the workshop of Don Juan, a renowned local cheesemaker. Discover the process behind traditional quesillo (Oaxacan string cheese), make your own Quesillo and Queso to tkae home, and enjoy a fresh tasting while learning the cultural importance of this regional delicacy.
2nd Stop- Centro de las Artes de San Agustín (CaSa) en Oaxaca
Visit this old factory nowdays the San Agustín Arts Center (CaSa) in Oaxaca, where the renowned artist Francisco Toledo created an iconic set of staircases — a perfect spot for an unforgettable photo.
3rd Stop – Authentic Chocolate Experience
Step into a family-run chocolatería to explore the ancestral techniques of Oaxacan chocolate-making. From roasting cacao to grinding it with spices, you’ll see it all — and of course, enjoy a rich tasting.
4th stop – Green Clay Pottery in Santa María Atzompa
Travel to the artisan town of Atzompa, where you’ll visit a traditional green clay workshop or the legendary Taller Voces del Barro. Watch local artisans shape, glaze, and fire unique pieces, and learn about the history behind this iconic craft.
1:00 PM – Return to Oaxaca City
Drive back with a heart (and bag) full of stories, flavors, and memories.
2:00 PM – Arrival at your hotel or drop-off point
