The ride east from Oaxaca city to Mitla through the Tlacolula valley is an archeologist’s dream. The Zapotec palace ruins in Mitla are second in importance only to Monte Alban, and include some of the finest and most complete palaces found anywhere in Mesoamerica. And on the way to Mitla the rider may well want to stop to investigate the ruins at Dainzu, Lambityeco and Yagul — all well worth a visit, and just minutes off the route. Since this ride is lengthy, be sure to allot plenty of time – like the whole day! – to enjoy both the countryside and the archeological sites.
The route shown on the map below begins and ends in the Zocalo in central Oaxaca. It requires pedaling 60.7 miles (97.7 km) along a dedicated bike path, secondary dirt roads, some bushwhacking on singletrack, and a limited amount of riding on the shoulder of the principal highway. The route is remarkably flat, entailing an elevation gain/loss of just 1780 feet (542.5 meters) along the way. The Zocalo sits at an elevation of 5124 feet (1562 meters), while the main palace complex in Mitla is the high point, registering 5594 feet (1705 meters) above sea level.
Be sure to use sunscreen and carry plenty of water. There are numerous places enroute to stop for snacks, lunch, a cold drink, some ice cream or a snowcone. Invite some friends to ride along, make a day of it and have an enjoyable time!
