Excursions ![]() |
ALL the excursions below are included in your study abroad program price! |
Excursions are a fundamental part of the abroad experience. We carefully select weekend excursions that allow you to discover more about the country in which you are studying and are selected based on cultural and educational importance or sites of natural beauty. Entrance and transportation fees are always included. |
Monte Alban Pre-Hispanic Ruins While in Oaxaca, you will visit the pre-Hispanic ruins of Monte Alban. This former Zapotec capital city is considered one of the most impressive archeological sites in Mexico. The well-preserved ruins sit atop a hill outside of Oaxaca City, which allows for amazing views of the surrounding valley. The numerous pyramids and ancient buildings found at Monte Alban fill the site with an air of awe and mystery. |
Mountain Springs (Hierve el Agua) Hierve el Agua (or Boiling Water) is an impressive natural wonder located west of Oaxaca City. The name is derived from the abundant mineral springs that seethe from the ground, giving the appearance of boiling water. These extraordinary springs have been visited for over 2,500 years, with pre-Hispanic cultures revering their natural beauty and therapeutic properties. On this excursion, you will travel down beautiful mountain roads and experience the awe-inspiring views of the canyons and hillsides as well as soaking in the relaxing springs. |
Bahías de Huatulco Pacific Beach (optional) The Oaxacan coast provides you with stunning cliffside views of thousands of small bays that dot its coastline. Join this weekend excursion to explore one of the most beautiful beach locations Mexico has to offer, the Bahías de Huatulco. Unlike other coastal areas of Mexico, the Oaxacan coast remains largely untouched and mainly plays host to local tourism. While in Huatulco, students will visit several of the pristine beaches in the area nestled in small bays, and spend the day on a boat visiting some of the hidden coves. Do not miss this opportunity to explore untouched beaches and snorkel around coral reefs. This is the perfect opportunity to witness the vast biodiversity the Oaxacan coast has to offer. |
Mitla Pyramids, Teotitlán Artisan Village, and Ancient El Tule Tree The central valleys of Oaxaca State are filled with the echoes of the past. Mitla was known by the Zapotec people as “The Place of the Dead.” It was believed to be the entrance to the underworld and was used as a sacred burial site of great importance. At Mitla, you will find the most well-preserved mosaic designs in all of Mexico. Walking amongst the ruins, you can feel its incredible energy. After exploring Mitla, you will visit the classic Zapotec town of Teotitlán del Valle, famous for its time-honored tradition of hand-woven rugs. Finally, before returning to Oaxaca City, the excursion will take you to the gargantuan El Tule tree. Calculated to be over 3,000 years old, this behemoth is considered the largest biomass on our planet. |