Culture.Nature.Spirituality.
Discover Huautla de Jimenez: 5-Day Adventure
Huautla de Jimenez, nestled in the mountains of the Sierra Mazateca, is a “pueblo magico” and the birthplace of one of the world’s most renowned shamans – Maria Sabina. This charming town, rich in mysticism and legends, holds a special place in the hearts of those seeking a unique and magical experience.
Mazatec Culture Immersion.
Together we dive deep into the Mazatec culture with our local experts, who open their homes to us and prepare the best home cooked, culinary specialities like tezmole or quelites, and share meaningful ancient Mazatec knowldege on our ritual hikes.
During a Street Art Tour we learn more about the Mazatec cosmovision through art expression and meet local artistas at the town’s art gallery.
Nature excursion.
We wander into the impressive nature, witness mesmerizing waterfalls and explore Huautla’s cave system, among the deepest and widest in the world. A good physical condition and hiking boots are a must.
By experiencing all these breathtaking views, and the wild and untouched nature, we will feel the spiritual depth of connecting with this magical place.
Pure Adventure.
For the adventurous traveler, reaching Huautla de Jimenez is an expedition itself. A six-hour journey from Oaxaca City takes you through winding mountain roads and deep canyons, showcasing diverse climates and vegetation zones.
Also, some of our hikes are quite adventurous, leading us through untouched and wild nature.
Plant Medicine.
Huautla de Jimenez is synonymous with the legendary Maria Sabina and psychedelic mushrooms. Maria Sabina, also known as “La mujer aguila” (Eagle Woman), was the first contemporary Mexican curandera to allow Westerners to participate in the healing rituals known as Veladas. These ceremonies involved the consumption of consciousness-expanding mushrooms, connecting participants with the sacred and facilitating spiritual cleansing.
ITINERARY
5-Day Huautla de Jimenez
Next dates: December 7 to 11 2024
Price: 1,485 USD/1.368 Euro
Group size: 3 to 8 people
Day 1: Arrival + Ritual Hike
- Leaving Oaxaca City at 7:30 am in privat transportation
- Arrival in Huautla de Jimenez around 2 pm
- Ritual Hike to the “Cerro de adoracion”
- Enjoying a magical sunset with a view over the city
Day 2: Nature Excursion + Art Scene
- Deep cave exploration
- Hike to a hidden waterfall
- Street Art Walking Tour through the city
- Meet Mazatec artists at a local art gallery
rDay 3: Nature Hike + Cooking class
- Hike to a hidden entrance to Huautla’s cave system
- Visit to the popular “Velo de Novia” cascades
- Hands-on traditional Mazatec cooking class (vegan)
Day 4: Maria Sabina Museum
- Learning about the story of Maria Sabina at the local museum
- Visit to her grave and hearing stories about her life
- Opportunity to take part in a traditional and sacred “velada” ceremony
Day 5: Departure to Oaxaca City
- Leaving Huautla at 9:00 am to Oaxaca City in privat transportation
Oysters / Veggie / Gin
This trip includes:
- Private Transportation from Oaxaca City to Huautla de Jimenez
- Accommodation at Hotel Rinconcito for 4 nights
- All meals in Huautla prepared by our host’s families
- All listed activities (except the sacred ceremony)
Meet Your Hosts
This 5-day Adventure is a cooperation between LaKaAn Travel and the local tour operator Experiencias Magicas Huautla. All activities will be hosted by our Mazatec guides and local experts Manuel y Bismarck.
Katrin Schrimpf will accompany this trip as the organizer and translator (English, German, Spanish). She has been living in Oaxaca since 2018 and has been traveling to Huautla several times.
Reservation & Contact
Please fill out the Google Form to book your spot. For questions or further information, please write an email to hello@laakan-travel.com or send a WhatsApp.
Prepare for Your Journey with “Maria Sabina: Her Life and Chants”
Reading “Maria Sabina: Her Life and Chants” will provide you with invaluable insights into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Huautla de Jimenez.
Maria Sabina’s story and her mystical chants offer a profound understanding of the Mazatec traditions you’ll encounter on your trip.
In December, the weather in Huautla de Jimenez is typically mild and cool, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) at night to 20°C (68°F) during the day. It’s advisable to pack layers to stay comfortable.
Lightweight Clothing: Pack breathable, lightweight clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and lightweight pants.
Hiking shoes: As we go on some extreme hikes, you’ll need good hiking boots.
Rain Gear: Bring a lightweight rain jacket to stay dry during occasional rain showers.
Personal Hygiene Items: Don’t forget toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo, and soap. Consider bringing biodegradable products to minimize environmental impact.
Daypack: Carry a small daypack to hold essentials such as water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera during excursions. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill at the families homes where we eat.
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent.
Yes, there is internet access and mobile phone coverage available in Huautla de Jimenez, but it’s not as reliable or widespread as in more urban areas. In the town center and the hotel, you can find Wi-Fi access. However, internet speeds are low, and there may be occasional outages or connectivity issues.
All our activities are full day activities. They usually end around 7 pm, so you still have some free time after the tours. If you don’t take part in the ceremony, you will have the entire afternoon/night free on our last day in Huauatla.
All meals will be provided by the families of our local guides. The traditional Mazatec cuisine provides a wide variety of native herbs, vegetables and fruits. Vegan diet is actually very common amongst indigenous communities like in Huautla. There will be always vegan/vegetarian options as well as meat.
We will stay at hotel “El Rinconcito” in front of the town’s market. It’s very simple, but the best option in town. Towels, soap and shampoo are provided.
You have to be in good physical and mental conditions. The rugged terrain in some hiking parts as well as inside the caves can be quite difficult to walk on. Also, to get deep into the caves, you’ll need to be in good mental health.
Yes, there is a Santander Bank in the town center, where you can withdraw money. You won’t need much money, as all the meals and activities are covered. Just the ceremony will be extra (1,800 Mex Pesos).