The scenic rolling hill country of the western Etla Valley harbors a number of roads and trails which are a delight to hike. This outing starts at a remote spot, follows a pleasant stream down a valley running to the southeast and eventually terminates at the ruins of the monastery in Cuilapam, begun in 1556 but never completed. You will enjoy the serene beauty of this agricultural area and the grace of the monastery ruins. After the hike we will stop for an impressive buffet lunch at the Hacienda Cuilapam before returning to Oaxaca.

Time frame: 9 am to 4 pm / Distance: 7.7 Kms (4.8 Miles) / Elevation change: gradual descent totaling 128 meters (420 feet) / Type: point to point / Trail: mostly dirt road with two stream crossings / Exposure: mix of sun and shade / Rating: easy