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Tule Tree, Oaxaca, Mexico
Nature-based tourism is increasingly popular. Surveys show the majority of travelers include at least one natural wonder on their travel itinerary. Moreover, 35% of travelers are drawn to destinations “rich in natural landscapes.”
That popularity has led to fruitful collaboration between ecological conservationists and travel industry professionals. The result? Nature-positive tours: trips that connect travelers with natural wonders while sustainably creating jobs and protecting wildlife.
One of the best nature-positive tour success stories is that of El Árbol del Tule, a large, centuries-old cypress in Santa María del Tule, Oaxaca, Mexico. One of the grandest trees in the world, travelers, local residents, and conservationists worked together to prevent its destruction.
Today, the Tule Tree thrives. Here, you’ll find its story—and learn how you can be part of its next chapter.
What Is The Tree of Tule? (El Árbol del Tule)
The Tree of Tule is a vast Montezuma cypress tree just six miles outside of Oaxaca, the capital of Oaxaca, Mexico. Its age and dimensions are notable. By some measures, The Tule Tree is one of the largest trees in the world.
Age, Size & Height
The Tree of Tule is between 1400 - 3000 years old. Its trunk has a circumference of 137.8 ft around, making it the stoutest tree in the world. It takes 30 adults holding hands to encircle the entire tree at ground level!
Arborists estimate the tree weighs 636 tons and has a volume of 28.8 million cubic feet.
The Tule Tree also has one of the largest crowns. The most recent measurement indicates the tree’s crown is 190 feet in circumference, and it’s about 120-130 feet tall.
History of The Tree of Tule
Planting El Árbol del Tule (150 BC - 600 AD)
According to stories told by the indigenous Zapotec people, the Tule Tree was planted over 1,400 years ago by Pechocha, a priest among the Aztecs, in honor of the Wind god Ehecatl.
However, the neighboring indigenous Ayuuk people’s stories say the Tule was planted by a great king Ayuuk, potentially the legendary King Conday, to be one of the cardinal points. Four ancient leaders were to use the points to divide their lands and navigate.
Both stories point to the tree being planted in the prosperous era of the Zapotec Civilization at Monte Alban, from 150 BC to 800 AD. Scientists agree that the tree is likely between 1400 - 2100 years old.
Tule Tree Endangered & Saved—Twice (1850 - 1995)
Twice the Tree of Tule was endangered by environmental problems. In the mid-19th century, the Tule Tree nearly died from dehydration, as underground water reserves were increasingly used by the growing population. Fortunately, people came together to coordinate watering the tree regularly from wells.
Later, in 1994, industrial growth in Oaxaca again threatened the Tree of Tule, this time by lowering the subterranean water table.
An engineer from Oaxaca, Jorge Augusto Velasco Jimenez, created a committee called My Friend the Tree, urging Mexican people to band together to save it. In an interview for the project, Jimenez said, “If we do not do something now to protect the underwater ground supply that the tree relies on, the tree of Tule will surely die.”
Fortunately, Jimenez and other conservationists came together to restore the microbasin for the Tree of Tule.
Tule Tree Conservation Continues (1995 - Present)
Subsequent civil projects used sustainable practices, working away from the tree to protect it, and ensuring it retained enough water.
Today, local residents celebrate the Tule Tree, and keep the spirit of conservation alive, by holding a festival in its honor every October.
In Santa María del Tule, the town the Tule Tree grows in, El Árbol del Tule protection and tourism now make up 75% of the town’s economy.
Myths and Legends of El Árbol del Tule
The giant Tule Tree has led to several myths and legends over the centuries. Three are the most told.
Conday’s Walking Stick
Conday was either a king of legendary greatness or a minor god, to the indigenous Ayuuk people. The Ayuuk story describes the Tule Tree as Conday’s walking stick. As King Conday walked through the area, he stopped to rest, and he drove his walking stick into the ground. There it took root, growing swiftly, and ultimately becoming the Tree of Tule.
Origin of Humanity: The Sacred Cypress
The Montezuma cypress is the National Tree of Mexico. It’s profoundly sacred in many traditions. In Nahuatl, a cypress tree is called Ahuehuete,” which translates to “old man of the water,” conveying its wisdom.
In the ancient Aztecs’ creation myth, the gods created the first humans from the Montezuma cypress.
Figures & Imagery In The Tree
Tour guides and children will often point out unusual shapes and images seen in the gnarls of branches and bark on El Árbol del Tule. These include an elephant, pineapples, and a former Mexican president’s ears.
Where Is The Tree of Tule In Oaxaca, Mexico?
El Árbol del Tule lives and grows in Santa María del Tule, a town of about 8,200 people. It’s a little over 6 miles eastward of the city of Oaxaca, and both are within the state of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Is The Tree of Tule A UNESCO World Heritage Site?
No. The Tule Tree was submitted to UNESCO for consideration in 2021, but it was not ultimately selected.
UNESCO didn’t detail exactly why El Árbol del Tule was not chosen as a World Heritage site. However, some cultural historians suggest the tree didn’t meet the strict conservation criteria or high bar of historical significance UNESCO sets for heritage landmarks.
What’s The Best Way To Visit The Tree of Tule?
The best way to visit El Árbol del Tule is on an all-inclusive tour of Oaxaca—like Caravan’s 8-Day Puebla & Oaxaca Tour.
With Caravan, you can relax before your vacation even starts. We do all the work for you! Every Caravan trip includes transportation, overnight accommodations, meals, and activities built right into the price.
If you’re looking for a nature-positive trip to experience the wonders of Oaxaca—including El Árbol del Tule—look no further than Caravan.
Travel Easier With Caravan
Caravan has been the world leader in curated, guided, all-inclusive tours since 1952. Today, our trips have never been more popular!
If you want to experience the beauty of the Tree of Tule on our Puebla & Oaxaca Tour, you might have to act fast. Call our agents toll-free at 1-800-227-2826 to book your spot. Or, learn more by calling our information team at +1-312-321-9800.
2025 Hotels
2025 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are usually rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Day 1 • Mexico City
Barcelo Mexico Reforma
Ideally located on the Paseo de la Reforma, within an easy walking distance of historic Alameda Park and Monumento a la Revolución, the tallest triumphal arch in the world. The Barcelo has an on-site coffee shop, bar/lounge and a full service restaurant. The hotel features an indoor heated pool, fitness center, and spa. Free WiFi.
Days 2, 3 • Puebla
Intercontinental-Presidente
The Intercontinental-Presidente is a modern mid-rise hotel with two full-service restaurants and a lobby bar. Your hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and a 24-hour fitness center. Free WiFi.
Days 4, 5, 6, 7 • Oaxaca
Hotel Holiday Inn Express-Centro Historico
The hotel is located in the historic center, just 4 blocks from the Tourist Walkway, the Santo Domingo Temple, and the Cultural Center. The Holiday Inn Express is centrally located to restaurants, shops, and galleries. Your hotel features an outdoor pool and gym. Free WiFi.
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
Arrival Transfers
Transfer on your own to the Barcelo Reforma Hotel (Av. Paseo de la Reforma 1) in the Centro Historico using the airport's taxi service. Rates are fixed based on city zones. Pay for your taxi ticket in advance at the booth inside the airport terminal and proceed outside to wait in line for your official verified taxi. Depending on traffic, the ride to your hotel should take approximately 30-45 minutes.
Departure Transfers
Caravan includes departure transfers on the day the tour ends from your hotel to the Oaxaca Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca, Mexico, arriving at 5:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. If you wish to go at a different time or extend your stay in Mexico, you will need to transfer on your own at your own expense.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
To enter Mexico, U.S. citizens will need a passport valid for 6 additional months after the date of your arrival into Mexico. Non U.S. citizens, please check passport and visa requirements. Note: If you are travelling with children under 18 years old without both parents or legal guardians, you should carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws.
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Mexico City | Puebla | Oaxaca | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 71/44 | 0.3 | 69/42 | 0.3 | 78/48 | 0.3 |
| Feb | 74/46 | 0.2 | 72/44 | 0.3 | 82/50 | 0.3 |
| Mar | 77/49 | 0.2 | 75/47 | 0.3 | 85/54 | 0.3 |
| Apr | 79/53 | 0.5 | 77/50 | 0.6 | 87/58 | 1.0 |
| May | 80/56 | 1.5 | 78/53 | 1.9 | 85/60 | 2.9 |
| Jun | 77/57 | 4.5 | 75/54 | 5.1 | 81/61 | 6.5 |
| Jul | 74/56 | 4.9 | 74/53 | 5.1 | 79/60 | 6.1 |
| Aug | 74/56 | 4.7 | 74/53 | 5.1 | 79/59 | 5.8 |
| Sep | 73/56 | 4.6 | 72/53 | 5.1 | 78/59 | 6.5 |
| Oct | 73/52 | 2.0 | 72/50 | 2.2 | 79/56 | 2.9 |
| Nov | 72/47 | 0.4 | 71/45 | 0.5 | 79/51 | 0.5 |
| Dec | 71/44 | 0.1 | 70/42 | 0.2 | 78/48 | 0.2 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico City | ||||||||||||
| temp | 71/44 | 74/46 | 77/49 | 79/53 | 80/56 | 77/57 | 74/56 | 74/56 | 73/56 | 73/52 | 72/47 | 71/44 |
| rainfall | 0.3 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.5 | 1.5 | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 2.0 | 0.4 | 0.1 |
| Puebla | ||||||||||||
| temp | 69/42 | 72/44 | 75/47 | 77/50 | 78/53 | 75/54 | 74/53 | 74/53 | 72/53 | 72/50 | 71/45 | 70/42 |
| rainfall | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.6 | 1.9 | 5.1 | 5.1 | 5.1 | 5.1 | 2.2 | 0.5 | 0.2 |
| Oaxaca | ||||||||||||
| temp | 78/48 | 82/50 | 85/54 | 87/58 | 85/60 | 81/61 | 79/60 | 79/59 | 78/59 | 79/56 | 79/51 | 78/48 |
| rainfall | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 1.0 | 2.9 | 6.5 | 6.1 | 5.8 | 6.5 | 2.9 | 0.5 | 0.2 |
Clothing Tips
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are not required. During the middle of the day, the sun is hot and bright. Caravan recommends shorts or light pants, a light shirt, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Also essential are comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good treads. See Travel Tips for more details.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Travel Tips & FAQs
These are only the first 10 Travel Tips. Read all 41 Travel Tips Included meals for each tour are listed at the end of each day. Meals are shown by B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Full, buffet, or deluxe continental breakfasts are included everywhere. Free bottled water is provided on the motorcoach. Alcoholic beverages are not included unless specified. Virtually everything! Hotels, most meals, all of the activities described in the itinerary, airport departure transfers, gratuities to hotel porters and restaurant staff. Caravan’s professional Tour Directors and local guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a worry free vacation. They are fluent in English, experienced and fun, ensuring a worry-free vacation. Prices do not include air travel, country entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, valet, laundry, all items of a personal nature, extra food and beverages not on the regular menu, and tips to the Caravan Tour Director, driver, and local guides. A well-paced and unhurried itinerary is our goal, after all, you are on vacation! Touring days begin and end at reasonable hours and include frequent stops. While the occasional early morning departure is necessary, we do our best to ensure a leisurely vacation. Caravan has been offering fully guided tours worldwide under the same family ownership and management since 1952. Caravan understands and truly cares about your great expectations. The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that your preferred tour will be open. Late bookings are welcome if the space is still available. Families are always welcome on any of our tours, but we do not have any programs specifically for or limited to families. Families can make specific requests for connecting, adjacent, triple or quad rooms, when available. Children must be at least 5 years old. Caravan Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. The travel protection plan also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. The cost is $129. Children age five (5) and older are welcome on tour when accompanied by an adult. Usually, children travel during the school vacation months of June, July and August, and also during spring and winter school breaks. If you are travelling with children under 18 years old without both parents or legal guardians, carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws.Are meals included?
My Tour Price Includes
My Tour Price Does Not Include
A Well-Paced Itinerary
Fully Guided Tours Since 1952
Many Tours Sell Out Each Year
Family Trips
Caravan’s $129 Travel Protection
Children on Tour
International Travel with Minors
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. In a typical year, most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best air fare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
