Running Experience
Oct 27th – Nov 2nd, 2025
Bookings Closed! Join the Waitlist for 2026
Trip Length
7 Days, 6 Nights
Group Size
Max. 16 People
Activity Level
(2) Nature's Rythms ⓘ
(2) Nature’s Rhythms (Intermediate):
Suited for outdoor enthusiasts of various levels.
Physical Activity: 4-6 hours daily
Distances: Run/ Hike up to 10 miles / 16 km each day
Terrain: Varied, mostly non technical single trail. With little to none exposure of serious falls.
Vertical Gain: Up to 3,000 ft / 900 m per day
Altitude: Up to 10,000 ft / 3,000 m
Distances:
Ranging daily from 8 to 16km
Join us in this running expedition into the heart of the Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) festivities, a UNESCO “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity” and one of Mexico’s biggest and most widely known traditions; a celebration filled with vibrant colors, traditional “Cempasuchil” flowers and ancient rituals in one of Mexico’s most sought-after destinations.
This 7-day transformative running experience in Oaxaca includes breathtaking mountain runs, rejuvenating yoga sessions, traditional healing practices, delicious local Mexican cuisine, and immersive cultural workshops.
As a prelude to the Day of the Dead celebrations, we gather in the warm valley of Oaxaca City, then journey to Benito Juárez in the Sierra Norte. Nestled between 2,400 and 3,100 meters above sea level, this Zapotec community, known as the “people from the clouds,” will welcome us into their forests.
As the sun sets we will take in the breathtaking vista of the central valleys from a hanging bridge where a unique energy begins to gather, marking the start of our journey into the underworld. Later, at Stone House (La Casa de Piedra) we will craft traditional chocolate and enjoy a cozy dinner before retreating to our cabin, unwinding in the comforting glow of the fireplace.
Welcome Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Shared Cabins in Benito Juárez | Twin or triple Share
Shuttle from Airport: Not included
We begin the day with a sunrise yoga session, creating an intentional and sacred space to honor our loved ones and keep their spirits alive in our hearts throughout our journey. Afterward, we’ll indulge in a traditional breakfast at Mr. Eli’s organic farm, relishing the flavors of red atole (a corn-based drink) and other local treats.
Our trail-running adventure will lead us on a breathtaking descent into the woods towards Latuvi, where we’ll join a local family preparing a traditional “altar de muertos” and enjoy a tasting session of pulque and tepache. As night falls, we’ll come together around a campfire with locals to listen to the legends of the Day of the Dead.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Shared Cabins in Latuvi | Twin or triple Share
After a regional breakfast, we will set off on a journey along the Camino Real, an ancient mountainous path that historically linked the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific through Oaxaca. Following our 16 km run, we will complete a final ascent to reach Lachatao, a town nestled amidst the clouds.
The afternoon will unfold with a traditional Zapotec temazcal sweat lodge ceremony. The Zapotecs view it as a sacred space to foster a deep connection with their ancestors and release all body tensions. Here, in the warmth of the fire, we will pay homage to our ancestors.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Shared Cabins in Lachatao | Twin to Quadruple Share
As the sun rises, we will take a short hike and partake in a farewell ritual at Jaguar Hill. This meaningful ceremony honors and celebrates life and death while healing ancestral wounds. After breakfast, we will drive to the charming Zapotec village of Llano Grande and begin a spirited 12 km run through the highlands of San Miguel del Valle to Cuajimoloyas, ending with a passage through a concealed gorge, a mystical place steeped in stories and legends.
Upon arriving in Cuajimoloyas, a lunch with the locals is planned, followed by a restorative yoga session. To end the day, we will enjoy a Sierra Norte farewell dinner as we bid goodbye to the Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca (Commonwealth of Villages), before descending to the valleys.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Shared Cabins in Cuajimoloyas | Twin to Quadruple Share
We bid farewell to Sierra Norte with a delightful regional breakfast, before heading to Teotitlán del Valle, a small town where families practice the local craft of weaving Zapotec rugs using foot looms, and naturally dyed wool. A weaving demonstration awaits us, hosted by the Bautista family, followed by a fest featuring their favorite seasonal dishes for the festivities.
As evening falls, we’ll have a 10 km Night Run, from Oaxaca City to the hauntingly beautiful Xoxocotlán cemetery, where families gather to share stories around their loved ones surrounded by music, food, and candles. *Please note that our visit to the cemetery will comply with any enforced rules and designated times.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Contemporary Hotel in Oaxaca City Historic Center | Double and Single Occupancy
After starting the day with a yoga practice we will embark on a fascinating mezcal tour at an authentic Palenque, followed by a visit to an agave field and a tasting of the exceptional mezcals crafted on-site.For lunch, we will explore Lucina, Cocina de Humo, an authentic space featuring recipes from the community’s collective memory, where they will teach us techniques such as nixtamalization and masa preparation.
Later, we journey to Oaxaca City, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of comparsas and calendas—street parades brimming with tradition, featuring a joyful mix of regional music, dancing, food, drinks, and colorful costumes.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Contemporary Hotel in Oaxaca City Historic Center | Double and Single Occupancy
On our final day, November 2nd, we will celebrate Día de Muertos, a sacred time to emotionally and spiritually reconnect with our departed loved ones and honor the continuity of life.
Our day will start with a reflection session followed by a brief run to observe various offerings and public altars around the city. We will then have our farewell breakfast in Barrio Xochimilco before starting our journey back home.
Breakfast: Included
Shuttle to Airport: Not Included
– We look for new perspectives within cultures and communities in remote places that exist outside of modern societal structures which are focused only in progress and gains.–
INCLUDED:
– Transportation throughout the whole experience.
– Specially designed trails along the magical landscapes of Oaxaca.
– All meals and accommodations for the duration of the experience. *We can accommodate all dietary preferences.
– Carefully curated culinary experiences and regional cuisine.
– Knowledgeable and professional local guides.
– Entrance tickets to all national parks and ejidos are included in the experience.
– Complimentary La Familia Global Community Membership ($ 25 USD value).
NOT INCLUDED:
– Airfare for your inbound and outbound flights to Oaxaca City.
– Shuttles to and from the Airport.
– Travel Insurance. We highly recommend securing personal travel insurance for your peace of mind.
– Alcoholic beverages and any additional meals beyond the provided ones.
Experience cozy comfort and immersive stays during nights 1 through 4 as we journey through the Pueblos Mancomunados (Commonwealth of Villages). Nestled in the heart of each village, our accommodations offer comfortable shared cabins constructed with regional materials. Each cabin boasts modern amenities, including a private bathroom, hot water, electricity, and a fireplace, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere.
In Oaxaca City, our 5th and 6th night unfolds in a contemporary hotel perfectly located in the historic center. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere while enjoying the convenience of modern facilities for a restful night’s stay.
* Please refer to the itinerary for detailed information about the capacity available for accommodations on each night of the trip.
In late October and early November, the weather in the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca features cooler temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 15° to 25° Celsius (59° to 77° Fahrenheit) and nighttime lows of 5° to 15° Celsius (41° to 59° Fahrenheit). This period marks a transition from the rainy season to drier conditions, leading to mostly clear skies.
In the Oaxaca Central Valleys, temperatures are mild and pleasant, with daytime highs of 20° to 30° Celsius (68° to 86° Fahrenheit) and nighttime lows of 10° to 20° Celsius (50° to 68° Fahrenheit), accompanied by a decrease in rainfall.
Oaxaca City experiences comfortable weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20° to 25° Celsius (68° to 77° Fahrenheit) and nighttime lows of 10° to 15° Celsius (50° to 59° Fahrenheit). As the city enters the dry season, rainfall decreases, offering visitors pleasant conditions for exploration.
– Running bottoms (shorts/tights).
– Long and short-sleeved tops.
– Warm-down jacket or polar fleece.
– Cool-weather casual and sports clothing.
– Waterproof windbreaker jacket (compact).
– Sandals, bathing suit, and quick-drying towel.
– Beanie and running gloves.
– 2 pairs of trail running shoes.
– Running socks.
– Multipurpose buff/bandana.
– Night Lamp or headlamp.
– Biodegradable sunblock, hat or cap, and sunglasses.
– Biodegradable insect repellent.
– Personal medical kit (recommendation with basic medicines for any ailment).
– Hydration vest or refillable bottles (2.5 L)
– Thermos for coffee or tea.
– Energy personal snacks (bars, fruits, nuts)
– Electrolytes
– Small water bag (cameras, phones, etc)*
– Hiking poles*
– Personal small item(s) to offer at altars: photographs, small objects reminiscent of your departed loved ones, etc…
*Optional
– Please note that throughout most of the trip, there will be limited phone signal or internet access, given the remote nature of our destination. Keep in mind that this experience involves rural and indigenous community tourism, so access to hot water may vary, although it is generally available.
– Currently, Mexico’s international borders remain open.
– A valid passport is required for entry.
– A visa might be required depending on your nationality.
– Foreigners might be required to present a return ticket.
SPECIAL GUEST
Rob is a Canadian long-distance runner and coach based in Vancouver, British Columbia. A four-time Canadian national champion, Watson has represented Canada at major international competitions several times, including the 2013 World Championships in Athletics, where he placed 20th in the marathon, and the 2013 Boston Marathon where he placed 11th. Watson’s athletic career began in his youth, inspired by his family’s involvement in running. He competed in the 3000m steeplechase during his collegiate years at Colorado State and post-collegiately before transitioning to road racing.
After wrapping up a highly successful elite career, running has continued to play a huge role in his life – be it through coaching with Mile2Marathon, event organization, brand collaboration, personal exploration, or social engagement, running has always, and will always be close to his heart.
To connect with Rob, you can find him on Instagram as @robtalksrunning
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