From November 24th
to December 2nd, 2025
15% OFF in all our experiences
Discount Code: BLACKWEEK15
*Promotion limited to 5 discount codes per experience and
cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.
Hiking Retreat
March 12th – 16th, 2026
From $1,280 USD
Secure your spot with a 10%
down payment.
Installments Available.
Booking Deadline
March 1st, 2026
Pace & Difficulty
All paces welcome* ⓘ
Our experiences are about discovery and connection, not speed. We tailor groups by pace, with guides and regrouping points, so no one is left behind. If you can complete that longest hike of the itinerary at your own comfortable pace, you’re ready to join us!
Longest Hike :
14km
Distances:
Ranging 10 km daily
Terrain:
Varied, mostly non-technical single trails, with some sections of rugged and semi-exposed creek/river crossings.
Maximum Elevation:
3,100 m.a.s.l
Maximum Vertical Gain /Loss
+1,700 mts/ -3,220 mts
Group Size
14 People Max.
14 People Max.* ⓘ
The experience will be confirmed once we reach the minimum of 8 participants.
The confirmation deadline is March 1st.
Distances
Ranging daily from 1 to 14 km
Embark on an immersive hiking adventure through the ancient paths of the Chinantla mountains.
“Sendero del Jaguar” translates to “Jaguar Trail” in Spanish, a region nestled in the heart of the Oaxacan Chinantla region. Celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity, its trails encompass 11% of Mexico’s humid tropical rainforests and serve as a crucial passageway for majestic jaguars.
On this 5-day hiking expedition, you will be guided by local experts on a journey from the crisp mountain heights to the lush, humid depths of the jungle.
• Embark on an immersive hiking expedition along the Jaguar Trail (Sendero del Jaguar), home to the highest concentration of jaguars living in harmony with the local communities.
• Immerse yourself in the wisdom of indigenous inhabitants as you learn about the rich world of medicinal plants.
• Enjoy a culinary journey indulging in regional delights such as the renowned “caldo de piedra”, and a diverse array of traditional regional dishes.
• Experience sleeping beneath the stars nestled among the towering pine trees on the mountain ridge.
• Witness the presence of endemic wildlife and birds and take a refreshing dip in one of Mexico’s most pristine rivers.
We will depart from Oaxaca City downtown in comfortable transportation provided by Aire Libre.Upon arrival at Cascada de Niebla, we will enjoy a serene evening immersing ourselves in one of the most well-preserved cloud forests in the area, famous for its breathtaking sunsets.
Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Cascada de Niebla Cabins
Airport shuttles to Oaxaca City: Not Included
Required Arrival Time: Any Time Before 11:00 a.m.
Exact meeting point will be shared upon booking.
After leaving Santiago Comaltepec, we will venture into Tepetotutla, a community that has harmoniously coexisted with jaguars while emphasizing the importance of water conservation. We’ll reach our campsite after navigating through dense and ancient forests, to enjoy hearty meals and a well-deserved rest.
As the sun sets, we’ll be serenaded by a chorus of unique native birds. This mountainous terrain boasts an extraordinary variety of bird species, including the majestic pheasant. We’ll spend the night in our “million-star” tents, immersed in the enchanting ambiance of the cloud forest.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: High-altitude campsite amidst the cloud forest
We will embark on a captivating descent spanning 14 kilometers with a -1,200 meter negative elevation, into the heart of a lush conservation zone, home to one of the world’s most enchanting cloud forests.
As we hike, the landscape transforms into a vibrant jungle, leading us to Santa Cruz Tepetotutla, a village known for its rich medicinal plants, captivating history, and warm-hearted residents. There we will spend the night in cozy cabins, enjoying meals with a unique blend of deliciousness and local charm.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Cabins at Estación Modelo Tepetotutla
While a single day can hardly capture the essence of this paradise, we dedicate this day to relaxation, savoring the delightful weather, and immersing ourselves in the pristine waters of the Perfume River. This day we will delight in the region’s signature dish, “caldo de piedra,” prepared right by the river, and take the chance to connect with families who continue to preserve their ancestral customs and traditions.
As the day unfolds, we’ll come together for a surprise workshop, and as night falls, we’ll be lulled to sleep by the gentle and rhythmic melodies of the river.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: Included
Accommodation: Community Cabins at San Antonio del Barrio
We’ll kick off the day with a hearty traditional breakfast, a fitting farewell to the Chinanteca communities that have welcomed us. Our adventure culminates with a hiking adventure through one of the region’s most iconic and breathtaking sites.
By approximately 5:30 PM, we’ll arrive back in Oaxaca City, marking the end of our unforgettable journey.
Breakfast: Included
Shuttles to Oaxaca Airport: Not Included
Required Departure Time: Any Time After 7:00 PM
Speak with someone from our team to learn more about what to expect and how to prepare.
INCLUDED:
• Transportation throughout the whole experience.
• Specially designed trails along the magical landscapes of the Sierra Chinanteca
•Rural culinary experiences.
*We can accommodate all dietary preferences.
• Exclusively designed yoga and meditation sessions.
• All meals and accommodations for the duration of the experience.
• Knowledgeable and professional local guides.
• Complimentary La Familia Global Community Membership
($50 USD value).
NOT INCLUDED:
• Airfare for your inbound and outbound flights or travel transportation to Oaxaca City.
• Shuttles to and from the Meeting Point in Oaxaca City
• Travel Insurance.
*We highly recommend securing personal travel insurance for your peace of mind.
• Alcoholic beverages and any additional meals beyond the provided ones.
• First night:
We will stay in pitched-roof cabins, with each cabin housing shared rooms with two double beds. Every cabin is equipped with a full bathroom (shower and toilet), hot water, electricity, and Wi-Fi.
• Second night:
We will be at a remote campsite in the dense cloud forest. The 4-season tents accommodate 2 people each, and there is no access to electricity, mobile network, or Wi-Fi. The campsite features eco-friendly dry toilets. All food and water will be supplied by Aire Libre.
• Third night:
We will stay in the Modelo Tepetotutla cabins, which are surrounded by agroforestry coffee plantations and an orchid nursery. The station offers alpine shelter-style rooms divided into two main sections–one for women and another for men. These rooms feature single bunk beds, shared bathrooms, a central courtyard adorned with endemic plants, and a dining area with panoramic forest views. While internet access is not available, electricity is provided for your convenience.
• Final night:
We will be in the San Antonio del Barrio Community Cabins. These cabins feature shared alpine shelter-type accommodations, with single bunk beds divided among three rooms, each accommodating up to five individuals. Common spaces like the dining room, living area, and kitchen foster a sense of community and connection.
The month of March marks a period of drought, where the valleys are adorned with golden grasslands and the forests create a captivating contrast between their orange foliage and the lush green of conifers.
The route weaves through bodies of water, bringing a refreshing touch amidst the prevailing dryness. Please note that mornings can be brisk due to the proximity to the mountains.
FOOTWEAR
• (2) Hiking boots or shoes
• (1) Comfortable camp shoes
FIRST LAYER (BASE)
• (1) Thermal clothing (top and bottom / synthetic or wool)
• (3) Short-sleeved t-shirts
• (1) Long-sleeved shirt
• (4) Pairs of underwear
• (3) Pairs of wool or synthetic blend socks
If you don’t have wool socks, bring 2 extra pairs of cotton socks.
SECOND LAYER (MIDDLE)
• (2) Athletic pants (No denim)
• (2) Sweater or fleece sweatshirt
• (1) Warm beanie
• (1) Pajamas (long-sleeved and pants)
THIRD LAYER
• (1) Warm jacket
• (2) Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
• (1) Waterproof pants or rain poncho
EQUIPMENT
• (1) Sleeping bag (-10°C)
• (1) 2-Strap hiking backpack with waist and chest buckle for the hike.(maximum 30 liters)
• (2) Durable 1-liter water containers
• (1) Camping dry bag (20 L)
• (1) Headlamp + extra batteries
• (1) Personal hygiene kit
• (1) Compact quick dry towel
• (1) Swimming Suit
• (1) Hiking Poles*
*Optional
Please note that there will be limited phone signal or internet access throughout the trip, given the remote nature of our destination. Remember 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.
• Foreigners might be required to present a return ticket.
• A visa might be required, depending on your nationality.
Send us an message and we’ll get back to you with the info you need.
All Aire Libre hosts and guides are fully aligned with our vision of exploring new perspectives and embracing a more sustainable way of life. They bring passion and expertise to every experience, inspiring meaningful connections with nature, community, and self.
Santiago lives in Valle de Bravo and comes from a family of passionate mountaineers. Both his grandparents and parents were avid mountaineers and ultra-distance runners and his deep-rooted love for nature and physical activity was instilled in him from a young age. For years, he has been engaged in mountain trail running, not merely as a sport but as a means of healing and exploring new horizons. He has been actively involved in alternative education initiatives, forest therapy, sustainable tourism, and nature guiding. Collaborating with organizations, universities, and the private sector, Santiago believes that transformative experiences in nature can heal our relationship with ourselves and, consequently, with the environment affected by the environmental crisis. A natural explorer, Santiago’s passion has led him to set records on many of the country’s highest mountains, including Pico de Orizaba, Iztaccíhuatl, Nevado de Toluca, and Tacaná. Join an experience with Santiago expecting engaging conversations about mountains, history, mythology, plants, ecology, and various sensory activities to rejuvenate the body.
Santiago is one of our Lead Guides at Aire Libre Running and the creative mind behind many of our “Local Escapes Mexico” experiences.
To connect with Santiago, find him on Instagram as @santiagocarsolio
Installment Plans Available.
Secure your spot with a 10% down payment.
We acknowledge that we gather, move, and share stories on the ancestral and living territories of the Chinantec peoples, known among themselves as tsa ju jmí — “people of antique word.” These lands, waters, and forests have been cared for since time immemorial through reciprocal relationships rooted in respect, community, and deep ecological knowledge.
We honor the Chinantec communities’ enduring stewardship of these territories, their languages, and their cultural heritage. We recognize the challenges they continue to face in defending their lands, and we commit to learning from and supporting their ongoing work for cultural continuity and environmental protection.
From November 24th
to December 2nd, 2025
15% OFF in all our experiences
Discount Code: BLACKWEEK15
*Promotion limited to 5 discount codes per experience and
cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.
From November 25
to December 2nd, 2024
15% OFF in all our experiences
Discount Code: ALBLACKWEEK
*Promotion limited to 5 discount codes per experience and
cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.
Compártenos cualquier duda o pensamiento sobre la experiencia. Queremos que vivas la mejor experiencia con nosotros, así que te contestaremos lo más pronto posible.
Please share any question or thought about this experience. We really want you to join the adventure, so we’ll come back to you as soon as possible.