Thought to be as old as the nearby Mitla archaeological ruins, the Tule Tree is a Santa María del Tule landmark. Pose for photos alongside its massive trunk and search for the likenesses of everything from elephants and pineapples to lions and former Mexican presidents in the knots of its rugged bark.
Most organized visits to the Tule Tree—whether shared or private—are combined with stops at Mitla and Hierve el Agua, though some tours also include visits to Teotitlán del Valle and local mezcal producers too. Visiting independently is also possible, but there’s little else to do in the town of Santa María del Tule itself.
Nature lovers won’t want to miss the opportunity to see the world’s oldest tree up close.
You can pay to enter the tree’s enclosure or marvel over the Tule Tree from behind the railings.
There are lots of nearby vendors and restaurants.
Plan to spend around 30 minutes at the Tule Tree.
Visiting the tree may be tricky for wheelchair users, due to exposed roots and uneven walkways.
Most visitors find it easiest to visit the Tule Tree as part of an organized tour that includes other stops and round-trip transportation. However, independent travelers can drive east along Highway 190 or catch one of the many buses that depart daily for Santa María del Tule from Oaxaca City’s second-class bus terminal.
Visiting the Tule Tree is a year-round experience, though access to the gated church courtyard is typically only permitted from morning to early evening daily. One of the best times to visit the Árbol del Tule is on the second Monday in October, when locals host festivities in celebration of the Tule Tree.
While there’s little else to do in tranquil Santa María del Tule, the Tule Tree has a number of nearby attractions. Perhaps the most popular are Hierve el Agua, a set of pools and petrified waterfalls, and the archaeological ruins of Mitla. Craft lovers should make some time for Teotitlán del Valle, a town recognized for its impressive textile work. Many tours include stops at some or all the above.