El Tule, Oaxaca: The Biggest Tree Trunk In The World

Just 20 minutes from Oaxaca City (9km), the town of Santa María del Tule is home to one of the most extraordinary trees in the world. Known as El Tule, this ancient cypress is famous for having the widest trunk on Earth. It’s an easy and worthwhile stop whether you’re heading to Mitla, Hierve el Agua, doing a bike tour, or just want a quick half day trip.

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What is El Tule Tree?

El Tule is a Montezuma cypress (ahuehuete) believed to be over 1,500 years old. What makes it unique is its massive trunk, measuring more than 42 meters (138 feet) in circumference — the widest of any tree in the world. Locals say you can spot animal shapes in its gnarled bark, and kids from the town help point them out during short guided tours.

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How to get to El Tule Tree?

Getting to El Tule is easy. Taking a colectivo or bus from anywhere along the periferico (highlighted above) or in front of the Volkswagon dealership. Look for Tule written on the front. The ride is quick and affordable.

A Taxi to Tule will cost around $250 pesos (US$12).

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Tule Tree by Bike: A Fun Half-Day Adventure

If you want to fill up your day, hire a bike or take a bike tour out to Tule. The 9km flat ride is a great way to get out of the city and explore a little.

The 6-Hour Bike Tour From Oaxaca To The Tule Tree will take you a little further out to explore Santo Domingo Tomaltepec as well as a couple workshops.

Visiting the Tule Tree: Hours, Cost & Tips

The tree is located inside a small park next to the church in the town plaza. Entry costs just $20 pesos (US1), and it’s open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Local schoolchildren often offer short tours where they’ll show you shapes in the trunk like lions, elephants, and crocodiles — a fun, interactive touch.

What to See Besides the Tree

While the tree is the main attraction, the surrounding plaza is peaceful and pretty. There’s a charming colonial church, artisanal market, some murals, and a small garden area where you can sit in the shade. It’s a relaxing spot to take a break from the busier parts of Oaxaca.

Where to Eat in Santa María del Tule

There are several small restaurants near the plaza, but where you want to eat is in the market, right on the park. Tule is famous for its Barbacoa (pictured above), so give it a try.

There’s also lots of small stalls around the park to grab a nieve (traditional Oaxacan ice cream) too.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Visiting El Tule?

If you’ve got lots of time in Oaxaca, it’s a great relaxing half day trip and I have been many times. If you’re short on time, there are better options. Checking out the tree and hanging out in Tule is great, but apart from that, there’s not much happening here. Best to book a tour out to Hierve el Agua which does a quick stop at Tule on the way👌

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