The trek from the village of Benito Juarez to La Neveria rated “difficult” is a true mountain hike. GPS data shows the route runs 5.1 miles (8.7 km), with a drop in elevation of 1855 feet (565 meters) and a climb of 1193 feet (363 meters). The high point is just outside of Benito Juarez, at an altitude of 9638 feet (2937.6 meters). The initial 1.88 miles (3.0 km) is on a dirt road or a path bordering the road. The remainder, though, is a singletrack footpath that plunges through the forest down to the Rio Guacamayas — the low point, at an elevation of 8261 feet (2518 meters) — and then clambers steeply back up (with the gradient sometimes as high as 36%), eventually reaching La Neveria. This hike is rated “Difficult” because of the length, steepness of the terrain, and the overall elevation – Benito Juarez sits at 9600 feet (2926 meters) above sea level, and La Neveria comes in at 8921 feet (2719 meters).
The “moderate” hike option mainly follows the road that connects the two villages. The road runs along a ridge, and so does not have as much elevation change as the footpath. The moderate hike runs 4.3 miles (8.2 km), with a drop in elevation of 845 feet (257 meters) and a gain of 514 feet (156 meters) along the way. The singletrack trail at the end is steep in places, with a downhill grade of up to 29%.
As with all the hikes in the area known as the Pueblos Mancomunados, an admission fee of 60 pesos per person is charged, and local guides must be hired for treks through the forest. Visitors are asked to dress in earth tones (green, brown and blue) and to avoid other colors, particularly bright ones. And speaking of garb, the temperature in the rain forest is typically 15-20 degrees Fahrenheit (6.6 degrees Celsius) cooler than in Oaxaca city and morning fog and drizzle are commonplace, even in the dry season, so light jackets and gloves are recommended. Given the steepness of the terrain, you may find a walking stick handy. Parasols are discouraged – much of the route is in deep shade, and overhanging vegetation is a hazard. Cameras and binoculars are encouraged. Participants should carry plenty of water and pack a hearty sack lunch to enjoy midway on the trail.
Time frame: 8:00 depart Oaxaca / 9:30 arrive Benito Juarez / 9:50 begin both hikes / 12:30 lunch on trail / 1:00 easy hike reaches La Neveria / 1:15 difficult hike reaches La Neveria / 2:00 van leaves La Neveria / 3:30 return to Oaxaca.
