GirlGI | Girl Gone International Issue 9 | Page 24

MOUNTAINS...
Oaxaca’s mountains cannot be ignored.
You see them either from the air, looking down on
the uneven texture they lend to the landscape, or
experiencing them first hand on a twisting bus
ride through Oaxaca’s highways. As imposing as
they might look, a visit will give you a better look
at the local indigenous cultures (who are
predominantly Zapotec and Mixtec).
Terraventura or Pueblos Mancomunados can
provide you with locally guided tours.

Pueblos Mancomunados These pueblos are the
descendants of the first inhabitants of Oaxaca
dating back to pre-colonial times. Historically, they
are known for their skillful agriculture and
knowledge of local species. Both skills are still
evident today in their care for the forest and
communal organisation (through the exchange
rather than purchase of goods), and participation of
the whole community in healing and caring of their
forests. The communities have only recently been
opened to tourism and provide the opportunity for
travelers to interact and understand the community