Led by a Maya healer and cook in the jungle near Tulum, this unique class introduces the medicinal plants, herbs, and wild ingredients that have sustained Maya communities for millennia—including epazote, hierba santa, and xcatic chili—incorporated into traditional dishes.
The Maya Jungle Herb and Medicinal Plants Cooking Class is led by a Maya healer and cook working in the jungle near Tulum, Quintana Roo, centered on the wild herbs and medicinal plants that have sustained Maya communities for generations. Over three hours, participants walk through a jungle garden area to identify and gather ingredients such as epazote, hierba santa, and xcatic chili, then move to an open-air kitchen setting to incorporate them into traditional dishes under the healer's guidance. The class is primarily savory, built around dishes that use these herbs as core flavoring rather than as a garnish, with no separate dessert course. Included in the price are the guided plant walk, hands-on cooking instruction, all ingredients, and the shared tasting of the finished dishes; transportation to the jungle location is not covered. Groups are kept small so each participant can take part in the plant identification and hands-on cooking, the class runs in English and Spanish, and the pace is deliberately unhurried to allow time for the healer to explain the traditional medicinal uses of each plant alongside its culinary role. Because the class takes place outdoors in a jungle setting, participants with plant allergies or sensitivities should mention this when booking so the healer can advise on which ingredients to avoid.
Highlights
- Guided jungle walk to identify epazote, hierba santa, and xcatic chili
- Traditional Maya medicinal plant knowledge explained
- Hands-on cooking with freshly gathered herbs
- Open-air jungle kitchen setting near Tulum
- Shared tasting of dishes prepared with wild ingredients
Tips for visiting
- Wear insect repellent and long sleeves for the jungle walk portion
- Mention plant allergies or sensitivities when booking
- Bring water and sun protection, since part of the class is outdoors
- Closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking on uneven jungle terrain
- Small groups are typical, so book a few days ahead in high season
When to visit
Morning sessions are preferable, before the jungle heat and humidity peak in the afternoon.
Accessibility
The class includes a walk over uneven jungle terrain to gather ingredients, which is not accessible for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility limitations.
Frequently asked questions
Is this class held outdoors?
Yes, it includes a jungle walk and cooking in an open-air kitchen setting near Tulum.
What kind of dishes are prepared?
Traditional Maya dishes built around wild herbs and medicinal plants such as epazote, hierba santa, and xcatic chili.
Is walking required?
Yes, the class includes a guided walk through jungle terrain to gather ingredients before cooking begins.
Are the plants explained for their medicinal uses too?
Yes, the healer explains both the culinary and traditional medicinal uses of each plant gathered during the walk.