oaxaca mexico tourist

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Oaxaca

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In the heart of the state of the same name and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and the high mountains of the southern Sierra Madre, Oaxaca is one of Mexico's most beautiful cities.

Displaying an attractive mix of both Indian and Spanish elements, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers many great sightseeing opportunities and rewarding places to visit. It has successfully preserved its unique character and is a delight to explore thanks to its many attractions. Get your camera ready — every facade and street corner is primed and ready for some serious Instagram content.

First settled as far back as 6000 BCE, it was part of the Aztec empire until the Spanish arrived in 1521 and soon after established the royal city of Oaxaca, a name derived from the original Aztec fortress. In addition to its fine architecture, travelers are drawn here for the city's rich cultural calendar, a highlight of which is the famous Guelaguetza , an Indigenous festival held in July with plenty of traditional dancing, costumes, music, food, and crafts.

To learn more about this and other fun things to do in this beautiful part of Mexico, be sure to refer to our list of the top tourist attractions in Oaxaca.

See also: Where to Stay in Oaxaca

1. Oaxaca Cathedral

2. squares and markets: zócalo and mercado benito juárez, 3. church of santo domingo de guzmán, 4. monte albán, 5. the basilica of our lady of solitude, 6. the rufino tamayo museum, 7. museo casa juárez: fit for a president, 8. the ex-monastery of santiago apóstol, 9. san jerónimo and santa maría del tule, 10. cultural centre of oaxaca, 11. oaxaca ethnobotanical garden, 12. museum of contemporary art & textile museum, 13. hierve el agua, 14. day trips from oaxaca, 15. celebrate the day of the dead, where to stay in oaxaca for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in oaxaca.

Construction of Oaxaca Cathedral — the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption (Catedral Metropolitana de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción) — began in the mid-16th century and lasted almost 200 years.

Situated on the northwest side of the city's main square, the Zócalo , the cathedral is notable for its sturdy building style with its two low towers, rebuilt in their present style after being destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, a not-uncommon occurrence in the region.

The original clock, the mechanism of which is completely carved from wood, was presented to the church by the King of Spain upon its completion, just one of a number of attractive features of its pleasant Baroque façade with its finely worked figures and bas-reliefs on its columns.

The interior of this top Oaxaca tourist attraction is also worth seeing due to its Neoclassical influences; its eight finely-engraved glass windows; and the organ, parts of which date back to 1712.

Address: Av Independencia S/N, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

Many of the most important of Oaxaca's best places to visit are to be found in the city's historic downtown core, an area centered around its central square, or Zócalo: the Plaza de Armas .

In addition to its attractive bandstand, its beautiful old trees, and countless cafés, it is here that many of the city's most important festivals and events are held, including the extremely colorful Fiesta de Rábanos — quite literally, the Night of the Radishes — which takes place here on December 23rd each year with festivities such as fireworks, dances, and parades spilling over to Christmas (and yes, there's even a radish-carving contest).

Another important focal point is Mercado Benito Juárez, a colorful covered market that is especially lively on Saturdays when local Indios flock here to buy and sell everything from produce and woven articles to earthenware and leather goods.

Other colorful markets include the daily Mercado de Abastos and the Mercado de Artesanias with a focus on textile goods.

The splendid Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán (Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán), a Dominican church founded in 1575, is well worth taking the time to explore. Along with the adjoining convent — home to the must-visit Cultural Centre of Oaxaca — this impressive structure was built with two-meter-thick walls to make it almost completely earthquake-proof.

Notable for its numerous niches filled with statues, set along its impressive Baroque façade, this large church complex boasts interior walls and ceilings festooned with a wealth of gilded ornamentation and bright sculptures, creating an overall impression that's more palace than church. This is offset a little, though, by the many rustic statues that lend the nave and chapels a distinctive Mexican tone.

Also of interest, in the ceiling above the entrance, is a vine from whose golden branches and leaves grow 34 portraits depicting the family tree of St. Domingo de Guzmán, founder of the Dominican order who died in 1221.

Other highlights include its 11 chapels, the largest and most beautiful being the Rosary Chapel (Capilla de la Virgen del Rosario), which has its own choir and sacristy, and a lavishly decorated altar with a figure of the Virgin Mary that's considered a jewel of Mexican Rococo.

Address: Calle Constitución #101, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

The historic settlement of Monte Albán (Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán), just eight kilometers west of Oaxaca and easily accessible by tour bus or taxi, covers an area of some 40 square kilometers and for 2,500 years was an important place of worship for a number of different population groups.

The center of the ruins, rising on a man-made platform 400 meters above the Oaxaca Valley, is possibly Latin America's oldest and most impressive Pre-Columbian site. Founded in the sixth century BC, the city was once home to some 35,000 people in its heyday.

Highlights include the spectacular Grand Square (Gran Plaza) measuring 200 meters wide by 3,300 meters long and forming the center of the archaeological ruins, along with the Ball Court (Juego de Pelota), a number of large pyramids, and a palace with an inner courtyard and cruciform tomb.

Expect to spend the best part of a day exploring the ruins and the Monte Albán Ruins Museum with its many sculptures, ceramic figures, jewelry, and displays relating to the excavation of the site.

If time allows, you may also want to include nearby San José Mogote on your list of pre-Columbian sites to visit.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad), dedicated to the patron saint of Oaxaca, was constructed of green cantera, a stone unique to the area, between 1682 and 1690 and is one of the city's finest religious sites.

In addition to its attractive atrium built from limestone blocks surrounded by a covered walkway, it's also notable for its figure of the Virgen de la Soledad with her black robe of velvet embroidered with gold and other precious stones, including a large pearl on her forehead. Also of interest is the old Baroque organ, built in 1686 and which is still in regular use.

Other notable nearby churches include San Felipe Neri with its many elaborate altars, San Juan de Dios with an Indian depiction of the conquest, and San Agustin , notable for its façade reliefs of St. Augustine.

Address: El Calvario 107, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

The Rufino Tamayo Museum (Museo Rufino Tamayo), presented to the state by famous Mexican artist Tamayo, lies in an old palace just a short walk away from the Zócalo .

In addition to displaying archaeological objects from Mexico's many Indian cultures, this rich collection of Pre-Columbian art was established to ensure the more than 1,000 historic artifacts collected over Tamayo's lifetime remained intact and safe from illegal traders.

Also worth a visit is the Graphic Arts Institute of Oaxaca (Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca, or IAGO), founded by another Mexican artist, Francisco Toledo, and containing numerous fine paintings from across Latin America, as well as a cultural center, a library with many rare manuscripts, and a music library.

Address: Av Morelos 503, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

The humble looking home at García Vigil 609, now a museum, is famous in Mexico for being the place where much revered President Benito Juárez lived as a servant from 1818 until 1828. Don't be deceived by the home's rather plain exterior.

Inside, the complex opens up into a large central courtyard and houses Museo Casa Juarez , a large museum containing related memorabilia (the President was in fact born in 1806 in nearby Guelatao).

Fun activities include exploring the museum's portrayal of the daily life of both working and middle classes in the 19th century, as well as the period furnishings in the dining room and kitchen.

Also interesting is the Oaxaca Stamp Museum (Museo de la Filatelia Oaxaca), a fun little attraction that features collections of stamps and artworks from local surrealist artists, along with a gift shop and patio café.

Address: Calle de Manuel García Vigil 609, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca, OAX

Just 12 kilometers south of Oaxaca is the small town of Cuilapan de Guerrero , once famous for manufacturing cochineal, a brilliant red dye made from the insects of the same name. These days, the town is an important tourist destination thanks to the splendid old Church and Ex-monastery of Santiago Apóstol.

This enormous hillside structure was started in 1555 and is notable for its Renaissance façade and two inner colonnades, part of which collapsed in an earthquake, and a stone pulpit reached by a small flight of steps.

Although abandoned in 1663, its three-meter-thick walls have stood the test of time, as have the murals in the entrance depicting the history of the order. The terrace on the second floor, where the monks' cells were located, offers great views, and, on the rear wall, an interesting stone plaque bears both the Pre-Columbian calendar inscription "10 reeds," as well as the Christian year 1555.

In the church, the only part of the complex still used, the most interesting feature is the tomb of the last Zapotec princess, the daughter of the ruler Cocijo-eza.

A short drive east of Oaxaca is the small village of Santa María del Tule, famous for the ancient Tree of Tule (El Arbol del Tule). This massive cypress tree, 40 meters wide and 42 meters tall, stands in front of a charming little church and is estimated to be around 2,000 years old.

A farther 10 kilometers away is the equally interesting town of Tlacochahuaya , home to the 16th-century San Jerónimo Church. Highlights include its richly decorated interior crammed full of colorful paintings created by local Indians who portrayed their artistic and religious ideas with paintings of stars, flowers, birds, suns, and angels.

The Cultural Centre of Oaxaca (Centro Cultural Santo Domingo), also often referred to as the Regional Museum of Oaxaca (Museo Regional de Oaxaca), is housed in the former convent Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán.

One of the top places to visit in Oaxaca, this must-see attraction is well regarded for its excellent collections related to native culture, as well as for its ecclesiastical and secular exhibits from the colonial period. The superb ethnological collection includes costumes, masks, jewelry, ceremonial, and household implements belonging to the Indian tribes from the region, together with archaeological finds from surrounding ruins.

The highlight of the archaeological exhibition is the Mixtec treasure trove of gold, jade, turquoise, and other semi-precious stones found in 1932 in nearby Monte Albán , and from which elaborate bracelets, necklaces, earrings, breastplates, and masks were produced. Historical documents and items from the old church and the convent, including the refurbished old Spanish kitchen, are also of interest.

A fun thing to do in summer and spring when its gardens are in full bloom, Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden (Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca) sits on nearly 2.5 acres adjacent to the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, and is well worth adding to your travel itinerary.

Created by a group of local artists known for their work with other Oaxaca cultural attractions, the garden sets out to explore the important relationship between we humans and the plant life that surrounds us.

With a particular focus on the state of Oaxaca — both its people and its plants — this attractive and easy-to-navigate garden occupies a part of the old monastery grounds and opened to great fanfare in 1998. Highlights include a wide variety of native species, a rescue area, medicinal plants, as well as species used for centuries in traditional recipes. English-language guided tours are available.

If botany is your thing, consider a visit to Benito Juárez National Park. Located just five kilometers outside the city, it was founded in 1937 and covers a massive 7,000 acres of land and features a mix of pine and oak forests, as well as tropical deciduous trees. A number of hiking paths are available to explore.

Address: Reforma Sur n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax

The Museum of Contemporary Art , or MACO — Museo de Arte Contemporaneo de Oaxaca — is a must-visit in Oaxaca for art lovers. With a broad mandate to showcase contemporary art from across the world with traditional local art, MACO features an eclectic array of paintings from locals including Rufino Tamayo and Francisco Toledo, along with creations in disciplines such as graphic art, sculpture, and pottery.

The building itself-an old colonial affair built in the late 1600s-is a delight to explore, whether as part of a guided tour or on your own.

Also of interest is the city's Textile Museum (Museo Textil de Oaxaca). Highlights of what's regarded as one of the top free things to do in Oaxaca include exploring colorful displays of the region's traditional textile crafts, a mix of permanent and visiting exhibits - including examples from abroad - as well as workshops, lectures, films, and a well-stocked library.

Guided tours are available, and a shop is located on-site selling examples of local textiles and related goods.

Address: Calle Macedonio Alcalá 202, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

Deep in the jungle-covered mountains outside Oaxaca is a stunningly beautiful natural surprise. From a distance, it looks like a frozen waterfall, flowing in perpetuity from the side of a staggering cliff. In reality, this is Hierve El Agua, a petrified waterfall and series of small, natural pools - and yes, you can swim in them!

Hierve El Agua, which translates to "boiling water," was created from mineral water that pushed through the limestone rock and deposited the seemingly frozen falls over the mountain's edge. The two mineral pools that are at the top of the falls are yellowish in color thanks to the small amount of sulfur in them.

Today Hierve El Agua is one of the top tourist attractions in Oaxaca, but in the past, the effervescent springs were used to supply water to canals and terraces that led down into the valley.

The best way to visit the site is to get there early before the tour buses show up. That way you may even have the entire site to yourself. However, the easiest way to visit Hierve El Agua is to sign up for a tour.

Given Oaxaca's subtropical location in the beautiful Oaxaca Valley, there are many fun day trips and excursions to the splendid countryside surrounding the city. One of the nicest short trips is to the town of Dainzú , just 20 kilometers east of Oaxaca and the location of a settlement inhabited from about 500 BCE until 1400 CE.

One of the most important of its buildings has a pyramid-shaped base and is built in a style similar to that of the north platform at Monte Albán. A few miles farther is Lambityeco with a small pyramid along with seven ancient tombs, including one with two heads and names chiseled into its façade.

Another small town worthy of a road trip is Huijazoo , just a short drive north of Oaxaca , where nine tombs were discovered, the most remarkable being Tomb 5, notable for the serpent mask forming its entrance and an interior furnished with sculpted columns and colored murals depicting rulers or priests and dating from the 8th to the 10th centuries.

Finally, be sure to visit the ruined site of Mitla, on the edge of the village of the same name, just 40 kilometers to the east of Oaxaca's city center. One of Mexico's most famous archaeological attractions, this fascinating site includes elaborate stone ornamentations unsurpassed in the history of Mesoamerica. Sightseeing highlights include the Hall of Columns with its altar, and the Patio de las Grecas , a small inner courtyard surrounded by long narrow rooms where the city's high priest lived.

Day of the Dead, or Dia De Los Muertos, is one of the most important traditional celebrations in the country of Mexico. All across the country, Mexicans celebrate this special time of year when, legend has it, the souls of departed loved ones return back to Earth. It's not a time for mourning, but a time for joy and celebration.

Oaxaca's Day of the Dead celebration is one of the most vibrant and colorful in Mexico. During the festival, the streets come alive with parades, large-scale art, and giant puppets. At night, families gather at the local cemeteries and decorate the graves with candles and vibrant, orange marigold flowers.

All throughout the city, visitors will see the beautifully decorated altars dedicated to departed family members. The altars are strewn with colorful flags, photographs, and offerings like favorite food and beverages.

Another image you'll see all over the city is the image of La Catrina, the skeleton woman dressed all in black. It's common for men and women to have their faces painted to look like La Catrina, so you may see hundreds of people with magical face and body paint wandering the streets.

It is truly one of the most vibrant and culturally significant festivals in the entire country, and no place celebrates quite like Oaxaca. Day of the Dead runs from October 31 through November 2.

We thoroughly recommend these conveniently located hotels in Oaxaca that are handy to the city's attractive historical center:

Luxury Hotels :

• A favorite for those seeking good luxury accommodations in Oaxaca, Hotel La Casona De Tita is a colonial-style boutique hotel with a peaceful central courtyard and a delicious breakfast.
• The elegant Quinta Real Oaxaca is another good choice and comes with a great garden swimming pool, a top restaurant, and charming rooms with high ceilings.
• The focal point of Hotel Palacio Borghese is its beautiful central courtyard, complete with ample seating and a fountain, along with its lovely spacious rooms and proximity to the heart of the old city.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• The three-star boutique hotel, Casa de Siete Balcones , is not only affordable, but also offers quality accommodations in a historic center location in a beautiful old building, and fresh flowers.
• Another great boutique hotel to consider is the XTILU Hotel featuring spa services; quality rooms with large, attractive en-suites; and complimentary breakfast.
• Casona Oaxaca is another good option, boasting a great location, a charming courtyard, and laundry service.

Budget Hotels :

• A budget hotel that's worth a look is the Holiday Inn Express Centro Historico Oaxaca , popular for its mid-range pricing, modern style, comfortable beds, hot tub, and outdoor pool.
• Also popular are Hotel Las Golondrinas , located in a quiet neighborhood and offering a peaceful garden to relax in, along with cozy rooms; and Suites Regente , which offers a choice of brightly decorated and spacious family rooms and suites.

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Best Beaches in Mexico : Some of the best vacations in Mexico are to be enjoyed in Cancún , an island-based luxury resort off the north coast of Yucatán known for its many beautiful "playas," or beaches. Another island that's popular with modern-day sun-worshippers, Cozumel -also off the Yucatán Peninsula-boasts lush tropical vegetation and great coral reef-lined beaches. Those seeking great luxury resorts should consider Cabo San Lucas , located near the California Baja Peninsula and with a delightful (though not-too-big) beach area.

Mexico's Pre-Columbian Past : An easy commute from Cancun's resort area, the historic Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá date back over 700 years and offer plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the history of this fascinating ancient culture. Equally as popular is ancient Tulum , the only Mayan fort known to have been built overlooking the ocean. For those staying in the country's capital, a number of great tours and day trips from Mexico City take in such sites as Teotihuacán and Tenayuca.

Mexico Travel Ideas : There's no end of fun things to do in Mexico City , the country's capital, from exploring its old Aztec roots to beautiful architecture that dates back to the time of the first colonists. Add to this the many museums, art galleries, old churches, and palaces, and you'll be kept busy for days. Beautiful Guadalajara has also done a great job of preserving its colonial past, and boasts many fascinating historic attractions and points of interest worth exploring. So, too, has Mérida , the capital of Yucatán, famed the world over as the "white city" for the color of garments most preferred by its population.

More on Mexico

The Ultimate Guide to Oaxaca, Mexico (Things to Do 2023)

Ready to explore Mexico’s enchanting city of Oaxaca? This is your guide to planning the best things to do while visiting Oaxaca.

Oaxaca has long been on my list of places to visit in Mexico. And with this year dedicated to exploring all that Mexico has to offer, like this remote surfing town , the jewel box town of San Miguel de Allende , and this Yucatan treasure , I was more than eager to get to Oaxaca.

I had the chance to explore Oaxaca with El Camino Travel, a curated group trip company. I led a 6-day tour with 12 women, all with the help of El Camino Travel. Their ability to find the best local things to do, connect with artisans, and give an incredible travel experience made our trip to Oaxaca amazing ( and completely unrepeatable ). So I can’t say better things than to book that El Camino Travel group trip — check out my IG highlights on Oaxaca for more.

I came in a night early into Oaxaca before the group trip and took two days to explore the city on my own. Throughout the El Camino trip, we also had ample free time to explore, so my guide is for all of the wonderful things I discovered while there.

Read on to find the best things to do while visiting Oaxaca — from the arts, and coffee shops, to memorable dining, Oaxaca has it all.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Oaxaca:

• Pug Seal ,  for the best design hotel
• Grana B&B ,  for the best design for dollar hotel
• Hotel Escondido ,  for the best luxury hotel
• Casa Antoineta , for the best romantic stay

Things to Do

• Visit the petrified pools of Hierve el Agua

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

For all international trips, I recommend having reliable travel insurance. I like to use World Nomads .

The Ultimate Guide to Oaxaca, Mexico

What to know about visiting oaxaca, mexico.

How to Get to Oaxaca, Yucatan?

You can get to Oaxaca, Mexico, by flying into Oaxaca’s Xoxocotlán International Airport (IATA: OAX) from major Mexican cities like Mexico City, Cancún, or Guadalajara. There are direct flights from the US from airports like Dallas Ft. Worth and Los Angeles.

Once you arrive in Oaxaca, it’s best to take a taxi or pre-book a private transfer into the city center (around 25 minutes.). On arrival, once you clear customs, there is a taxi stand inside the airport where you prepay. There are two options: collectivo and private. Collectivo means a group transfer. It’s cheaper but you will have multiple stops (around 140 pesos).

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Oaxaca?

The best time to visit Oaxaca, Mexico, is generally during the dry season, which spans from late October to early May. This period offers pleasant weather with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding attractions. However, be aware that Oaxaca can get crowded during major festivals like Dia de los Muertos (late October to early November) and Semana Santa (Holy Week, typically in March or April), so plan your trip accordingly if you want to experience these cultural events.

How Do I Get Around Oaxaca?

Oaxaca’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city’s attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.

For longer distances, taxis are a convenient way to get around Oaxaca, especially for reaching destinations outside the city center. You can find taxis at designated stands or hail them on the street. It’s a good idea to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey or make sure they use the meter. You will need cash for almost all taxis.

Do I Need a Rental Car in Oaxaca?

For visiting the city of Oaxaca itself, you do not need a rental car. If you plan to do a day trip to nearby sights without a hired guide/transfer, this is where a rental car may be handy. You could allot a few days of your trip with a rental car if you wanted to. In Mexico, I use Discover Cars for the best rates and take comprehensive insurance as required by Mexico.

Is Oaxaca Safe?

In general, Oaxaca is considered one of the safest destinations in Mexico. I had several afternoons and evenings out solo and felt comfortable. Should you practice common sense when traveling? Absolutely. Consider where you go, when, and whether or not it’s best to be solo or with a group when traveling anywhere in the world.

Currency, Language, and Health

The local currency is Mexican pesos, which you could pull out prior to arrival or on arrival at a local ATM. You will need cash for smaller stores, food stalls, and markets. Credit cards are widely accepted at large institutions.

The local language is Spanish, and I always recommend having a handful of useful, everyday phrases to refer to if need be.

Is it Safe to Drink the Tap Water in Oaxaca?

It is not safe to drink tap water in Oaxaca. Stick only to bottled water and reliable sources.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca has a vibrant selection of boutique hotels, design-worthy vacation rentals, and haciendas. Check out  the full list of my favorite hotels in Oaxaca  for more!

Where I Stayed: Grana B&B

While there are many incredible hotels to choose from, I went with Grana B&B for my one solo night in Oaxaca before joining the group trip. Its central location, chic design, and included breakfast were a few reasons I had chosen this hotel. The rates are some of the best in comparison to other design hotels in Oaxaca, making it a reasonable place to stay in terms of price. The central courtyard and even complimentary rooftop yoga classes are a wonderful addition to the stay. Book the best rates here .

Other Hotels in Oaxaca to Consider

Though I only had time for one hotel stay, I always have a few favorites on my radar:

Where to Eat in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is home to incredible food. It’s truly one of the best “culinary” destinations in Mexico with a strong cultural presence in their ingredients and cuisine. I’d recommend a mix of experiences — street food and fine dining. It’s a beautiful blend of many types of food in Oaxaca. Do know that in high season, reservations are highly recommended.

Levadura de Olla Restaurante

Levadura de Olla was one of my favorite meals in town, I came in solo for lunch. Have to try their tomato salad and any of their entrees are wonderful. One other unique drink to try here is the “tepache” or fermented pineapple beer.

Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante

One of the better fine dining experiences in town. Casa Oaxaca has stunning views of the church and if you can reserve a rooftop, try to! Loved all of the food, the bean soup was a personal favorite.

Chef Enrique Olvera, known for his Michelin-star cuisine, opened up Criollo . On the World’s 50 Best Restuarant lists, this prix-fixe menu pays homage to Oaxacan cuisine. The setting is stunning, do reserve in advance.

Los Danzantes

I’m 50/50 on what I ate here but want to include it nonetheless as many love Los Danzantes . I liked most of my meal, it’s more elevated dining, and the setting is tucked away off the street. I walked in without a reservation, I think having one would have changed the experience for me.

Sabina Sabe

Sabina Sabe is such a gem, it’s a mezcal bar with tons of small plates. Also listed on North America’s Best Bars, I came in for a late lunch. The pork tacos here are a must!

Amá Terraza

Set above Casa Antoineta , Amá Terraza is a lovely rooftop bar for small plates and natural wine. You could likely just walk in, and lunch is also popular here.

Selva Oaxaca Cocktail Bar

On North America’s 50 Best Bars list, I’d recommend popping into Selva at least once for a cocktail. Their innovative menu is so fun and the server will help you choose the best one for you. I did the house cocktail, which was more savory than sweet!

Tacos de Comal Plaza Del Carmen

A total classic street food cart in town, definitely come by Tacos Del Carmen for late breakfast or lunch.

Pan Con Madre

There are many pastry shops in Oaxaca, but Pan Con Madre was my favorite for both pastries and coffee. I ended up taking some for takeaway as I couldn’t decide.

One of the more popular bakeries and restaurants in town, I popped into Boulenc twice while in Oaxaca for a bite. On my final morning, I had a sit-down breakfast, the food was delicious.

Other Restaurants on My List

While I can’t eat everywhere, I always have an ongoing list of places. Those included:

• La Cocina de Humo
• Lechoncito de Oro

My Favorite Coffee Shops in Oaxaca

• Muss Cafe at Casa Antoineta
• LIA Café at Hotel Principal
• Cafe Blasón
• Cafe “El Volador”
• Onnno Loncheria
• Masea Trigo y Maiz

Things to Do in Oaxaca

Explore the downtown.

On arrival, one of the best things to do in Oaxaca is to walk downtown. Many small plazas and the Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) are bustling with city life. You really can’t go wrong with a leisurely stroll starting from the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán down into Centro.

Visit the Many Museums

Oaxaca is packed with culture and history, with several different museums on offer. My favorite one was the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca, Santo Domingo (open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Friday), housing archaeological artifacts, an ancient library, and cloisters. I’d block out 2 hours to see this one as there is a lot to take in.

Another favorite was the free Museo Textil de Oaxaca (open daily from 10 or 11 a.m. until 6 or 8 p.m.), which houses textiles from the region.

Museo De La Filatelia is another must-visit museum that houses surrealist art and a beautiful patio (open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.).

Try Ancestral Hot Chocolate at Rito Chocolatería

Oaxaca is known for its artisanal hot chocolate that comes from hundreds of generations ago. Often referred to as ancestral hot chocolate, Rito Chocolatería is the spot to go in and try it. You can also pop in and buy chocolates to bring home.

Taste Mezcal

You’re in the mezcal capital of Mexico, so what better place to try mezcal? While you can certainly visit a mezcal distillery, one way to enjoy it is by stopping at one of the many mezcal bars in Oaxaca. My three choices are Selva , Sabina Sabe , and Mezcalería In Situ . For those looking to do a sit-down tasting, La Mezcaloteca was recommended (reservations required).

There is no end in sight when it comes to shopping. I went to over a dozen stores during my time exploring Oaxaca. I found some of the “mercados” to feel not super authentic, so I ended up returning to a few stores to purchase more. My favorite find of the trip was LIA Café , a coffee shop and curated store. I went in 4 separate times because each time new items kept arriving in the store.

Another favorite for ceramics was Cooperativa 1050º , so many goodies here and don’t forget the second floor. For custom hats, do stop into Sombreros Alberly Premium , these hats are amazing. Another store is Marchanta , a great collection of Mexican designers, but quite expensive in price.

Peruse and Eat in the Markets

Oaxaca City has several markets to peruse through, many housing small restaurants and food carts. Mercado Benito Juárez is the biggest, and well worth a visit. Afterward, you’re right next to Mercado 20 de Noviembre , another fresh food market with stalls of local street food.

Visit Hierve el Agua

Taking a day trip to Hierve el Agua is a must when visiting Oaxaca. About 1.5 hours away, you can either rent your own car or join a tour that takes you out there. I’d highly suggest getting out as early as possible as once it reaches a maximum capacity of 200 people, it closes off. The scenic petrified waterfalls and cool spring pools are set high in the mountains.

You can also dip in the springs and go hiking in that area. A few recommended guided Hierve el Agua tours from Oaxaca are this full-day tour or this full-day tour.

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20 Top Things to Do in Oaxaca, Including Mexican Hot Chocolate Tastings and Mural Walks

Culinary and cultural adventure await in this increasingly popular city in Mexico.

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Oaxaca is not just having a moment — it is here to stay. One of Mexico's most enchanting cities , Oaxaca seems to truly have it all, from ancient ruins, excellent cuisine , and fabulous art to indigenous culture, architecture, and dance. I learned this first-hand back in 2017; I was on a backpacking trip that was supposed to cover all of Mexico, but two months in, I got to Oaxaca and couldn't get myself to leave. I didn't finish the trip itinerary that year, and I have zero regrets.

Of course, I am not alone in my passion for Oaxaca.

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"It's one of my favorite destinations in Mexico for its incredible combination of precolombian, colonial, and contemporary influences," says Zach Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico, a curator of highly personalized and expert itineraries all around Mexico. "Let us not forget that Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s biggest states and, like the cultural diversity, its geography is vast, ranging from the high alpine mountains of Sierra Norte and Mixteca to steamy lowland jungles and coastal plains. Throw in some world-class surfing, kite boarding, mountain biking, and hiking, and you’ve truly got something for everyone. While not such a well-guarded secret anymore, you’d be surprised at how few North Americans have actually visited Oaxaca."

Ready to see why we're so hooked this city? Here are 20 of the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Related: This All-female Travel Company is Headed to Oaxaca — With Trips Featuring Incredible Women-owned Businesses

Discover the historic core and Zocalo.

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The entire city of Oaxaca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it makes sense to start your explorations at the historic core. For most cities in Mexico, the zocalo (which translates to public square or market) is at the heart of the its historic core, where you're sure to learn about the city's history, admire some of its oldest architecture, and get some good people-watching in. Oaxaca is no exception. Start in the main square and wander the famous landmarks that are nearby.

Walk the Pasillo de Humo in Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Vegetarians, look away! Oaxaca has many interesting markets (more on that in a bit), but perhaps its most famous is the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, particularly for its Pasillo de Humo, which directly translates to "hall of smoke." The name refers to a seemingly endless aisle of carne asada within the market. It's an overwhelming experience for all the senses, and a rite of passage for any carnivore.

Make your way through other markets, too.

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Oaxaca has so many different markets to explore, and each one offers a unique experience. Mercado 20 Noviembre is one of the main markets for prepared food and ingredients, like spices, herbs, produce, and meat. But Central de Abastos is the largest market in Oaxaca — if you want it, chances are you'll find it here. Feeling peckish? Find the Doña Vale stall and try her memelas, or fried masa cakes, which are now legendary, thanks to Netflix show "Street Food." At Benito Juarez Market, shop for souvenirs and more Oaxacan food. If local art is what you seek, head to ARIPO Oaxaca Artisan Market, which abounds with jewelry, crafts, textiles, and other artisan products made around Oaxaca.

Eat your way across the city.

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While we're on the subject of food, we'd be remiss not to mention Oaxaca's impressive cuisine. Mexican food is beloved around the world, but there is something about Oaxacan food that makes it extra special. Try items indigenous to Oaxaca like crispy tlayudas , decadent enmoladas , crunchy, salty chapulines , and, of course, the seven different kinds of mole perfected in Oaxacan kitchens. You can find all of these dishes at the humblest of street carts, or at fine-dining restaurants around the city, where you can pair a dish with a sexy Mezcal cocktail. If you want insider secrets, a food tour with Oaxacking will blow your mind (and your taste buds). Restaurants not to miss are Criollo , El Tendajon , and Origen . 

Take a swim in a frozen waterfall at Hierve El Agua.

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One of Oaxaca’s most mesmerizing natural features is Hierve El Agua . This impressive landmark looks like a gushing waterfall that frozen mid-spill over the edge of a cliff. Of course, it's not actually frozen, but an illusion, thanks to calcified mineral deposits. It's surreal sight and one of the most popular attractions in Oaxaca. At the top of the falls are natural mineral infinity pools, too, and you can take a dip in them while enjoying mountain and forest views. Make sure your phone is fully charged — you won't want to miss these photo ops.

Walk like a Zapotec at Monte Alban.

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Evidence of Mexico's indigenous past can be found in all regions across Mexico, but Oaxaca has some of the highest concentrations of what is left of the Zapotec and Mixtec empires. The most famous archaeological site in Oaxaca is Monte Alban. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the capital of the Zapotec civilization, and today it's an impressive, preserved collection of palaces, tombs, a ball court, and plazas — all on a hilltop perch with 360-degree views of the valley, mountains, and Oaxaca City.

"Monte Alban, along with other archaeological sites in the region, are a combination of Zapotec and Mixtec, reflecting the various battles and interchanging rule of these warring communities. Mexico's pre-Spanish history is much more than simply the story of the Aztec and Mayas," Rabinor said. What's more, these cultures are alive and well and have influenced modern day cuisine, music, art, religion, rituals, and festivals.

Take a spiritual steam.

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Self-care is an integral part of any vacation these days, so why not a little self-care that comes with centuries of history? Temazcal is an ancient ritual that dates back hundreds of years. It comes from a Nahuatl word that means "house of heat," and many of Mexico's indigenous people practiced temazcal sweat lodge ceremonies for healing. The practice is still used today, though it can be a lot more commercialized, particularly in more touristy areas. For something a bit more true to its roots, the RenaSiendo Temazcal Ceremony is a three-hour experience, complete with the use of onsite pools.

Count gold at Templo de Santo Domingo.

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At the heart of Oaxaca is the Templo de Santo Domingo, a spectacular Baroque Catholic church. Standing at attention in front of a main square and surrounded by agave plants, this beautiful work of architecture is one of the highlights of Oaxaca. Not to be missed is its interior, which is practically bathed in gold. Entrance to the church is free.

Don marigolds at Day of the Dead.

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A Day of the Dead festival should be on every Mexico itinerary, and Oaxaca's is one of the best and most popular in the country. Dia de los Muertos is one of Mexico's most important celebrations, where departed souls are honored and celebrated with candles, parades, offerings, art, color, and music. The festival takes place every year from October 31 to November 2. If you do aim to visit Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as this is one of the busiest times to visit the city.

Sip mezcal in its birthplace.

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Born from the agave fields all across the state of Oaxaca, this distant cousin to tequila is known for its smoky taste, though mezcal flavors do range greatly. It's one of the most celebrated beverages throughout the state, and dozens of mezcal bars in Oaxaca are waiting with open bottles to gift you that perfect pour. One of the best is La Mezcalerita Oaxaca , with three intimate rooms and a sprawling rooftop patio. 

Explore Mitla.

If you'd like to see more ruins than Monte Alban, Mitla is a must. This was the religious center for the Zapotecs, and today's visitors usually go here to see the Column of Life, which is located in one of the tombs. Legend has it that if you wrap your arms around the column, the distance between your hands reveals how much time you have left in life. Believe what you will, Mitla is still a fascinating piece of Oaxaca history.

Get lost among the city's murals.

Street art is a vital part of Mexican culture no matter where you are in the country, Oaxaca's streets included. Public walls all over the city are adorned with brilliant works of street art. A large part of the work is due to a collective known as Lapiztola, a group that uses art and creativity to spread messages of change to the public.

Soak up all the art and culture.

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Oaxaca has plenty of indoor art, too. The city is peppered with museums and galleries. The Museo Textil de Oaxaca , for example, highlights traditional Oaxacan textiles and handicrafts, while the Museo de las Culturas features 14 rooms that tell the story of Oaxaca's history. And don't skip the Museum of Contemporary Art , or Jacobo y Maria Angeles Workshop , a fascinating, under-the-radar spot that focuses on carved copal wood figures, an ancestral practice native to the Oaxaca region.

Visit the world’s widest tree.

Not far from Oaxaca City is the stunning Templo Santa Maria de la Asuncion in the small town of Santa Maria del Tule. In addition to being a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, the grounds of the church are home to El Tule, a Montezuma Cypress Tree known as the tree of enlightenment — it's trunk measures 46 feet in circumference.

Sip some serious hot chocolate.

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Chocolate has always been an important part of Mexican kitchens, and Oaxaca is one of Mexico's top-producing regions for cacao beans, so you can expect the hot chocolate here to be a cut above the rest. Oaxacan hot chocolate is made with water, not milk, and is spun with a whisk to give it a froth on top. Cafe Brujula is a personal favorite — visit the one on C. Macedonio Alcala, and order banana bread to go with it.

Hop the bus to San Jose del Pacifico.

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About three hours south of Oaxaca and nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains is the tiny village of San Jose del Pacifico. A completely different vibe from Oaxaca City, this mountain town is known for its thick pine forests, hippie community and — if I'm being honest — its magic mushrooms. The latter is probably San Jose del Pacifico's biggest draw , and Shamans can guide visitors who are interested in this experience. But you'll find much more to do in San Jose, too, from hiking to temazcal.

Road trip to the coast.

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Continue south from San Jose del Pacifico (another five hours or so) and you will be at the doorstep of some of the best surfing in Mexico. The beach towns along Oaxaca’s coast are known for surfing, funky cafes, fresh fruit, and super laid-back vibes. Each beach town is different, but the major ones to hit are Huatulco , Puerto Escondido (home to the Mexi Pipeline), Zipolite, Puerto Angel, and Mazunte. If you want to get to know Oaxaca’s coastline on a deeper level, local tour operator The Puerto Experience is your lifeline. 

Stay with Oaxaca’s indigenous communities.

While sites like Monte Alban and Mitla tell the stories of the past, the communities responsible for these great wonders are alive and well. Oaxaca is home to a group called Pueblo Mancomunados, which are eight remote and protected villages inhabited by Zapotec people. Visitors can connect with these communities through ecotourism projects, which help develop schools, roads, and healthcare for the communities in the region. Local guides take travelers on hikes, horseback rides, wildlife viewing excursions, and temazcal experiences. You might also eat home-cooked meals and sleep in simple adobe huts, if you choose. It's an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, and one of the best ways to really connect with Mexico's roots.

Celebrate Guelaguetza.

Each July, Oaxaca's streets explode with the Guelaguetza Festival, one of the largest folk festivals in North America. The event celebrates all regions of Oaxaca and honors the region's diverse food, art, and cultures. The event takes place over two Mondays in July.

Take a break at the botanical gardens.

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Just steps from Templo de Santo Domingo is Oaxaca's Botanical Gardens . This quiet and beautifully landscaped place is an ideal spot in which to take a break from the heat of the day and wander amongst plants native to Oaxaca. Tours are available, or you can visit on your own.

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Oaxaca City

A cultural colossus fit to rival anywhere in Latin America for history, gastronomy and colorful manifestations of indigenous culture, Oaxaca is a complex but intensely attractive city whose majestic churches and refined plazas have deservedly earned it a Unesco World Heritage badge. Lovers of culture come here to indulge in the Mexico of Zapotec and colonial legend. Flowing through handsome yet tranquil streets, life pulsates with an unadulterated regional flavor. See it in the color palate of historic boutique hotels, a meet-the-producer artisan store or an intentionally grungy mezcalería (plying locally manufactured alcoholic beverages). But what makes Oaxaca especially interesting are its undercurrents. While largely safe and attractive by Mexican standards, snippets of political protest in recent years have lent the city a grittier edge. It bubbles up in satirical street art, bohemian bars and been-around-forever street markets. Trust us: there’s far more to this city than just pretty churches.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Got two hours? You'll need it for the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, housed in the beautiful monastery buildings adjoining the Templo de Santo Domingo. This…

Templo de Santo Domingo

Gorgeous Santo Domingo is the most splendid of Oaxaca’s churches, with a finely carved baroque facade and nearly every square centimeter inside decorated…

Traffic-free, shaded by tall trees and surrounded by elegant portales (arcades), the Zócalo is the perfect place to start soaking up the Oaxaca atmosphere…

Museo Rufino Tamayo

A top-class museum, even by Oaxaca's high standards, showing off a wondrous collection of pre-Hispanic art donated by the city's most famous artist,…

Andador Turístico

Historic, romantic, dignified and safe, wonderful Calle Alcalá (traffic-free since the 1980s) is what Oaxaca is all about. It runs north from the…

Espacio Zapata

In a city of provocative graphic art, this workshop and gallery is a key agitator. Founded by the art collective Asaro (Asamblea de Artistas…

At the center of this gallery's workshop is an exceedingly rare 8-ton J Voirin lithography press, which prints both acrylics and woodcuts. Works on…

Jardín Etnobotánico

In former monastic grounds behind the Templo de Santo Domingo, this garden features plants from around Oaxaca state, including a staggering variety of…

Top picks from our travel experts

Top things to do in the culturally rich oaxaca city.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Looking for cheap street food? Look no further. Dozens of good, clean comedores (food stalls) fill this large market where wait staff will thrust menus to…

Experience Agave

Knowledgeable English-speaking guides take you to at least two artisinal mezcal distilleries and they explain the production process. The tour includes…

Bicicletas Pedro Martínez

This friendly team headed by Mexican Olympic cyclist Pedro Martínez offers mostly off-road rides (and some great day walks) amid some of Oaxaca state’s…

Auditorio Guelaguetza

The July Guelaguetza celebrations take place in this rather spectacular semi-open-air auditorium on the Cerro del Fortín.

This pleasant cafe offers a small lunch menu to pair with a wide selection of single-origin coffee, prepared in a variety of ways, depending on batch and…

Fonda Florecita

A popular local haunt for more than 50 years, this is the classic Oaxaca market-food experience. There's no printed menu, so you might try the salsa de…

Tamales de San Agustín Yatareni

Find out why oaxaqueños queue up to buy these large tamales filled with ingredients such as squash blossom, chicken in salsa verde, mole and chapulines …

Mundo Ceiba

Oaxaca’s bike hub inhabits a large garage with an on-site cafe and is instrumental in organizing the Paseos Nocturnos en Bicicleta, a free communal bike…

Boulenc Pan Artesano

Oaxaca’s best bakery comes with a trendy cafe next door where the most popular dish is – guess what? – avocado toast. Guys with beards or girls in Doc…

Casa Oaxaca

It’s not easy living up to the mantle of Oaxaca's best restaurant, but this place consistently achieves. A glamorous rooftop terrace, theatrical tableside…

Mezcaloteca

This swanky tasting room is by far the best place in the city to visit if you want to learn about mezcal. Not only can the staff here teach you about how…

Planning Tools

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Things to Know

Oaxaca is one of the most intriguing destinations in Mexico. Here's what you should know before you go.

Best Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods of Oaxaca make this city one of Mexico’s most alluring destinations. Here’s our guide to the best areas in town.

With these day trips from Oaxaca City, you can discover hikes through cloud forests, traditional artisans at work, mezcal distilleries and much more.

Money and Costs

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Transportation

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Oaxaca Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

From the moment I arrived, I knew Oaxaca was a special place. The city’s energy and mine just synched. We were a pair. My eyes constantly shifted to every shade of color, every movement, as if I had an insatiable hunger to take in everything.

That love has only grown deeper with each subsequent visit (and there have been many).

Oaxaca is a city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and picturesque parks. It’s also one of the gastronomic centers of Mexico and a hub for making mezcal in the country.

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico , Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Today, Oaxaca is a center for heritage tourism, owing to the many historical attractions (including Monte Albán, a UNESCO Heritage Site; and Mitla, a Zapotec archeological site) in the city and surrounding area.

With mouth-watering food, the best mezcal in the world, and tons of history, it’s no surprise I fell in love with Oaxaca. I’ve never met anyone who didn’t love it. All the hype you hear about it is true.

This travel guide to Oaxaca will help you see all the sites, save money, and fall in love with it too.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Oaxaca

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oaxaca

1. Wander the historic downtown

The entire downtown of Oaxaca was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. There are over 1,200 historic buildings here, most of which are hundreds of years old. Historical downtown Oaxaca is the perfect place to explore iconic landmarks like the Zocalo courtyard (the courtyard in front of the National Palace), the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, and the Santa Domingo Cultural Center. Spend some time wandering to take in their vibrant colors and historic architecture, and stop in for a Mezcal cocktail at any of the lively downtown bars.

2. Explore Mercado 20 de Noviembre

This covered market is home to all kinds of delicious street food as well as fresh, local produce. Construction on the market began in 1862 but wasn’t finalized until 1882, and was later named after the start date of the Mexican Revolution in 1910. It has remained one of Oaxaca’s culinary and cultural hubs for over a hundred years. Be sure to try some of the amazing grilled meats as they are a local favorite! Definitely eat here at least once. It’s open daily from 7am-9pm.

3. See Monte Albán

This pre-Columbian archeological site is located just 15 minutes outside the city. Founded in the 6th century BCE, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of ancient Zapotec pyramids, terraces, and canals that span several miles. Admission is 70 MXN while full-day tours (that include other stops) are 724 MXN.

4. Explore Mitla

This pre-Columbian UNESCO site was built in 850 CE and was mostly destroyed by the Spanish when they arrived in the mid-16th century. However, some buildings were left intact, which you can get up close and explore (some of which date as far back as 400 CE). Mitla was one of the main religious and spiritual hubs for the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec people, and was used as a sacred burial site. Admission is 75 MXN while skip-the-line tickets are 160 MXN.

5. Try a street-stall hamberguesa

Other things to see and do in oaxaca, 1. learn about mezcal.

I love mezcal (which is one of the reasons why I love Oaxaca). This is the birthplace of mezcal, a spirit distilled from agave. Unlike tequila, which is also made from agave, when making mezcal, the heart of the plant is cooked in a pit in the ground before it is crushed. Then water is added, and it’s allowed to ferment. Since the plant is cooked, mezcal has a much smokier flavor than tequila.

If you want to learn more about this popular (and delicious) spirit, Rambling Spirits runs the best mezcal tours in Oaxaca. Go with them if you want to learn more. Their guides have incredible knowledge and can take you to places the bigger tours can’t. I learned a ton on this tour and highly recommend it! Most tours leave after lunch so it’s a perfect way to spend the remainder of your day.

2. Take a free walking tour

One of the first things I do when I visit a new city is take a free walking tour. They’re the best way to see the main sights, get introduced to the city and culture, and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers free daily tours that show you the hidden gems of the city and what life is like for the locals who live here. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

3. See the Templo de Santo Domingo

This Baroque Roman Catholic church was started in 1572, though it wasn’t completed until 1731. It was originally used as a Dominican church and monastery. During Mexico’s revolutionary war (1910-1920), the church was annexed and used as a barracks and military building. It was transformed into a museum in the 1970s and is now home to all kinds of religious and pre-Columbian artifacts. The interior is incredibly ornate, with intricate carvings on the walls. Admission is free. Be sure to dress respectfully.

4. Wander the Botanical Garden

These gardens span over two acres and are located near the Church of Santo Domingo. The gardens feature different plants from across the state (Oaxaca is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country). In addition to the flowers, trees, and cacti that dot the garden, there are also sculptures and works of art too. Self-guided tours are not allowed so you’ll need to go with a guide. One-hour tours are offered Monday through Saturday. There is only one English tour available per day, however. Admission (including the tour) is 50 MXN for Spanish tours and 100 MXN for tours in English.

5. Visit Puerto Escondido

Located on the Pacific Coast 6 hours away by car, Puerto Escondido is famous for its stunning beaches and rambunctious nightlife. If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Oaxaca, head here to lounge away the days and party all night. Playa Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito are the best beaches for swimming and lounging while Playa Zicatela is great for surfing. Avoid staying in the middle of Zicatela as it’s boring. If you’re backpacking, stay at the very south where all the hostels are. It’s a lively area.

6. Take a food tour

If you’re a foodie like me, one of the best ways to get a sense of the local food scene is to take a guided food tour. I highly recommend doing one here since Oaxaca is such a center for gastronomy. Oaxaca has some of the most diverse selections of dishes in Mexico. Oaxaca Eats runs several tours, most of which last around 4 hours. You’ll get to sample 20+ dishes. Tour prices vary but expect to spend 2,000 MXN.

7. Wander the Sunday market

Mercado Tlacolula is one of the most popular markets in the region. It’s essentially been in operation for centuries and is a good place to buy local crafts, produce, food, and everything in between. It’s located 45-minutes outside the city so you’ll need to drive there or take the bus, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. There are thousands of people here and tons of amazing food to try. Don’t miss barbacoa (stewed meat) and chicharrón (fried pork rinds).

8. Try a cooking class

If you want to learn how to make some of the amazing dishes you’ve eaten here, take a cooking class . Most classes take you to the market so you can buy fresh ingredients before you start cooking. Classes last around 5 hours and are hands-on and fully immersive. Usually, you’ll make one appetizer, some salsa, a main mole dish (mole is a specific sauce and one of the region’s specialties), and a dessert. Expect to spend around 1,900 MXN for a class.

9. Go hiking in Sierra Norte

Sierra Norte offers visitors over 100 kilometers (62 miles) of hiking trails spanning over 40 different trails. Located just two hours by car from Oaxaca, you’ll also see a handful of Zapotec villages (Pueblos Mancomunados) along the way that offer village-to-village treks and homestays. At Sierra Nore, keep in mind that trails are not well-marked so you’ll need to hire a guide (going solo is possible but not recommended). Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and can point out wildlife (there are pumas, bobcats, armadillos, and more here), identify plants, and ensure you don’t get lost (plus, hiring a guide helps support the local economy). Multi-day tours (which trek from village to village) cost around 3,600 MXN per person for a 3-day tour.

10. Experience a Temazcal

Temazcal (meaning “house of heat”) is a traditional Zapotec sweat lodge. You’ll sit in a small domed hut that becomes increasingly warmer. You’ll rub everything from clay to fresh fruit juices and peels on your skin as you heat up, cooling down by dunking yourself in cold water. It’s a very meditative, spiritual experience with numerous health benefits. Visits usually last an hour and cost around 600 MXN.

11. Celebrate Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead (Día de Los Muertos) is one of the biggest celebrations/festivals in all of Mexico. It occurs between October 31st and November 2nd and is a time meant for remembering loved ones who have passed. Locals paint their faces, visit cemeteries, and give offerings. There are all kinds of celebrations and parades too. Oaxaca hosts one of the biggest festivals in all of Mexico. It’s one of the best (and busiest) times to visit Oaxaca. Be sure to book your accommodation early as hotels and hostels sell out months in advance. If you want a local guide during the Day of the Dead , expect to pay around 1,250 MXN.

  If you’re visiting other cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Cancun Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide

Oaxaca Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in dorm costs between 250-450 MXN per night regardless of how big the dorm is. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast. Most have self-catering facilities too. Private rooms cost 600-1,500 MXN per night.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity can be found outside the city for around 200 MXN per night. The campgrounds are 20 minutes outside the city by car.

Budget hotels – Budget two-star hotels with ensuite bathrooms start at 700 MXN per night. These include basic amenities like TV, AC, and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is also available here, with private rooms starting at 200 MXN per night (though they average closer to 950 MXN). Entire homes/apartments cost at least 400 MXN (but average double or even triple that price). Be sure to book early for the best deals.

Food – Oaxaca is a gastronomical hub in Mexico and is known for unique dishes such as tlayudas (a tortilla filled with beans, lettuce, cheese, and your protein of choice, grilled to be crispy on the outside), memelas, and mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, sometimes including chocolate, and served with rice and tortillas).

Street stalls and markets are your best choice for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadillas, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Oaxaca, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

Be sure to hit the markets here too. At the Mercado Sanchez Pascua, there is a tamale lady in the back who has some of the most delicious tamales in Oaxaca (try the salsa verde!). She is so popular that she’s often sold out by 10am. In the most famous market, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, there is a section full of BBQ stalls where you can order a plate full of meat and some veggies on the side, cooked right in front of you. Don’t miss out.

Surprisingly, there are not as many taco stands around the city center but if you make your way up to the ADO bus station and look across the street, there is a long line of taco stalls set up. Most of them have the exact same fare — tacos al pastor, for 10 MXN each. At the far end, you will see one with pots full of bubbling stews of meat — tacos casuales — and they go for 15 MXN each.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 80-200 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. For comparison, a combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 110 MXN.

A national beer is around 30 MXN while a latte/cappuccino is 45 MXN. Bottled water is 10 MXN. A glass of mezcal will cost between 80-240 MXN depending on what kind you get.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one) to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic bottles.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 500-575 MXN per week for basic staples like rice, beans, veggies, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants are Boulenc, Los Danzantes, La Mezcaloteca, Tlayudas El Negro, Cactus Loncheria, Lechoncito de Oro, Santo Sabor Restaurante, Tastavins, Casa Taviche, Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante, and Praga Coffee Bar.

Backpacking Oaxaca Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Oaxaca, expect to spend 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few cheap attractions, such as a visit to Monte Albán and a free walking tour. If you plan on eating out more or drinking lots of mezcal, add another 60-150 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of 1,750 MXN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,400 MXN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, have plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided food or mezcal tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Like the rest of Mexico, Oaxaca is super affordable. However, with so many tempting eateries and mezcalerias, it’s easy to go overboard and spend too much (that’s what happened to me and my entire group of friends). Lucky, there’s plenty of ways to cut your costs. Here are some tips to help you save money in Oaxaca:

• Shop at the markets for food – Oaxaca’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Binge on fresh fruit, tacos, and grilled meat — it’s all super cheap!
• Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the city — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats. Most meals won’t be more than 30 MXN.
• Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers daily tours that give you a solid intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to connect with locals and find free accommodation. If you send your request in advance, you can likely find a host who can share their insider tips and knowledge with you.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Oaxaca is easy to explore on foot and the bus goes pretty much everywhere you need it. Skip the taxis!
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has plenty of affordable hostels. Here are some suggested places to stay if you’re on a budget:

• Hostel Central
• El Cielo Oaxaca
• Iguana Hostel Oaxaca
• Azul Cielo Oaxaca

How to Get Around Oaxaca

On foot – Oaxaca is super pedestrian-friendly. Unless you’re heading out to the nearby ruins, you can just walk everywhere in the downtown area.

Bus – Collectivos (shared taxis that drive set routes) are available around the city and usually cost around 15 MXN.

Taxi – Taxis start at 55 MXN and go up by region traveled. For example, anywhere in the historic center costs 55 MXN, even if you only travel 1 block or 10. If you want to go to the neighboring region of La Reforma from the historic center, it costs 70 MXN, and so on. A taxi to the airport should be about 150-200 MXN, depending on which region you’re staying in (and what time of day/night it is, with nighttime being a bit higher). While affordable, they add up quickly so skip the taxis if you can.

Though Uber is not in Oaxaca, you can use a similar app called Didi. International credit cards don’t seem to work with the app, so make sure you have close to the right amount of change as the suggested fare cost (taxi drivers don’t usually have a lot of change). Rides with this app exclusively use taxis.

Bicycle – Bike rentals can be found for around 100 MXN for a half-day rental. For a guided mountain bike trip, expect to spend around 1,300 MXN for a half-day excursion.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 650 MXN per day. Unless you’re going to do some day trips (or multi-day trips) outside the city (such as a trip to Puerto Escondido) then you likely don’t need a car. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years.

Some companies require renters to be over 25. Deposits on car rentals can also be quite steep, with some companies asking for $1,000 USD as a deposit

When to Go to Oaxaca

Oaxaca’s elevation offers a relatively pleasant climate year-round. The most popular time to visit is December-January when many Canadian and American tourists flock south to avoid the winter. This is when the city is busiest and prices are highest. Daily highs are comfortable and not too hot, hovering around 25°C (77°F).

Expect crowds around the Day of the Dead (late October/early November). If you’re visiting then, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

The summer sees more rain, though the weather is still warm and sunny. Expect daily averages around 26°C (79°F).

How to Stay Safe in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is generally one of the safest cities in Mexico. You don’t find the kind of drug or tourist-related violence and thefts you find elsewhere. That being said, it is still always best to practice personal safety and never stop being aware of your surroundings.

Be sure to take a taxi home after a night out just to be safe. Also, don’t carry all your valuables with you everywhere you go (unless it’s to or from the airport). Leave your passport at your accommodation and only take enough money with you for what you feel you need to do.

When possible, it’s always best to walk with a friend or a small group. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry and waving around lots of money or high-end electronics (both during the day and at night). There’s been a rise in late-night petty theft since COVID so it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if you are coming around major festivals.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, even walking alone. However, the standard precautions always apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city.

If you rent a vehicle, never leave any valuables in it overnight.

If an emergency occurs, dial 911. If that doesn’t work (since 911 isn’t available everywhere), dial 066. Overall, dangerous crimes against tourists are very uncommon here. The people who do tend to be involved in incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid all of that and you’ll greatly reduce your risks here. I never feel unsafe here and neither do my friends that live here, even the women.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Oaxaca   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Maria Swärd | Getty Images

Why Go To Oaxaca

Oaxaca – pronounced wa-HAH-ka – is both the name of this Mexican state and its capital city. Here, you'll find colonial streets lined with shade trees, vibrant markets filled with artisans and mouthwatering aromas drifting from market food stalls and trendy eateries. These days, many claim that Oaxaca is Mexico's newest culinary capital. But that's not to say the city has forgotten its rich history, which dates back to the ancient Zapotecs that once occupied the now preserved ruins at Monte Albán . In fact, many of the handicrafts and recipes, which make Oaxaca such a unique place to visit and shop, have been carried down from generation to generation. 

There are also abundant opportunities for daytrip excursions – and a host of reliable tour operators to guide you – if you want to stretch your legs for a hike and dip in the mineral baths at Hierve el Agua or wander the agave fields at a Mitla mezcal distillery. 

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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• # 10 in Best Cheap Mexico Vacations

Best of Oaxaca

Best hotels in oaxaca.

• # 1 in Quinta Real Oaxaca
• # 2 in Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca
• # 3 in Hotel Azul Oaxaca

Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

• # 1 in The Zócalo
• # 2 in Templo de Santo Domingo
• # 3 in Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Popular Tours

Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour

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Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour

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Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour

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Oaxaca Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Oaxaca are during the months of April to May and September to October. Both spring and fall are characterized by moderate temperatures and fewer tourists. The months between June and August, as well as the holiday season between mid-December and early-January, constitute high season. For the most part, the winter months – November to March – are considered low season, except for the few weeks that fall across the winter holidays. 

Weather in Oaxaca

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Head up to go north The city slants downward from north to south as you approach the Zócalo , so if you're ever disoriented, heading uphill will take you north.

Time is relative  Oaxaca marches at its own pace, so don't expect anything – from buses to tours – to be running right on time.

Pick up some souvenirs Oaxaca originals include Zapotec rugs and tapestries, as well as wooden carvings called alebrijes .

How to Save Money in Oaxaca

Bargain shop If you speak Spanish, talk to the Mexican traders about paying a few less pesos on wares like rugs, ceramics, alebrijes (wooden carvings) and silver jewelry.

Nosh in the markets Buying some of your meals in the open-air markets, such as Mercado Benito Juarez , will cut down on costs, but make sure that you wash any produce with bottled water to avoid stomach woes.

Avoid the big events Travel in the late-winter low season and steer clear of popular events, such as the Day of the Dead, which drive up hotel prices.

Culture & Customs

What was once home to the thriving Mixtec and Zapotec civilizations is now a thrumming culinary capital with a strong hipster vibe. Its main industry is tourism. 

Oaxaca's official currency is the peso: 1 peso is equal to roughly 5 cents. Since the Mexican peso to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, plan to  check the conversion rate before you go . You should also keep in mind that not all businesses and restaurants take credit cards, so be sure to check in advance. And when it comes to tipping in "the land of the seven moles," keep in mind that 10 to 15 percent in restaurants and hotels is a good rule of thumb. 

Spanish is the official language spoken in Oaxaca. As long as you know a few key phrases, such as buenos dias (good morning), por favor (please) and gracias (thank you), you should be able to get around this tourist-friendly city just fine. 

Oaxaca is considered one of the safest states in Mexico, but as with any big city, it does experience petty crimes. Tourists can keep pickpockets at bay by keeping money tucked away and securely out of sight. 

What to Eat

Oaxaca has several specialties that no visitor should miss, but a word to the wise: a strong stomach is required. One of those specialties is a chili-based sauce, called mole. In fact, Oaxaca is nicknamed "The Land of the Seven Moles" for the many different types of sauce produced here, which can range in color, from black to yellow; in ingredients, from chocolate to almonds; and in heat level, from mild to super spicy. Another Oaxacan specialty is mezcal, which is a spirit similar to tequila, served in a glass rimmed with a concoction of spices and ground worms and lime wedges. 

And when it comes to a full meal in this foodie capital, travelers say you really can't go wrong. The market stalls are just as delicious as the formal establishments. For breakfast, try Café Casa Oaxaca located on Calle Jazmines, a little more than 2 miles from the Zócalo. A stone's throw from the Templo de Santo Domingo is Oaxacan celebrity chef Alejandro Ruiz's Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante . To sample moles, head to Las Quince Letras , which is just a couple blocks from the Templo de Santo Domingo on Calle Abasolo. And for some cheap-yet-delicious street foods, look no further than Itanoni Flor del Maiz located on a quick taxi ride from central Oaxaca on Avenue Belisario Dominguez.

Getting Around Oaxaca

The best way to get around Oaxaca is on foot, especially if you're sticking to the tourist areas in downtown Oaxaca. To travel farther afield, buses or taxis are fairly affordable ways of getting around, though keep in mind that they're not known for efficiency. A rental car will give you the flexibility to travel on your own time, yet might not be the best option for someone unfamiliar to the area and the road rules.

The closest airport is Aeropuerto Internacional de Oaxaca (OAX), which is located about 5 miles south of Oaxaca City. You can reach the city by taxi, bus or rental car. 

Colonial Oaxaca is a filled with unexpected color. 

Explore More of Oaxaca

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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26 Best Things To Do In Oaxaca, Mexico in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

Published On: March 25, 2024

Oaxaca isn’t at the top of most people’s Mexico travel itineraries, but it should be. Located in the south of Mexico, close the Pacific Ocean, Oaxaca is a city where ancient traditions flawlessly blend with modern life. It’s a place where you can discover indigenous Mexican culture by touring ancient ruins and visiting some of the best natural landmarks in Mexico.

Oaxaca is also one of Mexico’s safest cities, making it an excellent destination for first-timers in the country. Especially because it features so many fun and interesting things to do that you’ll never want to leave. Read more: Is Mexico City Safe To Visit? Travel Warnings And Safety Tips

And if it’s not the Zapotec ruins or the local art museums that make you fall in love with the city, it will be the food . From the best local markets to popular Mezcal distilleries, here are all the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico!

Best of Oaxaca Quick Guide

• Must See: Monte Alban, Zocalo, Hierve el Agua, The Church and Convent of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Oaxaca markets, Museo Rufino Tamayo, Yagul
• Where To Stay : Las Mariposas Hotel & Studios , Hotel Parador de Alcalá, Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery
• Fun To Do: Cooking class, Mezcal tastings, Day of the Dead festival, Benito Juarez National Park
• Day Trips : Mitla, Puerto Escondido, Artisanal towns
• Must Try Foods: Mole, Chocolate, Tlayudas, Memelas, Tamales Oaxaqueños – Check out our guide to The Best Mexican Dishes

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In Oaxaca

The streets of Oaxaca are teeming with history and culture, and it feels like there’s something new to discover at every corner. Whether it’s local craft shops or relics from a different era, the city never fails to impress. Below are some of my favorite attractions in this historic gem.  

1. Oaxaca City Center Walking Tour

Kick off your stay in this Mexican city with a classic walking tour of all the landmarks in the heart of Oaxaca. It’s the best way of getting acquainted with the city’s top sights, and a must if this is your first time here. 

Walking tours of Oaxaca usually take 2-3 hours, depending on which one you book. Some of the places that are included in all tours of Oaxaca are the main city square of Zócalo, Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, the Benito Juarez monument at Parque Juarez El Llano, and a few others. 

A stroll down Macedonio Alcala is the highlight of any walking tour of Oaxaca. The historic cobblestone street is lined with art galleries and restaurants and boasts colorful buildings, vibrant street art, and several craft markets. 

Practical Information: Walking tours of central Oaxaca normally last for 2-3 hours and cost $25-40.  

2. Marvel at The Gilded Interior of Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán is one of Oaxaca’s most famous landmarks. The monumental church is located in the heart of the city, and it is included in most walking tours of Oaxaca. 

It’s an interesting-looking building, but it doesn’t appear that special on the outside. That is until you pass through the gates and glimpse the lavish interior. The walls and ceiling are adorned with beautiful paintings, and much of the temple interior is gilded. The altar is almost entirely covered with gold, and it looks absolutely magnificent. 

Practical Information: Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán is open from 9 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Friday. Entrance to the church is free of charge. 

3. Attend a Traditional Oaxaca Cooking Class

Mexico is an excellent destination for culinary tours and experiences. I’m a little biased because I love Mexican food, but Oaxacan cuisine is some of the country’s best. It’s known for Mole, the traditional Oaxacan sauce made with chiles. But there are seven classic versions of Mole, and each is served with a different dish.

Book a cooking class in Oaxaca, and you’ll learn how to make Mole, empanadas, arroz con leche, and other Mexican dishes using traditional methods. Tortillas,and fried plantain are some of the foods you can learn how to make, but you can choose your favorites. 

After you’ve gotten your hands dirty and learned how to prepare some of the best Oaxacan foods, you’ll get to devour the fruits of your labor. I won’t lie, that’s my favorite part of any cooking class. 

Practical Information: Cooking classes in Oaxaca usually last 4-6 hours and cost $100-150. 

4. Check Out The Exhibit at  The Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca

The majestic Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca is one of the city’s most important museums for old Zapotec artifacts. It’s located on former monastery grounds, adjacent to the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán. 

With two floors of exhibits, the museum offers a lot to explore. Head upstairs to see the exhibit of treasures discovered at Monte Alban, as it’s a highlight of the collection. The artifacts displayed include wooden figurines, traditional Zapotec jewelry, handmade weapon holsters, and much more. 

Even the architecture of the museum building is a work of art and warrants paying attention to the walls and ceilings as you explore the different areas of the building. You can even glimpse the Ethnobotanical Garden from some of the museum rooms. 

Practical Information: The Museum of Cultures Oaxaca is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Tuesday through Friday. The entrance fee is 90 pesos. 

5. See The Tule Tree

I know, driving to a nearby town just to look at a tree sounds weird, but bear with me for a moment. The Tree of Tule is a Montezuma cypress tree over 1,400 years old. It’s also the widest tree in the world with an estimated circumference of approximately 42 meters. 

The Tule Tree is so big that it was once considered multiple trees. But it was DNA tested (I know!), and the tests confirmed that it’s just one massive tree. Because of its broad crown, its height is almost impossible to measure accurately. Laser measurements from 2005 estimate the tree’s height to 35.4 meters. 

When you’re done admiring this magnificent natural landmark, take the time to explore Santa María del Tule. It might not have many tourist attractions, but it is home to some excellent Mexican restaurants. I recommend Casa Embajador de Oaxaca for its delicious food and extravagant decorations.  This tour is a great way to see the Tule Tree and other highlights of the area.

Practical Information: Santa María del Tule is a 20-minute drive from the city center of Oaxaca. The town is on the way if you’re traveling to Mitla. 

6. Oaxaca Textile Museum

The Oaxaca Textile Museum is a charming little museum you can easily visit during a walking tour of the city center. It’s only a couple of minutes from the historic Zocalo square, and it’s free to enter. 

Pop inside to see Oaxacan textiles, traditional clothing, and whatever temporary exhibit is displayed at the moment. The museum has a small collection and it shouldn’t take you more than 20 minutes to tour the place. 

Practical Information : The Oaxaca Textile Museum has a free admission. It’s open from 10 AM to 8 PM. 

7. Ancient History at Monte Alban

Monte Alban is the most important archeological site in Oaxaca. If you have time for just one historic landmark in Mexico, make it this one. It’s just a 20-minute drive from central Oaxaca and is interesting enough to keep you busy for the better part of the day. 

I highly recommend visiting the area with a local guide t o better understand the site’s significance. Monte Alban served as the Zapotec capital from 500 BCE to 800 CE and would later become an important center for the Mixtec as well. 

This historic site has survived the rise and fall of multiple Mesoamerican civilizations and offers invaluable insight into their history and heritages. Also, the views from the complex are excellent; you can see almost all of Oaxaca from here, which puts into perspective just how big the city is. 

Practical Information: Monte Alban is open from 10 AM to 4 PM. The admission fee is 95 pesos. 

8. Tour Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

The Ethnobotanical Garden of Oaxaca is located behind the Santo Domingo de Guzmán church. With a curated collection of plants native to Oaxaca, it’s a great place to visit if you want to escape the city streets for a little while. 

Step inside the garden and you’ll feel like you’ve walked right into a jungle, what with all the lush trees and cacti. Visitors can explore the garden only on guided tours, which take place four times a day. It’s important to note that tours in English take place only at 11 PM and are double the cost of tours in Spanish. 

Practical Information : The Ethnobotanical Garden of Oaxaca is open for visitors from 10 AM to 5 PM. Tours in Spanish are 50 pesos but tours in English are 100 pesos per participant. 

9. Discover Local Artists at The Museum of Oaxacan Painters

The Museum of Oaxacan Painters is probably the best free museum in the city. It boasts a collection of works from local graphic artists, and it’s one of the best places to visit if you want to discover authentic Oaxacan art.  

Amazing paintings are exhibited at the museum, but also colorful figurines and sculptures. The exhibit often changes, so there’s merit in returning to this museum even if you’ve visited it previously. 

Practical Information: The Museum of Oaxacan Painters is open from 10 AM to 6 PM. Entrance to the museum is free of charge, and cash donations are encouraged. 

10. Souvenir Shopping at The Local Markets

The markets in Oaxaca are primarily known for food and spices, but also great for trinkets and souvenirs. Featuring countless food stalls, fresh groceries, spices, and all sorts of local handicrafts, they’re by far the best place if you want to mingle with locals and spend your money on unique Mexican items. 

Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre are the two main local markets in Oaxaca. The markets are across the street from one another, so you can easily tour both in a single afternoon. I recommend coming here hungry and exploring the wide selection of local Oaxacan food. 

Insider Tip: Vendors at the local markets usually try to upcharge their items for tourists. Learn some Spanish so you can get better deals when shopping in Oaxaca. 

Practical Information: Mercado Benito Juárez is open from 9 AM to 5 PM on work days. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is open every day from 7 AM to 7 PM. Entrance to both markets is free of charge. 

11. Try (To Make) Oaxacan Hot Chocolate

Chocolate has a very long tradition in Oaxaca. Cacao beans have been grown in this state for centuries, and Oaxaca is one of the country’s largest chocolate producers. 

Exploring the connection between cacao and Oaxaca is one of the best things about the trip to the state. Joining a chocolate-making experience is a great way of understanding more about the local traditions while also learning a new skill. And at the end of the class, you can eat the chocolates you’ve created, which is the best part. 

You don’t have to get your hands dirty if you don’t want to. Just order a delicious hot chocolate at a classic Oaxacan restaurant, and while you’re at it try mole with cacao. It’s the state’s most famous dish. 

Practical Information: Hot chocolate is served in all Oaxacan restaurants and cafes. Chocolate-making classes usually last for 2-3 hours. 

12. Discover The Immense Beauty of Hierve el Agua

Hierve el Agua is one of the best natural landmarks you can discover in Mexico. The geological site is famous for rock formations that look just like waterfalls. It’s an impressive site that might just be the highlight of your trip to Oaxaca. 

In addition to the petrified waterfalls, the nature preserve also features springs and pools. You can swim in the pools, just keep in mind that the water is quite cold. The views of the surrounding landscapes are wonderful and a big reason why so many people visit the place. 

Insider Tip: Hierve el Agua can get very crowded during the day when the tourist buses arrive. Visit the place later in the afternoon (4-5 PM), for smaller crowds, ideally after you’ve toured Mitla. 

Practical Information: The entrance fee for Hierve el Agua is 50 pesost. The nature preserve is roughly 15 kilometers from Mitla and 65 kilometers from Oaxaca.  You can also take this guided tour to see the waterfalls and other popular destinations near Oaxaca.

13. Visit an Artisinal Town 

Oaxaca State is home to many small artisanal towns and villages. All those colorful items you see at the city’s markets are made in those towns, and you can go straight to the source for an even better selection of vibrant local handicrafts. Many artists also hold workshops where you can learn about their craft and see if you’d be any good at it. 

Teotitlán del Valle and Santo Tomás Jalieza are best known for handmade rugs and textiles, while San Antonino Castillo Velasco artisans create gorgeous embroidered pieces. San Bartolo Coyotepec and Santa María Atzompa are famous for handmade black and green pottery, respectively. And San Martín Tilcajete is renowned for alebrijes, the colorful wooden figurines. 

Practical Information: Santa María Atzompa is the closest artisanal town to Oaxaca (20-minute drive or 1-hour bus ride). 

14. Stop By A Mezcal Distillery 

Mezcal has been produced in Oaxaca for centuries. The state is the largest producer of the drink, and more than 90% of Mezcal sold in the world comes from here. I really don’t think it counts if you visited Oaxaca if you didn’t at least try it once! 

The best way to learn about Mezcal in Oaxaca is to tour a distillery. They’re abundant in the small towns and villages just outside the city and are often included in tours of Mitla, Hierve el Agua, and other famous landmarks near Oaxaca. The distilleries in Santiago Matatlan are the leading in the state, and they’re only a short detour from Mitla. 

Some of the best Mezcal tours in Oaxaca start in agave fields and end with delicious tastings. Learn about every step of Mezcal production while trying all the different iterations of the local drink. Just don’t do it on an empty stomach!

Practical Information: Santiago Matatlan is 10 minutes from Mitla and 55 minutes from Oaxaca City. 

15. Hiking at Benito Juarez National Park

Benito Juarez National Park is a 10-minute taxi drive from downtown Oaxaca. It’s the best destination near the city for hiking, mountain biking, and endless panoramic views. If you want to escape the crowded streets of Oaxaca and spend some time in nature, this is one of the best destinations close to the city. 

The park also offers the opportunity to spot some native Oaxacan flora and fauna. The hiking trails are marked and perfectly safe, and will take you to some fabulous viewpoints. There’s also a playground for children here, and several interesting sculptures are scattered throughout the national park. 

Practical Information: Benito Juarez National Park is open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The entrance fee is 20 pesos. 

16. Zapotec Ruins at Yagul

Yagul is another excellent archeological site in Oaxaca. The place is not to be missed if you’re on a mission to uncover all the best historic landmarks of this Mexican state. Also, Yagul is on the way when driving from Oaxaca towards Mitla or Hierve el Agua, so you can easily visit on the same day as one of the other attractions. 

This archaeological site is less famous than Monte Alban and Mitla, so it usually features much smaller crowds. Come here to discover the remnants of a former Zapotec city-state; if you’re lucky, you might have the entire place to yourself. 

Practical Information: The Yagul archaeological site is open from 10 AM to 4 PM. The entrance fee is 95 pesos. 

17. Mitla Archeological Ruins

The archeological site of Mitla is one of the best historic attractions near Oaxaca de Juarez. It’s approximately an hour’s drive from the city center, and you can combine this day trip with visits to other popular landmarks in the area as you’ll pass close to several notable sights. 

Mitla is a top destination in Mexico for Zapotec and Mixtec ruins, second in importance only to Monte Alban. The name “Mitla” is Nahuatl language and it roughly translates to “Place of the Dead”, indicating the site’s function as a sacred burial ground. Although it was first established by the Zapotec, the influence of Mixtec culture is evident in the area.  

The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for ancient tombs and geometric mosaics that adorn most of the complex. The blend of Zapoted and Mixtec architectural styles is a wonderful sight and makes this area one of the best for understanding the culture of ancient Oaxaca. I recommend doing a guided tour of the complex so you can learn a lot about Mitla’s history and significance. 

Practical Information: Mitla is approximately an hour’s drive from central Oaxaca. The admission fee to the site is 80 pesos. 

18. Day Trip to Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a beach town in southern Mexico and a very popular destination for a seaside vacation. If you have a car in Oaxaca, you can drive to this charming town in about three hours and enjoy a day on the beach. 

The town is known for fabulous resort hotels, vast sandy beaches, and a buzzing nightlife. And because it’s pretty much a resort town, it’s a very safe destination in Mexico. Come here for swimming and sunbathing during the day, and dancing and cocktails at night. 

Practical Information: This beach town is roughly a three-hour drive from Oaxaca. Buses take 9-10 hours to travel between the two towns on average. Local flights are also available. 

19. Partake in Day Of The Dead Festivities

The Day of The Dead festival is one of the most important in Mexican culture. It’s a big event in every city in Mexico , and Oaxaca is no exception. The locals build altars, visit cemeteries, and pay respects to the deceased, whose spirits are believed to return home to spend time with their families. 

Day of the Dead is celebrated with parades, street performances, and music shows. Locals don colorful costumes as they take to the streets, and celebrations last well into the wee hours of the morning. 

Because the festival lasts for only two days, you’ll have to plan your trip around it if you really want to attend. Remember that Oaxaca is jam-packed during Dia de Los Muertos and hotels are booked out months before the festival. 

Practical Information: The Day of The Dead Festival begins on the eve of October 31st and lasts until the 2nd of November. 

20. Sensory Overload at Tlacolula Sunday Market

Every Sunday, vendors from all over the state flock to Tlacolula for the weekly farmer’s market. It’s about 45 minutes outside Oaxaca city and a great place for souvenir shopping. 

Oaxaca state is known for its many artisanal towns that produce unique handicrafts. The artisans bring all their latest and greatest creations to the Sunday market, which is one of the biggest in the state.  

If you’re not able to visit the individual towns and villages, this is the next best thing. Shop for rugs, pottery, and alebrije, but also for fresh spices and cured meats. Street food vendors are also at the Sunday market, offering all the best Oaxacan local dishes. For food, shopping, and a fun time with the locals, this is one of the best things to do near Oaxaca. 

Practical Information: Taxis, buses, and colectivo (shared cars) can take you from Oaxaca to Tlacolula. Expect to spend 30-45 pesos for a ride in a bus or colectivo, but up to 300 pesos for a private taxi transfer, depending on your haggling skills. 

21. Snorkeling at Parque Nacional Huatulco

Parque Nacional Huatulco is a wildlife preserve on the southern coast of Mexico. If you’re staying in Oaxaca for a while, consider coming here for two or three days. It’s an excellent destination for a beach getaway, with sandy beaches, hiking trails, and coral reefs. But it’s also four and a half hours from Oaxaca City, so not the easiest place to visit if you have limited time in Mexico. 

Lounge on the pristine beaches and swim in the crystal clear waters. Most beaches are in secluded bays and the waters are pretty calm. Snorkeling is also very popular in the park thanks to the coral reefs that are teeming with marine life. Private and shared snorkeling tours are available and the latter is a great way to save money and meet other travelers with similar interests. 

Practical Information: Parque Nacional Huatulco is roughly four and a half hours from Oaxaca. Admission to the park is free of charge. 

22. More Ancient Ruins at Atzompa Archeological Site

If you can’t get enough Zapotec ruins in Oaxaca, the Aztompa archaeological site is another historic place to add to your itinerary. Located on a hill just a 20-minute drive from central Oaxaca, it’s a place you can easily visit on quick day tours. Santa María Atzompa is at the foothill of Aztompa, and you can tour both destinations in a few hours. 

The ruins at this site are similar to those at Mount Alban, but with one major difference – Aztompa is much smaller and attracts fewer crowds. This place is practically deserted compared to Mount Alban, and it’s a great destination for travelers who want to discover Zapotec ruins but without the crowds that are common in the more famous areas. 

Practical Information: Atzompa Archeological Site is roughly a 20-minute drive from downtown Oaxaca. Admission to the site is free of charge. 

23. Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez

Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez will be interesting for some, and utterly boring for others. If you’re generally interested in history and politics, try to squeeze a tour of the museum into your itinerary. But if that’s not something that interests you very much, feel free to skip this museum. 

It’s dedicated to Benito Juarez, the first and only indigenous Zapotec president of Mexico. The museum is located in his former house, and it features period furnishings and interesting artworks. Visitors can also tour the small but charming garden and gain some insight into what life was like in Oaxaca more than 150 years ago. 

Practical Information: Museo de Sitio Casa Juárez is open from 9 AM to 6 PM every day except Monday. The admission fee is 70 pesos. 

25. Visit Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad (Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude) is another grand church in Oaxaca city. Dating back to the late 17th century, the basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of Oaxaca. The church is off the beaten path and not too popular with tourists, so you shouldn’t encounter large crowds during the visit. 

It features opulent interior decorations, the best of which is a Baroque pipe organ. The walls are adorned with dazzling artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and stained glass windows. 

Practical Information: The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is 10 minutes from the main city square and entrance is free of charge. 

26. The Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol

Located just half an hour south of Oaxaca, the Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol is an architectural marvel worth visiting. It boasts a blend of Renaissance, Plateresque, Gothic, and Mudéjar styles, which work incredibly well together at this mesmerizing place. 

The complex features multiple monastery buildings, an unfinished basilica, a spacious courtyard, and a church. Roam around the grounds and pay attention to the details of Mudéjar decorations. Don’t forget to examine the lovely murals, which seamlessly blend indigenous Mexican mythology with Roman Catholic iconography. 

Practical Information : The Ex-Monastery of Santiago Apóstol is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission is 75 pesos. 

24. Discover Pre-Hispanic Art at Museo Rufino Tamayo

The Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art is a popular attraction among art lovers who wish to gain a deeper understanding of local culture. It’s located in the heart of Oaxaca, just five minutes from Zocalo. 

The museum houses the personal collection of Olga and Rufino Tamayo. One of the main reasons why they wanted to open a museum was to prevent the illegal sale of these artifacts on the black market. 

Each of the pieces exhibited here offers insight into the culture of the indigenous people in Mexico. The museum’s five rooms house more than 1,000 artifacts, and the entire place can be toured in under an hour. 

Practical Information: The Rufino Tamayo Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Wednesday through Monday. The entrance is free of charge.  

Frequently Asked Questions 

How many days do you need in Oaxaca?

You need at least four days to explore Oaxaca and its surroundings thoroughly. 2-3 days are enough for the top sights in the city limits but allow for 1-2 days for day trips for important landmarks west and south of the city. 

What’s the best time to go to Oaxaca?

The best time to go to Oaxaca is between April and November because this is the dry season in Oaxaca. The city is especially popular at the beginning of November when the Día De Los Muertos festival takes place. It is also one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Mexico.

What food is Oaxaca known for?

Oaxaca is famous for it delicious food but the most famous ones are mole, chocolate, and tlayudas. Mezcal and hot chocolate are Oaxaca’s best drinks. 

Is it safe to travel to Oaxaca right now?

Yes, it’s safe to travel to Oaxaca if you take all the standard precautions. Oaxaca is one of the safest places in Mexico and generally one of the best tourist destinations. 

Tips And Information For Visiting Oaxaca

Best Time To Visit 

The best time to visit Oaxaca de Juarez is in late spring or early fall. The city is most popular from April to November, and many tourists make it a point to come to the Mexican city for the Day of the Dead festival, which takes place at the start of November. This is the most popular time to be in Oaxaca, which also translates to large crowds. 

If you want to go when there aren’t as many tourists around, consider traveling between April and June. It’s the start of the rainy season in the city, and the crowds are generally much smaller. 

Getting There

If you can, try to fly to Oaxaca International Airport. It’s the closest airport to Oaxaca City, just a 20-minute drive from the center. It’s serviced only by airlines from North America and Latin America, with direct flights from the Mexico City airport. 

Taxis are available at the airport and can transport you into town for approximately 395 pesos ($25). You can haggle with the taxi drivers and it’s generally best to agree on a price before the ride. 

Getting Around

Walking is the best way of getting around central Oaxaca. You can visit most tourist attractions in the heart of the city on foot, but you’ll need to rely on a different mode of public transport to visit the landmarks that lie outside of Oaxaca City. Buses run to popular tourist destinations but they’re not reliable. Also, a 20-minute drive equates to a 2-hour bus drive, so I don’t recommend relying on the bus if you’re trying to be efficient. 

Consider getting a rental car if you’ve traveled to Mexico previously and you know what to expect on the road. Otherwise, it might be more hassle than it’s worth. The roads are not in the best condition and the traffic can be a nightmare, especially in the central parts of the city. Having a car is great for driving to places like Mitla, but keep in mind that you can just as easily book tours and let someone else figure out the transportation. 

How Much Time Do You Need

You need at least four days in Oaxaca for a proper tour of the city. There’s a lot to do and see in the city and it takes at least 2-3 days to visit all the notable buildings and landmarks in the Oaxaca city center. The rest of the trip can be spent touring historic landmarks and archaeological sites throughout the state. 

If you can plan for an even longer trip, you could include a short stay on the coast. Spend a night or two in the Huatulco National Park to end your trip to Mexico with a relaxed beach vacation. 

Safety in Oaxaca City

Oaxaca is one of the safest cities in Mexico, and it’s generally a great destination for tourists. The most common crimes are petty theft and pickpocketing, which could be said for virtually any other major city in the world. If you take all the standard precautions, you shouldn’t have any negative experiences while you’re in Oaxaca. 

And what do I mean by standard precautions? Don’t wear flashy jewelry and designer clothes and always keep an eye on your valuables. Wear a money bag under your t-shirt or a crossbody bag that you’ll always keep one hand on. Be extra careful in crowded areas, and never flash wads of cash. Also, whatever you do don’t go to the observatory. It’s a hotspot for muggings at knifepoint, and tourists should stay far away. 

Where To Stay In Oaxaca

Centro is the best neighborhood for first-time visitors in the city. All the popular tourist attractions will be a short walk from the hotel, as well as the city’s best bars and restaurants. Staying in Centro is particularly great for trips during the Day of the Dead festival when the streets of Oaxaca are particularly crowded, and the traffic becomes a nightmare. Here are some of the best hotels in Oaxaca for all budgets: 

• Las Mariposas Hotel & Studios is an affordable hotel just five minutes from the heart of Oaxaca. 
• Hotel Parador de Alcalá is a four-star hotel in the city center with a nice outdoor pool. 
• Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery is a premium five-star hotel just minutes from Zocalo Square. 

So now that you know all of the incredible attractions, outdoor adventures and about the Oaxacan Culture make sure to add Oaxaca to your Mexico itinerary, you will find it is worth going a little off the beaten path for lot of reward.

Read more to help plan your trip to Oaxaca and Mexico

• 4 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary
• 27 Best Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico
• 15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Cancun
• 26 Best Things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Oaxaca Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to oaxaca mexico, oaxaca travel guide contents.

Location | Getting There | Where to Stay  |  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Safety  | Oaxaca Blogs |  FAQ

Oaxaca Travel: At a Glance

Known for its colorful festivals, artisan towns, amazing cuisine and unique history, Oaxaca state is still somewhat off the beaten path, but gaining in popularity each year.

There are two parts to the state — Oaxaca City and the mountain towns (like San Jose del Pacifico ) in the north, and the beaches of Oaxaca on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

Q: How do you pronounce Oaxaca?!

A: You’re not alone in wondering, How do you say Oaxaca? , as it’s a very common question! The Oaxaca pronunciation is  waa-HA-kah .

Oaxaca Travel: Know before you go

• ✈️ Airport: Oaxaca Airport (code: OAX), Puerto Escondido Airport (code: PVR), Huatulco Airport (code: HUX) ⏰ Time Zone: Central Daylight Time (GMT-5)
• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso
• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
• 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
• 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Oaxaca for info on the process.

oaxaca travel guide

Where is oaxaca located.

Oaxaca state is located in southern Mexico. The state is popular with Mexico culture travel, and Oaxaca City is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so don’t miss out on all the amazing Oaxacan food .

Besides Oaxaca City, travelers also flock to the beaches of Oaxaca on Mexico’s Pacific Coast — like Puerto Escondido , Mazunte , Huatulco and Zipolite.

Oaxaca Mexico map

What’s the best way to get to Oaxaca Mexico?

🇲🇽 oaxaca city.

For Oaxaca City, you’ll want to fly into Oaxaca City International Airport (code: OAX), located about 20 minutes from Centro Historico (Historic Downtown Oaxaca City). From there, you can book private transportation , take a taxi, colectivo (small, shared van) or rental car to your accommodation.

Note: There is no Uber in Oaxaca state, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

🏝 Oaxaca beaches

On the beaches of Oaxaca, there are two airports; the first is Puerto Escondido International Airport (code: PXM), for those traveling to Puerto Escondido and Chacahua National Park.

The second, Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (code: HUX), is the better option for Huatulco, Mazunte and Zipolite, San Agustinillo and Puerto Angel.

Traveling from Oaxaca City to the beaches?

Check out these detailed guides, Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City to Huatulco .

Best places to visit in Oaxaca

Wondering where to stay in Oaxaca Mexico ? Many visitors will opt for the northern part of the state in Oaxaca City, or the beaches of Oaxaca on the coast. There are several Oaxaca beach towns , with Puerto Escondido being the most popular of them all.

Oaxaca City, Oaxaca Mexico

Known for its festive Day of the Dead celebration, Oaxaca City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the state’s capital and cultural epicenter. When talking about the city, most will just say Oaxaca, though its official name is Oaxaca de Juarez.

Is Oaxaca worth visiting? Absolutely! Oaxaca, in a word, is magical! It’s easy to fall in love with the friendly people, colorful mercados (markets), artisan towns, festive street parties, delicious Oaxacan food , and more.

Puerto Escondido , Oaxaca Mexico

The most popular Oaxaca beach town! One of the things that put Puerto Escondido, meaning  hidden port , on the map are its surf waves. However, even non-surfers will enjoy all the beautiful Puerto Escondido beaches as well.

How do I get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido? Though there’s only about 160 miles (257 km) between Oaxaca City and the beaches of Oaxaca, this isn’t the easiest trip. Head to this article for info on how to get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca City.

Best things to do in Oaxaca Mexico

Besides all the mouth-watering  Oaxaca cuisine you’re going to want to devour, there are also a good amount of Oaxaca day trips just outside of the city to see the beautiful nature, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colorful colonial cities, pueblos magicos (magic towns), and much more.

Discover some of the Oaxaca highlights below ⤵

Bahias de Huatulco

Hierve el Agua

Zipolite (Mexico Nude Beach)

Día de los Muertos

San Agustinillo

Lagunas de Chacahua

Monte Alban Ruins

Pueblos Mancomunados

Best oaxaca tours.

Tours in Oaxaca Mexico are a great way to see the sites — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Oaxaca, tours are the best way to get around as transportation costs can add up quickly! If you do want a Oaxaca rental car, check out this guide to Renting a Car in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know .

Oaxaca travel guide

Is oaxaca safe for tourists.

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico. In fact, Oaxaca consistently ranks as one of the safest states in Mexico, which includes both Oaxaca City and the beaches of Oaxaca on the coast.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca; they do. As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

Is Oaxaca safe for solo travelers?

On a personal note, I lived in Oaxaca by myself for four months, and felt quite safe. Now, this wasn’t magic; I made it a priority to stay safe by not walking home alone at night, never drinking too much, etc. Check out my Mexico Solo Travel Guide for more info on Mexico travel safety for solo female travelers.

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
• SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
• Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
• 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Oaxaca Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in oaxaca mexico.

No — Neither unfiltered Mexico tap water nor the drinking water in Oaxaca is safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

So what can you do?

• If you’re renting an Airbnb with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

🧳 Mexico Packing list

Wondering what else you need on your packing list for Mexico? Check out this guide — Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download !

What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?

The best time to visit is during the Oaxaca dry season from October to May . Overall, northern and central Oaxaca have a temperate, desert-like climate — though you’ll want to try to avoid the rainy season from April to September, as it rains quite a bit.

During the other months, you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights.

The most popular time to visit Oaxaca is during Día de Muertos ( Day of the Dead ), held Nov. 1-2 each year. The Guelaguetza Festival in July is another popular time for Oaxaca travel.

The beaches of Oaxaca and beaches in Huatulco have a much more tropical climate than Oaxaca City. The rainy season lasts from April to late-October or November, and the coast of Oaxaca sees a lot  of rain.

The best time to visit the beaches of Oaxaca is from November to April , when the temperatures are mild and the humidity and mosquitoes are at bay. This is also during the annual whale migration, when pacific gray, humpback and blue whales swim along the coast of Oaxaca to their breeding grounds.

What’s the Oaxaca weather like?

Weather-wise, northern Oaxaca has deserts and mountains, so it’s more cool and dry. You will however, see quite a bit of rain during the Oaxaca rainy season from about April to September.

The Oaxaca beaches on the coast have a much more tropical climate, so expect warm temperatures year-round, and a lot of rain from about May to October.

☀️ Oaxaca City Weather: Temperature averages

Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

Yes — Oaxaca Mexico is a unique Mexico destination that so many types of travelers will want to check out.

From the food, art and culture in Oaxaca City, to the off the beaten path Pueblos Mancomunados and the Oaxaca magic mushroom town of San Jose del Pacifico , to the tropical Oaxaca beaches — there’s something for everyone.

How many days do I need in Oaxaca?

A great place for slow travel in Mexico, you could spend a month in Oaxaca and not see all the top spots and hidden gems. From the mountains in the northern part of the state, to the beautiful beaches all the way south, and so much to see in between — Oaxaca state would make a great longer trip.

Since many travelers don’t have a month, you’d realistically need at least seven full days to explore both Oaxaca City and one or two Oaxaca beach towns . If you’re just staying in one part of the state, either the city or the beaches, four full days will suffice.

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

México » States » Oaxaca

Tourism in OAXACA

The Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán features impressive Baroque architecture. The old convent was transformed into the Academic and Cultural Center of Oaxaca, a museum of historical pieces. Discover the “Treasures of Tomb 7,” the remains of a Zapotec tomb containing precious stones and jewels. The Ethnobotanical Garden is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of the native plants of Oaxaca under a bright sun. Oaxaca is known for its open-air markets and its gastronomy, which you can enjoy during your stay. The region is especially known for its tamales, moles, and creamy hot chocolate.

Visit Oaxaca during one of the many festivals that take place throughout the year. The most popular are the Day of the Dead, which takes place over three days in autumn, and the Guelaguetza, a very popular folk dance festival, in the summer.

Immerse yourself in local history at one of the many museums in Oaxaca. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MACO) is located in one of the oldest buildings in the city, which is already a spectacle in itself. It also includes works by artists from the region.

Take a day trip to Monte Albán , an internationally protected site called a World Heritage Site. Located less than twenty minutes from the city center, the ancient site is one of the oldest Mesoamerican cities in the world. Explore its pyramids and temples to enter the era of Zapotec culture.

Tourist Attractions in OAXACA

Santo Domingo Cultural Center

The Santo Domingo Cultural Center is a cultural complex that is located in what was one of the most important convents in the colony. It is a large convent in which the Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca, the Fray Francisco de Burgoa Library and the Ethnobotanical Garden have been established. The Néstor Sánchez Public Newspaper Library is located in a building that is part of the complex but dates from the 19th century.… Read More

Monte Alban

Monte Alban is the most important archaeological zone of the Oaxacan entity, of unique regional importance due to the religious, political and economic control that the Zapotec state exercised over the population of the Valley of Oaxaca for more than thirteen centuries. It has been named by UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity together with the city of Oaxaca on December 11, 1987. The heritage of the Zapotec world reaches us through the magnificent archaeological sites designed in the Valley of Oaxaca. Of these, the city of Monte Albán stands out for its enormous importance as an economic, political and religious hub (it was the first urban complex in Mesoamerica); by its extension, almost as big as the current capital of Oaxaca; and for its long life, started around 500 BC and concluded around 850 AD.… Read More

La Guelaguetza

The Guelaguetza is an ancient tradition with pre-Hispanic roots related to agricultural ceremonies of gratitude to the gods for the arrival of the rains and the lifting of the harvest at the end of July and is the largest festival in Oaxaca. La Guelaguetza is a celebration of gratitude for the arrival of the rains and the harvests, in which representatives from all regions of the state gather in the capital to share their culture through dances, crafts and food. La Guelaguetza is celebrated every year on the two Mondays after July 16, except when the first Monday is July 18, Benito Juárez’s death anniversary. Many types of dances also participate, such as the traditional Flor de Piña; where women usually dress in Huipiles representing the different regions of the state, as well as with their pineapple on their shoulders, they comb their hair with beautiful long braids accompanied by their ribbons and can not missing her accessories that is, bracelets, necklaces and earrings of precious colors and her beautiful makeup.… Read More

Mezcal is a rich, handcrafted flavored drink that requires considerable attention to be produced. Mezcal is normally served with white salt or worm salt (salt mixed with a cooked larva and ground chili), lemon or orange. Mezcal production today remains more or less as it was when the Spanish arrived hundreds of years ago. Each “recipe” is transmitted from generation to generation within the families that care about its production; Because each family has its own approach to mezcal production, there are an enormous number of different flavors. It is also in this way that the rich diversity of flavors and traditions are preserved for all to enjoy.… Read More

Beaches in Oaxaca

The beaches of the coast of the state of Oaxaca are among the most beautiful and complete in Mexico, thanks to a developing tourist infrastructure and the rich gastronomy of the Pacific. Along the 533 kilometers of coastline, the beaches of Oaxaca offer a wide variety of activities for lovers of water sports: snorkeling, diving, sport fishing, surfing, among others… there is something for everyone!… Read More

Archaeological Sites in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is famous throughout the world for its archaeological sites and the history they keep. Discover Monte Alban, Mitla, Yagul and more of these remote sites, which have made Oaxaca a World Heritage city, according to Unesco. The original Zapotec and Mixtec peoples of Oaxaca lived in the cities and religious centers of the valley of this city until the time of Spanish colonization. Today, there are still vestiges of these towns and places where you can meet them.… Read More

Ecotourism and Adventure in Oaxaca

Oaxaca, located in the southeast of Mexico, is an example of a singular miscegenation that even in the midst of modernity never forgets its origins. In its varied geography, it brings together not only a vast biodiversity, considered among the largest in the world, but also insurmountable cultural and ethnic riches, and the most different and beautiful natural settings. An ideal space for Alternative Tourism, Oaxaca offers activities such as walking, mountain biking, rappelling, climbing, zip-lining, horseback riding, observation of flora and fauna and more, in close contact with nature. The visitor can also witness the various aspects of local life, savor the gastronomy and enjoy the warmth of its people, as well as an offer of accommodation in hotels, ecotourism cabins, local houses or excellent camping areas.… Read More

Magical Towns in Oaxaca

In Oaxaca we are proud to have 5 communities that have been awarded the title of Magical Towns of Mexico, a Magical Town is a town that has symbolic attributes, legends, history, transcendent events, everyday life, in short magic that they emanate in each of their socio-cultural manifestations, and that today mean a great opportunity for tourist use. The Magic Towns Program contributes to revalue a group of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation as a whole and that represent fresh and different alternatives for national and foreign visitors.… Read More

Gastronomy of Oaxaca

The Oaxacan gastronomy takes you on an amazing journey into one of the most outstanding and colorful cuisines in the world. Oaxacan food is among the most varied and delicious in Mexico, UNESCO has declared it Humanity’s Cultural Patrimony. Oaxaca’s gastronomy incorporates elements of pre-Hispanic cuisine, and lively imagination has created combinations that amaze by the color, the aromas and the flavors. The list of dishes that characterize this cuisine is endless, however, we can mention: Oaxacan Mole in its 7 varieties depending on the type of chili used, Chapulines, (dry roasted, spiced grasshoppers), tlayudas (large tortilla spread with the remaining of the lard and beans), maguey worm sauce, chiles rellenos (stuffed chilies), and of course the famous Oaxacan tamales in banana leaves. Oaxaca cheese is a soft white string cheese, which is similar to mozzarella. It is sold in “ropes” which are wound onto themselves into balls, and eaten cold or lightly melted on quesadillas is considered among the best in the world.… Read More

Oaxaca City Surroundings

Oaxaca is a destination that offers a great variety of attractions and tourist charms which leave anyone surprised. When arriving in the city of Oaxaca, the most common is to visit the historic center, the Santo Domingo Temple, the Macedonio Tourist Walk, the gastronomic delights in the Benito Juárez market, the Basilica de la Soledad, among other attractions. And one of the places that you cannot miss is the Monte Alban archaeological zone, which is approximately 30 minutes by car from the historic center. However, there are other places that are also worth knowing and are in the surroundings of the city. For this reason we recommend the following tourist routes.… Read More

Traditions of Oaxaca

In the state of Oaxaca there are many customs and traditions throughout the year, and within the state, said that they have the same purpose of celebration but with different things, in fact from one region to another or even more from one town to another, the Customs vary for perhaps details but that is what makes them authentic. All the holidays are celebrated, the profane and the religious ones. The festival calendar is extensive due to the diversity of ethnic groups, which they still conserve. Oaxaca has a combination in its traditions of the culture of the ancestors and the current culture, a state that does not lose its customs, adapts them to new times and needs.… Read More

Handicrafts from Oaxaca

Handicrafts from Oaxaca are a great tradition and they offer a diversity that denotes the artistic richness and imagination of its people. The talented artisans of Oaxaca make beautiful pieces of clay, textiles, wood, metal, skins and other materials, forming a rich and varied folk art in both decorative and useful items.… Read More

Oaxaca City

Oaxaca is the most diverse state in Mexico. It has peaks that reach more than 3,000 meters high, caverns that are among the deepest in the world, virgin beaches, secluded forests, and sunlit valleys. Oaxaca is rich in traditions and customs and has the largest ethnic population found in Mexico. The City of Oaxaca, the state capital, is famous for its architecture and for its rich cultural traditions. Oaxaca is also graced by a splendid and varied cuisine and spring-like weather year round. UNESCO declared the city a Cultural Heritage Site.… Read More

Map of OAXACA

Guided Tours in OAXACA

Flights & hotels in oaxaca, more tourist attractions in mexico.

The Gastronomy of Mexico has a great diversity of typical dishes, which is why it was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Heritage of Humanity. The basic and representative ingredients of Mexican dishes are: corn, coriander, chili, beans, piloncillo, nopal and tomato. Mexican cuisine is also characterized by its sauces, which serve as an accompaniment to traditional dishes, prepared based on spices.… Read More

• Magical Towns

A Magical Town is a place with symbols and legends, towns with history that in many cases have been the scene of transcendent events for our country, they are places that show the national identity in each of its corners, with a magic that emanates from its attractions ; visiting them is an opportunity to discover the charm of Mexico. The Magical Towns Program contributes to revalue a set of populations in the country that have always been in the collective imagination of the nation and that represent fresh and varied alternatives for national and foreign visitors. A town that through time and in the face of modernity, has conserved, valued and defended its historical, cultural and natural heritage; and manifests it in various expressions through its tangible and intangible heritage. A Magical Town is a town that has unique, symbolic attributes, authentic stories, transcendent events, everyday life, which means a great opportunity for tourist use, taking into account the motivations and needs of travelers.… Read More

• Ecotourism and Adventure

Mexico is one of the best countries for Ecotourism as it has a great variety of flora and fauna, as well as a large number of refuges for extraordinary species. You can enjoy recreational activities of appreciation and knowledge of nature through contact with it, such as: stargazing, observation of natural attractions, wildlife and bird watching. Throughout México there are more than 176 protected natural areas, 5 of them considered by UNESCO as Natural Heritage of Humanity. Just for this and much more, we believe that Mexico is a Paradise for Ecotourism.… Read More

• Archaeological Sites

The Archaeological Zones are the cultural past of every Mexican. You will be amazed at the ambient, nature and the environment that surrounds them. Climbing to the top or being around it will take us back in time to admire every detail. México is a country of culture and traditions, many of which we have inherited from the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of this vast territory, although it is true that there were more settlements in the central and southern part of the country, it is also possible to find some archaeological remains in the north. … Read More

• Capital Cities

Folklore, gastronomy, literary culture, art and exhibitions, is what you will find in the capitals of the states of Mexico. To the north, colonial Mexico, Puebla, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, the Sonoran desert and the California peninsula. To the east Veracruz and the gulf. To the west Acapulco, Oaxaca and Tuxtla Gutiérrez. And to the south the Riviera Maya and the pyramids of Chichén-Itzá, Tulúm and Cobá in Yucatán, Palenque in Chiapas, the cenotes, and the Central American jungles.… Read More

States Of Mexico

Mexico has an incredible diversity of landscapes, where the beauty of its beaches, internationally recognized, stands out. In its vast territory of coasts, there are beaches of unparalleled beauty, and colorful landscapes. A large network of first-class hotels and tourist services is available to visitors to these beaches. Mexico is also mystical places, dotted with archaeological testimonies inherited from its original inhabitants. Monuments made by the Mayas, Aztecs and Toltecs are located in magical landscapes, like lighthouses in an ocean of natural beauty. They offer visitors buildings that tell their history, and museums that collect their cultural heritage. And that keep alive ancestral traditions, in ceremonies and festivals, where you can enjoy cultural activities and entertainment.… Read More

On the Beaches of Mexico you can immerse yourself in the intense blue ocean of the Pacific bays, sunbathe on the shore of the warm and transparent waves of the Caribbean Sea in Quintana Roo or even rest on the beautiful coasts of the Gulf of Mexico. Mexican beaches hide wonderful secrets for the traveler. By visiting them, in addition to enjoying the excellent climate and water activities, you can discover splendid archaeological sites and interesting colonial cities without traveling long distances.… Read More

• Traditions in Mexico

It is practically impossible to make a meticulous, and above all, accurate selection of the places to visit in Mexico. Each place that our country houses is unique and beautiful in its own way. Mexico, with its nearly 2 million km², has a large number of scenarios to offer, as well as endless activities to do. Do not lose your way and enter the places to visit in Mexico. In Mexico, apart from the beaches and its famous archaeological sites, there are many other really interesting sites and activities that you should know. In the surroundings of the main cities you will find places full of culture and tradition, where you can spend relaxing, interesting and fun vacations. On your trip through Mexico you cannot stop obtaining souvenirs, the crafts that are made here are of the highest quality and recognized worldwide. A shopping tour cannot be missed.… Read More

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• States of Mexico
• Animal Rescue in Mexico

Last updated on January 22, 2024 by Shannon

One of the most culturally rich places in Mexico, Oaxaca state is among my favorite places in the country. This region, and the city in particular, is widely known for it’s mezcal, chocolate, and mole; as well as the diverse indigenous groups still calling the Oaxaca Valley home after hundreds of years.

While I love traveling the Yucatán Peninsula for its intriguing Maya ruins and uniquely beautiful cenotes , Oaxaca provides a blend of food, culture, and history unique to this part of Mexico—what you can find here is impossible to enjoy the same way when visiting anywhere else.

And while tourists descend on Oaxaca (pronounced wa-HAH-kah) for the two most notable festivals, Guelaguetza and Day of the Dead, it’s vibrant and interesting year-round. The city has beautifully restored colonial buildings—many of which are now hotels, museums, and restaurants.

In the past decade, international travel magazines have featured Oaxacan chefs for their intriguing twists on classic dishes that have long shaped the history of Mexico’s food scene. Couple that with it being the birthplace of mezcal—a smoky, fiery liquor that has quickly risen as the drink of choice in hipster havens from San Francisco to London—and you will never lack for things to do when you visit Oaxaca .

Jump to the part of this travel guide, or start from the top and work your way through the information and recommendations for visiting Oaxaca, Mexico .

Table of Contents

Things to Know Before Traveling to Oaxaca, Mexico

During the pre-colonial period, Oaxaca was home to roughly 16 different cultures; each one had its own language, customs, and traditions. The Zapotecs and Mixtecas were the largest and most sophisticated of these, and this ratio holds true today as descendants are widely spread throughout the valley in small villages and farms.

Between 1500-500 B.C., San José Magote, a Zapotec city, was a significant settlement in Oaxaca, notable for its early use of pottery, a craft still evident in the region. Oaxaca, rich in cultural diversity, was home to about 16 different cultures, including the prominent Zapotecs and Mixtecs, whose descendants still populate the valley.

In the 15th century, the Aztecs conquered Oaxaca, but their control was brief. Hernán Cortés arrived in 1519, marking the beginning of Spanish influence. The Spanish colonization reshaped Oaxaca, evident in its colonial architecture and the haciendas that now dot the valley, many turned into mezcal plantations.

Oaxaca’s layout, with its central zócalo, reflects its colonial past. Despite Spanish rule, which lasted 300 years, the region saw significant changes, including the battle of Huajuapan in 1811, where Valerio Trujano’s forces claimed Oaxaca for the revolutionaries. Later, during the Mexican Revolution, Emiliano Zapata’s ideology that land belonged to the workers gained traction here.

Today, Oaxaca, with its blend of indigenous and colonial history, remains a culturally rich but economically challenged region. The city and state of Oaxaca continue to be a tapestry of historical layers, each adding to its unique character.

Fast Facts About Oaxaca, Mexico Travel

Mexican peso (MXN) ( current exchange rate )

Electricity

127V/60Hz (American plug)

Can you drink the water in Oaxaca?

No, the water is not safe to drink in Oaxaca. Expats and travelers should drink bottled, or consider the merits of a  SteriPen  or  LifeStraw  for your trip.

I used the tap water to brush my teeth, but other expats do not. If you’re a new traveler, or you have a sensitive stomach, use bottled water even for teeth brushing.

Local SIM Cards

This is a cinch and highly recommended for GPS and navigating. Telcel is likely your best option, although Movistar is popular in this region of Mexico (but not other regions).

For most travelers to Oaxaca, and especially those traveling to other areas of Mexico, opt for Telcel. If you have a U.S. T-Mobile account, it will do the trick, too.

There’s a full SIM guide here —note that you must show your passport to buy one at some locations (it’s hit or miss which places will ask to see it before selling you a SIM).

Festivals of Note

• Day of the Dead is the signature festival in this region of Mexico and Oaxaca is an ideal place to celebrate. Day of the Dead occurs around Halloween, specifically in the first days of November.
• Guelaguetza is huge and celebrates the 16 indigenous cultures of the Oaxaca Valley (July).
• On an offbeat note, The Fiesta de Rábanos , the Festival of the Radishes is lively and takes place in the zócalo around the Christmas holidays with fireworks and crafts (23 December).

Oaxaca’s Primary Airports

• Xoxocotlán in Oaxaca City (OAX)
• Bahías de Huatulco in Huatulco (HUX)

How’s the wifi in Oaxaca?

Wifi is rampant and available at guesthouses and cafes. The data plans are also solid inside of cities and tourist areas so you can tether to your phone if you buy a data plan.

Possible Issues

Not many. If you’re prone to nosebleeds, then the extremely dry winters might exacerbate the issue (it did for me).

And since Oaxaca is at altitude, those coming from sea-level may experience a few days of headaches and tiredness that can come from altitude sickness if you’re not acclimated. Stay well hydrated and get a good night’s sleep.

What’s the weather like in Oaxaca?

The winters in Oaxaca are mild, cool, and exceedingly dry. You won’t see snow in the city, but night-time temperatures can drop drastically, even on what was a seemingly mild winter day.

By mid summer, it’s scorching hot and unrelentingly sunny—bring a hat and sunscreen. Stay well-hydrated year round.

How much does it cost to travel Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is a favored destination for North American retirees because it’s so easy on the wallet. Extended-stay accommodation for the winter months books up early, but you can find affordable hostels and guesthouses year round.

A budget backpacker can get by with $30/day on the frugal side, and mid-range travelers will have plenty of tasty food and cute guesthouses to enjoy on a budget closer to $55/day per person.

Long-term, it costs well under $800 a month to live in Oaxaca City .

Accommodation

Accommodation is a cinch. I used the Moon Guide Oaxaca when moving around the state. If you’re basing yourself out of one of the major cities, consider using one of the booking engines. 

While the city guides below go to my favorite hotel booking site, Booking.com , many great deals are also found on VRBO  if you are member—vacation rentals can actually save you money since you often have a full kitchen, particularly if you’re a family or traveling with more than three people.

These websites have very established presences in this region of Mexico because of the number of North American snowbirds visiting each winter— vacation rentals are among the easiest ways to book nice spots in a good area of town. Backpackers can find dorms on Hostelworld , but most travelers, including budget travelers, can find great deals at Booking.com .

And if you buy a local SIM (which you should), you can easily call ahead and directly reserve spots en route. The months of December through February are very busy in Oaxaca City—if you plan any sort of extended stay, book ahead or you will not find affordable apartments and accommodations for rent.

If none of these will do, check out my detailed guide to finding good places to stay .

How to Get Around Oaxaca

The major roads are well maintained and connect most any place you’ll need to go, but this is a mountainous region of Mexico and there is no way to avoid the winding roads. If you are prone to motion sickness, the long bus rides will tax your ability to stay well.

For shorter rides, colectivos , shared taxis, are an easy way to visit any of the rural towns. These taxis congregate at Abastos market (also called “central” when you/drivers are returning to the city), and a few other spots around town.

The northeastern colectivo launching point that I reference in the recommended daytrips is  pinpointed here —it’s easy to find because of the nearby McDonald’s. Go to this spot, then find a shared taxi with the name of your destination painted on the side. The colectivos usually cost 10-25 pesos max to any towns out in the Valley, and they add people to the car as you drive in the direction of your destination.

Of note, the local buses are considerably safer than colectivos , but less convenient. If you have Spanish and time on your side, these buses ply the main highways out of town. You will have to know your stop by sight or beg help from locals. You can catch a bus to the day-trip spots from the same spot where you catch a colectivo .

In Oaxaca City, the taxis are a flat fee; they are convenient if you find yourself out late and not prepared to navigate the cobbled streets on the way home. That said, most of Oaxaca City is walkable and you can explore everything in the city on foot.

Getting to or from Oaxaca

Use Bookaway to find the best route to or from Oaxaca, which includes public transport, flight prices, and the price of private or shared shuttle transfers. A lot of travelers arrive from Mexico City or Puebla , and those routes have quite a few options .

Note that the Ado bus network is extensive and ideal for those on a budget. These buses are large, comfortable, and affordable. Rental cars are easy to come by, although expensive to rent—they tack on huge fees and taxes to the offered price (read this thorough piece on navigating rental insurance in Mexico ).

Food & Drink Considerations

Food standards are good in this region of Mexico, and Oaxaca is famous for its culinary traditions and history. This is the “Land of the Seven Moles,” and they take their food (and pork in particular) seriously.

The water is not safe to drink, but bottled water is easy to find. Street food is scattered around, but the markets hold most of the street eats, so check the guides below to known where you can find the affordable and tasty street eats.

Outside of the markets, you can most often find steamed corn ( elotes and esquites ), burgers, and sometimes a taco stand. If you decide to stick to budget and street food options, follow these food safety principles .

If you’re vegetarian, Oaxaca is a hard place to eat. Because of that, I wrote a dedicated post outlining how to eat vegetarian in Oaxaca, Mexico , specifically.

Mezcal is the drink of choice in Oaxaca and you don’t have to go far to try it. It’s a very strong and smoky liquor, like tequila with a very distinct flavor. I don’t care for mezcal in any fashion (and there are many types and flavors to try), but I was in the minority, by far. In my group of friends, I alone didn’t enjoy the drink.

That said, I did enjoy learning about the history of the drink and understanding the importance of the agave plants to the local populations. I recommend mezcal tours in the city guides below; I highly recommended that you sign up for one.

Is Oaxaca safe to visit?

Although a few regions of Mexico have cartel violence and safety concerns, Oaxaca State is mostly free from these threats.

You may, however, encounter issues with the local protests—Oaxaca is famous for the amount of protests and these protesters are usually nonviolent, but they do close down the roads for entire days. The protests ramp up every year around May. Many times, these take place outside of the tourist areas, but occasionally the protest focuses on the city-center’s zòcolo.

By and large, tourists shouldn’t fear the protesting activity as it is most often teachers protesting wages, villages protesting new laws, and things of that sort. Again, it’s not targeted toward tourists and the tour companies and people of Oaxaca will be grateful to see you no matter what types of local protests are occurring at the time. But, you should double-check local information before traveling there in spring/summer.

In terms of personal safety walking around town, you should have no issues walking the city center after dark, it’s lively and active until midnight; and later on the weekends. Cabs are always nearby too, if you need a quick lift home.

No matter what time of day, be cautious of petty theft and opportunistic crimes like bag and phone snatching by a motorbike zooming past—it’s not common, but nor is it unheard of. There have been problems with muggings for solitary hikers near the Cerro del Fortin auditorium.

Check the U.S. government’s travel warnings to keep abreast of that situation, but mostly don’t be up there after sunset, or alone with expensive gear.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Pre-Trip Reading Inspiration: Books About Mexico

Fiction & Nonfiction Books About Mexico

• La Casa de los Secretos : Only available in Spanish, it’s also the only novel I could find set in Oaxaca and sharing the culture and history unique to this area. You should definitely read it before visiting if you can read Spanish.
• Mexico: Biography of Power : For the history buff, it doesn’t get much better than this comprehensive look at how the centralization of power throughout Mexico’s history has shaped not only the country, but all of Latin America.
• The Death Of Artemio Cruz : Hailed as a masterpiece and a “haunting voyage into the soul of modern Mexico,” this novel uses the narrator’s flashbacks to process how the country’s past continues to affect the present.
• Sliced Iguana: Travels in Mexico : On my list for a while now and recommended by readers as an easy read that gives a light touch to all the history and culture she talks about while retelling her journey.
• The People’s Guide to Mexico : Even veteran Mexico travelers will enjoy this book. It’s like a guidebook, but even more. It’s hands-down the best guidebook you should use to understand the various regions, the cultural quirks, and all the reasons Mexico is a fantastic place to travel and live. Unlike the Lonely Planet recommended above, this one is a cultural guide to the country. It comes highly recommended by me, and by heaps of Amazon reviewers too.
• Frida at Home : A beautiful and well-researched book on Frida Kahlo, one of Mexico’s well known artists and a national icon. From her early life to her painting and marriage to Diego Rivera, give one a peek into how Mexican culture and landscapes shaped this magnificent woman.

Podcasts and Online Reads About Mexico

• The Rise of Mezcal: Great for Cocktails, Better for Oaxaca : Mezcal is the favored drink in Oaxaca State, and it’s making waves all over the world too. This is a great read on the history of mezcal and a necessary reading before signing up for your own mezcal tour to a nearby  palenque .
• Mexico: History and Resistance : A solid podcast that makes listening to the country’s history easy. Download this and prep for your Mexico trip by taking a trip through time.
• Mexico with kids : Good niche read with a lot of facts and information you might be wondering about family specific travel.

Read all my Mexico travel stories  and find more regional fiction and nonfiction books and long-reads .

Recommended Guidebook

The Moon Guide Oaxaca is your best option. I always carry a paper guidebook so that I can easily read the history of each site while I am there. I also have a travel guide to the Yucatan Peninsula  and Guatemala for those heading that way.

Socially Responsible Travel in Oaxaca, Mexico

Socially responsible travel in Mexico is easier than in some parts of the world. The dark side of animal tourism haunts many travelers in Southeast Asia . But in Mexico, responsible tourism focuses more on people than animals (excluding the diving done along the coast!).

Oaxaca is the heart of indigenous Mexico and Oaxaca State has a large concentration of the indigenous cultures—16 different groups with unique customs and languages date back hundreds of years. There are general tactics for responsible travel  anywhere in the world, and those linked tips allow you to lessen your impact on the places you visit.

For Oaxaca specifically, let’s look at the regional activities and treks, as well as how to find responsible volunteering opportunities.

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly score free breakfasts and 15% off my hotel.

Trekking & Cabañas

Oaxaca State is a mountainous region encompassed within the Sierra Madre de Oaxaca. This unique location makes it the ideal place to plan nature hikes and remote homestays within the indigenous communities.

In fact, community-based tourism (CBT) is the number one way to responsibly visit the mountains outside of Oaxaca, as well as the local indigenous cultures. Many of the cabañas are well-appointed too. Some are rustic, but others offer many creature comforts you wouldn’t expect to find in such rural areas.

These communities have invested a lot of money and resources in making their cabañas and towns hospitable to tourism. That said, there is painfully little advice on how to arrange a trek or a weekend at one of the cabañas.

For formal trekking tours, where you go on a proper adventure with guides, Expediciones Sierra Norte  is the best company. Not only are their tours great, but they have sound responsible tourism practices. They have offices in Oaxaca Centro if you want a face-to-face before booking something.

For indie travelers with a bit of Spanish and a sense of adventure, you can book directly with the cabañas located in towns all over the region. Oaxaca Mio offers the best information on each site, what they offer, and contact information. That fantastic yellow map is from its website, and it’s the only one like it that I’ve ever found.

Oaxaca Mio provides information on programs in all the tiny towns, like San Miguel del Valle , which is an uber traditional town where I spent many of my volunteers hours . You can also find information on the nearby  Pueblos Magicos , which are cultural heritage towns singled out by the government as special. The green area on the map, Pueblos Mancomunados , is particularly popular with birders and nature lovers.

Volunteering in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has a range of opportunities for travelers keen to volunteer in the region. Most of the volunteer opportunities require at least a few weeks commitment from volunteers to ensure greatest impact. That said, there are opportunities for short-term projects if you have specialized skills such as any sort of medical or healthcare background, or a background in construction and building-type work.

The indigenous communities outside of Oaxaca often lack access to strong healthcare. For that reason, doctors in any field (medical, dental, ophthalmology, physical therapy, etc) are particularly useful, even in short clinics. If you’re a medical volunteer heading to Oaxaca, you can certainly find an outlet for your skills and knowledge.

There are many large NGOs offering paid programs, but you can easily find indie opportunities that only require you to cover your own room and board for this type of travel. Consider this list of vetted independent volunteer opportunities in Mexico —there are extensive options in Oaxaca State.

Supporting Responsible Businesses

Consider using and visiting these  Mexican social enterprises on your trip . Supporting social enterprises is one of the easiest ways to create a trip with positive impact. This means picking businesses that are using funds to support local communities and to offer training, support, or to protect natural resources.

You can do everything from shop for souvenirs to learning how to make pure chocolate to picking a trekking guide to finding a homestay—all with companies committed to social impact and respect.

World Travel Planning Resources

From the best travel gear to how to pick travel insurance—a detailed list of resources, tips, and advice to help you plan an amazing trip.

Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca State is a popular tourist region in Mexico. My list of the Best Things to Do in Oaxaca has the detailed transportation information you’d need to actually visit these places, and covers everything to do in Oaxaca City, and as day or weekend trips into the surrounding mountains and ecotourism hotspots.

If you head to the coast, use this thorough Travel Guide to Puerto Escondido .

My Favorite Oaxaca Travel Experiences:

• Volunteering with En Vía and learning more about the region’s indigenous cultures and how microfinance is helping them better their lives.
• Visiting the Zapotec cities and villages east of Oaxaca, like Teotitlán and others.
• Hanging out with friends in  Oaxaca City’s zócalo in the evenings and soaking in the music, laughter, and happiness.
• Visiting the stunning frozen waterfalls at Hierve el Agua outside of Oaxaca.
• Taking photo walks during the golden hour before sunset to capture the gorgeous churches and lively   street scenes and colorful graffiti around the city.

Things to Do in Oaxaca City Center

In the heart of Mexico, Oaxaca stands as a beacon of cultural richness and diversity, offering a myriad of experiences that blend history, art, and nature into a tapestry of unforgettable moments.

In addition to the traditional things to do, use Que Pasa Oaxaca ‘s event’s guide to see the upcoming shows, lectures, arts performances, and more.

Here’s a curated list of the best things to do :

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Housed in the beautiful Santo Domingo complex, this museum is a treasure trove of Oaxacan history and culture. Explore exhibits that tell the story of the region from pre-Hispanic times to the present.

Then go book a chocolate workshop run by CACAO Cooperative is a very  small social enterprise still growing its business. It’s a hands-on way to learn every step of the process from a wonderful business.

Templo de Santo Domingo

A marvel of Baroque architecture, the Santo Domingo Temple dazzles with its intricate gold-leaf interior. It’s a testament to the artistic and religious fervor that has shaped Oaxaca.

Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca

Adjacent to Santo Domingo, this ethnobotanical garden is a living encyclopedia of Oaxaca’s diverse plant life. It’s a serene escape that highlights the importance of flora in Oaxacan culture.

Mercado Benito Juárez & Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Dive into the heart of Oaxacan life at these bustling markets. They’re a sensory feast of colors, smells, and sounds, offering everything from handicrafts to local delicacies.

Mezcal Tasting

Immerse yourself in the world of mezcal, Oaxaca’s iconic spirit. Visit local distilleries to learn about its production and savor the smoky flavor that captures the essence of the region.

Learning Spanish

Embrace the local language to deepen your connection with Oaxaca. Engaging in Spanish lessons enhances your ability to interact with locals, understand the culture, and navigate the city with greater ease.

Consider ICO  or Oaxaca International . This page also provides a full list of Spanish schools in the city .

Hanging Out in the Zócalo

The Zócalo, Oaxaca’s main square, is the city’s beating heart. Spend time here to soak in the lively atmosphere, observe the daily life of Oaxacans, and perhaps catch impromptu musical performances or local gatherings.

Taking an En Vía Tour

Participate in an En Vía tour to experience responsible tourism. These social enterprise tours offer insights into local communities, supporting women’s empowerment and sustainable development through microfinance across the Oaxaca Valley . These tours are the single best way to learn about the indigenous cultures in this region of Mexico.

Book a day tour to maximize your time.

GetYourGuide has a phenomenal range of tours, and they’re affordable too. Maximize your time by booking your must-dos as a tour, and then slot in the rest as time permits.

Doing a Mezcal Tour in the Valley

Embark on a mezcal tour in the surrounding valleys. These tours not only allow you to taste various mezcals but also provide a behind-the-scenes look at the traditional methods of mezcal production, deeply rooted in Oaxacan culture.

If you can get a spot, opt for a tour with Omar Alonso , a local Oaxacan running food and mezcal tours in the city .

Shopping for Local Handmade Goods

Oaxaca is a haven for handcrafted goods, especially tapetes (handwoven rugs). Visiting local markets and workshops gives you the chance to purchase these unique items directly from the artisans, supporting their craft and taking home a piece of Oaxacan heritage.

Taking a Cooking Class

Engage in a cooking class to delve into Oaxaca’s renowned culinary scene. Learn to prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients, an experience that offers both a taste of the region’s flavors and an understanding of its culinary traditions.

El Sabor Zapotec is a cooking class run by Reyna Mendoza, one of the women in the En Vía microfinance program, and it’s well done.

Best Day Trips from Oaxaca

Venturing beyond the colorful streets of Oaxaca City reveals a landscape rich with natural wonders and ancient sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s soul.

Use my detailed list of things to do for transportation information on any of the day trips mentioned or highlighted in this Oaxaca Travel Guide. These day trips will enrich your journey with unforgettable experiences—I loved each one of these for its ability to lead me through the tapestry of Oaxaca’s diverse cultures and topography.

Hierve el Agua

Venture to these natural rock formations resembling cascades of water. The mineral-rich springs here create a surreal landscape, perfect for a refreshing dip and awe-inspiring photos.

Explore this archaeological site known for its intricate geometric mosaics. Mitla was a religious center for the Zapotecs and later the Mixtecs, and its unique artistry is a marvel.

Witness the grandeur of the ancient Tule Tree, one of the world’s largest living beings. Its immense girth and age make it a natural wonder and a symbol of endurance.

Teotitlán del Valle

This village is famed for its handwoven textiles. Meet artisans who use traditional techniques to create vibrant rugs and tapestries, each a piece of living heritage.

San Bartolo Coyotepec

Known for its black pottery, this village offers a glimpse into an ancient craft. Discover the skill and artistry behind each piece, shaped and fired using age-old methods.

Monte Albán

Perched atop a mountain, Monte Albán’s ancient ruins offer a window into the lives of the Zapotecs. Wander among the pyramids and tombs, feeling the echoes of a civilization that thrived centuries ago.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Midrange : La Betulia , a charming B&B connected to the En Vía social enterprise , offers a beautifully renovated space in a central location, while El Diablo y La Sandía stands out for its unique touches and warm, family-run hospitality.

Budget : Casa Angel Hostel is the top choice for budget travelers, boasting clean, spacious, and modern private rooms, a communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a lively backpacker atmosphere.

Upscale : For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel La Casona de Tita , known for its tranquil ambiance and homemade breakfasts, or Casa de las Bugambilias , acclaimed for its small charms and exquisite bedrooms.

Where to Eat and Drink

I recommend Los Danzantes or Catedral  as the most vegetarian-friendly upscale restaurants. Casa Oaxaca is not a good bet for vegetarians, but is great for others. And I did not eat at Pitiona, another top fusion restaurant in town so I can’t weigh in there but it should be on your radar.

Grab coffee . For a quick coffee, stop at a Café Brújulas—I miss those the berry muffins. My favorite tiny spot is Alma de Cafe  ( Margarita Maza de Juárez 211-A )—it also offers salads, fresh-baked muffins, and cookies.

Drink Mezcal . Mezcalarita is one good option ( Macedonio Alcalá 706 ).  Mezcalogía is perennially popular ( García Vigil 509 ). And if you’re really into the drink, this list is better than many I’ve seen online.

Onward travel

Having spent a number of months backpacking Central America and Mexico across multiple trips, plan your time in the following locations.

Mexico » Yucatan Peninsula | Yucatan with Kids | Oaxaca City | San Pancho | Guanajuato | Chichen Itza | Secret Mud Beach | Cultural Immersion | Taco History | Colonial Mexico

Guatemala » Antigua | Tikal | Rio Dulce | Xela | Chichicastenango | Learning Spanish | Semana Santa | Easter Traditions

Belize » Chetumal Border | Culture

Honduras » Copan Ruinas | Utila | Culture

Essential Travel Planning Resources

❗ Yes, you need travel insurance . IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why .

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip. Shop my favorite travel gear , including all of the packing essentials for world travel , gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books , and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation . Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation .

📍 Navigate more effectively. Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com .

✈️ Book affordable flights. Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights .

☕ Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel , or learn how to move and live abroad .

Mexican Routes

• Colonial / Oaxaca / Towns & Cities

by admin · Published June 6, 2017 · Updated September 27, 2023

Oaxaca de Juárez, or simply Oaxaca, is the capital and largest city of the Mexican state of the same name.

Oaxaca is located in the Centro District in the Central Valleys region of the state, on the foothills of the Sierra Madre at the base of the Cerro del Fortín extending to the banks of the Atoyac River.

Oaxaca City was named a World Heritage Site in 1987. The Oaxaca city center was included in a World Heritage Site designated by UNESCO, in recognition of its treasure of historic buildings and monuments.

Oaxaca relies heavily on tourism, which is based on its large number of colonial-era structures as well as the native Zapotec and Mixtec cultures and archeological sites.

Many of the tourists who come during Holy Week and for New Year come from other parts of Mexico including native Oaxacans returning to visit from their places of work. Most international visitors come during the summer.

Climate & Weather

Oaxaca has a tropical savanna climate, closely bordering on a humid subtropical climate, due to its high altitude.

During the dry season, temperatures during the day remain warm with an average high of 27°C in the coolest month, December, and an average high of 33°C in April, just before the beginning of the wet season.

Although daytime temperatures are warm, nighttime temperatures are cool with an average low of 9°C in January.

Precipitation is concentrated in the summer months with June being the wettest with an average precipitation of 171 mm.

Origin of the name

The word Oaxaca is derived from the Nahuatl word Huaxyacac (“among the huaje trees”). This word was later Hispanicized to Guajaca and later spelled as Oaxaca.

The suffix of “de Juárez” was added in 1872, in honor of Benito Juárez.

The city of Oaxaca is nicknamed “la Verde Antequera” (“the green Antequera”) due to its prior name “Nueva Antequera” (“New Antequera”) and the variety of structures built from a native green stone.

History & Timeline

There had been Zapotec and Mixtec settlements in the valley of Oaxaca for thousands of years, especially in connection with the important ancient centers of Monte Albán and Mitla, which are close to modern Oaxaca city.

The Aztecs entered the valley in 1440 and named it “Huaxyacac” (“among the huaje trees”).

A strategic military position was created here, at what is now called the Cerro (large hill) del Fortín to keep an eye on the Zapotec capital of Zaachila and secure the trade route between the Valley of Mexico, Tehuantepec and what is now Central America.

When the Spanish arrived in 1521, the Zapotecs and the Mixtecs were involved in one of their many wars. Spanish conquest would end this fighting.

The first Spanish expedition here arrived late in 1521, headed by Captain Francisco de Orozco, and accompanied by 400 Aztecs. Hernán Cortés sent Francisco de Orozco to Oaxaca because Moctezuma II said that the Aztec’s gold came from there.

The first mass was said here by Chaplain Juan Díaz on the bank of the Atoyac River under a large huaje tree, where the Church of San Juan de Dios would be constructed later.

This same chaplain added saints’ names to the surrounding villages in addition to keeping their Nahuatl names: Santa María Oaxaca, San Martín Mexicapan, San Juan Chapultepec, Santo Tomas Xochimilco, San Matías Jalatlaco, Santiago Tepeaca, etc.

This group of Spaniards chose their first mayor, Gutierres de Badajoc, their first town council, and began construction of the cathedral of Oaxaca in 1522. Their name for the settlement was Guajaca, a Hispanization of the Nahuatl name (which would later be respelled as Oaxaca).

The establishment of the relatively independent village did not suit Hernán Cortes, who wanted power over the entire region for himself. Cortés sent Pedro de Alvarado, who proceeded to drive out most of the village’s population.

Once again, the original founders appealed to Spanish royal authority, this time to the viceroy in Mexico City, Nuño de Guzmán. This viceroy also sided with the original founders, and the town was refounded in 1529 as Antequera, in honor of Nuño de Guzmán’s hometown. Francisco de Herrera convened the new, Crown-approved town council, and the first layout of the settlement was mapped out by Juan Peláez de Berrio.

In the meantime, Cortés was able to obtain from the crown the title of the Marquis of the Valley of Oaxaca, which contains the disputed village. This permitted him to tax the area heavily, and to have control of the territory that surrounded the village.

The village was then in a position of having to survive surrounded by villages which answered Cortés. These villages not only did not take orders from Antequera, but they were hostile to it, mostly likely encouraged by Cortés.

To counter this, the village petitioned the Crown to be elevated to the status of a city, which would give it certain rights, privileges, and exceptions. It would also ensure that the settlement would remain under the direct control of the king, rather than of Cortés. This petition was granted in 1532 by Charles V of Spain.

Tourist Attractions & Sightseeing

Oaxaca is a vital center for Mexican rich culture and heritage, and the Historic Center is the heart of Oaxaca City. It’s a picturesque area with well-preserved colonial buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and markets.

The Plaza de la Constitución

Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) was planned in 1529 by Juan Peláez de Berrio. During the entire colonial period, this plaza was never paved, nor had sidewalks, only a marble fountain that was placed here in 1739.

The fountain was removed in 1857 to put in the kiosk and trees. In 1881, the square was rearranged again and in 1885, a statue of Benito Juárez was added. It was remodeled again in 1901 and a new kiosk was installed.

Government Palace

The State Government Palace is located on the main square of Oaxaca City.

This site used to be the Portal de la Alhóndiga (warehouse) and in front of the palace is the Benito Juárez Market. The original palace was inaugurated in 1728, on the wedding day of the prince and princess of Spain and Portugal.

The architectural style was Gothic.

The building currently on this site was begun in 1832, inaugurated in 1870 but was not completed until 1887. The inside contains murals reflecting Oaxaca’s history from the pre-Hispanic era, the colonial era, and post-independence.

Most of these were painted by Arturo Garcia Bustos in the 1980s.

Federal Palace

The Federal Palace is located across from the Cathedral and used to be the site of the old Archbishops’ Palace until 1902.

Its architecture is “neo-Mixtec” reflecting the nationalism of the early 20th century and the reverence in which the Mixtec-Zapotec culture has been held in more recent times.

The architectural elements copy a number of those from Mitla and Monte Albán.

Alameda de León

Northwest of the Zócalo is the Alameda de León, a garden area that is essentially an annex of the main square. In 1576, viceroy Martín Enréquez de Almanza set aside two city blocks on which to build the city government offices, but they were never built there.

One of the blocks was sold and the other became a market.

Antonio de León, governor of the state of Oaxaca, lived in front of this market and decided to turn it into a park in the 1840s, making it a small replica of the Alameda Central in Mexico City. In 1885, a statue of León was added.

Andador Macedonio Alcalá

The Macedonio Alcalá Tourist Corridor is a street paved with green Cantera that was closed to traffic in 1985 and is now only open to pedestrian traffic.

Along the street are notable places such as the original building to house the Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez.

The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (Museum of Contemporary Art) or MACO is located here as is the Plazuela (small plaza) Labastida and the Parroquia de la Preciosa Sangre de Cristo (Parish of the Precious Blood of Christ).

Catedral de Oaxaca

The Catedral de Oaxaca, also referred to as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is the third to be built as the first two were destroyed by large earthquakes in the 16th and 18th centuries.

Construction of this third church began in 1702 and it was consecrated in 1733.

Its facade is made of the green Cantera stone commonly found in Oaxaca’s buildings, and the interior is in Neoclassical style.

The altar features a statue of Our Lady of the Assumption (Nuestra Señora de al Asunción) which was made in Italy during the Porfirio era and is represented by a bronze sculpture brought from Europe and made by Tadoini.

Former Monastery of Santo Domingo de Guzmán

The church and former monastery of Santo Domingo de Guzmán is located 4 blocks north of the Cathedral of Oaxaca.

It was constructed between 1555 and 1666.

It is divided into two parts: the church and the former living (working) areas of the monks. The front of the church is Renaissance-style, in the central relief, Saint Dominic and Hippolytus of Rome are holding up the church.

After La Reforma around 1860, the church was converted into a stable, which caused serious deterioration of the building. It was returned to devotional use at the end of the 19th century.

The living and working areas were converted into barracks and officers´ quarters.

In 1994, work began to convert this area into the Centro Cultural Santo Domingo.

Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

The Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad is located four blocks west of the Cathedral on Avenida Independencia. It was built between 1682 and 1697 by Father Fernando Méndez on a site where supposedly an image of the Virgin Mary appeared inside a box.

It is of Baroque style and finished in 1690. Its front is made of a reddish stone sculpted to look like a folding screen.

In the back of the church is the Museo de la Basilica de Nuestra Señora de La Soledad which exhibits the Virgin’s dresses, offerings, and small paintings done in her honor.

The statue of the Virgin of Solitude, crowned with a 2 kg solid gold crown studded with diamonds – was the subject of a theft recently.

Many years later, the cloister was converted into a correctional facility, a teacher’s college, and a district attorney’s office. Now it serves as the Municipal Palace.

The building conserves a number of valuable items such as paintings, sculptures religious vestments, and a pipe organ dated 1686.

Former Monastery of Del Carmen Alto

The Church and ex-monastery of Del Carmen Alto belonged to the Carmelites who established themselves here in 1696.

The complex began as a hermitage built over the teocalli of Huaxyacac, although in the late 17th century, much of this space was occupied by a jail and barracks.

The project was financed by Manuel Fernandez Fiallo.

Former Monastery of San Juan de Dios

The Church and former monastery of St John of God (Templo y Exconvento de San Juan de Dios), Oaxaca’s oldest church still standing, was completed in 1703.

This is where the first mass in Oaxaca was held in 1521.

Church of San Felipe Neri

The Church of San Felipe Neri is considered a classic example of Baroque with estipite (inverted truncated pyramid) columns from the end of the 18th century and has a large gilded main altarpiece.

While the church overall is Baroque, the portal contains other decorative elements as well.

Benito Juárez married Margarita Maza here in 1841.

Former Monastery of San Catalina

Ex monastery of San Catalina was built in the second half of the 16th century by Dominican monk Hernando de Carvarcos, who also was responsible for the Santo Domingo de Guzmán monastery.

In 1862, the monastery became a jail and at the end of the 19th century, the southern part became the Municipal Palace.

Since 1976, it has been a hotel, called Hotel Camino Real.

Church of the Company of Jesus

Church of the Company of Jesus (Iglesia de la Compañia de Jesús), located to the southwest of the Zócalo, was built by the Jesuits in 1579 and consecrated to Francis Xavier and the Immaculate Conception.

The towers were destroyed by a series of earthquakes and never rebuilt.

Inside the chapel is a statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe with a prayer written in Spanish, English, Náhuatl as well as 12 other languages native to the state of Oaxaca, including 4 dialects of Zapotec.

Cultural Centers, Museums & Theatres

Oaxaca City’s cultural landscape is a vibrant tapestry of tradition and innovation, where museums, theaters, and cultural centers come together to celebrate the rich heritage and creative spirit of the region.

These cultural institutions offer visitors a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s regional history, art, and culture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone with an appreciation for the arts.

Here’s a list of Cultural Centers, Museums, and Theatres in Oaxaca City.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca (Museum of Oaxacan Cultures)

This renowned museum is housed in the former monastery of Santo Domingo. It showcases an impressive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including Zapotec and Mixtec treasures. The museum’s architecture alone is a testament to the city’s rich history.

Centro Cultural San Pablo (San Pablo Cultural Center)

San Pablo Cultural Center is a hub for contemporary art and cultural events. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, and performances that celebrate both Oaxacan and international arts. The historic building adds to its charm.

Teatro Macedonio Alcalá (Macedonio Alcalá Theater)

Oaxaca’s main theater, Teatro Macedonio Alcalá, is a beautiful neoclassical building that hosts a wide range of performances, from ballet and opera to concerts and theater productions. It’s a cultural landmark in the heart of the city.

Museo Textil de Oaxaca (Textile Museum of Oaxaca)

This museum is a treasure trove of Oaxacan textile artistry. Visitors can explore the rich traditions of weaving and textiles in Oaxaca, including intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Casa de la Cultura Oaxaqueña (House of Oaxacan Culture)

A cultural institution that offers workshops, exhibitions, and performances, Casa de la Cultura is a place where local artists and artisans come together to showcase their talents and traditions.

Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca (Ethnobotanical Garden of Oaxaca)

More than just a garden, this living museum is dedicated to showcasing the rich plant diversity of the region and its importance in Oaxacan culture. It’s a tranquil oasis in the city.

Teatro Juárez (Juárez Theater)

Teatro Juárez is an iconic architectural gem in Oaxaca City. This 19th-century theater hosts various cultural events, from classical music concerts to contemporary dance performances.

Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (Museum of Contemporary Art)

This museum is a hub for contemporary art enthusiasts. It features a rotating collection of modern and contemporary works by local and international artists, making it a dynamic cultural center.

Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo (Manuel Álvarez Bravo Photographic Center)

Dedicated to photography, this center honors the legacy of the famous Mexican photographer Manuel Álvarez Bravo. It showcases both contemporary and historical photographic works.

Teatro Principal (Principal Theater)

Teatro Principal is a historic theater in the heart of Oaxaca City. It hosts a variety of cultural events, including theatrical performances and musical concerts, making it a focal point for the city’s artistic scene.

Parks & Gardens

The city contains a number of parks, gardens, and plazas, many of which were former monastery lands, for example, the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, surrounding the former monastery of Santo Domingo.

Even better known is the Plaza de la Danza y Jardín Sócrates complex on Morelos Street at the foot of the Cerro del Fortín.

It is part of the area bounded by the Basilica de la Soledad and the Church of San José.

The Plaza de la Danza was constructed in 1959 by Eduardo Vasconcelos to hold the annual Bani-Stui-Gulal (representation of antiquity) dance, held one day before the festival of the Guelaguetza.

The Plaza also hosts other cultural events including art shows, concerts, and political rallies The Socrates Garden is the old atrium of the Basilica de la Soledad converted into a public park in 1881, conserved the bronze chalice which was also made in 1881.

In 1981, the Garden was remodeled adding a new layer of stone to the floor.

The Cerro de Fortín next to it bears in stone letters Benito Juárez’s slogan, “El respeto al derecho ajeno es la paz” (“Respect for others’ rights is peace”).

The Antonia Labastida Garden is named after a woman who fought with Porfirio Díaz during the French Intervention. This park has become a place for artists and artisans to display their wares.

Nearby Archaeological Sites

Monte Albán

Monte Albán is a pre-Hispanic city that was an ancient capital of the Zapotecs. It reached its peak between 500 BCE and 800 CE. Monte Albán is known for its architecture, its carved stones, and the ceramic urns.

In 1987, it was declared a World Heritage Site, along with the city of Oaxaca.

Read more about Monte Alban

Gastronomy & Cuisine

The city of Oaxaca has long been considered “Mexico’s culinary capital.”

The most notable aspect of Oaxacan cuisine is its variety of moles, a type of complex sauce.

Their origins go back to the melding of Spanish and Arabic food in Spain. After the Conquest, New World ingredients such as chile mulato, ‘miltomate’ (a small whitish wild tomato), tomatoes, peanuts, avocado leaves, and chocolate were incorporated.

While moles can be found in many parts of Mexico, Oaxaca has the greatest variety including negro (black), Colorado (red), coloradito (faint red), chichilo, verde (green), amarillo (yellow), and manchamanteles.

They are sold in markets all over the city as a paste which is combined with water and simmered with a variety of meats.

Other notable foods sold in markets include bars of chocolate (primarily used for making hot chocolate), traditional breads, and chapulines (fried grasshoppers with chile). Street foods include tlayudas, which are large, slightly crispy corn tortillas piled high with ingredients such as grilled beef (called tasajo), cheese, tomatoes, avocados, onions etc.

Local drinks include those made with water, sugar and a flavoring such as aguamiel (honey water), trocitos de melón (melon), horchata (rice), tuna batida (cactus fruit shake), and nuez (nuts) as well as local fruits such as chilacayota and guanábana.

In nearby Tlacolula and Ejutla an indigenous drink called ‘tejate’ is still prepared and sold in the local market.

Known here as the drink of the gods, it is prepared with corn, cacao, cacao flower, and the seed of the mamey fruit. As for alcoholic beverages, this area prefers mezcal, which, like tequila is made from a species of agave but the flavor is very different.

As in other areas in Mexico, chocolate has had special importance here since long before the Conquest. Aside from being a foodstuff, it was also used as medicine, and cacao seeds were used as money.

The chocolate prepared in this city is well-known within Mexico, as it is distinguished by being flavored with cinnamon, almonds, and sugar and is usually prepared with hot water or milk. It is usually served in large coffee cups with a local sweet roll.

The best-known producer of this type of chocolate is Chocolate El Mayordomo, which recently has opened outlets in various parts of Mexico, especially in Mexico City. In their main store in Oaxaca City, you can see them prepare the various types of chocolates they prepare including chocolate pasta.

Traditions & Festivals

The legend of donaji.

Oaxaca is the home of the month-long cultural festival called the “Guelaguetza”, which features Oaxacan dance from the seven regions, music, and a beauty pageant for indigenous women Donají.

The story of Donají is that of a princess from pre-Hispanic Mitla.

When she was born, a seer predicted that she would die for her country. When she grew up, her people, the Zapotecs, were involved in one of their many wars with the Mixtecs. One day, Zapotec warriors brought a prisoner, a Mixtec prince named Nucano, to Mitla.

Taking pity on him, she took care of his wounds. When he healed, he asked her to let him go, which she did. The war continued with the Zapotec king and Donaji forced to abandon their capital of Zaachila.

Peace negotiations were attempted but the Mixtecs did not trust the Zapotec king, taking Donají captive as insurance. This occurred during the Conquest when the evangelization of the country had begun.

Donají asked for baptism and was renamed Doña Juana de Cortés.

As feared, the Zapotecs broke the peace treaty, attacking Monte Albán as the Mixtecs slept. Donají was found in the Atoyac River, decapitated. Time passed. One day a Shepherd came to the place where Donaji was buried by the river.

There was a fragrant lily flower growing. Fifteen days later, he returned to find the same flower, still fresh and fragrant in the same place as if a mysterious force was preserving it. Her severed head serves as part of the coat of arms of the city of Oaxaca and her story is reenacted every year at the Guelaguetza festival.

Guelaguetza

The Guelaguetza, also known as the Fiestas de los Lunes del Cerro (Festivals of Mondays at the Hill) is the major cultural event in the city with origins in pre-Hispanic times. The “Hill” is the Cerro del Fortín, which was the scene of the annual rites to the goddess Centeótl, or goddess of the corn. The hill had a teocalli, or sacred plaza, built by the Aztecs.

Noche de Rábanos

The “Noche de Rábano” or Night of the Radishes is a traditional Oaxaca city tradition.

Artisans show off designs done on large radishes, often decorated with other plant materials. The event only lasts a few hours but draws most of the city’s population to the main square to look at the creations. It occurs each year on 23 December.

Oaxaca Film Fest

Every year in the fall, Oaxaca hosts the Oaxaca Film Fest.

Transportation

Oaxaca-Xoxocotlan Airport is approximately 7 km south of the city center. Most flights are to Mexico City for onward connection, but there are also flights to Huatulco, Cancún, Tuxtla Gutierrez, and Tijuana.

United Airlines has flights between Oaxaca and Houston.

The city has separate first-class and second-class bus stations, offering services to most places within the state of Oaxaca, including the coastal resorts of Huatulco, Puerto Escondido, Puerto Ángel, and Pinotepa Nacional, and also long-distance services to Puebla and Mexico City and other Mexican locations such as Veracruz.

There are several bus lines that run in Oaxaca. The largest is TUSUG, a type of “cooperative” company. All of the drivers own their own buses and are aided by other drivers in purchasing new buses.

Oaxaca City on Google Maps

Oaxaca State of Oaxaca

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The Urbanist’s Guide to Oaxaca

Zapotec rap, blue-corn tetelas, petrified waterfalls..

Oaxaca has always been a destination for Mexican travelers and foreigners seeking a quieter, preserved version of the country’s indigenous and colonial history. But there’s been a spike in tourism (foreign visits increased ​22 percent in 2017 over the previous year), which makes sense considering the near-peak levels of popularity that Mexico City — just an hour flight away — has seen. In Oaxaca, the weather is always agreeable; open-air markets and sun-faded cantinas line cobblestoned streets; the local cuisine is wildly varied; and, in the past few years, the food and mezcal scenes in particular have really taken off. The latter is in large part owed to an exportation boom of the rural-village-derived liquor (between 2011 and ’17, local production quintupled; 63 percent went straight to the U.S.). Meanwhile, new restaurants like Criollo — opened in 2016 by Mexican chef Enrique Olvera of Mexico City’s famed Pujol and New York’s Cosme — are now on most travelers’ must-visit lists. And a few foreign-backed artist residencies, like Pocoapoco and Arquetopia , have popped up in town, joining longtime local counterparts. But this surge in tourists and expats has meant that newly priced-out locals can hardly afford to live downtown anymore. And the area is not without occasional violence: Countrywide, 175 politicians seeking to eradicate corruption, including a mayor in Oaxaca, have been killed, presumably by organized crime. Still, Oaxaca’s capital city offers a much more mellow experience than bustling CDMX, and locals and visitors alike are cautiously holding out hope that it stays that way.

1. Oaxaca by the Hour

When documentary photographer Freyna Lucero gets a day off, he spends it wandering from the crumbling cantinas to the underground galleries.

9 a.m. I’ll start the morning at Casa de la Chef (Calz. de las República 302) in Centro, a little tucked-away spot. They have amazing chilaquiles with chile pasilla as well as delicious postres (pastries) and fruit water.

10 a.m. I’ll go to Hierba Dulce (Calle Porfirio Díaz 311), a woman-owned vegan restaurant, to sip a couple mezcals to help with digestion.

11 a.m. Hilo de Nube (Calle Amapolas 619A) is a shop in Reforma that sells hand-embroidered huipiles (traditional dresses or shirts) from a Mixe village called San Juan Guichicovi. The shop works directly with the makers, ensuring a fair price for them.

Noon Taller-Galería Código Tonal (Av. Benito Juárez 107) , an underground gallery and workspace founded in 2016 and run by printmaker Issvan Duarte, is usually on my itinerary. There’s a big communal table where local artists work.

1 p.m. From there, I’ll head down to Ollin Café (Calle Melchor Ocampo 710) . It’s a little coffee shop within a language school — they offer Spanish classes and art-history courses. The pour-over coffee and espresso are made with beans from the southern part of Oaxaca.

2 p.m. Centro Fotográfico Manuel Álvarez Bravo (Calle de Manuel Bravo 116) would be my next stop, to take in the work of other local photographers. The gallery space, right in the heart of town, has a small, plant-lined interior courtyard with a reflection pool.

3 p.m. Next, a stopover at Salón de la Fama (Calle Porfirio Díaz 115) , a classic Mexican bar, a bit worn and not fancy. I’ll have a beer or maybe some brandy and wait until I get hungry.

4 p.m. We eat lunch late here. I’ll grab something at the veggie-focused Boulenc (Calle Porfirio Díaz 207) ; their prices are super-accessible. The eggplant pizza and homemade bread are fantastic.

5 p.m. When I have the time, I’ll take the 45-minute trip by taxi to the little town of San Agustín Etla, where there are lots of galleries. At Centro de las Artes de San Agustín (Av. Independencia) , there’s Oaxacan oil and watercolor paintings, screen printing, audiovisual work, and documentary photography, but also work from foreign artists who have spent time here. There’s a little forest on a hill, ideal for watching the sunset.

7 p.m. Once back in the city, I’ll swing by Pollos Bar (Calle José López Alavez 1321) , one of the most traditional cantinas in the city, and listen to the jukebox, which has a lot of cumbia. I like to put on Super Grupo Juárez and La Furia Oaxaqueña. I’ll always run into some friends there.

2. Chef-Approved Chicharrón

From the markets and street-corner stands to the city’s new wave of fusion restaurants.

Breakfast Quick : “There’s a little stall with empanadas in the Mercado de la Merced ( Nicolás del Puerto at Murguía ) called La Güera, where the tortillas are very thin and filled with things like flor de calabaza (squash flower), beef tongue, and salsas. It’s a quick breakfast option. They cook it all on a comal, a large iron skillet over an open fire.”

Sit-Down : “Go to Itanoni ( Av. Belisario Domínguez 513 ), a restaurant started by Amado Ramírez that only serves things made with corn. They have various comales , where they cook up blue and yellow corn tetelas, triangular pockets of masa filled with beans, in a stunning outdoor space with communal seating.” —Celia Florían (Las Quince Letras)

Lunch Quick : “Usually my family and I go to the markets in the surrounding pueblos, but if we stay local, we head to Mercado 20 de Noviembre​ for tasajo (grilled smoked beef) or chorizo. It’s also known as the mercado de las carnes (‘the meat market’); each stall is so good. Go in the Calle Aldama entrance and pull up a plastic chair where you can.”

Sit-Down : “For a special occasion, we’ll go to Pitiona ( Calle de Ignacio Allende 114 ), where the staff pairs mezcal with dishes like the rib-eye chicharrón memela (a tortilla mixed with fried pork skin) or the peanut mole. Eat on the terrace, which overlooks the Santo Domingo church and the mountains.” —Deyanira Aquino Pineda (La Teca)

Dinner Quick : “If I go to eat by myself, I go for tlayudas (giant tortillas topped with cheese, meat, and coleslaw and folded in half) at Tlayudas Doña Flavia ( Av. Belisario Domínguez 915-A ). It’s 25 minutes from downtown by car, on Highway 190 on the way to Santa María del Tule — but the staff is friendly and the quality is consistently great.”

Sit-Down : “If I’m with my wife, we’ll go to Criollo ( Francisco I. Madero 129 ). They change the menu daily. On different occasions, the huachinango (snapper) with mole and soft-shell-crab tacos have been phenomenal. The indoor-outdoor seating and the chiminea outside make for a very romantic setting.” —José Manuel Baños (Pitiona)

Plus some late-night suckling pig: “When you talk late-night, you’re really talking about eating in the street. Lechoncito de Oro ( Calle de los Libres at Murguía ) is a food truck that opens at 8 p.m. and is always packed. They only serve one thing: lechón (suckling pig) with crispy chicharrones (fried pork rinds) and a very spicy, delicious green salsa. You order it as either tacos, torta, or tostada.” —Pilar Cabrera (La Olla) 

3. Want to Rile a Oaxacan?

Broach one of these hot topics.

Appropriation of indigenous designs Officials at the Museo Textil de Oaxaca note about one case of plagiarism per year in the state and more nationwide. French designer Isabel Marant allegedly copied the Tlahuitoltepec blouse; Spanish company Intropia’s “embroidered Aztec” minidresses use a motif similar to an ancestral design of the Chinantec village of Tlacoatzintepec (not related to the Aztecs). Villages have had mixed luck in court; in some cases, the designs were ruled to be in the public domain.

Tulumification ( see here ) The tourism boom Oaxaca (population 260,000) has experienced in the past few years has caused rent and restaurant prices to soar, especially downtown. Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism reported that travel to the state capital brought in over $21 million in 2017. As retired gringos and digital nomads move in, locals have been pushed out of the costlier historic neighborhoods of the Centro, Jalatlaco, and Xochimilco.

Teacher protests Oaxaca’s teachers union, Section 22, which happens to be majority indigenous, has a history of protests — an effort to bring more resources to local schools. The biggest, most violent wave occurred in 2006 (the military got involved; 17 died). Things have settled down, but last June the union set up a blockade outside the airport.

4. Where the Locals Would Stay

If they weren’t locals.

$ $ $ El Callejón , hotelelcallejon.com , from $170 “This is one of the newer hotels in the city — not that many people know about it. It’s tucked away in Xochimilco, one of the oldest neighborhoods in town. There are just a few rooms; the architect-owner used traditional materials like adobe, clay, and stone.” —Héctor Audiffred, bar owner (La Popular and La Otra)

$ $ Hotel Azul , hotelazuloaxaca.com , from $142 “It used to be a huge private home. There’s a terrace that overlooks the city, and the interior courtyard, which is lined with organ-pipe cacti, is great for relaxing. The service is top-notch, and the staff is always ready with a local recommendation.” —Eva Lépiz, photographer and location scout

$ La Calera , lacalera.org , from $40 “It’s kind of a hipster place, a little away from the center, in the Santa María neighborhood. Housed in a former lime factory, it has high, lofted ceilings. Oaxaca-based painter Willy Olguín helped design some of the white-walled, poured-concrete-floor rooms, so you’ll see his artwork around.” —Lila Downs, singer and musician

5. A Mezcaleria for Every Kind of Sipper

Héctor Audiffred (he runs La Popular and La Otra, two bars along Calle de Manuel García Vigil) remembers when you had to travel into the villages to get great mezcal. No longer: Now it’s easy to find rare Tepextate in the city.

The worth-sitting-next-to-tourists one “ Los Amantes (Calle de Ignacio Allende 107) opened about ten years ago downtown, specifically as a tasting room. Before then, you could find mezcal in bars and cantinas and, of course, throughout the state, but the idea of ​sampling and ​explaining the different styles started there. Sidle up to the bar, where the décor is kind of retro thanks to its black-and-white tile floors and tchotchke-packed shelves.”

​The divey, locals-preferred one​ “ Unión de Palenqueros de Oaxaca (Calle de Mariano Abasolo 510) is the definition of a crumbling cantina. You’ll know you’re at the right place when you see the faded, hand-painted façade out front. This tiny spot gets quality mezcal direct from the producers in Matatlán, considered the ​hometown of mezcal. It’s pretty tight quarters, and empty barrels line the walls, so go during the day, when it’s less crowded.”

​ The leave-with-a-souvenir one “ Mezcaloteca ( Reforma 506) ​ has upwards of 100 different types of mezcal​, many of which you can take home​​. The vibe here is almost more library than bar; clear mezcal bottles occupy the dark wooden shelves, and green-hued banker’s lamps light the long, L-shaped bar. Note: Reservations are required to attend a tasting at this ​intimate little place.”

​The run-by-an-agave-connoisseur one “ In Situ (Av. Morelos 511) ​is owned by Ulises Torrentera, a guy with a ​tremendous amount ​of mezcal knowledge. The bar has a wide variety of agaves, from espadín to more rare types, such as jabalí. ​And they also stock a decent selection of locally made craft beer.”​

6. “It’s Like Swimming on Top of the World”

Javier Salazar, founder of Oaxaca Bike Expeditions, on the best day trips, plus a longer extended stay.

Roam the ruins at Monte Albán 25 minutes from the city center by taxi or bus.

“This ancient Zapotec city, founded around 500 B.C., is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Mexico, consisting of several pyramids and tombs that are in beautiful condition. Spend a morning here before the day gets too hot. Take a taxi or buy a round-trip bus ticket from a ticket office at the corner of Díaz Ordaz and Francisco Javier Mina.”

Soak at Hierve el Agua 1.5 hours by car or by van from Oaxaca’s second-class bus terminal, located eight blocks west of the city center.

“There’s a mineral deposit that has slowly solidified into a petrified waterfall, which you can see while relaxing in a thermal mineral pool. It’s like swimming on top of the world. But the best view of the waterfall is from the hiking trails beneath it. There are little food stands at the entrance, where you can get a quick quesadilla, too.”

Sunbathe in the nude in Zipolite A 45-minute flight from Oaxaca, then a one-hour bus ride from the main bus terminal in Puerto Escondido, or hire a taxi at the airport.

“Zipolite is a small, secluded beach town where the jungle-thick mountains meet the sea. Stay at El Alquimista, a hotel whose restaurant offers locally grown coffee, tropical fruits, and fresh-caught dorado; there are also daily yoga classes. Zipolite is a nude beach, but just a ten-minute taxi ride away is neighboring beach Playa Mazunt​e and its Punta Cometa, a cliff that juts into the Pacific​. The sunsets are amazing.”

7. Cumbia and Beyond

At night, the city’s bars, galleries, and cafés shape-shift into live-performance venues. Here, a tour through Oaxaca’s eclectic music scene.

For cumbia “ Txalaparta (Calle Matamoros 206) , with its old-license-plate kind of décor, is big with local bands and national artists like ​Tijuana’s DJ Chucuchu. Cool off on the roof on stickier nights.” —Alfonso Barrera, guitarist of La China Sonidera

For hip-hop “During the day, El Laberinto (Calle Porfirio Díaz 310) — a stucco-walled, terra-cotta-tiled art gallery, work space, and vegetarian café — doesn’t give off the vibe that it gets packed and sweaty by night. It hosts regular film nights as well as a rotation of local Zapotec rap acts, like the group Mixe Represent (Mixe-language rap) and battle-rappers One Bomber Crew.” —Toni G. Sánchez ruiz, rapper in the Zapotec-language rap trio Juchirap

For traditional folk “A stage in a coffee shop, El Venadito (Panorámica del Fortín 530) supports traditional musicians like Costa Mía Orquesta, a band with coastal influences. It fills up fast with locals; it’s near Cerro del Fortín, not exactly downtown.” —Lila Downs, singer-musician

For electronica “ Mezcalina (Av. Morelos 701) specializes in mezcal cocktails and artisanal beers (from a rapidly growing craft-beer scene) as well as a solid lineup of electronic and Latin-rhythm sets from local DJs. The space is open enough to move around a bit yet intimate enough to chat up the bartenders and whoever is playing that night.” —DJ Oliver del Valle of La Furia con Lujuria Sonidera

*This article appears in the February 18, 2019, issue of  New York Magazine. Subscribe Now!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Oaxaca, Mexico

Renowned for its intoxicating mix of different peoples, cultures and languages, Oaxaca in the southwest of Mexico still retains much of its indigenous identity and as such it is well worth exploring as it has a very different feel to it from the rest of the country.

While its rugged mountainous terrain helped protect and preserve the homelands of people such as the Zapotecs and Mixtecs from the Spanish Conquistadores, the diverse landscapes also allowed different fauna and flora to flourish around the state. Consequently Oaxaca is one of the most biodiverse regions in Mexico and its incredible scenery includes everything from towering mountains and sweeping valleys to a beautiful beach-filled Pacific coastline.

With lots of impressive archaeological sites alongside charming towns replete with native cultures, crafts and cuisine, the best places in Oaxaca really are unlike anywhere else in Mexico.

Map of the best places in Oaxaca, Mexico

10. Yagul [SEE MAP]

Although Yagul was first settled around 500 – 100 BC, most of the stunning ruins that we see today date to the 1200 – 1500s, which was when the city-state was at the height of its power. Known to locals as ‘Pueblo Viejo’ – the old village – Yagul was still inhabited when the Spanish arrived, although the city was soon abandoned.

Despite being one of only four natural monuments in Mexico, the impressive and well-preserved archaeological site sees relatively few visitors. Wandering around with barely another soul in sight is a fantastic feeling.

With a beautiful fort for you to explore alongside breathtaking ballcourts and the remains of a palace, the amazing ruins are well worth checking out. The majestic ceremonial structures and architecture only hint at the power and prestige of the mighty Zapotec civilization that once ruled the area.

9. Bahias de Huatulco [SEE MAP]

Consisting of nine beach-lined bays, each more dazzling than the last, Bahias de Huatulco is a brilliant place to head to if you want to kick back, relax, and take in some rays. While at one time only laidback sleepy fishing villages lined its shores, in the 1980s, the government saw its tourism potential and developed a series of hotels and resorts along the bays.

Fortunately, everything was done very tastefully. The unspoiled feel to the place remains, with all the hotels, restaurants, and bars tucked away among the glorious forests that hug the shore.

Bahias de Huatulco is breathtakingly beautiful. The bays with their pearly white beaches are all backed by vast swathes of forest that are protected by Huatulco National Park. While lounging on the beach amidst the stunning scenery is a great way to spend the holiday, there is also a myriad of different watersports for you to try out, while taking a boat trip offers you the chance to see the glorious coastline from afar.

8. Mitla [SEE MAP]

Named after Mictlan, the Aztec underworld, Mitla is believed by archaeologists to have been the most important Zapotec religious site. The impressive mosaics and geometric designs that cover its tombs and temples are the best in the whole of Mexico.

Exploring the archaeological site is a delight, and seeing the intricate designs that coat the ancient buildings up close is an awe-inspiring experience.

Although the site dates back even earlier, it was between 750 and 1521 that Mitla flourished. Its expansion was still ongoing when the Spanish arrived and destroyed much of it. Despite this, the ruins at Mitla are remarkably well-preserved, and the mix of Zapotec and Mixtec architectural influences is fascinating to behold, with lots of people visiting the site every week.

7. Zipolite [SEE MAP]

Lying along Mexico’s beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline, Zipolite has long attracted backpackers and hippies to its shores, and there is definitely a very laidback and relaxed feel about the place.

Indeed, anything goes in Zipolite, and it is not without reason that the small town is home to the county’s only nude beach. While chilling out on the pristine beach is many people’s favorite pastime, others prefer to go surfing in the waves or take a dolphin or whale watching boat trip along the coast.

At the end of every day, a glorious sunset bathes the beach in a stunning array of colors. Listening to local musicians or watching fire dancers perform is a magical experience as the night draws in.

6. Hierve el Agua [SEE MAP]

Located in a rugged and remote setting just 70 kilometers from Oaxaca, the natural rock formations of Hierve el Agua are sure to be unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Cascading down the cliff face to the valley below, the rock formations look like flowing water; from afar, one would stake money on them being waterfalls. In reality the rocks were formed by the accumulation of minerals deposited by spring water that has flowed down the rocks over thousands of years.

While the rock structures are undoubtedly the main attraction, the view from the top of them out over the valley is marvelous, and there are several natural pools and hot springs which visitors can bathe in.

5. Tehuacan-Cuicatlan Biosphere Reserve [SEE MAP]

Encompassing rugged mountain ranges, sweeping valleys, and the upper basin of the Papaloapan River, the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve is home to a wide array of landscapes which are lovely to hike through.

Due to the different habitats on show, you can be exploring a cacti-filled desert one moment, wandering through forest-coated valleys the next, and taking in sweeping views from one of the many mountaintops later in the day.

The fauna and flora are just as diverse as the landscapes themselves, with lots of species of bird, fish, and reptiles also residing within the reserve. A delight for nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike, the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve is well worth stopping by if you want to escape from the city for the day and immerse yourself in nature.

4. Puerto Escondido [SEE MAP]

Renowned for its great surfing, Puerto Escondido is the place to head to if you want big waves and near-perfect surf conditions. The gorgeous Playa Zicatela is widely considered amongst the best places to surf in the world; on any given day, a whole host of surfers can be found riding waves or chilling out on its golden sands.

A top-rated tourist destination, Puerto Escondido has a laidback vibe to it, with a number of great beaches for you to choose from if you’re not into surfing. The best of them is undoubtedly Playa Carrizalillo, although Playa Principal and Playa Bacocho also have their charms.

While in town, it is well worth going on a scenic boat trip along the coast to spot turtles, dolphins, and other marine species.

3. Monte Alban [SEE MAP]

Perched atop a low-lying mountain range near Oaxaca City and surrounded by sweeping valleys, the archaeological ruins of Monte Alban are certainly very impressive, with the well-preserved remains of temples, palaces, and ballcourts all on display.

One of the earliest cities founded in Mesoamerica, for centuries, Monte Alban was the center of socio-political and economic life in Oaxaca, with its zenith coming between 300 and 700 AD.

Despite having long been abandoned by the time the Spanish arrived, the site still conveys the majesty and importance of the Zapotecs who ruled from the city; many ornate and impressive stone-carved monuments can still be found scattered here and there. A must-see when visiting Oaxaca, Monte Alban certainly won’t disappoint with its fascinating ruins and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

2. Mazunte [SEE MAP]

Nestled alongside two beautiful beaches, the small village of Mazunte is ideal for people looking for a quiet getaway; there is barely anything to do other than lounge on one of the beaches and take in the stunning scenery. As it is very undeveloped and quite rural, most of the accommodation is basic, with ramshackle thatched-roof beach huts and restaurants clustered under the trees lining the beach.

Very popular with both independent travelers and backpackers, Mazunte has an alternative vibe to it, with lots of yoga studios and Spanish schools found around town. Besides the beautiful beaches, the main attraction is the fantastic turtle center. Many people visit Mazunte in May and June to watch the cute creatures lay their eggs on the beach before returning to the sea.

1. Oaxaca [SEE MAP]

Whether it’s history and culture that you are interested in or gastronomy and nightlife, Oaxaca is the place to go, and no visit to the state of the same name can ever be complete without at least passing by. Home to elegant colonial buildings and leafy plazas, with Zapotec and Mixtec archaeological sites found nearby, the city boasts an intoxicating array of different cultures. Indigenous arts, crafts, and cuisine are also on display at its many merry markets.

Oaxaca has a lot for you to see and do , and simply wandering around town and taking in the ambiance is a great way to explore the city, with beautiful churches and museums lying next to trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques.

While Oaxaca is excellent to visit at any time of year, it is especially lively and special to check out during Guelaguetza – a month-long festival that showcases traditional Oaxacan dances and music.

Share this post:

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Home » North America » Oaxaca

Is Oaxaca Safe for Travel? (Safety Advice for 2024)

Oaxaca may look like a mouthful (pronunced wa-ha-ka ) but now we’ve got that cleared up, you’re about to receive core life memories. The sheer depth of culture in Oaxaca rivals that of anywhere else in the world. It’s complete with a vibrant art scene, soulful food, and landscapes to make your heart fall out your arse. 

The central valleys teem with archaeological sites. Hop over to the coast for sandy beaches and easy-living. Nature-lovers take note: Oaxaca is also one of the most biologically diverse states in Mexico.

A surfer’s paradise as much as foodie heaven, Oaxaca looks great on paper. And actually, it’s even better in real life. It’s no wonder this is one of the top destinations to visit in Mexico.

Though, there we have it: the buzz word. We are in Mexico . So how safe is Oaxaca really?

There are certain things – and certain areas – that aren’t as safe as you’d want them to be. A lot of the time, nature plays a role in posing a danger.

If you’re wondering whether or not Oaxaca is safe, read on. Here are some tips, important info, and details you’ll need for your journey around this magical Mexican state.

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There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Oaxaca Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Oaxaca.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

Is Oaxaca Safe to Visit Right Now?

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Yes, Oaxaca is safe for tourists to visit! And actually, I recommend that you DO visit! In 2018, an analytical database reported 1,121,615 international visitors to Oaxaca . Majority having no troubles with their stay.

Mexico has been working hard to increase tourism in Oaxaca – and it’s working. The focus on the safety of visitors has made a noticeable difference, making it a great place to explore in Mexico . 

While the USA Oaxaca travel advisories remain at “exercise increased caution” for most of the state, this is mainly due to petty crime such as pickpocketing. 

Oaxaca is safe for tourists, yet large, and very diverse. The colourful capital, Oaxaca City, is one of the most visited destinations in Mexico and for the Day of the Dead festival.

The state has a large coast on the Pacific Ocean, and between them is a large mountainous region. If you want diversity, Oaxaca is your place.

Especially as far as Latin America goes, Oaxaca is a destination with few complications. That is not mean to say that there are NO safety concerns in Oaxaca. Having some safety tips under your belt is still invaluable. 

While much of Mexico suffers from travel warnings , high crime rates and dangerous drug dealings, Oaxaca remains relatively safe. It’s a great alternative to Mexico City.

Drug-related violence, though still existing, is low and generally under control in Oaxaca. It’s extremely unlikely that any would affect tourists minding their own business.

Natural disasters are a small risk in Oaxaca. Hurricane season affects Oaxaca from June to November. The size of these storms vary, but can cause widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption of local services.

Earthquakes can and do occur. Big tremors are uncommon but it’s good to be aware that they can occur.

Oaxaca’s coastline has powerful undercurrents and waves. Even strong swimmers get into trouble. On many beaches, you’ll find flags and warnings, which you should always heed.

So that’s the basics. But let’s go into a little more detail now.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Oaxaca   so you can start your trip right!

The safest places to visit in Mexico are usually the places with the most tourism. For this reason, much of Oaxaca state is safe to visit. Although visitors are recommended to exercise increased caution. (Good advice for anywhere you’re travelling.)

These “safe destinations” have very few issues. However, you should still follow local laws and practice your usual safety protocol.

• Oaxaca City – Visiting Mexico is not complete without staying in Oaxaca City. It’s one of the more colourful and culturally rich places, with exciting art and endless places to eat. Go with an empty belly, leave with a full heart.
• Puerto Escondido – This popular backpacker spot attracts travellers from all over – and many find themselves not wanting to leave. On the Pacific Coast, people come for the surf, incredible food, and a relaxed vibe.  Puerto Escondido’s hostels are something you should definitely experience.
• San Jose Del Pacifico – Once a hidden gem, now a pretty popular tourist town. This astonishing mountain spot is a place where time slows down. There’s nowhere else like this in Mexico (or even the world).

Unsafe Places in Oaxaca

While Oaxaca is mostly safe, there are certain areas of the state to avoid . Though there are very little to see in these places anyway, you really can skip across them and not miss a thing. 

The USA government also recommends avoiding certain highways. This could be due to the safety of the road or illegal roadblocks. These rarely affect tourists – especially using reputable bus companies – though if you’re driving or hitchhiking in Mexico, it’s good to do thorough research.

• Towns bordering the state of Chiapas – including Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.
• Anywhere at Night – some select areas are okay such as downtown Oaxaca City, though it’s best to use a taxi or public transport if you’re going between areas or back to your accommodation.
• Sketchy Neighbourhoods – ask your accommodation staff if there are any barrios to avoid. Again, there will be nothing to see here anyway. 

Keeping Your Money Safe in Oaxaca

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

So the safety concerns for Oaxaca and the conclusion of “is Oaxaca Safe to visit?” comes down to knowing some crucial safety tips . This is not an exhaustive list, though they will help you experience safety in Oaxaca and enjoy this incredible adventure. 

So here are some of our top safety tips for Oaxaca to keep you travelling smart.

• Don’t walk around looking rich – Leave designer clothes, flashy watches, and expensive jewellery at home. 
• Try to dress down and blend in with what you are wearing – Erring on the side of casual is best. Try to reflect what other people may be wearing around you.
• Do your research – Oaxaca is a big place so plan accordingly. Different areas have different safety standards and cultures, too. Puerto Escondido is very different from Oaxaca City, for example.
• Learn Spanish – You don’t need to be fluent, but you’ll be surprised how much this helps – including getting yourself out of some sticky situations. 
• DO NOT WALK AROUND ALONE AT NIGHT – Even in groups, it’s still very risky. I cannot stress this enough. Very certain areas are okay but it’s always better to ask locals before you do. 
• Limit the amount of money you carry around with you – The more you have, the more you potentially lose. Store cash in different places of your person and luggage. Travel money belts are great for this.
• Be careful when using ATMs – Use them during daylight hours and preferably inside a mall, shop, or bank. Put it away discreetly before you leave the machine.
• Keep an eye on your belongings – Even on your suitcase when checking in at a hotel or bus station. 
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• The emergency number is 911 – remember it.
• Be careful of people who claim to be police officers – Not everyone is who they appear to be. If you aren’t sure, ask for details such as their name, badge number, patrol car number, etc.
• Watch out for scam artists – People approaching you asking for personal information or financial help. Treat unsolicited chats like these as suspicious.
• Watch for warning on beaches – Not all beaches are safe for swimming. If there are no flags or lifeguards, ask the locals. Even the calmest looking waters can have extremely strong undercurrents. The Pacific Ocean takes no prisoners.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Research tour companies – If you’re heading out on a tour, make sure you are going with a reputable company that has good safety standards.
• Don’t leave food and drink unattended – Spiking does occur, so keep an eye on it and take care.
• Don’t get involved in drugs – I know it’s fun, but drugs are the source of many problems in Mexico. There are certain places that are okay in Oaxaca but unless you’re 1000% sure it’s really not worth the hassle.
• Keep an eye on earthquakes – Small tremors are common. Large tremors are uncommon. It’s good to have a general idea. 
• Pay attention to the weather – Local reports will tell you about any tropical storms on the Pacific coast. 
• Get a local sim card – This helps a lot. 
• If somebody tries to rob you, hand over the goods – It is just not worth being a hero in these kinds of situations.
• Get trusty travel insurance – an absolute essential for any trip. Make sure your travel insurance covers the type of trip you’re having.

Oaxaca is safer than much of Mexico overall, but that doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to wander around freely without a care in the world. Keep these tips in mind and make sure to keep vigilant as you explore this amazing Mexican state.

Yes! Oaxaca is an amazing place to travel – even alone.

It may not be a well-developed tourist destination, but it’s doable – and worth it. I’ve put together some tips for solo travellers in Mexico and Oaxaca to bear in mind when you travel around.

It’s a great place to go for history, with the colonial centre of the capital city to explore, as much as it is a foodie destination with a wealth of delicious treats to enjoy.

• Make friends ! – Always rule number 1 for solo travellers. There’s safety in numbers – plus it’s a lot more fun. 
• Do your research – Have a rough idea of your itinerary, book accommodation ahead and read reviews, and ask other travellers for recommendations. 
• DO NOT walk around at night alone – some very select places are okay. Generally, this is a big no no. Know how to get to your accommodation before you leave. 
• Keep your phone charged – Your lifeline.
• Choose good hostels in Oaxaca – The state has no shortage of great choices. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and stay somewhere that suits your personality.
• Stay alert. Don’t walk around with your iPhone in hand, not paying attention to your surroundings. I hope this is not the first time you’re hearing this.
• Download useful travel apps . Maps.me, Hostelworld, and even Tinder (to some extent) can be super useful for safety in Oaxaca.
• Take care when visiting beaches by yourself. Don’t leave belongings and valuables unattended on the beach. 
• Ask locals for their insider knowledge – They will know interesting spots to visit, and places to eat, plus areas to avoid.
• Sun Protection! You don’t want to get sunstroke or increased risk of skin cancer.
• Let someone know where you are. Friends and family back home, or at the very least someone your accommodation staff. 
• Don’t push yourself too much. Know when to stop and when to take a break. 
• Travel light. Less baggage, less worries – literally. 
• Keep track of your money and don’t keep it all in one place. You lose your wallet, you lose everything. Spread your bank and credit cards around. 

Usually, Oaxaca feels like some remote wonderland of Mexico where everything’s fine. But the truth is, it’s not always. It’s somewhere in between, where you still need to watch out for your belongings and travel with some level of vigilance.

Yes! Oaxaca is one of the best places in Mexico for solo female travellers .

Though, like anywhere, travelling alone as a woman comes with some extra things to think about. Here are some tailored tips to keep you solo travellers super safe on your adventure.

• Listen to your spidey senses – female solo traveller tip 1: if your gut tells you something isn’t right, it probably isn’t. Get yourself out of there. 
• Choose accommodation carefully – there are great hostels for women in Oaxaca.
• Chat with other female travellers – they understand the road you’re on better than anyone. 
• Only use reputable bus companies – especially if you’re travelling at night, it’s worth paying the extra bit of cash for a safe journey.
• Read reviews before you book – that goes for hostels, hotels, tour companies, or anything else. 
• Damn it, DO NOT WALK AROUND ALONE AT NIGHT – I’ve repeated this so many times already but it’s vital that everyone visiting Oaxaca understands this. 
• Choose accommodation in a good location. In Oaxaca City, for example, stay close to attractions so it’s easy to get back at night.
• Dress modestly – Mexico is still quite conservative. Breaking boundaries is great but this is not the time or place. See what local women are wearing and try to match. 
• Saying no is ALWAYS okay – you don’t need to please anyone, especially if it involves your safety.
• Make a fuss – It is unlikely that any hassle will turn ugly, but in a worst-case scenario, let everyone around know!
• Be careful of how much you drink – Keep your wits about you.
• Careful who you share information with – If someone’s asking too much personal information – red flag. Never share details of your accommodation or itinerary. 

As a solo female traveller, one of the biggest dangers is falling in love with the place. It’s hard to drag yourself away when your time is up.

One of the coolest places to stay in Oaxaca. It is a hip and colourful neighbourhood best known for its quirky cafes and bars.

This is a question that comes us a lot. Is Oaxaca safe for families? YES! 

Oaxaca is a kid-friendly place to travel to. From Oaxaca City itself to the beach, the coast, and the mountains, there’s a lot to keep everyone entertained.

Oaxaca city is very different from the likes of Mexico City. It’s walkable, colourful, and full of amazing character.

It is perfect for exploring with children with plenty to enlighten their senses. Lots of Mexican families travel to Oaxaca too, and you’ll see the main squares full of kids playing day and night. 

The coastal area is also an ideal spot. Though the road from the city to the coast is long, don’t rush, plan accordingly, and you’ll arrive to enjoy all the best that you can expect from any coast anywhere. 

Just pay attention to beach warnings. It is not always safe to swim everywhere. If there are no flags, ask at your accommodation whether or not it’s safe to swim.

Remember, like everywhere in Mexico, the places with the most visitors are the safest areas. So when you’re looking for a safe place to travel in Oaxaca with your family, bear that in mind. If you’re travelling between places, only use reputable companies like ADO Bus .

Also, much of the state of Oaxaca has high altitudes. So even sometimes when it doesn’t feel hot, the sun can be extremely strong. Make sure you have all the sun protection!

All in all, Oaxaca is a safe destination for families if you exercise increased caution (like you should everywhere).

Getting around Oaxaca safety isn’t overly complicated. You have the choice of buses, minivans, taxis, or driving yourself. They’re generally all pretty safe options – with a few important pointers. 

Depending on where you go, the roads in Oaxaca can be complicated. From Oaxaca City to the coast it’s pretty rough. 

Roads are narrow and winding, aren’t well maintained, and hazards aren’t well marked. Bear this in mind, whatever type of transport you choose.

Driving in Oaxaca is safe enough, but may be challenging. Drivers in Oaxaca City are more aggressive, won’t stop for pedestrians, and don’t tend to follow traffic laws too much. 

Local laws aren’t necessarily followed by police or drivers – so just be slightly aware of that. Go slowly, stop as you need to, and absolutely avoid driving at night at all costs.

Taxis in Oaxaca are generally safe. Though ensure that they are official taxis. 

Use the sititos (taxi ranks) or ask your accommodation where to find them. If you are worried about the driver, take note of the driver’s name and license plate number.

Public transport varies throughout the state of Oaxaca, from luxurious buses to local pickup trucks. Reputable bus companies like ADO bus are your best bet. They do checks on the drivers and passengers, take toll roads, and drive sensibly. 

Local buses, like the buses that drive around Oaxaca City, are regular and cheap. However make sure to HOLD ON TIGHT because they do not always drive the safest.

Minibuses are a great option for mid-distance travel. Lineas Unidas are super cushty, will give you an assigned seat, and generally drive safer than other minibus firms. 

Depending on where you are going will depend on where you take them. Your best bet is to search on Google Maps, or ask locals for advice.

Oaxaca has a low crime rate compared to much of Mexico – though that doesn’t mean it doesn’t occur. Fortunately, most of this crime is petty theft which is pretty easily avoided. Violent crime is rare in Oaxaca. 

Wherever you are, at the beach or in Oaxaca City, keep your valuables close. 

Not watching your back and letting your guard slip when you’re on the beach at night, for example, or walking around looking like you’re wealthy, could result in being a victim of crime.

Protests in Oaxaca City are common, for example, and are usually held by union workers. Not often turning violent, these gatherings do throw up roadblocks and prevent travel in and around the capital city or further afield.

I do suggest that you avoid drugs in Oaxaca. I love a joint as much as the next person but, for various reasons, Mexico is not really the place to do it. There are some very select places where you can get away with it but there’s absolutely no way I’d list them here for fear of someone running with that idea. 

Police are corrupt, you don’t need to give them any more reasons to hassle you, and drug cartels are the source of many of Mexico’s issues. It’s really best for everyone’s sake to just not get involved. 

Apart from that, Oaxaca is one of the safest places in Mexico to take your travels.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Oaxaca without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Before you go anywhere, having top-notch travel insurance for Mexico is vital. If something goes awray, and that does happen, this is your guardian angel.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Oaxaca.

What should you avoid in Oaxaca?

Avoid these things in Oaxaca in order to have a safe trip: – Don’t walk around looking rich – Avoid being careless when getting money out of the ATM – Don’t walk around at night (especially if you are alone) – Don’t get involved in drugs of any kind

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?

Yes, Oaxaca is pretty safe for tourists, especially those who stick to our travel tips and use their common sense. Being prepared and cautious during your trip will almost always keep you out of trouble.

What are the main safety issues in Oaxaca?

Tourists often experience small crimes like petty theft or pickpocketing. It’s rare (but not impossible) for tourists to face serious or violent crimes.

Is Oaxaca safe for female solo travellers?

Yes, we’d even go as far as saying that Oaxaca is the safest place in Mexico for female solo travellers. As long as you use basic common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, you should have a trouble-free trip in Oaxaca.

Is Oaxaca City safer than Mexico City?

Generally, yes. Oaxaca has a much lower crime rate than Mexico city. Though I always recommend that you should practice the same safety precautions in both cities, regardless.

At this point, I hope you’ve come to realise that the question of whether Oaxaca is safe to visit or not isn’t necessarily straightforward. Yes, you absolutely can visit Oaxaca and have a safe trip. Safety concerns are low and you’ll create memories to enlighten your life. 

I’ve been in and out of Oaxaca for a few years now and never had any worries. So yes, it can be done. Without a doubt, I’ll be back to visit Oaxaca again one day. 

Families, solo female travellers, and even LGBT travellers are all safe in Oaxaca. BUT you must practice some caution. This is Mexico after all and you are a guest here.

If you’re going to walk around with your Rolex, looking at maps on your iPhone 22, hailing illegal cabs in the night, and smoking a fat joint in the central squares, you can probably guess it’s definitely not going to be safe. Though, that would apply to most places really.

Be aware of your surrounding, but don’t get consumed by worry. Keep your sensible head on, exercise increased caution, prepare yourself with good travel insurance, and you’ll be rewarded ten folds by this impossibly beautiful state; one that leaves a big, fat, taco-shaped stamp on your heart.

Looking for more info on traveling to Oaxaca?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Oaxaca
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Mexico travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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i am an american retired in puerto escondido. i often drive to the capital. i have had very little problems with safety. yes, it’s best to be careful but that’s true everywhere. the food is indeed delicious and cheap, and asking for recomendations is always smart. when in doubt look for the crowds. taco stands, street food is similarly safe.

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An intro to mezcal, the centuries-old Mexican spirit that's having a moment

Tequila’s cousin has been made in Mexico for centuries — and, in its Oaxacan heartland, you can see it made the traditional way.

Agave, or maguey in the ancient Nahuatl language of the Aztecs, has been part of Mesoamerican culture for thousands of years. Throughout Mexican history, it’s been used as a source of food, clothing, medicine and, since the Spanish conquest in 1526, to make spirits such as tequila and mezcal.

The ancestor of tequila, mezcal — derived from the word mexicali , meaning ‘cooked agave’ in the ancient Nahuatl language — was born after the Spanish introduced distillation to Mexico. Today, most producers continue making mezcal using 16th-century methods: the heart of the plant is smoked underground for several days before being crushed by a millstone known as a tahona , usually drawn by a horse or ox. The pulp is then added to wooden vats for fermentation, followed by at least two distillations in copper or clay pots.

“The agave plant has been part of my family history since the 18th century, and my personal history since the moment I was born,” says Graciela Ángeles Carreño, a fourth-generation producer at artisanal mezcal brand Real Minero . “At Real Minero, we don’t just use agave varieties that grow on Oaxacan soil, we also use stills and clay pots that are made by hand, no more than an hour from here.”

These timeworn production methods combined with the Mexican terroir create a smooth, smoky and seriously punchy spirit, with 38% to 55% alcohol depending on the brand. “Good mezcal, like any good cheese or wine, should taste of where it comes from. It should also respect tradition,” says Graciela. “As for how to enjoy mezcal: always drink it neat, and in good company.” Traditionally, the spirit would be drunk from copitas (small cups) and often served with a slice of orange and sal de gusano , a mix of salt, chilli, and toasted and ground agave worms.

Unlike tequila, which can only be made from blue agave, mezcal can be made from any agave plant native to Mexico. Nine Mexican states can legally produce the spirit, but the largest producer in the country is Oaxaca. This southern Mexican state is home to hundreds of family-owned, artisanal distilleries and considered the heartland of mezcal. Here, mezcal-making traditions are deeply entwined with the lives of rural Oaxaqueños, and fiercely protected.

“We are constantly being told what mezcal should or could be by outsiders, but what people need to understand is that mezcal isn’t just a trend or something to be sold — it’s part of who we [Oaxacan mezcal producers] are,” says Graciela. “We make mezcal in clay pots and bury it underground not because it makes us more money (it doesn’t) or because it’s easy (it’s not), but because it’s how our fathers and grandfathers did it, and how we want our children to do it.”

You can try mezcal in almost every bar in Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca state, but the best way to understand this storied tipple is to head out into the countryside to visit one of its palenques , like Real Minero, which offers guided palenque tours and mezcal tastings by reservation.

These rustic distilleries are nestled among fields of corn and neatly planted rows of agave, a rosette plant with spiny, blue-green leaves that can grow up to 2.5-metres high. In this part of rural Oaxaca, where smoke rises constantly from bubbling clay and copper pots, fourth and fifth-generation mezcaleros and mezcaleras still produce the spirit as their ancestors did 500 years ago.

Three Oaxaca mezcal distilleries to visit

1. Mezcal FaneKantsini

Part of a mezcal cooperative called Tres Colibri, FaneKantsini is headed by master mezcalera   Sosima Olivera Aguilar — part of a growing community of female producers fighting for gender equality in Oaxaca’s male-dominated mezcal industry.  

2. La Candelaria

Located in Santa Catarina Minas, La Candelaria is where Eduardo ‘Lalo’ Angeles produces his acclaimed Mezcal Lalocura, distilled exclusively in clay pots. Espadin, tepeztate and pechuga — the latter a type of mezcal that’s distilled with a raw chicken breast inside it — are usually available for tastings.

3. Gracias a Dios

Santiago Matatlán, dubbed the world capital of mezcal, is where you’ll find Gracias a Dios , a sustainability focused palenque that uses recycled bottles and corks, irrigates 60% of its fields using rainwater, and plants about 5,000 trees a year.

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These Are The Most Popular Destinations In Mexico For Solo Travelers Right Now

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

One bag packed, one passport in hand and a whole world to explore, many solo travelers are sticking to 5 incredible destinations in Mexico.

Our southern neighbor handles negative press with grace and doesn't always get the credit it deserves for providing top-notch getaways for all types of travelers.

Digital nomads, couples, families, honeymooners, solo travelers, you name it…and you will see them in Mexico.

That being said, one of the most popular travel trends is taking on adventures alone with Mexico being a top choice to do so.

According to Hostelworld , these are the 5 most popular destinations in Mexico for solo travelers right now:

Rarely can a place so cultural become so trendy and hold on to its core identity , but that's the case for Oaxaca.

No shiny skyscrapers, influx of Starbucks at every corner, or sky-high prices overcharging tourists to be found here.

A city proud of its roots and even more proud to showcase its fascinating history through cultural sites and experiences, Oaxaca welcomes tourists with open arms with a shot of mezcal and warm hospitality.

One of the safest cities in Mexico , it is a place where solo travelers don't have to keep their heads on a swivel while perusing the timeless streets, which is a key reason why digital nomads love it.

As stunning as the city may be, visiting Oaxaca without a trip to see even more wonders would be a disservice.

Many tourists love making the short trip to UNESCO-protected Monte Alban and one of the most Instagramable sites – Hierve el Agua .

Dare we say Tulum is the trendiest city in all of Mexico?

Yeah, we're saying it. Mexico stretches far and wide, but Tulum has to be the most exciting for travelers to visit in 2024.

With the brand-spankin' new international airport now offering direct flights to multiple U.S. cities, Tulum has literally never been easier to reach.

Upon landing, Tulum is still as incredible as ever for a beach getaway with a welcoming, artsy community.

Solo travelers do tend to be on a budget since there are rarely split expenses unless you meet some like-minded pals on your trip.

There may be some sticker shock in Tulum at times, but that's what tends to happen when a destination surges in popularity.

And how could it not with a new airport and one of the most sought-after stops on the new Maya Train?

Puerto Escondido

The state of Oaxaca is seeing hordes of travelers from Oaxaca City to its stunning coastline.

Puerto Escondido used to be a sleepy beach town, but it has certainly grown in popularity in recent years.

Digital nomads may be to blame as they let the secret out on this lovely paradisal beach getaway.

While it's not as affordable as it used to be, it's definitely not on par with say, Los Cabos.

Solo travelers can stay on a budget and find ample accommodations on the cheap, and new, trendy hotels are rapidly developing should you want to splurge a bit.

Beaches here are gorgeous, but the Chacahua Lagoons National Park, an hour away, is worth a visit on its own to witness the mesmerizing bioluminescent waters.

What's left to say about the most popular international getaway for Americans? It's stunningly beautiful, lavish, easy to reach, and always a reliable spot to wind away for a blissful beach vacation.

So great in fact, you can enjoy in your own company, which can't be said about just anywhere.

With modern hostels like Selina, solo trippers can go out and about and come back to a well-equipped, clean, and affordable stay catered to their needs.

Cancun is an amazing destination year-round, but there may be no better beach weather than summer.

There is rarely a time when you can find Cancun without the crowds, but time will tell if Tulum's new airport will provide more elbow room.

Plus, seeing this region of Mexico by train is a perfect way to spend your time, as Cancun is one of the major stops on the new Maya Train.

Mexico City

Mexico City seems to have it all.

Well, excluding beaches.

As cool of an experience as riding through Xochimilco's canals on the colorful trajineras , it's not quite up to snuff as Cancun or Puerto Escondido.

Mexico City is the perfect stomping grounds for solo travelers to stay busy exploring one of the largest cities in the world.

Bustling markets, endless street food, stunning architecture, and world-renowned museums are just the tip of the iceberg.

Even for such a gargantuan city, Mexico City is widely considered safe , and it's easy to get around with a dirt-cheap metro and Uber throughout the city.

Accommodations range from cushy hostels to 5-star hotels to meet every traveler's budget.

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post These Are The Most Popular Destinations In Mexico For Solo Travelers Right Now appeared first on Travel Off Path .

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You Can Sit There. Really.

At the Denver Art Museum, a furniture exhibition lets visitors experience museum fare as more than just pretty objects.

By Ray Mark Rinaldi

Photographs by Amanda Villarosa

Reporting from Denver

This article is part of our Museums special section about how institutions are striving to offer their visitors more to see, do and feel.

The first thing that greets visitors at the Denver Art Museum’s new exhibition of contemporary furniture is a rather large sign announcing the show’s name. “Have a Seat: Mexican Chair Design Today,” it reads in uppercase letters rendered in an eye-popping, pink font.

Just a few steps inside the gallery, visitors arrive at a second message, this one more pragmatic, posted at eye level and meant to clear the air of any doubts.

“Seriously,” the placard reads. “have a seat.”

That is all the invitation they need to acquaint themselves with the goods in a way they are rarely permitted at serious institutions. They plop down on precious objects, put their feet up and generally make themselves at home on the stools, benches, side chairs and sofas scattered about the exhibition.

That is what the curator, Jorge Rivas Pérez, said he hoped for when assembling the show, which runs through Nov. 3. He wanted to upend the don’t-touch etiquette in practice at most art galleries and, at the same time, allow his guests to evaluate the objects on more practical terms, the way they might check out a recliner at a local department store.

The show provides “a full, sensorial, immersive space,” Rivas said, where visitors can feel the fabrics, smell the leather and wood, move things around to get a sense of their weight, and answer the ultimate question that even the prettiest chair has to face: Is it comfortable?

Designers represented in the exhibition discussed their creations, including what inspired them and the materials they used. Their remarks have been edited and condensed.

Caballito stool (2017)

Designed by Aldo Álvarez Tostado ( under the brand piedrafuego ) and made with horsehair and parota wood.

I grew up in San Pancho, a small beach town that transitioned from an agriculture and livestock economy to a tourism-related one. Horses were a sign of power and masculinity, and in the past few years, I’ve tried to challenge these notions through more fluid, suggestive, even homoerotic, takes on ranchero culture and the crafts and materials surrounding it.

Bigger thinking: Ergonomics are key for a seat, and I think the Caballito stools work properly on a really basic level. But what motivated me to create these stools had to do with something different: to find a new use for a material I came across, to talk about the visual tradition of our region, and to take a personal-identity and aesthetic stance.

A Family of 4 side chair (2023)

Designed by LANZA Atelier (Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo) and made with mahogany and maple.

Inspired by the birth of our second son, we designed a collection of four chairs of different heights in which the back rests and legs grow — symmetrically from the seat — in both directions. The concept is a “ladder” that keeps growing and that anyone can use at different moments: the ground-level chair for sitting while playing with a child on the floor; the medium-height chair to stand on and grab something from a top shelf; the tallest chair for a baby to sit at the table with everyone else; and all the in-betweens.

Bigger thinking: Our chair designs question the relationship of our bodies with everyday objects and explore the limits of what is considered “a convenient height or measurement” in order to defy the commonly accepted concept of a seat.

Butaca Revisited sofa (2024)

Designed by Fabien Cappello and made with synthetic velvet commonly used in public transportation seats (pattern by the designer).

A seat only interests me if it generates a life situation that is valuable to the sitter — a bench with a good view, a chair for eating good food or a sofa that makes possible good conversations. In this case, the seat I designed really is about people sitting together, and its defined spatial configuration makes it clearly furniture for conversations. It has been thought of as a piece to spark discussions and, hopefully, make people meet.

Bigger thinking: The butaca typology of chair first appeared in the southern Caribbean region of the Americas, blending together ceremonial, Indigenous furniture design and Spanish furniture construction techniques. For a long time it was considered an inappropriate chair for colonial society because of the very lascivious position it proposes.

Tempo stool (2019)

Designed by Jorge Diego Etienne and made with solid pine.

The Tempo stool embodies simplicity and unpretentious aesthetics, aligning with my studio’s philosophy of creating timeless, thoughtful objects. It’s part of a bigger, pro bono collaboration with Fábrica Social Techo, a Latin American nonprofit dedicated to creating emergency housing in marginalized communities. I believe this project reflects my studio’s commitment to social responsibility and design’s potential for positive impact in Mexico.

Bigger thinking: The stool’s discreet, serene design brings tranquillity and warmth to spaces, fostering a sense of trust and inviting long-term use. I like to bring together personal experiences, like my year in Japan studying craftsmanship and design, in conjunction with my own Mexican context. This design reflects it.

Tabaco stool (2010)

Designed by Raúl Cabra (under the brand Oax-i-fornia ) and made with carrizo reed.

The Tabaco stool is the result of observation, preservation and re-use. Based on the double-walled vernacular calenda baskets used to carry flowers and figures at festivals in Oaxaca, it’s simply turned around and scaled up to create a new object, in this case a seat. We always start from something existing, so that artisans have a strong sense of ownership, but ask new questions of form and material to challenge their (and our) knowledge and creativity.

Bigger thinking: What is remarkable about the piece is its purity. Only carrizo reed is used, no metal structure supports it, and no metal or wooden forms are used to weave it. It’s just the strength and flexibility of the material and the dexterity of the artisan that provides stability and comfort.

Bangladeshi stool (2003)

Designed by Cecilia León de la Barra and made with a steel structure and polyvinyl cord.

I named them Bangladeshi because I had seen some stools in a Bangladeshi shop in London. They were these amazing, colorful stools made from bamboo and a strapping-like tape. They blew my mind. They were big, so I couldn’t bring one home. Instead, I decided to make my own interpretation and homage to those ones I saw.

Bigger thinking: As a designer, I’m always thinking of an object’s usability and expression. Also, I try to design pieces that are democratic — for everyone. I believe that there is beauty in everyday objects, even when we see them abandoned, or taken for granted.

Fidencio armchair (2011)

Designed by Andrés Lhima and made with plastic mesh fabric.

I started playing with garbage, especially plastic bottles, and I wanted to experience what it would be like to sit on those bottles (which users can employ to fill the chair). The final material was part of an experimentation with other plastics, and I decided on the colorful material from which bags are made to go to the market in Mexico. I am very interested in working with materials and forms from Mexican popular culture, because I am a person from the neighborhood and that is something that I am proud of — in addition to the fact that this kind of design is often not accepted by some design purists.

Bigger thinking: It is a piece that I designed as a student. In order to produce it and pay the seamstresses, I sold candy at school and on the street. It is now part of the Vitra Design Museum and several museum collections.

Your Skin easy chair (2012)

Designed by Laura Noriega (under the brand Tributo) and made from birch, recycled plastic and cotton handwoven on a pedal loom.

I am fascinated by working with local materials and traditional processes, together with great craftsmen. The Your Skin chair was inspired by sensory memories of aromas and textures during my stay in Japan in 2012. The similarities between [Japanese] tatami and [Mexican] petate mats — both in aroma and a powerful texture that is weaved from natural fiber — fascinated me and inspired me to design the chair that contains a changeable “skin.”

Bigger thinking: The first prototype seat was dyed in red and bright pink and made in hanagoza, the textile the tatamis are made of. Now we make it from all kinds of traditional textiles from Mexico.

Clara easy chair (2014; revised in 2024)

Designed by Ricardo Casas and made from wood, cotton and nylon rope.

The piece is inspired by and, in a certain way, a tribute to the Cuban designer Clara Porset , who collaborated with Luis Barragán, the absolute protagonist of Modernism in Mexico. These projects are a fundamental part of design in our country because they understand both the spaces they occupy and the objects that live in them, and how they relate to light and emotions.

Bigger thinking: Chairs have many challenges. They are an object where our body spends many hours in contact, so it requires a lot of structural, ergonomic development and selection of suitable materials.

‘El Charco’ installation (2023-24)

Commissioned for “Have a Seat” and designed by Daniel Valero (under the brand Mestiz) . Made from tule, threads and wicker.

“El Charco” pays homage to the lush habitats from which its raw materials emerged. These materials are transformed into furniture pieces that embody the flora and fauna of semidesert water bodies, including benches shaped like serpents, lampshades inspired by clouds, and floral sculptures. The most challenging part was crafting a bench that doesn’t just feel like a piece of furniture, but rather like a memorable wild creature.

Bigger thinking: I believe we’re experiencing a unique period in Mexico. The art and design scene is vibrant, flourishing in different regions and serving as an economic driver for rural areas and small cities. This marks a new era for artisanal design and decorative arts in Mexico.