Oaxaca (state) Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Oaxaca, Mexico with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and more in this beautiful state.
- Introduction to Oaxaca (state)
- List of Places to Visit in Oaxaca (state)
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Oaxaca (state)
- Best Things to Do in Oaxaca (state): Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Oaxaca (state)
- Food and Drink Scene of Oaxaca (state)
- Where to Stay in Oaxaca (state): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Oaxaca (state): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Oaxaca (state)
- Best Time to Visit Oaxaca (state)
- Do’s and Don’ts of Oaxaca (state)
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Oaxaca (state): Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Oaxaca (state)
- Where to Go Next from Oaxaca (state): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Oaxaca (state)
Located in the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Oaxaca is a cultural and natural wonderland. The state is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and colorful traditions. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a foodie, Oaxaca has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.
List of Places to Visit in Oaxaca (state)
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Monte Alban
Monte Alban is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside of Oaxaca city. It was once the ancient capital of Zapotec civilization and is known for its impressive pyramids, temples, and ball courts.
Santo Domingo de Guzman Church
This stunning 16th-century church is known for its intricate baroque design and impressive collection of colonial religious art.
Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca
Located in the heart of Oaxaca city, this museum is dedicated to the state’s rich cultural heritage. It features impressive collections of pre-Columbian artifacts, textiles, and folk art.
Natural Attractions of Oaxaca (state): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hierve el Agua
Located in the Sierra Norte Mountains, Hierve el Agua is a series of mineral springs that cascade down a cliff-like formation, forming natural pools. The area also offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Laguna de Manialtepec
For nature lovers, Laguna de Manialtepec is a must-visit destination. This brackish lagoon is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including crocodiles, birds, and bioluminescent plankton that light up the water at night.
Sierra Norte Mountains
The Sierra Norte Mountains offer some of the best hiking and mountain biking trails in Mexico. Visitors can explore lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and remote villages.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Oaxaca (state)
Sierra Norte Circuit
This four-day trek covers 38 miles of pristine mountain scenery, remote villages, and incredible natural wonders. Visitors can explore the Sierra Norte Mountains and stay in local ecotourism cabins along the way.
La Soledad to Juquila
This two-day mountain bike ride covers 65 miles of rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys of Oaxaca.
Best Things to Do in Oaxaca (state): Activities and Tours
Chocolate and Mezcal Tour
This tour takes visitors on a journey through Oaxaca’s rich culinary traditions. You will learn about the origins of chocolate and mezcal while sampling local delicacies.
Artisan Village Tour
Oaxaca has a long history of artisanal crafts, including pottery, weaving, and wood carving. This tour takes visitors to local villages to meet the artists and witness their craft.
Zip-lining
For adventure seekers, zip-lining over the Sierra Norte Mountains is one of the most thrilling and scenic experiences in Oaxaca.
Week-Long Itinerary for Oaxaca (state)
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Oaxaca city and visit Monte Alban |
| 2 | Take a food and drink tour of Oaxaca |
| 3 | Visit the Hierve el Agua and hike in the Sierra Norte Mountains |
| 4 | Bike ride from La Soledad to Juquila |
| 5 | Visit the Laguna de Manialtepec and witness the bioluminescent plankton |
| 6 | Explore the artisan villages of Oaxaca |
| 7 | Zip-lining in the mountains |
Food and Drink Scene of Oaxaca (state)
Must-Try Dishes
Mole
Oaxaca is famous for its seven different types of mole, a complex, rich sauce made from over 20 ingredients, including chili peppers, nuts, and chocolate.
Tlayudas
A tlayuda is a large, crispy tortilla covered with beans, meat, vegetables, and cheese, often referred to as the “Oaxacan pizza.”
Chapulines
A popular snack in Oaxaca, chapulines are toasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime and chili.
Local Beverages
Mezcal
Oaxaca is known for its mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant. There are many small mezcal distilleries throughout the state that offer tastings and tours.
Tejate
Tejate is a traditional Oaxacan drink made from corn, cacao, and mamey seeds. It has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca (state): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Oaxaca offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay in Oaxaca city include the Quinta Real Oaxaca, Casa Oaxaca, and Hotel Casona Oaxaca. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a local guesthouse in one of the remote villages of the Sierra Norte Mountains.
What to Buy in Oaxaca (state): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Textiles
Oaxaca is famous for its colorful textiles, including woven rugs, blankets, and clothing. Visitors can find a range of handmade textiles in local markets and artisan villages.
Alebrijes
Alebrijes are brightly colored, wooden sculptures of mythical creatures and animals. They are a popular souvenir and are often found in local markets.
Mezcal
Bring home a bottle of Oaxacan mezcal to savor the flavors of this delicious spirit long after your trip has ended.
Local Culture and Customs of Oaxaca (state)
Oaxaca has a rich and vibrant culture, with a strong sense of community and tradition. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as the celebration of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), which is a time to honor and remember deceased loved ones.
Best Time to Visit Oaxaca (state)
The best time to visit Oaxaca is between October and December when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. This is also the time of year when many of the state’s festivals and celebrations take place.
Do’s and Don’ts of Oaxaca (state)
Do:
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases before you go
- Try the local cuisine, including mole and mezcal
- Learn about and respect local customs and traditions
Don’t:
- Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites
- Take photos of people without their permission
- Drink tap water
Safety and Health
Safety in Oaxaca (state)
Oaxaca is generally a safe place for travelers. However, visitors should be careful when traveling at night or in remote areas. It is also advisable to keep an eye on your valuables and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Health in Oaxaca (state)
Travelers should take necessary precautions to prevent illnesses such as diarrhea, by drinking bottled water, avoiding street food, and washing hands regularly. Visitors should also make sure they are up to date on routine vaccinations and consider getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B.
Getting to Oaxaca (state): Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Oaxaca (state)
The Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX) is the primary airport serving Oaxaca. Flights from major Mexican cities and the U.S. operate daily.
Bus Stations Near Oaxaca (state)
Oaxaca has several bus stations that connect the state with other parts of Mexico. Some of the main bus stations include ADO, OCC, and Sur.
Other Options
Visitors can also take a private car or taxi to Oaxaca city or hire a driver to explore the state at their leisure.
How to Get Around in Oaxaca (state)
Public transportation in Oaxaca includes buses, taxis, and colectivos (shared vans). Visitors can also rent a car or hire a driver to explore the state.
Where to Go Next from Oaxaca (state): Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Puerto Escondido
Located on the Pacific Coast, Puerto Escondido is a popular beach destination known for its surfing, fishing, and relaxation.
Mexico City
Mexico City is the bustling, vibrant capital of Mexico and is just a short flight or bus ride from Oaxaca.
Puebla
Puebla is a colonial city located east of Mexico City, known for its stunning architecture and rich culinary traditions.
Conclusion
Oaxaca is a truly unique destination that offers something for every type of traveler. From its stunning natural beauty to its vibrant culture and rich history, Oaxaca is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Mexico. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Oaxaca and discover all that this beautiful state has to offer.
