Oaxaca

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Oaxaca

Oaxaca, a southern Mexican state known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking natural beauty. As a traveller, you’re in for a treat! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best places to visit, activities to enjoy, where to eat and stay, things to know before you go, transportation options, and valuable tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Places to Visit

Oaxaca City

  • Zócalo: The heart of Oaxaca City, surrounded by colonial buildings, restaurants, and shops.
  • Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption: A stunning example of Baroque architecture.
  • Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca: Learn about the state’s diverse indigenous cultures.

Tlacolula Valley

  • Tlacolula Market: Every Sunday, experience the vibrant market filled with colorful textiles, pottery, and local delicacies.
  • Teotitlán del Valle: Visit this traditional Zapotec village famous for its weaving traditions.

Pacific Coast

  • Puerto Escondido: A lively beach town popular for surfing, seafood, and nightlife.
  • Huatulco Bays: A collection of nine bays with pristine beaches, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Mazunte: A picturesque coastal town known for its turtle releases, beautiful beaches, and laid-back atmosphere.

Sierra Norte Mountains

  • Teposcolula: Explore this charming town’s historic center, hot springs, and stunning mountain views.
  • Ixtlán de Juárez: Hike to the top of Cerro de la Virgen for breathtaking vistas.

Activities

Outdoor Adventures

  • Hiking: Explore Oaxaca’s rugged mountains, valleys, and coastlines on foot.
  • Surfing: Ride the waves in Puerto Escondido, one of Mexico’s top surf spots.
  • Whale Watching: Take a guided tour to spot humpback whales (seasonal).

Cultural Experiences

  • Cooking Classes: Learn traditional Oaxacan recipes and cooking techniques.
  • Weaving Workshops: Discover the art of Zapotec weaving in Teotitlán del Valle.
  • Temazcal Ceremonies: Participate in a traditional indigenous purification ritual.

Foodie Fun

  • Food Tours: Sample Oaxaca’s rich culinary heritage on a guided tour.
  • Mezcal Tastings: Learn about the production and flavors of this popular spirit.
  • Market Visits: Explore Oaxaca City’s Mercado de Abastos or Tlacolula Market for local specialties.

Where to Eat

Oaxaca City

  • Casa Oaxaca: Savor traditional dishes in a beautifully restored colonial house.
  • El Jardín de Epicuro: Enjoy gourmet Oaxacan cuisine in a lush garden setting.

Tlacolula Valley

  • Comedor Mary: Feast on homemade moles and local specialties at this family-run eatery.
  • La Casa de Toño: Treat yourself to traditional Zapotec dishes in Teotitlán del Valle.

Pacific Coast

  • El Fénix: Savor fresh seafood and stunning ocean views in Puerto Escondido.
  • Café del Mar: Relax with a coffee or meal overlooking the picturesque Mazunte bay.

Where to Stay

Oaxaca City

  • Hotel Casa Conzatti: Luxuriate in this beautifully restored colonial mansion.
  • Hostal La Casona: Enjoy affordable, comfortable rooms in a historic building.

Tlacolula Valley

  • Hacienda La Noria: Unwind at this charming rural retreat with stunning valley views.
  • Casa Teotitlán: Experience traditional Zapotec hospitality in this family-run B&B.

Pacific Coast

  • Hotel Punta Conejo: Relax in stylish rooms overlooking the ocean in Puerto Escondido.
  • Cabañas Mazunte: Enjoy eco-friendly cabins surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning bay views.

Things to Know

Safety

  • Be mindful of petty theft and take necessary precautions.
  • Avoid traveling at night, especially on rural roads.

Language

  • While many Oaxacans speak some English, learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Consider hiring a local guide or taking a guided tour for deeper cultural insights.

Climate

  • Oaxaca City: Mild winters (December to February), hot summers (June to August).
  • Pacific Coast: Warm year-round, with occasional tropical storms (May to October).

Transportation

Air Travel

  • Fly into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) from Mexico City or other major hubs.

Bus Travel

  • Arista: A comfortable, affordable bus service connecting Oaxaca City to surrounding towns and cities.
  • Primera Plus: A reliable, higher-end option for longer routes, including the Pacific Coast.

Taxi and Colectivo Services

  • Taxis: Hail a taxi on the street or book in advance through services like TaxiOax.
  • Colectivos: Shared vans (called “colectivos”) operate on fixed routes, offering an affordable way to explore Oaxaca City.

Rental Cars and Motorcycles

  • Rent a car or motorcycle from reputable companies like ** Europcar** or Motorent for greater flexibility.

Tips

Respect Local Culture

  • Remove your shoes when entering homes or traditional spaces.
  • Avoid taking photos of people, especially in indigenous communities, without permission.

Try New Things

  • Be adventurous and try local specialties, including exotic fruits, insects, and mezcal.
  • Attend a traditional temazcal ceremony or participate in a cooking class.

Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected

  • Drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration in Oaxaca’s hot climate.
  • Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Learn About Local History and Traditions

  • Visit museums and historical sites to gain a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Attend a traditional Guelaguetza celebration (July 16th) or Day of the Dead festivities (November 1st-2nd).

Additional Resources

Official Tourism Websites

Travel Guides and Blogs

  • Lonely Planet: Oaxaca guidebook and online resources
  • The Yucatan Times: Articles on Oaxacan culture, history, and travel tips

Language Learning Resources

  • Duolingo: A popular language learning app with a Spanish course
  • SpanishDict: Online dictionary, grammar guides, and verb conjugations