Oaxaca 4 Day Itinerary

Oaxaca Itinerary: 4 Days of Cultural Immersion

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Oaxaca City

Morning

  • Arrive in Oaxaca City and check-in at Hotel Casa Oaxaca, a charming boutique hotel with traditional Mexican architecture.
  • Start your day at the Zócalo, the main square, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops. Visit the nearby Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Mercado de Abastos, a vibrant marketplace offering local handicrafts, textiles, and food. Try some traditional Oaxacan dishes like tlayudas or memelas.
  • Visit the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, which showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Los Danzantes, a popular restaurant serving contemporary Oaxacan cuisine. Try their famous mezcal cocktails!
  • Explore the lively streets of Oaxaca City, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.

Day 2: Monte Albán and Teotitlán del Valle

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Monte Albán, a ancient Zapotec archaeological site with stunning views of the valley. (Approx. 30 minutes from Oaxaca City)
  • Learn about the history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Afternoon

  • Visit Teotitlán del Valle, a picturesque weaving village famous for its traditional Zapotec textiles.
  • Watch artisans at work, learn about the dyeing and weaving process, and shop for unique souvenirs.

Evening

  • Return to Oaxaca City and enjoy dinner at El Jardín de Epicuro, a cozy restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Relax in your hotel’s courtyard or explore the city’s nightlife.

Day 3: Hierve el Agua and Mitla

Morning

  • Take a guided tour to Hierve el Agua, a natural mineral water park with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. (Approx. 1 hour from Oaxaca City)
  • Swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax in the sun, or hike through the scenic trails.

Afternoon

  • Visit Mitla, a charming town famous for its intricate mosaics and traditional crafts.
  • Explore the town’s historic center, visit the Parroquia de San Pedro y San Pablo, and shop for local handicrafts.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Olla, a popular restaurant serving traditional Oaxacan dishes with a modern twist.
  • Return to your hotel and rest before another exciting day.

Day 4: Tule Tree and Departure

Morning

  • Visit the Árbol del Tule, a massive, ancient cypress tree considered one of the oldest and largest in the world. (Approx. 30 minutes from Oaxaca City)
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the tree’s history and significance.

Afternoon

  • Return to Oaxaca City for some last-minute shopping or exploration.
  • Depart for the airport or your next destination, bringing back memories of this incredible journey.

Tips and Essentials

  • Transportation: Taxi, bus, or shuttle services are available from the airport. Consider hiring a private driver or guide for the day.
  • Language: Spanish is the primary language spoken in Oaxaca. Bring a phrasebook or use a translation app to help communicate with locals.
  • Currency: Mexican peso (MXN). Credit cards are widely accepted, but have some cash on hand.
  • Weather: Oaxaca City has a mild climate year-round. Pack comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layers for cooler evenings.
  • Safety: As with any travel destination, be mindful of your belongings and avoid traveling alone at night.

Additional Recommendations

  • Consider adding an extra day to explore the Sierra Norte Mountains, a scenic region with hiking trails, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
  • For a unique experience, book a cooking class or mezcal tasting tour to learn about Oaxacan cuisine and spirits.
  • Don’t miss the vibrant Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations in November, when Oaxaca City comes alive with parades, altars, and festivities.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, nature, and relaxation, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences. ¡Disfruta tu viaje a Oaxaca! (Enjoy your trip to Oaxaca!)