Oaxaca-5-day-itinerary

Oaxaca 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Oaxaca City

  • Morning: Arrive in Oaxaca City and check-in at Hotel Casa Oaxaca or similar.
  • 9:00 am: Visit the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this archaeological site.
  • Lunch: Head to La Olla, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Oaxacan cuisine. Try their famous mole negro (black mole) with chicken or pork.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic center of Oaxaca City, starting from the zócalo (main square). Visit the stunning Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and browse the local markets for handicrafts.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Oaxacan music and dance at a peña cultural (cultural gathering place). Try some mezcal, a traditional spirit made from agave, at La Mezcalería.

Day 2: Tule Tree, Mitla, and Hierve el Agua

  • 8:00 am: Depart for the town of Santa María Tule to visit the massive Árbol del Tule, a 2,000-year-old cypress tree.
  • 11:00 am: Head to Mitla, known for its stunning colonial architecture and intricate mosaics. Visit the Iglesia de San Pedro y San Pablo and explore the town’s quaint streets.
  • Lunch: Savor local flavors at El Fogoncito, a family-run restaurant in Mitla.
  • Afternoon: Visit Hierve el Agua, a natural mineral water spring with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Take a refreshing swim and enjoy the scenery.
  • Evening: Return to Oaxaca City and enjoy dinner at Origen, a contemporary restaurant serving innovative, farm-to-table cuisine.

Day 3: Teotitlán del Valle and Santiago Matatlán

  • 8:00 am: Depart for Teotitlán del Valle, a Zapotec village famous for its traditional weaving. Visit a local textile cooperative to learn about the artisanal process.
  • 12:00 pm: Head to Santiago Matatlán, known for its picturesque countryside and delicious fruit. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, such as La Casa de las Enchiladas.
  • Afternoon: Explore the scenic countryside on horseback or by bike (optional). Visit the ancient ruins of Dainzú and enjoy the stunning views.
  • Evening: Return to Oaxaca City and relax at your hotel or explore the city’s nightlife.

Day 4: Puerto Escondido

  • 8:00 am: Depart for Puerto Escondido, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture (approx. 6-hour drive).
  • 2:00 pm: Check-in at Hotel Rockaway or similar.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the stunning beach of Playa Zicatela, a popular spot for surfers and sunbathers alike.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at La Guelaguetza, a local favorite.

Day 5: Puerto Escondido and Return to Oaxaca City

  • Morning: Take a boat tour to observe dolphins, turtles, or even humpback whales (seasonal) in their natural habitat.
  • Lunch: Savor seafood at La Casa de los Abuelos, a cozy restaurant with ocean views.
  • Afternoon: Return to Oaxaca City (approx. 6-hour drive).
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Los Danzantes, a restaurant serving innovative, contemporary Oaxacan cuisine.

Things to Know

  • Oaxaca is known for its rich indigenous heritage and traditional cuisine.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try to learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals.
  • Oaxaca City has a high altitude ( approx. 5,000 ft); take necessary precautions to avoid altitude sickness.

Transportation

  • Use authorized taxis or shuttle services from the airport to your hotel.
  • Rent a car or hire a private driver for day trips outside of Oaxaca City.
  • Colectivos (shared vans) are an affordable option for shorter distances.

Tips and Other Interests

  • Try some traditional Oaxacan sweets, such as nicuatole (a type of candied fruit).
  • Explore the vibrant arts scene in Oaxaca City, with numerous galleries and street art.
  • Visit the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca to learn more about the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Accommodation Options

  • Hotel Casa Oaxaca (luxury)
  • Hotel La Casona (mid-range)
  • Hostal de la Noria (budget-friendly)

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, showcasing the best of Oaxaca. Enjoy your trip!