A Local’s Guide to Travel in Oaxaca, Mexico
Located in southern Mexico, the state of Oaxaca is characterized by its mountainous landscapes and rich indigenous history dating back thousands of years. The Sierra Madre mountain range claims center stage here, running through the state, also home to green valleys, lush rainforests, and a spectacular coastline along the Pacific Ocean.
Thousands of years of indigenous cultures in this region have resulted in modern-day Oaxaca being a fascinating tapestry of rich cultural traditions, music, arts, and a world-famous culinary scene. The city and surrounding areas offer a cornucopia of flavors, ingredients, and culinary experiences, making it a food lover's paradise.
Despite being one of Mexico's poorest states, it is by far one of its culturally richest. The warmth and hospitality of the people coupled with their enchanting traditions make Oaxaca a fascinating travel experience.
Table of contents
Why visit
Where is Oaxaca
How to get there
Best time to visit
How long to spend
Where to stay - best bases
Transportation and getting around
What to do in Oaxaca
Best places to visit
Average travel costs
Paying for things and using credit cards
Safety
Oaxaca itineraries - from 5 days to 2 weeks
Why visit
The region of Oaxaca is home to fabulous historical sites, excellent hiking opportunities, great beaches, one of Mexico’s prettiest colonial cities, and a fantastic tradition of handicrafts. The indigenous Zapotec people left behind astounding archaeological sites, such as Monte Albán, Mitla and Yagul, all found on the outskirts of Oaxaca City, the regional capital.
Oaxaca de Juarez, or Oaxaca City, is the state's capital and is a must for anyone wanting to discover the true essence of this vibrant region. Well-preserved colonial architecture, lively markets, and regular parades bring city streets alive with music and dance.
Nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the natural beauty found in Oaxaca. The state has endless hikes and walking trails, which are the ideal way to explore the Sierra Madre mountain ranges.
On the Pacific coast, Puerto Escondido and its neighboring coastal towns offer endlessly picturesque beaches with palm trees outnumbering people on many white sand stretches.
Just an hour and a half down the coast from Puerto, the bohemian towns of Mazunte and Zipolite are well-loved among those seeking more of a rustic travel experience.
Huatulco, known for its nine gorgeous bays, is home to incredible diving and snorkeling spots.
Where is Oaxaca
Photo: TUBS, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The State of Oaxaca lies in the far southwest of Mexico, bordered to the east by Chiapas, to the north by Verazruz, the northwest by Puebla, and to the west by Guerrero.
Southern Oaxaca has an extensive coastline along the Pacific Ocean, which is characterized by beautiful beaches.
Away from the coast, much of Oaxaca is quite mountainous, as the Sierra Madre Mountains run through the state. The majority of the population lives in the centrally located Oaxaca Valley, but the resort towns along the coast are other population centers.
Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s largest and most biologically diverse states, and it is home to three national parks.
How to get here
If you're traveling from another country or region, the most convenient way to reach Oaxaca is by air.
The Xoxocotlán International Airport serves the city of Oaxaca and offers domestic flights to and from Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Cancún, and Tijuana. It also connects with international destinations like Houston and Los Angeles.
Puerto Escondido Airport is small but offers regular flights to larger cities like Mexico City, Cancun, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, with domestic airlines Aeromar, Interjet, and Viva Aerobus.
Huatulco Airport, known as Bahias de Huatulco International Airport, offers regular connections to Mexican cities, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, and direct flights to some international destinations.
Mexico has a well-connected bus network throughout the country, so arriving by bus to Oaxaca is also an excellent option. Long-distance buses are comfortable, and the major bus companies, such as ADO and OCC, have air conditioning, reclining seats, and onboard restrooms.
Book tickets in advance during peak travel periods, either online through the bus company's website or at the bus station directly.
Best time to visit
While this is a bit of a cliché, it really is true that the best time to travel to Oaxaca depends entirely on your travel style and interests. The weather in the region is generally pleasant year-round, so it’s not as if there is ever a bad time of year to be here.
Oaxaca has distinct dry and wet seasons, so being prepared for that and knowing what they entail will be very important as you plan your trip.
The dry season usually lasts from October through April, while the wet season roughly begins in May and ends in September.
Visiting in the rainy season
Personally, I love Oaxaca in the rainy season.
There are fewer tourists, normally dusty landscapes become lush, and the ocean offers some of its best surf conditions. It’s true that July and August can be oppressively hot, but either side of these months, I believe, is the ideal time to travel through Oaxaca.
The wet season brings frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures to some parts of the state. Expect rain showers varying in intensity, from drizzles to heavy downpours and occasionally thunderstorms. Big waves and rough seas are more common in these rainy summer months.
The rainy season period from May through September offers more affordable accommodation and greater availability for everything from hotels, tours, and car rentals.
Visiting in the dry season
Despite my personal preference, the dry season is generally more popular with tourists, and most people travel to Oaxaca between November and March. This means that popular destinations can get guide crowded during these periods.
The weather is generally excellent during this time of year, with many sunny, dry days, and if you spend time on the coast, you'll find the sea calmer and easier to swim during these months.
Of course, lots of sun and very little rain leads to arid landscapes, so for me, I don’t find Oaxaca’s natural areas to be at their most beautiful during the dry season.
Visiting during the festivals
Festivities are endless in Oaxaca, and it is worth planning your trip around one of Oaxaca de Juarez's colorful festivals. In July, the Guelaguetza festival celebrates elaborate dance performances by folkloric groups from different regions of Oaxaca, while October sees thousands of visitors come for Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead celebrations.
This hugely popular festival has attracted worldwide attention in recent years and is undoubtedly the most popular time of the year to visit the city. Accommodations at this time book out months before the celebrations; plan well ahead if you intend to go.
Connect with a Mexico travel expert for help perfecting your itinerary, answers to all your travel questions, and fabulous local tips for a better visit!
How long to spend
5 to 7 days - at a minimum
To truly experience Oaxaca's abundant beauty and cultural richness, I recommend spending a minimum of five to seven days in the region. With this time, you can start off by spending a few days in Oaxaca de Juarez, exploring its historic center and sampling culinary delights. After familiarizing yourself with the city, you can take day trips to nearby attractions such as Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, or the Tule Tree.
You should also certainly allocate a few days to exploring Oaxaca's coastline. Favored by surfers, yogis, and, more recently, digital nomads, the beaches in this region, including the main hubs of Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, are spectacular and ideal for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, diving, and snorkeling.
With many organizations dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife along the coast, this is also an excellent place to engage with conservation programs and learn more about Oaxaca's diverse ecosystems.
10 to 14 days is ideal
Extending your visit to 10 days or two weeks would allow you to do everything mentioned above, and to travel at a more comfortable, leisurely place, while also adding in a trip to explore magical mountain towns like San José del Pacífico. At an altitude of around 2,400 meters, it is known for its stunning cloud forests, picturesque mountain view, and near-silent atmosphere.
The town is particularly famous for its vibrant mushroom culture, with varieties like psilocybin mushrooms traditionally used in spiritual and healing ceremonies by the indigenous Mazatec people.
Where to stay in Oaxaca - best bases
A charming pedestrian-only street in Oaxaca City
When visiting Oaxaca, there are a few logical places to choose as your base, depending on your interests and preferences. I’ve listed my favorite places to use as bases below.
Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City is a popular base for experiencing the city's color and vibrancy and is a well-connected hub for exploring the surrounding areas. From here, you can easily visit Monte Albán and Mitla, the stunning Hierve el Agua or the Tule Tree.
Puerto Escondido
Popular with surfers, beach-lovers and backpackers, Puerto Escondido makes for a fantastic base if you're looking for surf breaks, relaxation, and a little bit of party. The town has beautiful beaches and it is easy to travel up or down the coast from here.
Huatulco
Huatulco is another base worth considering. The area offers a more resort-style experience, with various upscale hotels, golf courses, and marinas. Huatulco attracts tourists seeking a more luxurious and relaxing beach vacation and offers exceptional dive and swimming spots.
One of Huatulco’s many gorgeous beaches
Puerto Escondido’s main beach. Photo: abimael_de_zoritana, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Transportation and how to get around
Photo: Retinaboy, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Renting a car and driving
If you're comfortable driving in unfamiliar environments and want the freedom to explore remote areas, renting a car can be a good option.
Renting a car in Oaxaca is relatively easy. Popular car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Europcar have offices at airports in Oaxaca City, Huatulco, and Puerto Escondido.
It's a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons and weekends. On average, you can pay around MXN 500 to MXN 900 per day for a compact car and up to MXN 1500 for an SUV-sized vehicle.
Driving in Mexico is best done during the day and throughout the rainy season, it is necessary to check weather conditions and road reports before setting off.
Heavy rains can sometimes cause road closures or wash them away altogether. Some roads in rural areas are not maintained, so planning your journey before you travel is essential.
Google Maps will take you the fastest way, which isn't always the best way - it isn't uncommon to encounter unpassable roads. Check with a local before traveling to ensure you take the best route.
Traveling by air
Flights from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco are popular with those who can't stomach long bus rides on winding roads through mountainous terrain.
Some major airlines offer several flights daily between Oaxaca City and Huatulco. AeroToucan offers one flight a day between the city and Puerto Escondido.
Flights can be quite inexpensive, especially if booked in advance.
Getting around by bus
Oaxaca has a good public transport system, with buses being the most common mode connecting the region's cities, towns, and villages though it may have limitations if you want to reach rural areas, deserted beaches and some natural attractions.
The exact fares may vary depending on the distance traveled, but buses and colectivos usually have fixed fares based on zones or specific routes.
Ticket prices for buses within a city or between nearby towns can range from a few pesos to around MXN 200. Long-distance buses have higher fares but are still cheaper than private transportation.
There are two main types of buses: urban buses and colectivos.
Urban buses are larger vehicles that follow fixed routes within the state, whereas colectivos are cars, open-back vans, or minibuses that operate within populated areas and tend to offer more flexibility in their routes.
ADO and OCC are the most reliable bus companies for long-distance journeys.
There are three main bus terminals in Oaxaca: Oaxaca City, Huatulco, and Puerto Escondido.
Oaxaca City's main bus terminal is at the Central de Autobuses de Oaxaca, with buses going to Mexico City, Puebla, Veracruz and Chiapas, and other cities within the state of Oaxaca like Puerto Escondido and Huatulco.
Huatulco’s main bus terminal, the Central de Autobuses de Huatulco, operates as a busy transport hub in Oaxaca, connecting cities within the state and beyond.
The station operates several platforms and serves routes to Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido, Zipolite, and other popular tourist destinations along the Oaxacan coast. Buses to Puebla and Mexico City can also be found here.
Puerto Escondido’s main bus terminal is in the town centre and easy to locate. It may be a little smaller than the other main terminals but you’ll find many different routes available here.
Buses regularly run to other states within Mexico and popular destinations within Oaxaca.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available throughout Oaxaca. You can hail taxis on the street or have your accommodation call one for you. Look for taxis with official markings and license plates and ensure they have a working meter, or try to agree on a price before traveling.
What to do in Oaxaca
While the list of things to do here in Oaxaca is endless, these are some options that I highly recommend:
Visit ancient Zapotec sites
Archeological sites like Monte Albán, Mitla and Yagul, all located outside Oaxaca city, offer fascinating insight into the ancient Zapotec civilization.
Sample the local cuisine (and booze!)
Sample the astounding cuisine of Oaxaca, known as Mexico’s food capital. Be sure to try tacos from street-food vendors, traditional dishes in family-run comidas, or sensational fusion gastronomy offered at Oaxaca City’s Michelin-starred restaurants.
Join a cooking class or mezcal tour to learn more about Oaxaca’s time-honored dishes and the state’s famed traditional alcoholic beverage crafted from agave.
Learn about traditional arts & crafts
Learn about the traditional weaving practices of artisan families. Teotitlán del Valle is home to numerous artisan families producing in-demand textiles. Many of these families will open their homes or studios, allowing you to learn more about these centuries-old practices.
Explore Oaxaca City’s vibrant art scene, from the traditional practices of artisan families to the engaging contemporary art produced by the city’s numerous modern-day artists.
Hit the beach and go surfing
Surfing in Puerto Escondido. If you’re an experienced surfer looking for challenging waves, head to Playa Zicatela. If you’re keen to learn the craft, connect with one of many surf schools that will take you to beginner-friendly waves like those at La Punta or Playa Carrizalillo.
Get your yoga on
Practice yoga in Puerto Escondido. Several years ago, yoga options were few in Puerto. Now, a multitude of schools and venues offer various styles and levels.
You can also find teachers here running teacher yoga training sessions, and there are numerous retreats to choose from if you’re seeking a more serious immersion in the practice.
Visit the sea turtles
While in Puerto, I certainly recommend taking part in Sea Turtle conservation. During the nesting season, typically from June to December, you can participate in turtle release programs where you release baby turtles into the sea for the very first time.
Another astounding sight I consider to be unmissable while in Puerto is when female turtles come ashore to lay their eggs in the sand. This is one of the greatest ways to spend an early morning in Puerto.
Go whale watching
Another incredible experience to be had in Puerto is whale watching. Between December and April, you can take a boat ride at sunset to witness the migration of humpback whales.
With magnificent whales breaching just meters from the boats, I consider it one of the most remarkable things you can do in Oaxaca. Aside from whales, you may also see dolphins, sea turtles, and various bird species.
Snorkeling and diving
Try snorkeling or diving in Huatulco, renowned for its vibrant marine life, coral reefs, and exciting shipwrecks. Dive companies here offer snorkeling and diving excursions and courses ranging from introductory dives to full Open Water Diver certifications.
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Best places to visit in Oaxaca
Oaxaca has quite a lot of neat places to check out, and no single list can reasonably include everything, so I’ve put together what I consider to be a good mix of “must-sees” and wonderful off-the-beaten-path places.
1. Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City)
Oaxaca City is an unmissable destination. In the Historic Center of the city, you'll find beautiful churches and lively plazas like the Zocalo, where you can soak in the always festive atmosphere.
Visit bustling markets like Mercado Benito Juarez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre to experience the colors, aromas, and flavors of Oaxacan ingredients, handcrafts, and traditional textiles.
Oaxaca's traditional dishes are extraordinary. Try mole, tlayudas (a type of Mexican pizza), or mezcal, a popular alcoholic beverage made from agave. There are endless opportunities to discover Oaxaca's rich culinary offerings, from Michelin-star dining establishments to humble, family-run comidas and street-food vendors.
Famed for its skilled artisans, the city also has a thriving community of painters, sculptors, photographers, and mixed media artists. Explore the galleries and workshops to see impressive contemporary artwork, traditional crafts, and folk art, such as pottery, textiles, and alebrijes (colorful wooden sculptures).
2. Monte Albán
This UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular tourist attraction is a must-visit destination for archaeology lovers keen to learn about the ancient Zapotec civilization that thrived in the region over 2000 years ago.
The site sits on a mountain ridge with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. impressive stone structures - temples, tombs, palaces, and observatories display intricate carvings showcasing the Zapotec people's advanced architectural and artistic skills.
To avoid large crowds, visit earlier in the day and come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and plenty of water, as the site requires some walking and can get quite hot.
To fully appreciate the significance of Monte Albán, it is smart to go with a knowledgeable guide who can provide historical and cultural insights and help bring the ancient city to life.
3. Hierve el Agua
Hierve el Agua translates to "the water boils," referring to the bubbling mineral-rich springs that create these unique rock formations. These natural infinity pools are believed to have healing properties and are often used for therapeutic purposes.
Aside from the pools, the area is surrounded by rugged mountains and valleys and the contrasting white and orange mineral deposits on the rock make for an incredible sight, especially during sunrise and sunset.
4. Puerto Escondido
This beachside town has experienced massive growth in the past several years and faces the challenges of gentrification. Accommodations are less affordable than they used to be and the town's infrastructure is struggling under the weight of burgening mass tourism in the area.
That said, Puerto Escondido is truly spectacular. Its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches like Carrizalillo, Playa Coral and La Punta, make it a place many never want to leave.
Zicatela Beach is famous among surfers due to its enormous waves, with some reaching heights of up to 20 feet. Surfing Zicatela is more suited to experienced surfers, but if you're a beginner keen to learn, you'll find many surf schools in the area that can take you to beginner-friendly breaks.
Apart from surfing, Puerto Escondido has endless outdoor activities. You can catch a small boat at sunrise to watch whales and dolphins, witness the bioluminescence phenomenon at night in the Manialtepec Lagoon, or dive in some of the region's stunning underwater spots.
5. Mitla
Photo: Arian Zwegers from Brussels, Belgium, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Another important archaeological site is Mitla, just over one hour outside of Oaxaca City. This pre-Columbian Zapotec ruin offers a glimpse into the ancient Mesoamerican culture with intricate stone mosaics and carvings, showcasing the mastery of Zapotec craftsmanship.
Visitors can explore the various platforms, courtyards, and tombs associated with the rituals and customs of the Zapotec people. Mitla also offers a beautiful and serene setting.
Its landscaped gardens and cacti-filled courtyards make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts alike.
6. Tule Tree
Photo: Wicki, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Located in the town of Santa María del Tule, just 9km outside of Oaxaca City, the Tule Tree is a must-visit for any nature lover. This colossal Montezuma cypress is estimated to be over 2,000 years old, making it one of the world's oldest and largest living trees.
Standing at an impressive height of 40 meters and boasting a circumference of more than 58 meters, it is a true natural wonder.
Visitors can appreciate its unique beauty and incredible age while learning about the tree's cultural importance to the Zapotec people. It's a short drive or bus ride away, making it a popular day trip for visitors to Oaxaca City.
7. San José del Pacífico
Photo: Angelobcn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Nestled amidst the Sierra Madre Mountains at around 2,400 meters, San José del Pacífico is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity. The cooler climate adds to its appeal, making it a popular destination for people looking to escape the sometimes extreme Oaxacan heat.
This picturesque town is lush with dense forests and offers stunning mountain views and astounding sunsets. The scenic trails here are perfect for hikers, and mountain cabins warmed by fireplaces are the ideal way to end long days of exploring.
San José del Pacífico has gained a reputation amongst those seeking profound spiritual experiences with medicinal mushrooms easily accessible here. Indigenous healers carry on the ancestral tradition of famous shamans such as Maria Sabina and guide visitors through sacred rituals involving psilocybin mushrooms.
8. Teotitlán del Valle
Photo: Axel Alvarado Chávez, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Famous for its weaving traditions and intricate textiles, the village of Teotitlán del Valle has a history that dates back centuries. Initially founded by the Zapotecs, its name translates to "land of the gods" in the local language.
Weavers in Teotitlán del Valle use traditional methods and natural dyes from local plants and insects to create vibrant patterns and designs. Many households have their own looms, which have been passed down through generations, allowing families to continue the art of weaving.
Visitors to Teotitlán del Valle can witness the remarkable weaving process firsthand and purchase one-of-a-kind textiles directly from the artisans. Weaving plays a significant role in preserving and celebrating the indigenous identity and heritage of the region and is one of the most iconic and cherished aspects of the local culture.
9. Chacahua
Photo: Comisión Mexicana de Filmaciones from México D. F., México, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Until a few years ago, Chacahua was a hidden paradise with pristine beaches and near-perfect waves attracting surfers and backpackers looking for a more rustic travel experience. Today, Chacahua retains its rustic appeal but is quickly increasing in popularity.
The greatest drawcard here is Playa La Bocana, known for its large waves, making it a popular destination for surfers. This protected area is also home to thick mangroves, diverse bird species, and complex ecosystems, with boat tours available to explore the lagoon and discover more about this lush region.
Chacahua is relatively remote and less developed than other tourist hubs. This adds to its charm and provides a more authentic experience; however, facilities and infrastructure are limited.
Come prepared with whatever you need while there - think sunscreen, toiletries and first-aid products. While there are restaurants to eat at, options are limited - take some snacks with you, especially if you have strict dietary requirements.
10. Huatulco
Another stunning town on the Pacific Ocean, Huatulco, is known for its nine picturesque bays. From the calm waters of Tangolunda Bay to the secluded beaches of Conejos Bay, there's something for every beach lover. Swim, snorkel, dive or even take a boat tour to explore the nearby coves and coral reefs.
The region is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains, offering hiking and mountain biking opportunities. You can visit the stunning waterfalls of Llano Grande or go birdwatching in the area's abundant bird sanctuaries.
If you're a history lover, Huatulco is close to the ancient Zapotec ruins of Copalita. This archaeological site features temples, plazas, and a museum where you can learn about the pre-Hispanic civilisations that once thrived in the region.
Average travel costs
Hotels
Hotel prices in Oaxaca vary depending on the location, standard, and season. On average, you can find budget accommodation in hostels starting from around MXN 500 - 900 per night.
Mid-range hotels range from MXN 800-2000 per night, while luxury or boutique hotels can cost MXN 3000 or more per night.
Meals
In local comidas and street food stalls, you can find meals for around MXN 80 - 200. In mid-range restaurants, you'll pay MXN 180 - 350 per person, while high-end dining experiences can cost MXN 600 or more.
Alcohol
Alcohol in Oaxaca can vary in price depending on the location. A local beer in a restaurant or bar may cost around MXN 40 - 70, while cocktails or specialty drinks can range from MXN 100 250.
Taxis
Within the city or busy areas, a typical taxi ride for a short distance may cost around MXN 50 100. Longer taxi rides will depend on the distance traveled and can vary accordingly. It's best to agree on a price before you begin your trip.
Public transport
Public transportation in Oaxaca, such as buses, can cost around MXN 20 - 50 for a one-way ticket. Buses are available at varying prices for travel between cities depending on the destination and class of service.
Entrance tickets
The entrance fees for galleries, archeological sites, and museums range from MXN 90 - 250.
Guided tours
The cost of guided tours in Oaxaca can vary depending on the duration, group size, and nature of the tour. Private guided tours range from MXN 500 - 2500 or more per person, while group tours are often more affordable, starting from around MXN 300 - 500 per person.
Paying for things and using credit cards
Using credit cards
Travelers can generally pay with credit and debit cards at many places, such as hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and larger stores. However, not all businesses, especially smaller tiendas or market vendors, accept cards. It's always a good idea to carry pesos with you.
Bank machines are widely available throughout Oaxaca and are usually found at banks, shopping centers, supermarkets, or major tourist areas. Machines that belong to recognized banks tend to be more secure.
Tipping
Tipping is customary in Oaxaca. It's common to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill at restaurants. Some may include a service charge, especially for larger groups, so check the bill before deciding on the tip amount.
If you're paying with a credit card, you can usually add the tip to the bill, however, leaving a cash tip is also acceptable.
When ordering drinks at bars, you can leave a small tip of around MXN 10-15 per drink or around 10% of the total bill if you have a tab. You can often give a tip in cash to the bartender directly.
Tipping taxi drivers in Oaxaca is not mandatory, but it's common to round up the fare or add a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.
Hotel staff who provide extra services, such as porters who help with luggage, should receive a tip of MXN 10-20 per bag, while leaving MXN 20-50 daily for housekeeping is common.
If you go on guided tours, it's customary to tip the guide at the end to show appreciation for their services. The amount can vary depending on the length and quality of the tour, but a general guideline is around 10-20% of the tour cost.
Safety
While Oaxaca is generally a safe destination for tourists, it is always smart to take precautions. As in any foreign or unfamiliar place, it's a good idea to remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Exercise caution when walking at night, and stick to well-lit, populated streets. If you're out late, consider using taxis.
When in Mexico, it's best to avoid drinking tap water. While the tap water in some areas may be treated, it's still safer to drink bottled water or water that has been adequately filtered or treated.
Street food is customary in Mexico and where you will have some of your most extraordinary meals. However, opt for vendors preparing on clean surfaces and those stalls with a high turnover of customers.
The rainy season down by the coast tends to bring mosquitos with various diseases. Dengue fever, Zika virus, and Chikungunya are common at this time of year and can cause symptoms such as fever, rash, joint pain, and, in some cases, more severe complications.
It is important to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, and stay in places with screens or air conditioning.
Torrential rain, earthquakes, and the occasional hurricane are expected in Oaxaca. While natural emergencies are rare, you should be aware of safety procedures and exit plans at your accommodations.
Oaxaca itineraries - from 5 to 14 days
5 day itinerary - Oaxaca de Juarez
Day 1 - Historic center, Zocolo, Mercado Benito Juarez
Day 2 - Monte Albán and Mitla archeological sites
Day 3 - Hierve el Agua followed by Mezcal Tasting
Day 4 – Ethnobotanical Gardens and Teotitlán del Valle
Day 5 - Sierra Norte mountains for hiking, birdwatching, or visiting local waterfalls.
7 day itinerary - Oaxaca de Juarez and Puerto Escondido
Day 1 - Oaxaca de Juarez historic centre, zocalo and Mercados
Day 2- Monte Albán and the Tule Tree
Day 3 - Mitla and Hierve el Agua
Day 4 - Puerto Escondido
Day 5 - Mazunte, San Agustanillo, Zipolite
Day 6 - Sierra Madre Moutain range for hiking, zip-lining or river rafting
Day 7 - Huatulco
10-day itinerary - Huatulco, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca de Juarez
Day 1 - Huatulco
Day 2 - Huatulco National Park
Day 3 - 5 - Puerto Escondido
Day 6 - Mazunte and Zipolite
Day 7 - Oaxaca City
Day 8 - Santa María del Tule and the Mezcal Route
Day 9 - Hierve el Agua
Day 10 - Monte Alpan and Mitla
2-week itinerary - Oaxaca de Juarez, Sierra Norte, San Jose del Pacifico, Puerto Escondido, Huatulco
Days 1 - 4 - Oaxaca City (Visit the Zocolo, markets, art galleries, historic center inc. Santa Domingo Church or take a cooking class or mezcal tasting)
Days 5 - 6 San Jose del Pacifico
Days 7 - 9 Puerto Escondido
Days 10 - 12 Sierra Norte (Hiking or horseback riding)
Days 13 - 14 Huatulco
Suzanne Barbezat
Mexico Expert based in Oaxaca City
Hi there! 👋
Hi, I'm Suzanne, and I've been a tour guide and travel consultant here in Mexico for the last 22 years. If you're looking for some local advice on your trip, I'd love to help!
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