Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca, Mexico is a colorful and vibrant city known for its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and artisanal crafts. Visitors can immerse themselves in traditional Mexican culture by exploring pre-Hispanic ruins, wandering through markets, or even attending a lively street festival.
Trip to Oaxaca, Mexico
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Oaxaca City
Upon arrival at Oaxaca International Airport, travel to your hotel in downtown Oaxaca City. Take your time to unpack and settle in, and then head out to explore the city’s main square, the Zocalo. The square is surrounded by historic buildings like the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, the Government Palace, and the former monastery now Benito Juarez Market. You can stroll down Alcalá Street, one of the most beautiful pedestrian streets in Mexico, for some souvenir shopping or enjoy a traditional Oaxacan dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Day 2: Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree
Today, take a day trip to Hierve el Agua, one of the most unique natural attractions in Mexico. These petrified mineral waterfalls look like they’re about to spill over into the valley below. After taking a dip in the mineral springs, head to Santa Maria del Tule to check out the ancient Tule Tree. This tree is more than 2,000 years old and has a circumference of over 119 feet. In the evening, head back to the city centre to enjoy some local cuisine and live music.
Day 3: Monte Albán and Mezcal Tasting
Spend the morning visiting Monte Albán, the ancient capital of the Zapotec civilization. This UNESCO World Heritage site is perched on a hilltop overlooking the city and offers incredible views. After exploring the ruins, head to one of the many mezcal factories in the area to learn the process of making this famous Mexican spirit. You’ll have the opportunity to taste different varieties and discover how this drink is so deeply woven into Mexican culture.
Day 4: Mitla and Teotitlan del Valle
Today, take a day trip south from Oaxaca to visit two of the most picturesque and historic places in the region: Mitla and Teotitlan del Valle. Mitla is home to the best-preserved Zapotec ruins in Mexico, and the market town of Teotitlan del Valle is famous for its weavers who still produce intricate textiles using traditional methods. You’ll have the opportunity to purchase authentic souvenirs and learn about the region’s history and culture.
Day 5: Puerto Escondido and Beach Day
Head south to the charming surfing town of Puerto Escondido, located on the Pacific Coast of the state of Oaxaca. You can spend the day relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun and cooling off in the pristine waters. If you’re keen, you could take some surfing or stand-up paddleboarding lessons as well.
Day 6: Mitla and San Bartolo Coyotepec
On this final full day in Oaxaca, head back to the town of Mitla to explore more of the ruins and take a guided tour of the surrounding countryside. You’ll also travel to the nearby village of San Bartolo Coyotepec, famous for its black clay pottery. You can visit local workshops and purchase handcrafted ceramics to take home as souvenirs.
Day 7: Departure
Today is your final day in Oaxaca, and you’ll need to travel to Oaxaca International Airport for your return flight home. Take some time to reflect on your trip and all the amazing experiences you had in this unique and culturally rich region of Mexico.