13 superior issues to do in Oaxaca that helps the native communities

On the lookout for the perfect issues to do in Oaxaca? I go to 3 times a 12 months and this checklist is based on my native contacts. I really like visiting Oaxaca and thru the years, I’ve collected probably the most distinctive issues to do.

Hello Trisha! I adopted your Instagram tales in Oaxaca. I liked it and also you made me need to go! I’m planning my journey now however someway didn’t see any issues to do in Oaxaca article in your weblog? I’m a solo traveler so I’d additionally love so that you can join me with individuals to fulfill. I learn in your different publish you could introduce me to your native mates. That will be very a lot appreciated! Thanks for all of the work that you just do. Your articles about Mexico have served as my information. They’re so full so thanks once more on your service!

Hazel Hayman, Tulsa, OK

Expensive Hazel,

Thanks a lot for being right here! Oaxaca is one among my favourite locations in Mexico. I certainly spend day of the useless right here on a regular basis and go to it with Puerto Escondido through the summer season.

I really like this a lot and I nonetheless haven’t found out if I need to transfer right here! My canine love the seashore so residing in Cabo fits us higher in the intervening time. If you happen to ever come to Baja California, be happy to ship me a message and I’ll present you round!

Anyway, listed here are the perfect native issues to do in Oaxaca. I replace this recurrently so make certain to put it aside on your journey. Good luck! I’m in Oaxaca each October for day of the useless. Be a part of my journey for those who like!

Xx,
Trisha

1. Discover the Ethnobotanical Backyard: some of the distinctive issues to do in Oaxaca

The Ethnobotanical Backyard showcases an astounding assortment of meticulously preserved and maintained vegetation native to the area. It gives a singular peek into native ecology.

The backyard is not only about flora; it’s a residing tapestry of the area’s ethnobotanical historical past, revealing the intimate relationships between individuals and vegetation.

You’ll be able to solely go to the Ethnobotanical Backyard by a guided tour, and reservations usually are not required. Nonetheless, you have to be in line as early as 7:00 AM to get a slot.

Beneath is the schedule for the Ethnobotanical Backyard excursions in every language:

• Tuesday – Saturday: Spanish (10 AM, 11 AM, and 12 PM)
• Tuesdays and Thursdays: English (11 AM)
• Saturdays: French (11 AM)

If you’re in a rush or your schedule doesn’t work with the English excursions, you’ll be able to fall in line within the different languages. You’ll be able to simply learn their English journey guides, which can be found within the backyard.

1 hour is sufficient to go to Oaxaca’s Ethnobotanical Backyard. You may also mix this with the Templo Santo Domingo as they’re in the identical compound.

One of the best time to go to the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Backyard is within the morning for nice climate and comfortable lighting for pictures. Put on comfy footwear and a hat – it’s not a shaded place!

Taking pictures is allowed, however you have to have a particular allow to make use of tripods, drones, or skilled pictures.

Get pleasure from your go to, and don’t neglect to soak up the breathtaking views of the Santo Domingo advanced from the backyard grounds!

How one can get to Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Backyard

• By Foot: Only a quick stroll from the Zócalo alongside Calle Macedonio Alcalá. The backyard’s entrance is thru the Cultural Heart at Templo de Santo Domingo.
• By Taxi: Prices round 50–100 MXN (€2 – €5) from most areas in Oaxaca Metropolis.
• By Public Transport: Use native buses that cease close to Santo Domingo or the Zócalo, then stroll to the doorway.

👉🏼 See additionally: Concern or reality: Is Oaxaca protected or a no-go zone for vacationers?

2. Go to the majestic Templo Santo Domingo

After visiting the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Backyard, you’ll be able to hop subsequent door to the Templo Santo Domingo.

The Santo Domingo Church in Oaxaca Metropolis is an architectural masterpiece proper within the coronary heart of centro. Its gorgeous façade and ornate inside, adorned with gilded sculptures and vivid frescoes, are a sight to behold.

Outdoors the Templo Santo Domingo, you’ll be able to admire the baroque façade adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing the artistry of Sixteenth-century Spanish colonial structure.

There’s additionally a courtyard bustling with native occasions and open-air markets. The courtyard has agave vegetation, good for a photograph backdrop!

Inside, you have to see the ceiling of the Santo Domingo Church, a masterpiece of gilded stucco work, depicting non secular figures and scenes.

There’s additionally a small chapel known as Capilla del Rosario, a chapel stuffed with intricate decorations and religious significance.

Lastly, you’ll be able to go to the Museum of Cultures, the previous monastery hooked up to the church, this museum homes a powerful assortment of pre-Hispanic artifacts, colonial artwork, and ethnographic reveals.

Right here, you will notice the treasures from Tomb 7 of Monte Albán, a Zapotec archaeological web site. The doorway price is about 85 pesos (€4).

The church is central to many Oaxacan festivals, together with Guelaguetza (July) and Day of the Useless (November). Test native calendars for processions or particular lots.

How one can get to Templo Santo Domingo

• By Foot: Situated within the coronary heart of Oaxaca Metropolis, it’s a simple stroll from the Zócalo (metropolis sq.), about 10–quarter-hour alongside Calle Macedonio Alcalá, a pedestrian road lined with outlets and galleries.
• By Taxi: If you happen to’re staying additional out, a taxi journey from most areas in Oaxaca Metropolis prices round 50–100 MXN.
• By Public Transport: Native buses cease close to the Zócalo; from there, it’s a brief stroll.

💫 Tip: You’ll be able to go to Templo Santo Domingo by yourself however if you’d like a information who will clarify historical past, you’ll be able to be a part of a strolling tour.

3. Stroll down Andador Turístico, Oaxaca’s iconic walkway

Andador Turistico is Oaxaca’s pedestrian-friendly promenade. Lined with colourful colonial buildings, it’s a bustling hub of eating places, cafes, and artisan outlets promoting conventional crafts.

Right here, one can find native road distributors or upscale eateries or attempt a standard Mezcal at one of many many bars.

You may also see impromptu road performances or peruse the bustling markets for indigenous textiles and ceramics.

Some souvenirs to look out for embody:

• Textiles: Handwoven rugs, shawls, and embroidered clothes.
• Alebrijes: Vibrantly painted picket figures.
• Mezcal: Purchase instantly from native producers for genuine flavors.

The Andador is central to many Oaxacan festivals, together with the Guelaguetza, Day of the Useless, and Evening of the Radishes. The road is stuffed with parades, altars, and decorations throughout these occasions.

Look out for pop-up weekly artwork markets that includes native artists and craftspeople showcasing Oaxacan artwork.

Andador Turistico is without doubt one of the scenic walks and a should when visiting Oaxaca! That is the right spot for capturing Oaxaca’s vibrant colours, particularly at sundown.

Evenings are particularly vigorous, with road performers and a festive ambiance. Mornings are quieter and superb for exploring galleries and outlets.

Put on comfy footwear, because the cobblestone streets will be uneven. Many smaller outlets and distributors don’t settle for bank cards, so carry money.

💫 Tip: If you’re right here within the night, you’ll be able to have mezcal cocktails at Los Amantes Mezcaleria.

4. Have a good time Day of the Useless in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is without doubt one of the most magical locations to expertise the Day of the Useless (Día de los Muertos).

Celebrated from October 31 to November 2, this deeply rooted custom honors deceased family members with colourful altars, vigorous parades, and vibrant cultural shows.

Households create elaborate altars at residence, cemeteries, and public areas, adorned with marigolds (cempasúchil), a symbolic flowers that information spirits, pictures, and mementos honoring family members who’ve handed, and meals and drinks like Pan de muerto (candy bread), mole, and mezcal.

Head to cemeteries in Xoxocotlán or Atzompa to witness households adorning graves with candles, marigolds, and choices. Some cemeteries are somber, whereas others have a festive ambiance with music and meals.

You may also be a part of or watch costumed parades that weave by the town streets. Notable comparsas embody those in Jalatlaco and Xochimilco neighborhoods.

Count on vigorous music, Catrina face-painting, and conventional dancing!

Yearly, I host a bunch of 16 vacationers on my Oaxaca Day of the Useless tour. If you happen to acquired this info from this weblog, use the code PSIMONMYWAY100 to get a €100 low cost!

5. Get a 6-course meal at Criollo

Criollo is a standout vacation spot for these in search of a recent tackle conventional Oaxacan delicacies. Co-founded by internationally acclaimed chef Enrique Olvera, this restaurant combines progressive strategies with native elements to create a very unforgettable eating expertise.

The restaurant is about in a country but elegant colonial home with an open courtyard. Its minimalist, earthy design displays Oaxaca’s pure magnificence. There are even stay chickens and hens roaming round!

Criollo is understood for its seasonal tasting menu, which options 6–8 programs. The menu modifications every time, and I’ve achieved this tasting 3 times!

Signature dishes embody mole, heirloom corn tortillas, and recent ceviches. Components are domestically sourced, celebrating Oaxaca’s biodiversity.

There are 2 tasting menus to select from, however the drink pairing is the distinction. I like to recommend the drinks pairing because it showcases many liquors and alcoholic drinks from all areas of Mexico!

Their home mezcal is value attempting, as it’s completely made for Criollo. The dishes are positively Oaxacan, however since that is their distinctive creation, you received’t discover it elsewhere. The workers gives detailed explanations of the elements and preparation.

Criollo is a reservation-only restaurant. Tables refill shortly, particularly for dinner, so don’t neglect to order them beforehand.

You may additionally inform the restaurant prematurely of dietary lodging. Criollo’s gown code is sensible informal.

How one can get to Criollo Oaxaca

• By Taxi: A ten-minute journey from the Zócalo prices roughly 50–70 pesos (€2 – €4)
• By Foot: A 15-minute stroll from Oaxaca’s metropolis middle
• Parking: Restricted road parking is offered close by

👉🏼 You may additionally like: 3-5 days Oaxaca itinerary: information, price range, and native ideas

6. Uncover the artwork of loom weaving with the artisans of Oaxaca

Teotitlán del Valle, an enthralling Zapotec village close to Oaxaca Metropolis, is famend for its loom-woven textiles crafted utilizing conventional strategies handed down for generations.

Visiting this neighborhood gives a deep dive into the artistry of handmade rugs and tapestries, typically dyed with pure pigments. I’ve been visiting one household on this city for 4 years, and I at all times carry individuals who be a part of my journeys to Oaxaca.

Right here, you’ll watch artisans create intricate designs on pedal looms, a talent honed over generations. Additionally, you will study using pure dyes like cochineal (pink), indigo (blue), and marigold (yellow).

That is additionally the most affordable place to buy groceries in Oaxaca, not by way of costs however high quality. Right here, one can find handwoven rugs, tapestries, and desk runners that includes conventional Zapotec motifs.

Costs fluctuate by measurement and complexity, with small items beginning at round 500 pesos (€23) and bigger rugs costing a number of thousand pesos. Many artisans provide customized orders and so they can ship it to your private home.

This is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Oaxaca because it gives insights into Zapotec tradition and the symbolism of their designs.

Many textile-making excursions solely offer you 20 minutes to discover loom weaving, however the expertise I had lasted for 4 hours, and I made my coaster!

How one can get to the loom weavers of Oaxaca

• By Automotive: A 40-minute drive from Oaxaca Metropolis through Carretera Federal 190.
• By Bus: Take a colectivo or bus from the second-class terminal in Oaxaca heading towards Tlacolula and get off at Teotitlán.
• By Tour: Many organized excursions embody visits to workshops within the village [CHECK PRICES HERE]

7. Dine at Levadura de Olla, a Michelin-star restaurant in Oaxaca

Levadura de Olla is a culinary gem in Oaxaca, identified for its dedication to showcasing conventional Oaxacan recipes with a deal with indigenous cooking strategies and elements.

Chef Thalia Barrios Garcia brings her contact to each dish, making a heat and genuine eating expertise.

Levadura de Olla is a love letter to Oaxacan culinary traditions. With its deal with genuine recipes, indigenous strategies, and seasonal elements, each dish appears like a celebration of Oaxaca’s wealthy heritage.

The restaurant is a comfortable, intimate house with a mixture of rustic and modern decor, that includes an open kitchen, permitting you to see the cooks at work.

The meals and menu highlights Oaxacan staples corresponding to mole, tamales, and dishes ready with heirloom corn. There are additionally seasonal specials that remember native and indigenous elements.

Don’t miss the Caldo de Piedra (Stone Soup), a pre-Hispanic dish ready with heated river stones.

Their drinks are a curated number of mezcal, aguas frescas, and conventional scorching chocolate. Strive their house-infused mezcals for distinctive flavors!

The workers supplied me heat and welcoming service, specializing in storytelling in regards to the origins of every dish. This restaurant is ideal for small teams, {couples}, or solo diners, and a reservation is required.

How one can get to Levadura de Olla

• By Taxi: A brief journey from anyplace within the metropolis middle, costing 40–60 MXN.
• By Foot: Situated simply 5 minutes from the Santo Domingo Church.
• Parking: Restricted road parking is offered.

8. Swim within the mineral swimming pools of Hierve el Agua

Hierve El Agua is a compelling mix of geological marvel and breathtaking magnificence. These “petrified” waterfalls, fashioned by mineral-rich spring water, create an ethereal panorama that captivates each customer.

The petrified waterfalls fashioned over hundreds of years by mineral-rich water flowing down the cliffs. There are two fundamental falls: Cascada Grande (massive) and Cascada Chica (small).

Along with the gorgeous views, you’ll be able to spend a day dipping within the mineral swimming pools, with views of the huge valley stretching beneath. Close by, you’ll be able to discover historic Zapotec irrigation methods.

If you’re not mountain climbing to the waterfalls, you’ll be able to calm down in shallow spring-fed swimming pools, which supply gorgeous views of the valley. The swimming pools’ turquoise coloration and mineral-rich water are mentioned to have therapeutic properties.

A loop path takes you to the bottom of the waterfalls for a more in-depth look. It’s a simple hike, you received’t get misplaced! Put on sturdy footwear and produce water for the ~1-hour hike.

Most tour corporations solely go to Hierve El Agua for 90 minutes. If you’re on a non-public tour, you’ll be able to keep so long as you want with out stress (and herding from tour teams).

On-site distributors promote snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. There are primary restrooms that you’ll pay for 10 pesos, and altering areas can be found.

Convey your swimwear and towel, sunscreen (it’s not a shaded space!), a hat, and durable mountain climbing footwear. Early morning is the perfect time to go to, as crowds from tour teams arrive at 10:30 AM.

How one can get to Hierve El Agua

• By Automotive: A 1.5-hour drive from Oaxaca Metropolis through Carretera 179.
• By Bus and Taxi: Take a bus to Mitla (~20 MXN), then a colectivo (~50 MXN) to Hierve el Agua.
• By Tour: Many day excursions embody Hierve el Agua, typically paired with Mitla or mezcal distilleries.

9. Savor conventional dishes at Pasillo de Humo

Pasillo de Humo, or “Hallway of Smoke,” is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Oaxaca, particularly for individuals who need a deeper meals journey.

Right here, you’ll be able to attempt all kinds of conventional dishes cooked over open flames, echoing the time-honored cooking strategies of Oaxaca. Choices for meals embody barbacoa, succulent grilled meats, and flavorful mole sauces.

Count on a grilling expertise the place you select your cuts of meat (tasajo, cecina enchilada, chorizo, and so on.) instantly from the distributors.

Distributors will grill your choice over open flames when you watch. Subsequent, add your sides like tortillas, guacamole, roasted onions, salsas, and nopales (cactus).

An entire meal is served at your desk within the bustling market space. Notice that it may be smoky inside as it’s an indoor BBQ place, so anticipate to odor like BBQ after the meal! It’s a part of the expertise!

💫 Tip: The parts of meat served listed here are by the kilo, so make certain to go to with a bunch and produce all your folks!

How one can get to Pasillo de Humo:

• Strolling: A brief stroll from the Zócalo or anyplace in Oaxaca Metropolis’s historic middle.
• By Taxi: Inform the driving force “Mercado 20 de Noviembre.”
• By Tour: Some meals excursions embody a cease at Pasillo de Humo

10. Strive pan de yema, an iconic Oaxacan bread

Pan de yema, a comfortable, barely candy bread made with egg yolks, is a beloved deal with in Oaxaca. Typically loved with scorching chocolate, this conventional bread symbolizes celebration and hospitality, and tasting it’s a vital a part of any go to to the area.

You’ll be able to attempt pan de yema in native bakeries. Panadería Yalalag is understood for its recent and genuine pan de yema whereas Boulenc gives a contemporary twist on conventional Oaxacan bread.

If you wish to attempt it in markets, go to Mercado de la Merced, an ideal spot to purchase recent pan de yema. Mercado Benito Juárez mix bread tasting with exploring Oaxacan crafts and elements.

For cafes in Oaxaca that serve pan de yema, I like to recommend Café Brujula the place you’ll be able to benefit from the bread with a aspect of their wealthy scorching chocolate. Café Los Cuiles additionally gives a soothing ambiance to savor this deal with.

To get pleasure from pan de yema, heat it up. Ask to have it toasted or warmed for the perfect taste. It’s also greatest paired with scorching chocolate. Oaxaca’s chocolate is historically ready with water or milk and whipped till frothy.

In Oaxaca, pan de yema is usually eaten within the morning or noon as a breakfast or a mid-morning snack. It’s mostly ready and bought throughout festivals, particularly round Day of the Useless and different celebrations.

Some eating places and markets in Oaxaca serve pan de yema alongside mole or different Oaxacan dishes.

11. Go to Monte Alban Archaeological Website

Monte Albán is one among Mexico’s most vital archaeological websites and a UNESCO World Heritage Website.

This historic Zapotec metropolis, perched on a mountaintop overlooking Oaxaca’s valleys, gives a captivating glimpse into pre-Hispanic historical past and breathtaking panoramic views.

Monte Albán is a journey into the traditional coronary heart of Oaxaca. Its spectacular ruins, historic significance, and gorgeous location make it a must-see for historical past lovers and informal vacationers alike.

The primary plaza is the center of the town, surrounded by ceremonial buildings.

Right here, you will notice the ball court docket (as soon as used for ritual video games), the Los Danzantes (carvings depicting dancers, believed to be ceremonial or war-related), and the observatory (thought to have been used for monitoring celestial occasions).

There’s additionally an on-site museum the place you’ll be able to discover artifacts unearthed throughout excavations, together with ceramics and jewellery.

The location is massive, and the terrain is uneven, so put on comfy strolling footwear! There’s additionally no shade there, so carry sunscreen and water. Within the mornings (8 AM tour), it’s cooler, and the crowds are smaller.

How one can get to Monte Alban

• By Automotive: A 20-minute drive through Carretera Monte Albán. Parking is offered.
• By Shuttle: Departures from the Oaxaca Zócalo each hour, costing ~100 MXN ($5) round-trip.
• By Tour: Many operators provide guided excursions, typically together with stops at different points of interest.

12. Store at Mercado Abasto for genuine (and low-cost) finds

Mercado de Abasto (Central de Abastos) is Oaxaca Metropolis’s largest and most bustling market, providing a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.

This sprawling market is the go-to spot for locals and vacationers in search of recent produce, conventional meals, artisanal crafts, and textiles.

Mercado de Abasto is a vibrant microcosm of Oaxacan life, providing an genuine look into the area’s tradition, delicacies, and craftsmanship.

Right here, you’ll be able to pattern and purchase recent mole pastes in varieties like mole negro, rojo, and coloradito within the many mole stalls. You may also attempt chapulines, crunchy grasshoppers flavored with lime, salt, and chile—good for snacking.

Mountains of recent fruit and veggies, together with unique native varieties will be present in Mercado de Abasto. Additionally, you will discover Oaxaca’s well-known string cheese (quesillo) and regional meats like cecina.

Other than meals, Mercado de Abasto can also be the perfect place for textiles and crafts. Browse handwoven rugs, embroidered clothes, and leather-based items.

If you’re a chef or somebody who likes to cook dinner, it is a great spot for kitchenware and instruments! Right here, you should purchase conventional Oaxacan pottery, picket molinillos (for frothing scorching chocolate), and handmade utensils.

Lastly, there are a lot of meals stalls right here. Seize a chunk at one of many market’s comedores (meals stands), serving tlayudas, memelas, tamales, and extra! They’re all lined in a single space of the market.

Convey money. Most distributors don’t settle for playing cards. Additionally, bear in mind to remain alert! The market can get crowded, so control your belongings.

It’s widespread to barter costs for items. The market is massive and requires a variety of strolling so put on comfy footwear.

Lastly, plan your go to on market day! Fridays are notably vigorous, with distributors from throughout Oaxaca gathering to promote their wares.

How one can get to Mercado de Abasto:

• By Taxi: A brief journey from the town middle, costing ~50–70 MXN.
• By Bus: Take a neighborhood bus labeled “Abastos” from varied factors within the metropolis for a budget-friendly choice.
• By Strolling: A few 20-minute stroll from the Zócalo, although be cautious of the warmth and site visitors.

13. Go to a palenque in Oaxaca and witness ancestral mezcal-making

Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, so naturally, a tour of the native Palenques (mezcal distilleries) needs to be of your prime issues to do in Oaxaca.

These small, family-run institutions comply with conventional strategies, roasting, fermenting, and distilling agave hearts in a course of that may take a long time to grasp.

Santa Catarina Minas is a must-visit vacation spot for mezcal lovers. Identified for its ancestral mezcal manufacturing, this small village is residence to conventional palenques (mezcal distilleries) that use historic strategies to craft a few of the most interesting mezcal in Oaxaca.

A Palenque tour allows you to witness this age-old course of first-hand, from agave harvesting to tasting the ultimate product. You’ll be taught in regards to the varied varieties of agave and the way their distinct flavors form every mezcal.

Positive, you’ll be able to go to mezcal bars in Oaxaca Metropolis however visiting a palenque is a extra profound expertise, particularly if it’s ancestral mezcal.

You’ll be able to study clay pot distillation, a singular and labor-intensive method that imparts a definite taste. Additionally, you will see each step of the mezcal-making course of, from harvesting agave to fermentation and distillation.

Pattern small-batch mezcals crafted from varied agave species, together with Tobalá, Espadín, and Tepextate. These mezcales have distinctive flavors: Count on earthy, smoky, and mineral-rich profiles.

Excursions of palenques are sometimes by appointment solely so ebook forward! Additionally bear in mind to carry money. Most palenques don’t settle for bank cards.

Tempo your self! Mezcal is potent, so drink loads of water between tastings and ensure to eat breakfast earlier than the tour!

Visiting a palenque helps native producers, and buying instantly helps small-scale, artisanal distillers. If you happen to select to do an Oaxaca Mezcal Tour in a palenque, you’ll assist our ancestral mezcaleros neighborhood loads.

How one can get to a palenque (Mezcal Distillery):

• By Automotive: A 1-hour drive from Oaxaca Metropolis through Freeway 175.
• By Colectivo: Shared taxis run between Oaxaca Metropolis and Ocotlán de Morelos; from there, take a neighborhood taxi to Santa Catarina Minas.
• By Tour: Mezcal excursions typically embody stops at Santa Catarina Minas.