road trip en oaxaca

A Oaxaca Road Trip Itinerary: An Epic 4-Week Guide

Oaxaca state was one of our favorite places to explore during our time in Mexico. From the arts and food scene of the capital to the stunning and predominantly undeveloped coastline to the rugged Sierra Madre range that separates the two, Oaxaca was an incredible region to discover with our own vehicle. We spent over two months traversing this amazing state and have put together a four-week road trip in Oaxaca packed with all of our favorite places and experiences.

Want to Explore Oaxaca but don’t have your own wheels?

Check timetables and prices for shared transport on Bookaway

Obviously, not everyone will have the luxury of a month to explore Oaxaca, so this itinerary is designed in sections to be dismantled and put back together in whatever way appeals to you. If you love the coast as much as we do you’ll find plenty of beaches to relax on. If you’re a mountain goat there are sections dedicated to the mountains that range Oaxaca state. Or, if you are a foodie or culture vulture, you will love the section devoted to Oaxaca City, one of Mexico’s cultural and culinary strongholds.

We have written the itinerary in a loop, however, the choice is yours. When we visited Oaxaca, we chose to visit all of the destinations in the north before heading south to the Oaxaca beaches. As we said earlier, how you dismantle and rework the itinerary for your road trip in Oaxaca is up to you. We just recommend you visit as many places as you can while still having a relaxed and enjoyable holiday. There is nothing worse than over-vacationing your vacation!

Road Trip Oaxaca 4 Week Itinerary

Day 1 – 3: oaxaca city.

As good a place as any to start your road trip of Oaxaca is the state’s capital, also known as Oaxaca. The city of Oaxaca is bustling with energy. Visitors flock to Oaxaca predominantly for the culinary and cultural reputation that exists, but there is more to Oaxaca than the food and art (which is impressive).

While we have heaps of recommendations on where to eat in Oaxaca , where to drink in Oaxaca , and even the best cafes in Oaxaca , there are also other things that you should do while you are there to fill your day when you are not indulging in the abundant food and beverage establishments.

Want to go beyond the ordinary in Oaxaca?

Discover Where Sidewalks End positive impact cultural tours

Monte Alban

Start your road trip in Oaxaca by visiting Monte Alban. We hesitated in visiting after seeing so many other ruins, but we especially enjoyed Monte Alban. The backdrop of the mountains behind the pyramids in the morning light was the perfect start to our day. We recommend going early to avoid the busloads of tourists and the heat.

Useful Information:

• Address: Ignacio Bernal S/N
• Cost: $80 pesos per person
• Hours of Operation: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Distance: 10 kilometers (~20m) from Oaxaca

The Tree of Tule

It might be a little bit cheesy, but a trip out to see the Guinness World Record Holder for the world’s widest tree is worth it. The Tree of Tule is in a word, impressive. It is almost unfathomable how a tree could grow so wide. We recommend a visit especially if you have your own wheels.

The town of Tule itself is also quite nice and there is a great food hall called Mercado el Tule offering cheap Oaxacan cuisine next to the tree.

READ MORE: Vanlife Oaxaca Cit y

• Address: 2 de Abril
• Cost: $10 pesos per person
• Hours of Operation: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Distance: 11 kilometers (~20m) from Oaxaca

Eat and Drink Until You Can’t Eat or Drink Anymore

(OK, maybe not literally)

People say moderation is key, but on vacation, I think the rules change a bit and especially in Oaxaca. As mentioned previously, Oaxaca is a culinary destination. The food here is divine, the coffee amazing, and the drinks delicious. It is hard not to come back from a holiday in Oaxaca without carrying a few additional pounds back with you. Take the time in Oaxaca to truly explore and indulge in the culinary scene.

Looking for a Real Food Experience in Oaxaca?

Experience the Oaxaca Ancestoral Food Tour

• Where to Eat (and Not to Eat) in Oaxaca
• Oaxaca’s 8 Best Cafes
• A Bar for Every Boozer in Oaxaca

Need more time in Oaxaca? We understand, check out our article How to Spend a Week in Oaxaca .

Day 4 – 5: Santiago Apoala

If you are looking to get outdoors and explore the natural landscapes of Oaxaca, then look no further than Santiago Apoala located in the Sierra Mixteca mountains north of Oaxaca City. While getting here might be somewhat difficult as the road is windy and unpaved, it will be worth it in the end. Unlike other places you might visit in Oaxaca, Santiago Apoala is uncharted territory. Here you won’t find lots of tourists (if any) on your visit. Just nature and the local community.

The town itself is run as an ecotourism center which is common throughout Oaxaca. You must stop at the Ecotourism Center located in the center of town upon arrival to “check in” and pay a small access fee. The fee is used to help support the local community. Cabanas can be rented at the ecotourism center and camping is available in the open field near the cabanas.

Here is a list of things to do in Santiago Apoala to keep yourself entertained for a few days.

Santiago Apoala Waterfall (Cascada)

Just a short walk from town down the river is the Santiago Apoala Waterfall. These stunning waterfalls are one of the main attractions and reasons for visiting Santiago Apoala. There are a few pools with crystal blue water for swimming, but beware as the water is frigid at best.

Cueva de la Culebra (Rattlesnake Cave) 

Only a short distance from the camping area is the Cueva de la Culebra or Rattlesnake Cave. This two cavern cave reaches a height of approximately 40 meters. One of the caverns contains a large underground lake that is fed by the Tamazulapan spring and the other is a large stalagmite that the locals have named the Archbishop’s Stone.

There is plenty of hiking to be had in the area. We advise, however, to go with a guide as trails are not readily marked and it is easy to get lost. Guides are available at the Ecotourism Center in town and the fee is charged per hour, not per person.

Useful Information

• Address: Santiago Apoala, Oaxaca, Mexico
• Cost: ~$60 pesos per person for access
• Distance: 120 kilometers (~2.5h) from Oaxaca

Day 6 – 7: Guacamaya Verde Canyon

If you like the outdoors, nature, and birds then a trip to Guacamaya Verde Canyon is a must on your road trip in Oaxaca. Guacamaya Verde means Green Macaw in Spanish. These beautiful birds can be seen here in their natural habitat from August to December each year. The number of birds that can be seen varies, but we have heard of people seeing 3 macaws up to 90 macaws in a given viewing.

To have this amazing experience, you need a guide which should be arranged in advance, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend or want an English-speaking guide. The best time to view the birds is one hour before it gets dark. The guided tour leaves in the afternoon and takes approximately 6-7 hours meaning that you will return to camp after the sunsets. The hike is 12 kilometers and gains approximately 500 meters in elevation and can be pretty grueling in the hot Mexican sun. Make sure to bring plenty of water, something to eat, and bug spray! And, don’t forget binoculars and a telephoto lens for your camera!

• Tel: 236 112 1946
• Email: [email protected]
• Cost : $250 pesos per person (guide + bio reserve fee)
• Distance: 65 kilometers (~2h) from Santiago Apoala

Day 8 – 9: Pueblos Mancomunados

Pueblos Mancomunados, another tourism collective, consists of eight villages in the Sierra Norte mountain range. Extensive hiking trails connect these eight villages. Hiking in this area offers a glimpse into what life is like in rural Oaxaca.

Even if hiking between the cities is not for you, there are plenty of day hikes available and you can drive between the cities. We also recommend that you try the trout from one of the many trout farmers in the area.

• Distance: 168 kilometers (~3.5h) from Guacamaya Verde Canyon

Day 10: San Pablo Villas de Mitla and Yagul

If you are visiting Mexico, it is almost mandatory to take a day to explore some of the many ruins of the ancient people who once ruled this beautiful land. The ancient civilization here was the Zapotec people who are indigenous to Oaxaca.

Yagul which means “old tree” in the Zapotec language is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon. These Zapotec ruins date back to 500 – 100 BC, however, the most visible ruins only date back to the 1200s.

One benefit of visiting these ruins is the lack of people. Very few tourists venture out this far, so you might find yourself alone when visiting as we did. Make sure you take the time to climb up to the top of the hill behind the ruins for great panoramic views over the ruins and the surrounding valley.

• Cost: $75 pesos per person
• Hours of Operation: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

San Pablo Villas de Mitla

San Pablo Villas de Mitla is one of Oaxaca’s Pueblo Magicos. Pueblo Magico is a designation by the Mexican government given to cities throughout Mexico that are recognized as especially significant. Either for their natural beauty, cultural significance, tradition, folklore, historical relevance, cuisine, art crafts, or great hospitality.

The Mitla ruins are the second most visited ruins in the state of Oaxaca (after Monte Alban ) and the most important in the Zapotec culture. Mitla was the main religious center for the Zapotecs. The name “Mitla” is derived from the Nahuatl name Mictlan which is the place of the dead or underworld.

One of the unique things to see in the Mitla ruins is the Column of Death. Legend has it that if you hug the column you will see how much life you have left to live. If you wrap your arms around the column and feel it move, then you will die soon. Others believe that if you hug the column then you are cursed. Whatever the legend might be, the column is now off-limits due to damage from too much love.

• Address: Camino Nacional, Los Presidentes
• Distance: 13 kilometers (~20 min) from Yagul

Day 11 – 13: Playa San Diego

With hiking and exploring the outdoors completed in the North of Oaxaca, it is time to make your way down to Oaxaca’s best beaches on your road trip in Oaxaca. Your first stop should be none other than Playa San Diego.

Playa San Diego was quite possibly our favorite campsite in all of Mexico. Tucked away along a thirty-minute dirt road through local farms, you find yourself on one of the most stunning beaches in all of Mexico. Miles and miles of unspoiled beaches, headlands, and the hinterland behind. There is no accommodation, restaurants, bars, or anything resembling the tourism industry. Only nature and the occasional family or fisherman on the weekend.

• Address: To get here you will need to follow the road in front of the Pemex through the local farms. There will be a sign that says Playa San Diego. It is a long 30-minute drive. Just keep following the road and you will make it!
• Distance: 300 kilometers (~5h) from Mitla

Pro-tip: As with many developing countries (and even developed countries) trash seems to find itself in unwanted places. Be a doll and take a bag of trash with you when you leave. Every bit of love we can give the planet will make it a better place!

Day 14 – 15: Playa San Agustin and Huatulco National Park

A highlight of our road trip through Oaxaca, Playa San Agustin is a small beach located on the outskirts of Huatulco National Park and is the best jumping-off point for exploring the national park. The park is best explored by boat as the thick vegetation prevents accessing this series of amazing bays from the land. These bays are known for their stunning blue water, desolate beaches, and impressive snorkeling.

We recommend taking a boat ride or tour with Don Taco, a resident overlander who has set up base in Playa San Agustin for an enjoyable half-day exploring Oaxaca’s beautiful coastline. Make sure to go early though if you want to avoid the crowds. Large snorkeling tours arrive around 11:00 am and stay for a few hours which can deter from the atmosphere for some of the larger bays. If you rent a boat and captain for the day though you can always find a small bay without any people.

READ MORE: How to Overland Oaxaca’s Huatulco National Park

• Private Tour: $500 pesos per hour (includes boat and captain)
• Pick-up and Drop-off: $1,000 pesos round trip
• Distance: ~115 kilometers (~2.5 hours) from Playa San Diego

Pit Stop: Playa Tembo

Before you get to these three idyllic beaches and if you have more time on your road trip in Oaxaca, a stop at Playa Tembo is perfect for those looking to get away from it all. Playa Tembo may be hard to reach, but this unassuming little bay is worth the effort. A rugged dirt track crossing a steep hill will lead you down to Playa Tembo.

Overseen by the one local man who lives here full time, there will be few distractions while visiting Playa Tembo. Half-constructed buildings dot the hillside and workers come in the early mornings to slowly work on some of the construction, but otherwise, you will have this small beach to yourself. Make sure you bring along everything you need as there are no restaurants, bars, or stores.

• Address: Playa Tembo, Oaxaca
• Distance: 36 kilometers (~ 1h) from Playa San Agustin

Day 18 – 21: Zipolite, San Augustinillo, and Mazunte

These three consecutive Oaxaca beaches with their distinctive, laid-back vibe and hippy culture have become a beacon for free-spirited travelers from all over the world. The beaches are recognizable by their luscious jungle-covered headlands enclosing each beach. The communities strike the balance between providing creature comforts from the Western world while retaining some of the Mexican beach cultures. Spend your time exploring the different beaches as each has a unique vibe.

If you like to don your birthday suit, then Zipolite is the place for you. Zipolite holds the prestigious title of being the only nude beach in Mexico (although nudity is not required, only encouraged). This two-kilometer white sand beach is always full of life and activity, especially around sunset. We loved our time in Zipolite with its relaxed vibe and chill atmosphere.

Zipolite also offers the best free camping spot we have seen in Oaxaca if you want to stay somewhere you can be connected and somewhere with restaurants and bars. There is a small parking lot towards the end of the beach where at least a handful of other vanlifers set up for a night or even weeks. There is nothing better than waking up to crashing waves in the morning and watching the sunset over the ocean every night. This truly is a gem of a spot and you won’t want to miss it on your Oaxaca road trip.

Pro-tip: We highly recommend eating at Sal Y Pimienta. These guys do seriously delicious seafood and even better margaritas right on the beach. Great seafood, and generous portions for reasonable prices. Plus, for $50 pesos a glass or more aptly a goblet, the margarita is as delicious as it is dangerous. It is hard to say how much tequila is actually in the margarita since it is frozen, but after one margarita each, we could definitely feel the effects. Sal Y Pimienta is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand. Just make sure you get there in time as the best seats fill up fast at this time of the day.

San Augustinillo

San Augustinillo is the quietest and most tranquil of the three beaches. There are only a handful of restaurants or bars on the beach here compared to its neighbors and there is a more chilled, relaxed vibe here.

San Augustillo also has the best breakfast spot in our opinion of the three beaches. La Mora Posada offers a range of breakfast from traditional Mexican breakfast dishes like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros to waffles with caramelized bananas and ice cream. Our personal favorite was the chipotle chilaquiles. What is more Mexican than tortilla chips tossed in a chipotle sauce topped with queso fresca, a fried egg, onion, avocado, and cilantro served with black beans and tortillas. These might have been the best chilaquiles we have had in Mexico. And trust me, we have had our fair share of chilaquiles over the past six months. This place fills up fast, so be prepared to wait or get there early.

Bonus: If you like to make your own meals, there is a fishmonger down the road perpendicular to La Mora Posada. Here you can buy fresh fish and shrimp for a fraction of the price anywhere else to take back and cook to your liking. Read more about our favorite seafood recipes that are easy to make in the van!

Mazunte is the best beach of the three beaches to enjoy a swim. A headland to the right of Playa Riconcito in Mazunte protects the water making it the perfect place to take a dip in the Pacific Ocean. The only downside is the lack of shade in the morning, so make sure to bring an umbrella or rent one on the beach.

Mazunte also is a great place to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean at Punta Cometa. La Punta Cometa is a popular spot to enjoy the sunset with a cold cerveza (beer). There are three separate trails shown on Google Maps to Punta Cometa. We recommend following the trail off Camino Mermejita and keeping to the right when the path splits. This will take you to a separate “viewing” area and not exactly to the point, but you will have fewer people crowding your space as you watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Bonus: La Baguette is a great spot to grab a delicious pastry or freshly baked French bread.

Day 22 – 24: Chacahua

It’s time to get off the beaten path. A road trip in Oaxaca is not complete without visiting Parque Nacional Lagunas de Chacahua (the National Park of Chacahua Lakes). Visiting here means you will need to ditch your wheels for a bit and take a boat ride through the mangrove forest to reach the beach which is an adventure in itself.

Once there you will be rewarded with miles of deserted beaches, a great surf break, and relaxation. Basic accommodation is available and booking in advance is only essential if you want to stay somewhere particular or if your trip coincides with the Mexican holiday season. There are no ATMs available, but there are restaurants, bars, and stores selling basic goods. This is the place to come and relax, read a book, and catch some rays. Watch out for the crocs.

• Boat Ride: ~$1,300 pesos one way (inclusive of parking)
• Accommodation: ~$300 – $500 pesos for a double room or $800 – $1,200 for a quadruple room
• Distance: 128 kilometers (~ 2.5h) from Mazunte

Day 25 – 28: Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a hot spot on the Oaxacan coast. Attracting visitors from both near and far, there are plenty of beaches to explore here. We spent a week jumping between the different beaches of Escondido. Here is our rundown.

La Punta is the hotspot for backpackers. Plenty of dreadlocked foreigners in harem pants and bare feet hang out in this part of Escondido enjoying the bohemian lifestyle. You will find plenty of other overlanders here peddling arts and crafts, sleeping in their car at the beachfront parking lot, and catching a wave on the easy (but crowded) point break. La Punta is also a popular spot for watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Playa Zicatela

Playa Zicatela is famous for its heavy shorebreak that draws serious surfers from all over the world. It may not be the nicest beach in Oaxaca, but on the right day, you could get to see some incredible surfing.

With plenty of surfers staying down this end of Puerto Escondido there are also a number of cafes, bars, and restaurants here.

Check out Mar & Wana. This restaurant and bar combo is a great place to grab a meal and a few beers under the Mexican stars.

Playa Coral in Carrizalillo

Playa Coral was our favorite beach to relax in Puerto Escondido. This small beach is less crowded than the neighboring beach of Playa Carrizalillo which at one point probably was a lovely beach. Now overcrowded with tourists, beach chairs, and restaurants. We walked down the insanely steep staircase to Carrizalillo, only to turn right back around and head back to Playa Coral.

Playa Coral is the perfect place to swim as the cove is protected by the headland. Make sure you bring everything with you to the beach as there are no vendors, restaurants, or bars and the hike back up to the main road is long. If you are looking to grab lunch on the go to take to the beach, we recommend El Sultan. A slight change to your standard Mexican fare, this restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean meals. Think mouth-watering falafel and yummy hummus. The perfect beach snack or lunch!

We also recommend grabbing a coffee and pastry from Dulce Tierra nearby. These guys are serving one of the best coffees we had in Puerto Escondido.

READ MORE: The Best Beaches in Oaxaca: A Vanlife Guid e

Other Things To Do in Puerto Escondido

Indulge at los manjares.

If you’re a carnivore then you should visit Los Manjares. Los Manjares is a specialty butcher shop located above Playa Zicatela. A bit of a break from cuts of meat and whole chicken you find hanging in the mercados, these guys sell high-quality premium meats. Additionally, find specialty condiments, fancy cheese, nice wines, and sweets. A little out of place on a busy road in Escondido, it was an unexpected find.

The butcher is open every day, however, from Thursday to Sunday, you’ll find the grill next to the butcher being manned. Here they cook up what you just purchased and it is all tip-based. Grab a rack of ribs and the hot BBQ sauce from the butcher, pop over to the grill master return a few hours later to pick up some of the best meats you’ll find in Mexico!

• Address: Carretera Costera KM2 Locales 5 y 6
• Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Sundays 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

Eat at Papa Tots

Papa Tots was one of the best meals in Puerto Escondido and reminded me of my 3 years spent in the Netherlands. Papa Tots specializes in one thing… potatoes, particularly, deep-fried potatoes. These potatoes are somewhere between a tatter tot and a hashbrown. You can choose from a variety of flavors from garlic rosemary to cheese and onion and many more flavors. Have them plain or as part of a burrito, but you cannot choose wrong. We also recommend the jalapeno poppers. Hands down the best we have had this side of the border.

• Address: PapaTots
• Hours of Operation: Monday – Saturday 8:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
• Website: http://www.papatots.com/

Grab Fresh Produce at the Mercado Benito Juarez

One of my favorite things about visiting countries in Latin America is shopping in the local markets. The Mercado Benito Juarez is no different. Here you can find the freshest fruit and veg in the city and numerous other things. We even did some of our Christmas shopping this year at the market.

• Address: Mercado Benito Juarez
• Hours of Operation: 6:00 am – 7:00 pm

Watch Turtles Hatching at Playa del Palmarito

Growing up as a young girl, I loved when our beach trips coincided with the hatching season for baby turtles. Oaxaca’s coastline is home to many turtles who return each year to nest and lay eggs.

Olive Ridley turtles come each year to lay eggs in mass nestings. These baby turtles hatch between August and November each year. While there are many spots to visit and see turtles hatching, we recommend Playa del Palmarito.

Playa del Palmarito is a desolate beach 8km north of Puerto Escondido. You won’t find large tour groups here (or any tourists for that matter). There is a 6:00 pm release and you can volunteer between 9:00 pm – 2:00 am.

Pro-tip: You can also camp at the hatchery or further down the road near a large palapa.

• Address: Reserva de Tortugas
• Cost: Donation-based
• Hours of Operation: 6:00 pm
• Distance: 8 kilometers (~15m) from Puerto Escondido

Day 28 – 30: San Jose del Pacifico

The final stop on your road trip of Oaxaca is San Jose del Pacifico. We spent one of my favorite nights on our road trip in Oaxaca camping under the stars in this magical mountain town.

Tucked into the mountains separating the city of Oaxaca from the coastline is San Jose del Pacifico. You might regret it later if you don’t stop in this small mountain town if only for one evening. The town is known for its incredible natural beauty, traditional temazcal sweat lodge ceremonies, and various mushrooms. But, it is especially famous for the hongos magico, the local psilocybin mushroom, psilocybe mexicana , which grow abundantly in the mountains.

Find out more about where to stay, what to do and the best restaurants in San Jose del Pacifico in our article Overlanding San Jose del Pacifico !

• Distance: 170 kilometers (~3h 15m) from Yagul or 140 kilometers (~3h) from Oaxaca

Pit Stop: Santa Catarina Minas

If you have more time before heading to Oaxaca, we recommend making a stop in Santa Catarina Minas . Here you can visit local small-batch mezcal producers and learn about the distilling process.

Experience a Mezcal Tour with a Difference

The Oaxaca Sacred Mezcal Experience in Santa Catrina Minas

Useful Oaxaca Travel Tips

Now that you where to go on your road trip in Oaxaca, you need to start planning. We have put together a list of FAQs and dos and don’ts to help you navigate and plan your road trip in Oaxaca.

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Oaxaca?

The best time of the year to visit Oaxaca is during shoulder season. This coincidentally coincides with the North American spring and fall. There are typically fewer tourists, accommodation prices are lower and temperatures milder. With this being said, we visited from November to January and found it enjoyable. While Christmas felt different being at the beach in my swimsuit, it reminded Eddie of home and the summer warmth of Christmas down under.

Do remember to always pack bug spray as Oaxaca is a tropical climate.

Don’t forget your sunscreen… you’re going to need it!

Is Oaxaca Safe?

Generally, yes. We did not experience any issues with safety on our road trip in Oaxaca. As always, using precautions is wise. No camping on unlit streets, avoid walking late at night and use common sense.

Do camp in well-lit, well-known camp spots, like this million-dollar spot in Zipolite.

Don’t park at El Llano in Oaxaca city or you might wake up to a burglar in your car.

Do practice caution and mindfulness when you travel.

Don’t flaunt money, jewelry or gadgets.

What Are the Driving Conditions in Oaxaca?

In general, the road conditions in Oaxaca are fairly good. There are certain roads that we do recommend avoiding such as the Mexico 125, Mexico 131 or the “alternative” shortcut from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido. We thought shaving an extra forty minutes off our drive sounded nice for a 7+ hour journey. Little did we know that this “detour” was actually a dirt track littered with potholes up the Sierra Sur mountains. Trust us on this one, stick to the paved roads in Oaxaca.

Do stick to the paved roads and avoid detours from Google.

Don’t fall asleep at the wheel as the Oaxacan roads from the city to the coastline are dangerously windy.

Where Can I Find Gas in Oaxaca?

There is no shortage of gas stations in Oaxaca with one exception. Make sure you fill up before crossing the Sierra Sur mountains from Oaxaca to the coast. Once you pass Miahuatlán de Porfirio Díaz, gas stations are fewer and further between.

Do fill up before crossing the Sierra Sur mountains.

Don’t fret if you forget as locals are always selling gas in plastic bottles along the side of the road.

Can You Drink the Water in Oaxaca?

A general rule of thumb is to follow the lead of the locals. Everyone in Oaxaca buys water for consumption and you should too. Getting sick in Oaxaca, especially in one of these remote locations would not be fun.

Do ask the server if the ice is prepared using filtered water before ordering a cocktail.

Don’t be a fool. Buy WATER or filter your own.

Are There ATMs in Oaxaca?

Finding an ATM in the state of Oaxaca depends on where you are. ATMs can be found in many of the cities, but not in the small remote villages and communities in the mountains or along the coast. Make sure you have enough cash with you when you visit these communities as cards will definitely not be accepted.

Do check out the Santander Bank on the Mexico 200. No ATM fee is collected at the terminal in Mexico (your bank could still charge, but hey, one less fee).

Don’t forget to always carry some cash. Even in cities, cards are oftentimes not accepted.

How Reliable Is the Mobile Internet in Oaxaca?

Finding reliable 4G with Telcel or a cafe with internet in the major towns of Oaxaca is not difficult. More remote destinations and villages are a different story. Many of the destinations we have recommended will not have a cell phone signal or a cafe with the internet. If you do decide to visit these, enjoy the serenity of not being connected all the time.

Do use nperf.com to check out the most up-to-date information on 4G signal throughout Mexico.

Don’t forget to unplug for a while on vacation!

What do you think of our Oaxaca road trip itinerary? Did we miss anything? Let us know below!

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From a small town in the USA, I had my first taste of travel when I was 17. Since then, I have traveled to over 80 countries and every continent bar Antarctica. I love to experience new places, cultures, and food. While you may occasionally find me in popular tourist destinations, I tend to gravitate to up-and-coming destinations, hidden gems waiting to be uncovered.

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Oaxaca Road Trip: My 10-Day Oaxaca Itinerary

• by Nellie Huang

See the highlights of Oaxaca on this 10-day Oaxaca road trip that’ll take you from the city through the Sierra Madre mountains to the pristine beaches of the Pacific Coast.

Poised in the southern reaches of Mexico, Oaxaca (pronounced ‘wa-ha’ka’) is so diverse that you can drive from one end to another, and feel like you’ve traveled across continents. With just 10 days in Oaxaca, we went from the vibrant cultural capital of Oaxaca city to the wild Sierra Madre del Sur mountains and all along the rugged Oaxacan coast to the boho surf beaches of Puerto Escondido .

Our Oaxaca road trip gave us an opportunity to pack in a good mixture of culture, nature and adventure into one trip – some of the highlights included celebrating Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca city , climbing the Monte Alban pyramids , dipping in the Hierve el Agua petrified falls , and releasing baby turtles in Puerto Escondido.

In this Oaxaca guide, I will share with you my 10-day Oaxaca itinerary, exploring the best the state has to offer along the way. I also included useful driving tips for Oaxaca, hotel and restaurant recommendations, and best time to visit Oaxaca below.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Oaxaca

Getting around oaxaca state, walk the car-free macedonia alcalá, visit the templo de santo domingo, see the lush botanical gardens, where to stay in oaxaca, get lost in the smoke alley, sample the legendary mole, visit the oaxaca textile museum.

• Snap Photos at Callejon San Pablo

Browse the Atemporal Design Market

Wander around colorful jalatlaco, check out xochimilco, watch sunset on a rooftop bar, mexico city travel guide: practical resources, climb the pyramids of monte albán, visit san bartolo coyotepec, see the alebrijes of san martin tilcajete, buy textiles in santo tomas jalieza, take a mezcal tour, explore the hierve el agua, explore the mitla ruins, learn weaving in teotitlán del valle, see the world’s biggest tree trunk, drive to san jose del pacífico, where to stay in san jose del pacífico, make a splash at huatulco beach, where to stay in huatulco, drive to the nudist beach, zipolite, stop by san agustinillo & mazunte, hike to punta cometa, stay in puerto escondido, where to stay in puerto escondido, take surfing lessons, chill at playa carrizalillo, release baby turtles, oaxaca itinerary day 10: home, best time to visit oaxaca, is it safe to travel to oaxaca, driving tips in oaxaca, oaxaca road trip tips, oaxaca itinerary & guide.

The most convenient way to get to Oaxaca is by flying into the Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), located just outside of the city. The small airport serves mainly domestic destinations (Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey), but also has flights from Los Angeles, Houston and Dallas.

Direct flights from Los Angeles to Oaxaca  cost around US$300 return.  Flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca  cost only $50 return(1hour). Budget travelers can also just take a bus from the Terminal de Autobuses del Sur in Mexico City to Oaxaca; it takes 6-7 hours depending on traffic.  Pre-book your bus tickets here .

For this Oaxaca itinerary, I suggest flying into Oaxaca Airport (OAX) and flying out from Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM). It’s slightly more expensive but it’ll save you an extra 6.5-hour drive back from Puerto Escondido to Oaxaca. Puerto Escondido is a tiny airport, and it only serves Mexico City, Guadalajara and Tijuana. Check here for flights to Puerto Escondido.

Hiring a car is the best way to explore the Oaxaca state – the drive from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido in particular is best done by car as bus drivers along the route are notorious for their reckless driving and crazy speed (more on safety below). We rented a car for our entire 10 days in Oaxaca, exploring both the capital city and the surrounding Mayan pyramids, Sierra Madre mountains and the laidback Oaxacan coast. 

I always book my car rental from  Discover Cars  as they offer the best prices and excellent customer service. An  economy rental car in Oaxaca  costs around $200 for a whole week, which is  less than $28 a day . The current price for gas is 23.50 MXN (around $1) per liter.

Note that if you intend to fly into Oaxaca and out from Puerto Escondido, you will need to book a 1-way car rental. That usually comes with an extra charge. Also, you’ll need to book flights from one of the cities that serve PXM.

C heck Car Rental Prices

10-Day Oaxaca Itinerary

To hit the main spots, you’ll need at least 10 days in Oaxaca to explore at a comfortable pace. The Sierra Madre del Sur mountains separate Oaxaca from the coast; it takes 6 hours to drive from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido so you definitely need time to from one area to the other.

In this Oaxaca itinerary, I’ve packed in a good mixture of old town wanders, foodie experiences, mountain escapes, and beach bumming. Here is a summary of our 10-day Oaxaca itinerary. I will be giving a day-to-day breakdown below.

• Days 1-3: Oaxaca City
• Day 4: Day Trip to Monte Alban, Villages and Mezcaleria
• Day 5: Day Trip to Hierve el Agua, Mitla and Teotitlán del Valle
• Day 6: San Jose del Pacífico
• Days 7-10: Oaxaca Coast

Download my Oaxaca itinerary on Google Maps.

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 1

There’s a whole load of  things to do in Oaxaca city , so make sure to reserve 3 days to explore this cool city. The historic center of Oaxaca is a World Heritage Site, packed with over 1200 registered historic sites.

The heart of the city is the Zócalo (or Plaza de la Constitución ), or main square. It’s surrounded by some of the most important historic buildings in Oaxaca City, including the Palacio de Gobierno (Government Palace), the Catedral de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Cathedral), and the Templo de la Compañía de Jesús (Church of the Company of Jesus). 

Regardless of when you visit, you’ll likely find street performers and musicians around the Zócalo, from folk singers to marimba bands. The Zócalo is often the site of festivals, concerts, and other cultural events throughout the year. Check the local calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

From the Zócalo, amble along the pedestrianized Andador Turístico,  Calle Macedonia Alcalá , which runs all the way to the Templo de Santo Domingo. You’ve probably seen photos of this street before: colorful  papel picado  (paper flags) dangling between rows of iconic pastel historic houses. 

This bustling pedestrianized street is flanked by arts and craft shops, cafes, and restaurants, and it’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll pass by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Palacio de Gobierno, which features a beautiful mural by the artist Arturo García Bustos depicting the history of Oaxaca.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Oaxaca, the Templo de Santo Domingo is a symbol of the city and a major gathering point. It was originally built in the late 16th century by the Dominican order and is considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Mexico.

Many of Oaxaca’s buildings – including this church – were constructed with green volcanic stone, as evident from the greenish tint in the stonework. The church’s ornate facade is covered in intricate carvings, while the interior is filled with stunning frescoes, gold leaf embellishments, and impressive altarpieces. 

Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca , located next to the Santo Domingo Church, is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city dedicated to the preservation and study of the indigenous plants of Oaxaca. The garden features over 1,200 species of plants, many of which have cultural and medicinal significance to the local people. Covering nearly 7 acres, the garden is home to a wide variety of plant species native to Oaxaca, ranging from towering cacti to towering hardwood trees.

The gardens only allow visits by guided tours; make sure to come early to have a spot. If you speak Spanish, there are regular tours throughout the day for 50pesos per person. English tours are only held at 11am Monday to Saturday, for 100pesos per person. There are also French and German tours. Refer to  the website for details.

Luxury: Parador San Miguel Oaxaca

This historic hotel, housed in a restored 16th-century mansion, is a true icon of Oaxaca City. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with antique furnishings and traditional artwork. The hotel also boasts a beautiful courtyard and rooftop terrace.  Check rates here.

Mid Range: Hotel Azul de Oaxaca

We stayed at this beautiful boutique hotel with a central but quiet location. The stylish and modern hotel with a focus on sustainability and local art. The rooms are bright and colorful, and the hotel’s restaurant is known for its innovative takes on traditional Oaxacan cuisine.  Check rates.

Budget: Paulina Youth Hostel

A great budget option for travelers looking for a clean and comfortable place to stay in Oaxaca. Located in the heart of the historic center, the hostel offers private rooms and dorms at very affordable rates.  Check rates.

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 2: Oaxaca City

Oaxaca’s biggest appeal is its food. Oaxacan food is known for being unique and completely distinctive from other Mexican cuisine . The largest markets in Oaxaca City are   Mercado de Benito Juárez  and  Mercado 20 de Noviembre  just to the south of the historic center (the two almost merge together) and both offer senses-assaulting experiences. 

Meat lovers should head straight to the  Pasillo de Humo  (Smoke Alley) at the eastern entrance of Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Stall after stall of meat vendors serve up succulent meat, grills blazing and smoke billowing out. The most common meats here are  tasajo  (thinly sliced beef) , arrachera  (steak),  costilla  (pork ribs) and  chorizo  (spicy sausage). They’re all good and portions are huge!

TIP:   Mercado 20 de Noviembre can be crowded and overwhelming. However, the lively atmosphere and incredible food make it well worth a visit. If you’re nervous,  join a food tour  with a local guide or  a cooking class that includes a market tour! Here’s a look at some of the best cooking classes in Oaxaca .

Oaxacan food is as diverse as it is distinctive, and none of the dishes is more iconic than  mole.  It’s part sauce, part marinade, often drenched over chicken or other meat. With seven definitive versions (each with its own unique recipe), mole is a complex and intricate dish that is quintessentially Oaxacan. Many foreigners struggle to like this dish, but I honestly cannot understand why. It’s sweet, spicy, sour, and bitter all at once!

Mole recipes vary, but in general, it’s made up of chocolate, chiles, red and green tomatoes, fruit, spices, nuts and seeds. The ingredients are blended into a paste, then watered down with stock, and slow-cooked for hours (or days) until it forms a rich flavorful sauce. Mole is usually eaten with chicken or meat and rice.

Mexico Travel Requirements

• Mexico has no travel restrictions, and there’s no need for proof of vaccine or PCR tests on the plane. Anyone is welcomed to travel to Mexico.
• However, I always recommend travelers to buy travel insurance, whether you’re traveling for a year or a week. These days, it is particularly important to have travel insurance that covers COVID-19. Read my travel insurance guide.
• Safety Wing  is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their  Nomad Insurance plan , which covers COVID-19 as any other illness as long as it was not contracted before your coverage start date.

Two blocks to the east of the Zócalo is the interesting  Museo Textil de Oaxaca  dedicated to the art of weaving in Oaxaca, with exhibits showcasing traditional techniques and textiles from different regions of the state. The small museum was founded in 2006 by the Alfredo Harp Helú Foundation and is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century building in the historic center of the city.

The museum’s exhibits showcase the intricate designs, vibrant colors, and diverse techniques used by local weavers and artisans, as well as the cultural and historical significance of these textiles. Admission is FREE.

S nap Photos at  Callejon San Pablo

Right next to the Textile Museum is an alley that leads to the Centro Cultural San Pablo. The art space is decorated with giant sculptures, mural art and colorful umbrellas hanging overhead. There’s a cafe with outdoor seating as well as a casual flea market selling handmade crafts, wooden art and locally designed clothings.  See its location on Google Maps.

Just a few blocks north is a cool, eclectic design market housed in a crumbling half-restored building. It features a curated selection of products, ranging from artisanal icecream to locally-brewed mezcal and trendy fashion.

The focus of Atemporal Market is on showcasing homegrown products of Oaxaca, with an emphasis on sustainable and ethical production methods. The vibes here are hip and alternative, in contrast to the traditional markets that Oaxaca is famous for (I’ll talk about below).

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 3: Neighborhoods

Start day 3 with a wander through the eclectic and colorful district of Jalatlaco just to the east of the historic center. Even though it’s one of the oldest districts in Oaxaca, it’s becoming the  hippest area in the city . 

Wander through the cobblestoned streets, admiring the mural art, and stopping at one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat. The district has an artsy feel, thanks to the art studios and galleries that line its streets. Exploring this area is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Oaxaca for photographers and Instagram fans.

To the north of the historic center (across the highway) lies Xochimilco,  the oldest neighborhood in Oaxaca . It’s also chocked full of multihued houses, street art and narrow cobbled alleys. A spot worth checking out is the 18th century aqueduct that runs along Callejon Rufino Tamayo.

Our absolute favorite restaurant in Oaxaca is also located here:  Ancestral Cocina Tradicional  serves reimagined Oaxacan dishes made from locally grown products and ingredients in a beautiful setting. In 2021 and again in 2022, the restaurant was recognized by the the Mexico Gastronomic Guide of Culinary Mexicana as one of the 250 top and best restaurants in Mexico.  Book your table here.

One of my favorite things to do in Oaxaca is having dinner and drinks at a rooftop bar in town during sunset. Most rooftop bars are concentrated along  Calle de Ignacio Allende , where you can take in sweeping views of the Templo de Santo Domingo and the historic center. I highly recommend booking a table in advance as these rooftop bars get busy.

We really enjoyed the food and drinks at  Praga Oaxaca (pictured); their  botaca oaxaqueña  (snack platter) was filling and flavorful. The next-door Terraza los Amantes is bigger and more stylish. At the street corner is  Gozobi , a colorful and eclectic restaurant with a huge rooftop and well-priced contemporary Mexican menu. We had dinner here on our last night and loved the grilled octopus in black squid ink and seafood risotto.

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Oaxaca Itinerary Day 4: Day Trip

Next, this Oaxaca itinerary will bring you on a day trip out to the southern reaches of Oaxaca. You’ll first visit the Monte Alban pyramid s just 20 minutes from downtown Oaxaca, then continue south along Highway 175 to visit three villages that are known for distinctive arts. Finally, you’ll end the day at a mezcaleria , or mezcal distillery to explore the agave plantations and taste the quintessentially Oaxacan spirit.

One of the most popular things to do in Oaxaca is to do a day trip to the ancient ruins of Monte Albán just outside the city. Built by the Zapotecs, this is one of the most impressive  archaeological sites  in all of Latin America.

The ancient city was built on the hilltop to the southwest of Oaxaca, and from here, you can get spectacular views of the Sierra Madre mountains. Unlike other famous ruins like Chichen Itza, you can actually climb the Monte Alban pyramids . From the top, you can see the sheer scale of the pyramids, temples, and ball courts.  Read my guide to Monte Alban.

As at any archaeological site, hiring a guide can give you much deeper insights to the Zapotec civilization. We drove our car rental here and it was an easy 20-minute drive from the center. But if you don’t have transport, it’s wise to book a guided tour as you will have transport and guide included.  Book this simple half-day tour  or  a full-day tour  that covers lunch and visits to artisan workshops.

With a large indigenous population, Oaxaca has a rich handicraft-making tradition. The villages that surround Oaxaca city specialize in a different form of artisanal work and give interesting insights to country living in Oaxaca. If you want to understand more of Oaxacan life or buy souvenirs, these art towns in Oaxaca are the places you need to go.

The nearest art village to Oaxaca is San Bartolo Coyotepec , just 20 minutes south of Oaxaca centro. This is where the famous barro negro (black clay) comes from, and many artisans live here and display their work in the numerous workshops here.

Continue 20 minutes south along Highway 175 to the village of San Martín Tilcajete , famous for their alebrijes. Alebrijes are crafted from either paper maché or carved from wood, and at first glance, they appear to be animal figures. However, upon closer inspection, you’ll discover that each figure is a combination of several animals. The wooden Oaxacan alebrijes, which have become incredibly popular, were first created by artist Manuel Jiménez Ramírez, As each one is handmade, no two alebrijes are alike. 

Just a 10-minute drive further south from Tilcajete is Santo Tomás Jalieza Oaxaca , best known for its textiles. Here you’ll see the entire textile-making process — from hand-dying the yarn with natural materials, to how the famous Oaxacan rugs are made on a loom.

TIP: If you don’t drive, I suggest booking this private tour of the artisan villages where a guide can share his knowledge on the artisanal history of the area.

Oaxaca is known to produce some of the best mezcal in Mexico . Mezcal has a unique, smoky taste I absolutely love, thanks to the underground roasting of the plant. Currently undergoing a revival of sorts, mezcal is gaining fame all around the world, even though it’s long been popular in Mexico.

The backcountry of Oaxaca is dotted with plenty of mezcalerias where you can learn about the production process from local farmers and taste different kinds of mezcal. A 20-minute drive further south of Santo Tomas Jalieza is Real Minero , a family-run distillery that has been making mezcal for over four generations. Their tours and tastings are a great way to learn about the artisanal production process and sample some truly exceptional mezcals. This highly-rated experience is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca for couples and solo travelers.

TIP : Those who prefer not to drive can join this tour to visit an artisanal local farm where you get to walk in the agave fields and watch how the farmer harvests the agave.

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 5: Day Trip

Start day 5 of your Oaxaca itinerary bright and early as you’ll need to drive 1.5 hours to Hierve al Agua . The road there is fantastic, though it becomes an unpaved road once you leave the highway and head towards the petrified falls. That said, you won’t need a 4×4, a normal sedan works just fine.

We made it a point to first visit Hierve el Agua and then the rest of the sights on our drive back to Oaxaca city as we knew it would get crowded and hot later in the day at Hierve el Agua. We also did it as a day trip and stayed at the same hotel in Oaxaca city so we didn’t have to keep moving hotels.

One of the most unique geological formations I’ve ever seen,  Hierve el Agua is a highlight of this Oaxaca road trip . The mineral formations that resemble cascading waterfalls are absolutely unique, and the natural springs and pools are a refreshing place to cool off after a hike. Read my guide to Hierve el Agua .

While the name Hierve el Agua means “boiling water” in Spanish, the water can actually be a bit cold. It’s still nice and refreshing to take a dip, especially after hiking. There are short trails that weave all around the various pools and to the bottom of the Oaxaca waterfalls . You don’t need to be fit to walk them; my 7-year-old loved traipsing up and down the trails. Most of the trails lead to glorious views of the stunning valley.

Hierve el Agua was closed for a period of time due to disputes between the ejido owners, but it is now opened to the public once again. It is a popular spot and gets crowded pretty fast, so try to get there as early as you can.  It’s opens at 7am, it’s worth getting up early.

TIP:  If you don’t have transport, I suggest booking a tour as and there is no public transport. You can get there by taxi for around 600 MXN (US$30).  This day tour  costs just 850 MXN (US$42.5)and brings you also to Mitla.

On your way back to Oaxaca, make a stop at the Mitla archaeological site, just a 30-minute drive from Hierve el Agua. While Monte Alban was the political centre for the Zapotecs, Mitla was the religious centre. Mitla archaeological site features intricate geometric patterns and designs carved into the stone walls, which are believed to have had religious significance for the Zapotec people. Its name comes from the Nahuatl word meaning the place of the dead, or the underworld.

Right outside the archaeological site is a big market where handmade crafts and textiles are on sale. This is also a great spot to get some local food, snacks or icecream.

Another worthwhile stop enroute back to Oaxaca is Teotitlán del Valle, 30 minutes from Mitla by car. This artisan village has gained fame for its traditional Zapotec weaving techniques and colorful textiles. In the local workshops, you can learn about the process of making the textiles. We visited the  Centro de Arte Textil Zapoteco Bii Dauu  and learned how they use natural dyes made from plants, insects, and minerals to create yarn that is then woven into textiles.

On the road back to Oaxaca city, stop at the Tree of Tule, a massive Montezuma cypress tree that has the world’s widest trunk with a diameter of 46 feet (14m). It takes at least 30 people to wrap around it. 

According to scientists, the Tule tree is almost 2,000 years old. But the Zapotec people believe that the Wind God Ehécatl sowed the seeds of the tree around 1,400 years ago. Today, you can still find it standing tall in front of the  Templo Santa María de la Asunción  church in the pueblo (small town) of Santa Maria del Tule, in the peripheries of Oaxaca city.

TIP:   You can easily combine Hierve el Agua, Mitla, Teotitlan del Valle and the Tule tree into one day trip. We did that on our own as we had  a rental car.  If you don’t drive, check out  this day tour  that brings you to all four sites.

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 6: Mountains

It’s time to leave Oaxaca city behind and kick start your Oaxaca road trip! Getting to the Pacific coast from Oaxaca City can be a long and tedious journey as you’ll be crossing the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains. The most direct route is along Highway 175, which zigzags its way through the mountains and forests of the Sierra Madre del Sur.

The drive is an exceptionally scenic one and trust me it’s well worth stopping to smell the roses and soak in the fresh mountain air. We broke up the 6-hour drive with a night’s stay in the mountain village of San Jose del Pacífico, about 7,500 feet (2,300 meters) above sea level.

It’s surrounded by the cloud forest, a unique ecosystem characterized by its high humidity, dense vegetation, and abundant wildlife. We made a stop at El Bosque Encantado to walk on the hanging bridges and go on the giant swing that swished high above the forests.

San Jose del Pacífico is also known as the mushroom capital of Mexico . Its psychedelic mushrooms are believed to have medicinal properties and are used in traditional ceremonies by the local communities. The small town has a bohemian, hippy vibe that we really liked.

Luxury: Alto de la Sierra by Rotamundos 

Housed in beautiful A-roofed cabins, this hotel provides the best accommodation in the area. It’s a bit further from the main road, but the facilities are great.  Check rates here.

Mid Range: Cabañas Camino al Cielo

 We stayed at Cabañas Camino al Cielo and we were pleasantly surprised by the incredibly good facilities. The family cabin was well-designed, warm and cosy and the view was insane. Check the rates here.

Budget: Hostel Cabañas La Cumbre

For those on a budget, I would recommend the  Hostel Cabañas La Cumbre . However, the internet at the hostel is ultra slow and there is often no hot water, but if the hostel/backpacker style is your thing, this is perfect for you.

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 7: Beach Time

The next day, it’s a 3-hour drive all the way south to the Pacific Coast. The Oaxacan coast is less developed than Cancun and the Riviera Maya , and is a great choice if you’re looking for a wilder and less commercialised beach experience. Along the coast, the scenery is both dramatic and serene, with towering cliffs and jagged rocks jutting out of the sea, while big waves lap at the golden sands.

Once you reach the coast, turn east to Bahia de Huatulco , where you’ll be staying the night. The area has nine bays and 30+ beaches. Many of the beaches are easily accessible by car from the town center, which is called La Crucecita . It’s a very small town but most of the things to do in Huatulco are out at sea, so it’s definitely a good spot to book a boat tour.

We had lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, then booked ourselves in for a boat trip around the Bahia de Huatulco . Boats run pretty much all day long until just before sunset. A standard private boat tour costs about 2500 MXN (US$125) per boat. It starts at Marina Santa Cruz and goes all the way to Bahia San Augustin with two stops for snorkeling.

Luxury: Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa

Located on a private beach in the Tangolunda Bay, Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa offers luxurious amenities and services for a truly indulgent vacation. The resort features multiple infinity pools, seven gourmet restaurants, a full-service spa, and spacious suites with private balconies or terraces. Check rates.

Mid-Range: Hotel Castillo Huatulco

Nestled in the heart of La Crucecita, Hotel Castillo Huatulco offers comfortable rooms and a great location at an affordable price. We stayed here and really enjoyed the rooftop pool with stunning views of the town and the ocean. Check rates.

Budget: Hostal Chikuaa

For budget-conscious travelers, Hostal Chikuaa offers a cozy and affordable accommodation option in the heart of Santa Cruz. The hostel features a communal kitchen, lounge area, and rooftop terrace. Check rates.

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 8: More Beaches

The last part of your Oaxaca road trip takes you to your final destination, Puerto Escondido, via a few rugged beaches and hippie towns. Rise early, put on your swim suit, pack your bags, and get ready to continue exploring the Oaxacan coast.

Your first stop is the nudist beach of Zipolite , a 1 hour 15 min drive away. While nude sunbathing is technically illegal in Mexico, it is tolerated at Zipolite Beach. Clothing is optional and most people do wear bikinis, just a handful will be nude.

Zipolite Beach boasts the longest stretch of sandy beach on the Oaxacan coast, so there’s plenty of space for swimming and surfing. Though at times the waves can be choppy, they are generally manageable and offer plenty of entertainment. My 8-year-old daughter loved this beach!

Continue westwards for just 16 minutes and you’ll reach Mazunte, another cute hippie town that has far better-priced restaurants than next-door San Agustinillo. A worthwhile place to visit here is the Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga , a research and conservation center dedicated to the protection of sea turtles in the region. You can learn about the different species of sea turtles, the threats they face, and the efforts to conserve them.

In the afternoon, hike out to the rock outcrop of Punta Cometa for stunning views of the coastline. The 45-minute hike to Punta Cometa is a scenic one, bringing you through a lush tropical landscape. See the trail route on Google Maps.

To get to the trailhead, take the main street of Rinconcito to Camino Mermejita. This road leads up the hill and eventually to Mermejita Beach. After five minutes, you’ll see a cemetery on the left and then a road with a group of signs, including one for Punta Cometa. Follow the trail until you arrive at the entrance. There is also a park worker in the evenings who keeps count of the people arriving. 

Finally, drive around 1.5hours to Puerto Escondido, the main hub of the Oaxacan coast. This was our favorite spot on the coast and we wished we had more time here! The beach town has grown into a proper city and now has a huge selection of accommodation to choose from. Stay the night here and then explore the next day.

Luxury: Hotel Escondido

This stunning adults-only boutique hotel has a stylish decor and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. The hotel’s design blends rustic and modern elements, with luxurious amenities and private plunge pools in some of the rooms. Check rates here.

Mid-range: Selina Puerto Escondido

Selina is a popular chain of hostels and hotels in Latin America, and their Puerto Escondido location offers a great balance of affordability and comfort. The hotel hosts events and activities for digital nomads, such as salsa lessons and surf lessons, making it a great place to meet other travelers. Check rates.

Budget: Bungalows Zicatela

This charming surf hostel is located in the heart of Puerto Escondido’s famous surf neighborhood, Zicatela. The hostel offers a variety of affordable dorm rooms and private rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and outdoor spaces to relax and socialize. Check rates.

Oaxaca Itinerary Day 9: Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido has become a magnet for surfers and travelers seeking a bohemian lifestyle. The town is known as one of the best surf spots in Mexico . The surf culture has infused the town with a laidback, easygoing vibe, attracting hippies and free spirits. The town is actually bigger than we expected, and there’s a wide array of activities on offer.

Playa Zicatela has played an important role in putting Puerto Escondido on the map. It’s home to the so-called Mexican Pipeline. Surfers from all over the world come to ride the waves here.

If you haven’t surfed before, sign up for a 2-hour surfing lesson here . The instructor will adapt the lesson to your level: if you are a beginner, he’ll push you into the waves, and if you are intermediate, he provides you with coaching and help you catch the waves on your own.

The best beach in Puerto Escondido, Playa Carrizalillo, is rather secluded and requires a bit of effort to access. Walking down to the beach isn’t the issue, it’s climbing up the 167 steps on the rocky cliff face that’s hard work. The jade green water and perfect waves make it well worth the trek. Choose to lounge on the sundecks, slurp on fresh oysters shucked right on the beach, or go for a hike up the cliffs to more remote coves.

On the windswept Playa Bacocho , you can actually help to release baby turtles and watch them waddle into the sea. Vive Mar is a turtle sanctuary that protects 27 km of coastline, from Bacocho Beach to Vijia Beach. Four species of sea turtles (out of seven that exist in the world) nest here.

They run turtle release programs everyday at 5pm, and anyone can join for a small fee of 300 MXN ($15). The program runs all year long. The volunteers at Vive Mar first provide an educational talk about the turtles, then explain the process of hatching, and how the baby turtles need to crawl across the sand to reach the ocean. You can then join in the excitement of releasing the turtles into the water.

Releasing baby turtles is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for both adults and kids alike. Our daughter said it was her favorite experience on our Oaxaca road trip — it was mine too!

Sadly, it’s the last day of your Oaxaca road trip and time to head home! I suggest flying out from the Puerto Escondido Airport (PXM) if your budget allows. Puerto Escondido is a tiny airport, and it only serves Mexico City, Guadalajara and Tijuana. Check here for flights to Puerto Escondido.

You will however need to book a 1-way car rental, with pickup from Oaxaca Airport and drop-off at Puerto Escondido Airport. That usually comes with an extra charge. Also, you’ll need to book flights from one of the cities that serve PXM.

We ended up driving back to Oaxaca for our flight home, and that took us around 6.5 hours direct (with a short stop for lunch on the way).

Oaxaca Travel Guide

The best time to visit Oaxaca is  from October to April , when the weather is dry and mild. This is also the time of year when many of the city’s festivals and cultural events. 

In general, Oaxaca has a desert climate with hot days and cool nights. Pack a light jacket regardless of the time you visit as the temperature drops drastically in the evening.

The busiest time of the year runs from late October for the  Day of the Dead , through mid-January. It’s also crowded in July, when Oaxaca celebrates the Guelaguetza, the biggest Oaxaca festival.

Oaxaca is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. According to Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography, the state of Oaxaca had a homicide rate of 8.6 per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022, lower than the national average. The state government also reports that the number of homicides decreased by 33% from 2021 to 2022. 

We went to Oaxaca at Day of the Dead so it was extremely crowded, but we still felt super safe. However, it’s worth noting that as with any destination, there is still a risk of crime, particularly in certain areas and at certain times. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is one of the most common types of crime reported in Oaxaca.

• In Mexico, you drive on the right side of the road.
• Driving in Oaxaca city can be stressful as traffic is usually crazy, especially during peak hours. Driving outside of Oaxaca city is a lot more relaxing and managable.
• The mountain roads in the Sierra Madre del Sur are steep and winding, be prepared to spend hours navigating hairpin bends. The government is currently building a faster route from Oaxaca to the coast, but nobody knows when that will be completed.
• Always keep your driving license, car rental papers, and proof of insurance handy.
• The main road hazards are reckless drivers; they tend to go very fast, changing lanes as and when they like without signaling. Be wary of these drivers and keep calm!
• Avoid driving at night as you won’t be able to see the speed bumps and drivers go even faster than usual.

A Oaxaca road trip is the absolute best way to see the state and experience everything it has to offer. Just pack a sense of adventure and tons of patience to navigate the mountain road and I guarantee you’ll have the trip of your lifetime!

I hope you’ve found this Oaxaca itinerary useful. Feel free to leave a comment below if you need any help with planning your Oaxaca road trip. For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:

• Oaxaca Day of the Dead Guide
• The Ultimate Mexico Day of the Dead Guide
• 30 Things to Do in Oaxaca City
• Monte Alban: My Guide to the Oaxaca Pyramids
• Hierve el Agua: Oaxaca Waterfalls Guide
• 10-Day Baja California Itinerary
• 10-Day Copper Canyon Itinerary
• 10-Day Guanajuato Itinerary
• 30 Things to Do in Guanajuato
• 30 Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!

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2 thoughts on “Oaxaca Road Trip: My 10-Day Oaxaca Itinerary”

Me gusto mucho la información, realmente se antoja ir a las playas de Oaxaca como las de Huatulco, también hay que hablar de la basta gastronomía que tiene y de los hoteles increíbles.

Oaxaca es una maravilla, tiene todo, playa, parques, bosques, tradición y cultura.

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Itinerario de 11 días para un road trip por Oaxaca. ¡Con playas y ciudad!

• Post author: admin
• Post published: July 2, 2019
• Post category: Español

Si quieres hacer un road trip por Oaxaca, usa éste itinerario de 11 días para conocer lo más bonito de las playas y la ciudad.

Oaxaca es uno de los Estados más impresionantes de México, ya que tiene demasiadas cosas que ofrecer, como: parques nacionales, pirámides, arte, playas impresionantes y una gastronomía sin igual. Por lo tanto, vale la pena tomarte 11 días y conocer la ciudad y sus playas. Este itinerario está hecho, inspirado en un road trip que hice con unos amigos en un Jeep Wrangler. Sin embargo, puedes adaptar éste itinerario a un plan familiar o de pareja y no necesariamente necesitas un coche 4×4.

CDMX – Chacahua 720 km

El road trip debe de empezar entre 6:00 y 7:00 am. Les recomiendo salir de la Ciudad de México lo más temprano posible, para llegar de día. Nosotros paramos a desayunar en Cuatro Vientos ¡delicioso!

Para llegar a Chacahua debes dejar tu coche en un estacionamiento y pedirle a uno de los locales que te lleven en su lancha a tus cabañas. Atravesar la Laguna de Chacahua, es un recorrido espectacular. Éste parque nacional fue la primera área protegida con ecosistemas tropicales decretada en México.

Para más información de éste parque visita ésta página

Llegamos a dormir a las Cabañas del Piojo, están en frente del mar. No hay manera de reservar en estas cabañas, tienes que llegar y pedir por ellas, con suerte encuentras lugar y si no, ¡no te preocupes! hay muchas a lado que también tienen opción de acampar, cuarto cerrado o hasta te rentan hamacas para dormir. En la noche armamos una fogata para relajarnos del día pesado.

Día en Chacahua

Puedes pasar el día en la playa, aprovechar para surfear y caminar por la aldea. Nosotros optamos por ir en la tarde al Cocodrilario de Chacahua. Ahí podrás ver distintas especies de cocodrilos que resulta ser una actividad muy divertida, es impresionante ver de cerca animales tan grandes y majestuosos.

Después de visitar el Cocodrilario, nos invitaron a liberar tortugas bebé. Si quieres participar en ésta increíble actividad (que te aseguro nunca olvidarás) tienes que llegar aproximadamente dos horas antes del atardecer. Vas a estar atento a las indicaciones de los cuidadores de los huevos. Ya que llegue el momento, te van a dar a las mini tortugas para que las sueltes a la orilla del mar y tengan menos posibilidades de ser atacadas por los pájaros. ¡Te despides de ellas y les deseas suerte!

Chacahua – Roca Blanca 60 km

En la mañana del tercer día, optamos por ir a pescar para despedirnos del Parque Nacional. Para llegar, toma en cuenta que cualquier local te puede dar un tour en su lancha. La pesca es de agua salada, nosotros sacamos un pámpano. Con todo y que salimos 5:00 am no tuvimos mucha suerte.

Terminando la pesca, regresamos a las Cabañas del Piojo por nuestras maletas. Para ir de regreso, tuvimos que cruzar de nuevo la laguna en lancha para llegar al estacionamiento donde habíamos dejado el coche. Subimos todas nuestras maletas al Jeep y ¡vámonos!

Llegamos a Roca Blanca, una playa tranquila, que tal como su nombre lo indica, tiene una isla al frente que parece una roca blanca en medio del mar. Aquí acampamos por una noche en las cabañas de la Maestra Lulú. No es difícil encontrar las cabañas, busca una palapa en frente del mar con un enorme letrero que dice “Cabañas Maestra Lulú”.

Te aseguro que no puedes encontrar un mejor spot para acampar, además de ser un lugar súper seguro, te preparan ahí mismo el mejor pescado y los mejores mariscos (te recomiendo que pidas la pesca del día).

Ojalá corras con la suerte que tuvimos nosotros de ser testigo de una luna de ensueño. De cualquier manera, tienes kilómetros de playa para ti, tus amigos, familia o pareja.

Roca Blanca – Casa Wabi – Puerto Escondido 44 km

De Roca Blanca manejamos rumbo a Puerto Escondido, pero antes de llegar pasamos a Casa Wabi que queda justo a la mitad del camino. Casa Wabi es una fundación creada por el artista mexicano Bosco Sodi, cuyo objetivo es fomentar el intercambio de ideas entre artistas de diversas disciplinas y las comunidades locales. El espacio fue diseñado por el arquitecto japonés ganador del Premio Pritzker, Tadao Ando . Para visitar necesitas reservar un tour con el equipo de la fundación en su página. Aquí la página.

Después de una increíble parada, continuamos con nuestro itinerario y llegamos a Puerto Escondido, justo a tiempo para cenar y salir a bailar. No tengo una recomendación específica para cenar en Zicatela, como fuimos en temporada alta, buscábamos mesa en donde hubiera lugar. Sin embargo, cualquier lugar sobre la calle principal debe de estar bueno.

Día en Puerto Escondido

Este día de Road Trip, te recomiendo descansar ya que vas justo a la mitad del itinerario de 11 días por Oaxaca y todavía falta mucho por hacer. Hay muchas actividades en Puerto Escondido, puedes echarte del paracaídas, aprender a surfear, tomar el sol o caminar por la playa. Mi parte favorita es Punta Zicatela, que sigue siendo más hippie.

En Punta Zicatela está el mejor restaurante de comida tailandesa, se llama Lychee y el lugar es divino. En la noche puedes ver el atardecer y luego regresar a Zicatela para disfrutar de la vida nocturna.

Puerto Escondido – Zipolite 73 km

Este día del itinerario, manejamos a Zipolite, ahí nos quedamos en el hotel El Alquimista. No podría recomendar un mejor hotel, tiene su propia playa, el restaurante es delicioso y las cabañas son ideales, además tiene una alberca y un spa. Las playas en Zipolite son nudistas, lo cual no significa que tengas que encuerarte pero sí que vas a ver a muchos con ropa de menos.

Para reservar en el Hotel El Alquimista

Zipolite – Mazunte – Zipolite 6.9 km

La maravilla de hacer un road trip en Oaxaca es que tienes coche para recorrer playas que están muy cercanas, Zipolite y Mazunte son unas de ellas. El séptimo día del itinerario nos dedicamos a disfrutar de la playa privada del hotel en Zipolite, y en la tarde fuimos a ver el atardecer a Punta Cometa en Mazunte.

Para Punta Cometa, tienes que dejar tu coche y hacer un pequeño hike. Te recomiendo que lleves tennis porque con chanclas sí se puede poner resbaloso. De regreso a Zipolite puedes parar en la Mezcalería, un bar al aire libre con música en vivo y muy buen ambiente. Tiene una barra de mezcal con una gran variedad que seguro te va a gustar.

Zipolite – Ciudad de Oaxaca 258 km

El tramo de carretera de Zipolite a la ciudad de Oaxaca es bastante pesado, son demasiadas curvas y probablemente vas a llegar cansado. Aunque éste sea el día más pesado del road trip, te recomiendo salir a cenar llegando a la Ciudad de Oaxaca. La comida Oaxaqueña es de las más diversas y ricas del mundo. La Ciudad de Oaxaca tiene unos de los mejores restaurantes de México. De todo éste itinerario, ésta sería la parada gourmet, por lo tanto vale la pena aprovecharlo. Nosotros cenamos en la terraza del Pitiona, para disfrutar de comida de autor y una vista épica del Templo Santo Domingo.

Me considero una verdadera fan de la comida Oaxaqueña, por lo que escribí un artículo de “ 9 lugares para desayunar, comer y cenar en la Ciudad de Oaxaca”. Puedes usar éste artículo para inspirar tu propio tour gastronómico por la Ciudad en estos días del road trip.

Para reservar en Pitiona

Ciudad de Oaxaca

Éste día lo seleccionamos para recorrer el Jardín Etnobotánico y el Museo del Templo Santo Domingo. El museo es para mi gusto, el más bonito de la ciudad. Después fuimos a comer al restaurante Criollo de Enrique Olvera. Éste lugar en particular me gusta más para comida que para la cena. La entrada al restaurante es a través de la cocina y todas las mesas están en un patio abierto. El menú es preestablecido, pero tiene la garantía Olvera.

En la noche caminamos por el centro y cenamos en Casa Oaxaca que nunca falla. Les recomiendo que pidan la sopa de piedra que es muy típica y aquí les queda muy bien.

Para reservar en Criollo Para reservar en Casa Oaxaca

Desayunamos en el Restaurante San Pablo y nos fuimos a visitar Monte Albán. Monte Albán es uno de los sitios arqueológicos más importantes del país y se encuentra a tan sólo 8 km del centro de la Ciudad de Oaxaca, por lo tanto vale mucho la pena ir y visitar.

Aunque generalmente es un lugar con un sol muy fuerte, a nosotros nos tocó un clima no favorecedor porque nos llovió. Así que, no está de más revisar el clima previo a tu visita para tener una experiencia más agradable. Se puede subir al punto más alto de cada pirámide, así que no olvides llevarte tenis y un buen sombrero.

Para más información de Monte Albán

Ciudad de Oaxaca – Ciudad de México 462 km

El último día regresamos rumbo a la Ciudad de México. Cansados, pero más que satisfechos con nuestro inolvidable itinerario de road trip de 11 días por Oaxaca.

Espero que puedas disfrutar de un itinerario de road trip como éste y aproveches a conocer uno de los Estados más bonitos de México, Oaxaca. Si quieres mayor información, no dudes en contactarme.

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Oaxaca Road Trip: Colonial Cities, Beaches, Ruins, & Mezcal

When you say the word Oaxaca (wa-haa-kah) to someone who’s been there, their reaction is almost universal: “Ooooo…Oaxaca is amazing.” Known for its indigenous culture, colonial architecture, ancient ruins, homespun mezcal, pristine beaches, and robust cuisine, the Mexican state of Oaxaca has a lot going for it. We spent a week in their UNESCO city and capital, taking walking tours, Critical Mass bike riding, sipping our way through mezcalarias , and people watching in the zócalo plaza. We met bloggers and expats…many who came for a few days and have stayed a few months—even years. We tried to pick their brains for a good road trip itinerary but the response was always, “Everything cool is super close to the city; just stay here and do day trips.” And while it’s true that most of greater Oaxaca Valley’s main attractions are within 25 miles of the capital, we know road tripping is the greatest way to understand a region, so we rented a car. Here is the best of our Oaxaca Road Trip, plus another five days beach-hopping the Oaxacan Riviera. It was an unforgettable ride (with just one *very* near-death experience).  

Table of Contents

Map: Oaxaca Road Trip

Speaking of Allianz, they just released their 2023 Vacation Confidence Index , and it looks like 2023 was one for the books, with Americans spending over $200 Billion on their summer vacations. WOW. Mexico has long been a popular travel destination, but more people need to make it to Oaxaca!

Traditional Markets: Zaachila

First up, Zaachila: a historic Zapotec capital and trade center, just eight miles south of Oaxaca City. Of the 16 officially recognized indigenous groups in Oaxaca, the Zapotecs are the largest and have left an impressive legacy of architecture, language, and tradition. Zaachila is a thriving community, with important 13th-15th-century ruins and an-open air Thursday market that is said to be the most authentic in the valley. We walked the stalls filled with colorful displays of fruits, mezcals, and freshly prepared delicacies. In Spanish, we ordered a “Tepache” drink from an elderly woman, but it became clear she was a Zapotec language speaker and pointing and head nods were the best way to communicate. Dipping her ladle into a clay pot, she poured this juice of fermented pineapple rind and brown sugar into a cup then pointed at a bottle of mystery alcohol. We couldn’t say no to this undoubtedly wise woman, so we kicked it up a notch and raised our glass to her. We continued our way through the maze and stopped at near every comal roasting veggies. We ordered our first tlayuda , a massive thin tortilla with a layer of refried beans and toppings of choice; we got zucchini flower, mushrooms, onions, and four varieties of salsa. Now for the dessert experience of a lifetime. Just off the market square, we heard a grinding sound and smelled chocolate. “El Vesubio” is a DIY factory where locals bring their cacao beans, sugar, and cinnamon to be ground in the machines and mixed into gooey chocolate. The place was literally buzzing—from the 1950s machinery to little old ladies chattering as they stirred their fudgey blends. The clerk was also selling the ingredients, so we figured why not try our skills as chocolatiers? The little old ladies got such a kick out of us gringos trying their daily trade that they couldn’t help but impart their tips as we mixed it up. Spending time in this locals’ scene was as sweet as our 3.5 kilos of homemade chocolate.  

Crafts: San Martín Tilcajete

Oaxaca Valley is renowned for its handicrafts, with many villages specializing in a certain artform—the woven goods of Teotitlan del Valle, the black pottery of San Bartolo Coyotepec, embroidery of San Antonino Castillo Velasco, and (our favorite) the alebrijes of San Martín de Tilcajete. Wood carved and painted into fantastical creatures, alebrijes are a relatively new artform that developed out of a fever dream by sculptor Pedro Linares López in the 1930s, where mashups of animals (imagine lion with wingos, a dragon with an owl head, etc.) were chanting the made-up word “alebrije.” It’s a long-story of how San Martín became one of two towns in Mexico (the other being San Antonio Arrazola) that are famous for their alebrijes, but it’s largely thanks to their abundance of copal wood and generations of craftsman that have been honing their skills. We popped into numerous artist studios to watch them whittle wood and paint these creatures with the finest detail. Though getting off the main drag, we were equally impressed with the street art in this town (I mean really impressed). When not making souvenirs, these young artists are letting their imaginations run wild across every available building and alley wall. See our Instagram gallery for more pics.

Mezcal: Santa Catarina las Minas & Matatlán

While nine states in Mexico can officially make mezcal, Oaxaca is responsible for 90% of the world’s production. Making spirits from distilled agave is unlike any other liquor, since the plant needs 4-30 years to mature…and once it’s dug up for its root ball ( la piña ), it can’t be used again. And even cooler than its mainstream cousin Tequila, which is made from the farmed blue agave plant, mezcal is most commonly made from wild agave, harvested from the mountainside and produced by small-batch family distilleries—still using wood-fire and horsepower! It is a truly artisanal drink and we had to pay our respects. While Santiago Matatlán is the “World Capital of Mezcal” and has the densest concentration of palenques (mezcal distilleries) and tasting rooms, and is certainly worth a half day, the real mezcal experience is in the countryside. We got some local intel from our Oaxaca City friends to head to the village of Santa Catarina Minas and visit the palenques of Rambha Mezcal, Real Minero, Laloucura, and El Conejo. We wanted to try them all but mezcal is potent stuff, so we honed in on Palenque El Conejo to experience “ancestral” mezcal, the most traditional means of production using wood-fired pit ovens, hand-shredded agave, and clay pot distillation…no stainless steel, no machines, not even a horse to help! The palenque was also apparently his house, so we tentatively walked towards the huge piles of roasted agave and glowing ovens. Then out popped a guy with a Panama hat, “ Hola, hola, bienvenidos! ” It was Antonio Carlos Martínez (aka Conejo or Rabbit) the third-generation mezcalero . His casual tour was all in Spanish so I caught about 80% of it, but chewing on the smokey sweet agave, peering into huge wooden vats of fermenting juice, watching his nephew tend the fires and bubbling clay pots, and sitting with Conejo as we tried mezcals from five different agave plants, we got the full experience. The tradition of making mezcal is fascinating and largely misunderstood, so we’d also highly recommend taking Where the Sidewalk Ends’ Sacred Mezcal Experience and the English-speaking tour offered at Palenque Malamor in Matatlán, which will allow you to see a “large-scale” distillery…if only to realize there’s nothing mass about this bespoke spirit.  

Ancient Ruins: Mitla

Just seven miles past Matatlán in the upper Tlacolula Valley lies the ruins of Mitla—the most important religious center and sacred burial grounds of the Zapotec culture. Though what makes it interesting is the influence from several different cultures. It was where the Zapotec priests would do their human sacrifices, but they were overtaken by the Mistec people who enhanced the complex with incredible geometric fretwork; then came the Spanish who built an elaborate church on top of the ruins. We stayed at Mitla Backpackers ; albeit basic and a decent walk from the main town, this affordable hostel ($16 for a double room) gave us unbeatable views of the 16th-century San Pablo church and into the pre-Hispanic ruins. In the morning we entered the multi-part complex that spans this Pueblo Mágico (a national designation of culturally significant places) and we were dazzled by the mosaics. Without the help of mortar, these finely cut and polished stones are perfectly fit together into beautiful patterns that have survived hundreds of years; it’s completely unique to other ruins in Mexico and a must-see!

The Caves of Yagul & Seeds of Mesoamerica

Continuing our Oaxaca road trip down Highway 190, Mike noticed some man-made structures in the cliffs. We got closer, they were indeed cave dwellings and a BIG deal. The prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla are where 10,000-year-old seeds were found and recognized by UNESCO as the earliest known evidence of domesticated plants in North America. To double down on significance, corn cob fragments that were found here are the earliest known evidence of the domestication of maize and thereby the foundation of the Mesoamerican civilization! History kept unfolding down the road as we spotted the Caballito Blanco petroglyphs, dating back 5,000 years. By the time we reached the Zapotec ruins of Yagul, this pyramid complex seemed like a young buck at just 1,600 years old. The site was closed but the surrounding nature preserve was open so we took a hike, thinking we might find some pottery shards or signs of this ancient civilization. We followed some hand-carved stairs, and accidentally (scout’s honor) entered the backside of the ruins! We didn’t explore for more than a few minutes so no one thought we were tomb raiders, but what we saw was incredible.  

Mountains: Sierra Juarez & Its Forbidden Fruit

Our itinerary for the 100-mile detour into the biodiverse Sierra Juarez was perfect on paper: a national park, Pueblo Mágico, and a multi-day hike between indigenous villages…sounds awesome, right? Well, the COVID patrol had other plans. Benito Juarez National Park was on lockdown, but we kept our spirits up as we drove Highway 175 into the cloud forest, with the bromeliads clinging to the trees and rustic restaurants hugging the cliffs. By dusk we got to the Pueblo Mágico of Capupulam de Mendez, only to find another chain across the main entrance. The guard broke it to us that the town was closed for the pandemic (yes, the entire town!), which was particularly hard news to swallow because it was where we were going to sleep and the roads were too curvy to drive in the dark. The guard was the least helpful hombre, but thankfully a ranger pulled up and let us know about an eco-resort that had permission to host tourists. Ecoturixtlan Cabanas was open, but man were they taking their covid protocols seriously. Not only did they make us sanitize our hands and shoes, they sprayed us down from head to toe, and insisted on fumigating our car. Mike was not a happy camper about the intrusion, but came on board when he saw our cute fireplace cabin and explored Ecoturixtlan’s impressive grounds with a fun obstacle course, cloud forest trails, and two massive river grottoes. On the next day’s drive, we saw some signs about construction ahead, but we kept going down, down, down, until we hit a road crew that said we could not pass. Turning around would have cost us multiple hours of backtracking, so Mike pretended he didn’t understand Spanish, waited for a cement truck to lead the way, and we made a break for it. (You can imagine the marital debate going on at this time). We reached the town that the construction crew said “ No hay paso ” and they were in fact correct (point Anne). The town’s two exits towards Oaxaca City were also chained shut. We consulted some locals and they said the road had been closed since the pandemic started, but we could go to the local policeman’s house to see if he would open it for us. Knock, knock. It seemed we had woken him from a nap and that this conversation wasn’t gonna go well. He looked at our Nissan Micra rental and said, “You want to drive over the mountain in that ?” The road was unpaved, rutted, overgrown, and not exactly graded for the dinkiest car in the Alamo fleet. We all had our doubts, but few choices, so he swung it open and wished us luck. We bumped and skidded our way up the mountainside, passing 15-foot-tall agave plants that could swallow a car and nary a sign of civilization, but two hours later we came out the other side (2 points Mike). By the time we made it to Oaxaca City, we were happy to give up our rental car and take a bus to the beach for some R&R…or at least that was the plan.  

Oaxaca City to the Coast: Our Closest Brush with Death in HoneyTrek History

Oaxaca City to the beach is 86 miles as the crow flies, but when you add a massive mountain range and hundreds of hairpin turns, it’s an 8-hour odyssey. We heard this route was a rollercoaster, but that distance just seemed too short to justify a flight, so we hopped the 3pm minibus to Mazunte Beach. The drive up the 8,000-foot pass was stunning, winding around the misty mountains, terraced with coffee plantations and thick with forests of psychedelic mushrooms. Though it was hard to appreciate the beauty out our window with roads this dizzying and a driver with a lead foot. The sun went down and the rain came with it, but somehow this didn’t slow down Señor Speed Racer. I moved to the front seat to calm my nausea, also hoping some company would make him drive more cautiously. It seemed to be working, but he was no match for the oil-slick roads. He hydroplaned to the left, then whipped the steering wheel to the right, and we were sent uncontrollably towards a cliff. I saw the bottom of the ravine quickly approaching and time slowed just enough to contemplate death or dismemberment, then—WHACK! We slammed headfirst into a telephone pole. It snapped in half, and our transmission dragged along the remaining jagged wood until it brought our car to a halt…a few feet over the edge. We scrambled to the back of the van to keep it from tipping forward and jumped out the rear door. Mike and I looked at each other in a state of disbelief, hugged, and thanked our lucky stars we had annual travel insurance—which literally expired the next day! If we got stranded, hurt, or worse without our Allianz Travel plan and its evacuation and medical coverage, we would have been in deep trouble. Thankfully no one was injured and dozens of locals stopped to bring our car back to safety, but this accident was a grave reminder to renew our travel insurance and never cut it that close again.  

Beaches: Zipolite to Puerto Escondido

We’ve been up and down both coasts of Mexico and were blown away by the beaches of Oaxaca. Catering more to surfers and… Posted by HoneyTrek on  Friday, July 2, 2021

We finally reached our hotel in Playa San Agustinillo at 1am, headed to bed, slept off that nightmare experience, and woke up to the dreamiest beach. White sand, teal water, rock islets, and craggy cliffs framed our bungalow. As if our hotel’s location wasn’t awesome enough, Casa Corazon was also the town’s bohemian hangout, serving falafel burgers, mixing delish margaritas, and playing live reggae with sunsets. We quickly fell in love with this beach and the entire Oaxacan coast. The beaches here cater more to surfers and backpackers than resort-goers, and it’s inexpensive enough that fisherman and long-standing locals can still live by the sea. Puerto Escondido is the most developed of the string of towns along the rugged coast (rightfully so with perfect beach coves like Playa Carrizalillo ) but just south are the lesser-traveled beaches that really stole our hearts. Our charming and laidback San Agustinillo was sandwiched between the hippy enclave of Mazunte (hello vegan cafes and yoga studios!) and Zipolite, a proudly clothing-optional beach with lots of coves to let it all hang loose. Each coastal town had their own unique vibe and a rugged rocky coastline that made the Riviera Oaxaqueña one of our favorite regions in Mexico. See the photo gallery above for our favorite moments from the best beaches in Oaxaca.

More Oaxaca Road Trip Stops

El Tule : The world’s widest tree, with a diameter of 38 feet and an age of 2,000 Years, is a sight to behold and within biking distance from the capital. Hierve de Agua : Just outside of Mitla, these hot-spring travertines cascading off the mountains look absolutely incredible. Monte Albán Ruins : While we loved Mitla, everyone says these are the most impressive ruins of Oaxaca and closer to the city. Microfinance Tour : Head to the Tlacolula Valley to meet one of the entrepreneurial women who will share the story of her small-business and a homemade meal. Your En Vía tour helps provide interest-free loans and educational programs to the women of these six villages. It’s an inspiring example of the good tourism can do.

A special thanks to Allianz Travel Insurance for sponsoring this post and for giving us peace of mind when we needed it most!

Looking for more Mexico road trips? Check out our journey from Mazatlan to Mexico City and our RV trip down the length of the Baja Peninsula. Ever considered going to Mexico for their legendary Day of the Dead celebration? You’ve gotta see this post.

14 Comments

This place spells diversity and beauty! The ancient ruins, handicrafts, market, food, distilleries, mosaics, parks, and all make me reminisce the past. I’m sorry to hear about your near death experience. It must have been traumatic. Glad you’re safe!

What an informative post and wonderful pictures! I have been to the area 15 years ago for sightseeing and hiking. But we missed the Mezcal distilleries. Although I am not really a fan of Mezcal I would love to learn more about the process and the history of making it. Renting a car is for sure a good way to see a lot of things and explore at your own pace.

We have not been to Oaxaca, but I was intrigued when I read that people visit for a few days and end up staying for months. It looks like a road trip is a good addition to staying in the city. I love the variety of sites you visited. And you got to engage with the locals for casual tours. Good thing you got some good advice when you found things closed for Covid. That mountain trip sounds wild but good thing there was a telephone pole to stop your crazy descent, and good thing you had travel insurance! I would need many days on the beach to recover!

Yeah, that telephone pole literally could have saved our life. Scary to think about…and as you said…we are equally stoked that we had our travel insurance, cause if anything big did happen and we needed serious medical help, or a medivac, they would have footed the bill for that, which is such piece of mind.

I want to visit just for making my own chocolate at El Vesubio! Sounds like such a great way to experience the area. The ruins, crafts and mezcal are a bonus. Great heads up not to drive that road to Mazunte Beach or trust locals driving too fast on scary roads

Sherianne, yeah that chocolate making session was amaaaaaaazzzziiinnngggg. So much fun to be in there with the locals, and having them watch/help/laugh/teach us how to do it right!

Wow! This place looks amazing. I am not really familiar but I am very fond of handicraft and arts thus, it would be nice to be able to visit this. Heading now to your IG for more pictures. Thank you for sharing about Oaxaca.

We visited Mexico so many times, yet never stopped in Oaxaca. After reading your post I realized this is not to be missed: so many interesting things to see and do! I’d particularly like to see the ancient ruins at Mitla.

Wow what an epic and adventurous road trip. I have never been to Oaxaca till date but would love to go. The traditional markets and ruins seem awesome. And also the mountains. This road trip definitely has everything one can ask. That is definitely a cute car that you did your road trip in and I usually rent out at new places and go on road trips.

Oh, I would totally love to go on this trip! Everything is my interest area – traditional markets, handicrafts, UNESCO sites, ancient ruins, caves – I love it all. San Martín Tilcajete feels like a Mexican version of India’s Bhuj with many villages specializing in a different handicraft. I’ve heard about the distilled Agave spirit and I’d love to try that.

Amazing summary of your days in the beautiful state of Oaxaca! I love that there are some off-the-beaten-path little towns in your itinerary and very thankful you’re safe after that scary trip to the coast! The road is awful there!

Thank you Luna! So glad we could even teach a Oaxaca chica a few new places! Hope you can check them out on you travels. Just don’t take the mini bus over the Sierras to get there 😉

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Lifestyle & Mexico Travel

The Ultimate Oaxaca Road Trip

I recently did a road trip through Oaxaca Mexico to Puerto Escondido with a few friends, it was such an awesome experience! I want to share how we did it because it was really easy when all was said and done. If you love road trips add this one to your bucket list. Travel to Puerto Escondido is extremely popular right now, make the most of your travel time in Mexico and see more destinations in one trip!

Oaxaca Road Trip Quick Itinerary

• Huatulco: 1 night, 1 full day, leave with enough time to make it to Zipolite by sunset.
• 1.5 Hour Drive to Zipolite: 2 nights, 1 day
• 20 minute drive to Mazunte: 1 night, 2 days
• 1 hour drive to Puerto Escondido: 3+ days & nights depending how much time you have. There’s lots to do in Puerto Escondido. I recommend planning your trip so you land here for the weekend, especially if you work remote as there is not good WiFi.
• 4 hour drive to San José del Pacifico: 2 days, 1 night
• 3 hour drive to Oaxaca City: 3+ days, again depending on time. You can work remotely in Oaxaca City, the internet is great. This is a great place to rest for a day and catch up on work then explore the beautiful city.

Renting the Car

There’s an international airport in Huatulco where you can rent a car in person. I recommend waiting to book in person verses online. All fees will be disclosed to you in person and you can compare rates and fees at the rental booths. Remember the rate you see online does not include insurance, drop off fee, or security deposit. If you’re traveling solo a rental car does not make sense financially, you can take a bus to all these places if you’re solo but, the ideal situation is 3-4 people sharing all costs.

Rental Car Cost:

$25 USD/day insurance covers one driver

Refundable Security deposit: $250, not charged to the credit card. Drop off fee: $50 USD, we dropped the car in Puerto Escondido because one of our friends was flying out from there.

Options Options Options: Where to return the car after your Oaxaca Road Mexico Trip?

• Keep the car the whole time and return car in Oaxaca City 
• Return car in Puerto Escondido and take the bus to San José and Oaxaca City. (It’s a van/bus, it’s cheap and easy.)
• Another option, you could definitely start this trip in Oaxaca City and do the whole thing backwards.

First Stop: Huatulco

About Huatulco

The meeting place of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, forming nine bays and over 30 beaches. The color of the water in Huatulco took my breath away, that gorgeous clear turquoise sparkle is my favorite color.

What to do in Huatulco:

• Visit as many bays as possible by boat
• Relax on the white beaches 
• Eat fresh oysters
• Hike one of the many trails overlooking the bays

Second Stop: Zipolite

About Zipolite

This is the only legal nude beach in Mexico. Though I am far from a nudist, but definitely not a prude, I fall somewhere between the two; so this sounded like fun… not to mention it’s gorgeous (and cheap!). The name comes from the Zapotec tribal language and translates to “beach of the dead” because of the dangerous currents. This is a great place to hang out on the beach or in a pool (so get a hotel that has one!) but not so much in the ocean. The waves actually did look deadly. The vibe here is still similar to the one it had upon its popularity in the 70s of peace and free love. The small pueblo has a gay friendly culture and lots of beach night life, that’s why I recommend two nights here and only one night in Mazunte, because Mazunte doesn’t have much nightlife especially during the week.

What to do in Zipolite:

• Lose your tan lines
• Relax &  do nothing
• Party on the beach

Third Stop: Mazunte

About Mazunte

Next up on the Oaxaca Mexico road trip was Mazunte, a very small and inexpensive beach town with a hippy vibe. I found the cost of things (food, drinks, clothing) to be the cheapest in Mazunte of all the places we went. I can see why many people from Sayulita have relocated here, I imagine Sayulita was very similar to Mazunte at one point. Mazunte has not been taken over by hotels/resorts yet and feels authentic to a Mexico beach town. The pueblo has at least one hostel on every block, that’s the culture of Mazunte, many solo travelers meeting new friends in this off-the-beaten-path destination. Tip: if you’re working while traveling the wifi was better here than in Puerto Escondido, basically you’re working with the same speed as PE with way less people.  

What to do in Mazunte:

• Hike Punta Cometa and visit Playa Cometa.  Everyone says to go for sunset, BUT we went just after sunrise and honestly I would way rather catch the morning light by myself than go at the same time everyone else does. We could see from the lower beach how many people were up there for sunset. 
• Wake up early for sunrise, Mazunte has epic sunrises, we were lucky enough to see it from our balcony at our eco hostel,  Cabañas Balamjuyuc.
• Get some sun and food on the beach
• Stay at a hostel to meet other travelers
• Visit the cute shops and cafes 
• Take photos of the beautiful landscape
• Drink wine on  Playa Mermejita  at sunset 

Fourth Stop: Puerto Escondido

About Puerto Escondido

This was my favorite destination on our Oaxaca road trip, I will definitely visit again. Zicatela beach and its intense surf break is the main tourist attraction to Puerto Escondido. The break holds major surf competitions and attracts surfers from all over the world. My first tip is: if you’re a girl traveling here you will be widely outnumbered by men, it’s the perfect destination for a single girls trip, (Sayulita is the opposite fyi for single guys). Punta  Zicatela  was my favorite area which is just a short taxi ride away from  Playa Zicatela. Punta Zicatela was like an upgraded version of Sayulita, the bars and restaurants were all delicious; the unique decor and vibe reminded me a lot of Bali. The crowd in this area of PE is mostly backpackers, digital nomads, and surfers in their 20s and 30s, so I fit right in. Zicatela in general is surf and party destination, but Puerto Escondido itself is large and has a resort area if that’s more your vibe. I would move to Puerto in a heartbeat if it weren’t for the terrible internet. 

What to do in Puerto Escondido:

• Surf. You likely can’t handle surfing at Playa Zicatela unless you have been surfing your whole life, but there are other breaks that are less intense.
• Go to  Playa Carrizalillo . This was my favorite beach of the entire road trip. *Be aware it is very crowded on the weekends.
• Eat awesome food! My favorite restaurant was  The Fish Shack
• Party at  Bonita Escondida hostel, trivia night on Tuesdays gets wild. We also stayed at this hostel for part of our time in Puerto Escondido.
• Head to a late night jungle party. *For comparison honestly the one I attended was not nearly as fun as the jungle parties I have been to in Sayulita. The sound system was better, the music was great, but it was much more complicated to get to, it was 40 minutes away and had an over-priced cover charge.
• Watch the skaters and make friends at  The Boneyard
• After-party at the beach bars in Playa Zicatela. The bars in Punta Zicatela close at midnight. 

Fifth Stop: San Jose del Pacifico

About San Jose del Pacifico

Hidden in the mountains of Oaxaca is this quaint little village with incredible views. So, what brings so many backpackers here? It’s beautiful and its location is a great stop on a Oaxaca road trip between the beaches and Oaxaca City, but why they really come here: it’s the magic mushroom capital of Mexico. Little cabins line the edge of the mountains with views for days. Mezcal tasting and Temazcal ceremonies are also very popular in this area, but I would say generally people come to getaway in nature and eat mushrooms.It’s not a big secret, you’ll find cute mushroom souvenirs everywhere, and if you want to eat them, medicinally of course, it won’t be hard to get your hands on some. 

What to do in San Jose del Pacifico:

• Stay in a cozy cabin at  Cabañas Rancho Viejo
• Eat magic mushrooms
• Sit by a fire and connect with your friends
• Temazcal Ceremony
• Drink homemade Mezcal

Final Stop: Oaxaca City

About Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City was a very close second as my favorite destination in Oaxaca, I’m consistently torn between city life and beach life… the beach always wins. Oaxaca is a heritage tourism destination because it’s so rich in Mexican culture. The city’s colonial-era architecture is mixed with street art and markets everywhere. It’s also well known as the mezcal capital, so don’t skip a tasting. You’ll find the best handmade clothing and textiles in all of Mexico here, this is where most of the artisan clothing you see all throughout the country originates from. During my time in Mexico the most common selling point I’ve heard vendors say is “it’s from Oaxaca” and while they’re not always telling the truth you’ll understand why they say that once you see the textiles here. 

What to do in Oaxaca City

• Shop the street markets for handmade and unique clothing, jewelry, bags, textiles
• Do a mezcal tasting and learn all about this agave spirit
• Eat at one of the food markets, I went to  Mercado 20 de Noviembre  and my favorite mole spot was called Fonda Sofi
• Mole! You must eat mole in Oaxaca, it’s incredible
• Take a day trip to Hierve el Agua  *As of May 2021 It’s currently closed and has been since the pandemic and over-tourism, but I will be back to visit as soon as it reopens
• Try the “foodie” spots. There is so much incredible food in this city, I can’t stress that enough

That about wraps up the Oaxaca, Mexico road trip. Feel free to message me for any tips on instagram @madyinmexico

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2-Week Mexico Road Trip to Oaxaca Coast

Posted on Last updated: February 13, 2024

I recently returned from a trip to the Oaxaca Coast, and, to be fully transparent, it was a bit of a disaster. On the upside, it was a fun Mexico road trip with friends to see exciting places and eat delicious breakfast in Oaxaca . However, I wish I’d done more research on when to visit Oaxaca and used some expert Oaxaca city tips .

The truth is I did no planning, which is essential—especially if you plan to enjoy the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca. I learned from my mistake and will prepare more for future trips to Oaxaca! I was inspired to create a 2-week Oaxaca itinerary incorporating solid road trip tips , like visiting outside the rainy season.

Are you wondering, “Is it safe to drive from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido?” or, “How many days in Oaxaca do you need?” This guide to the Oaxaca Coast will answer all your burning questions.

P.S. If you don’t want to because you’re worried about driving in Mexico , you’ll be excited to know this Oaxaca itinerary can be done with public transport. You could also easily try hiking Camino Copalita in Oaxaca, Mexico !

Quick Tip:  Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress.  Best Oaxaca Tours :  Click here to check out the top Oaxaca tours Best Oaxaca Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Oaxaca Best Oaxaca Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Oaxaca

2-Week Oaxaca Coast Mexico Road Trip

Regarding how many days in Oaxaca you need to see the top sights, I recommend at least two weeks. The longer you can explore this area, the better!

Days 1-2: Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City is the most obvious starting point for your trip to Oaxaca, as most people arrive here via the international airport or on a bus from another Mexican city . It’s also a great place to rent a car in Mexico , as you’ll have more car rental options. We rented a car in Puerto Escondido , which was quite challenging. Before picking up your rental car, explore Oaxaca City by eating delicious Mexican food and catching up on some digital nomad work at Convivio.

There are also some fun nearby places you can take day trips to!

Monte Alban : This is one of Mexico ’s most iconic archeological sites and offers magical views over the city.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

The Tree of Tule : The Tree of Tule is the widest in the world and is located just 9 km outside of Oaxaca City.

Pueblos Mancomunados : Pueblos Mancomunados is more of a multi-day hiking adventure, so it’s better to go on an organized, guided tour. You can read more about it here. When you’re ready to leave Oaxaca, I suggest heading north and doing a big loop back to Oaxaca City . Please find a map below of locations on this Oaxaca Coast itinerary to see each location in relation to each other.

Day 3: San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec

More commonly referred to as Tuxtepec, San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec is located in the northern area of Oaxaca and is a beautiful place surrounded by the Papaloapan River. Tuxtepec was significant for the Aztecs and Spanish conquerors. It’s also the ideal starting point to enter the Chinantla and get in touch with nature. There’s a lot to do here, so give yourself plenty of time to immerse yourself fully.

Day 4: Tecotitlan del Valle

Next up on this Mexico road trip guide is Tecotitlan del Valle , located at the base of the Sierra Juarez Mountains. Tecotitlan de Valle is renowned for its artisan goods, from weaving to woodworking. This city is the best place in Oaxaca to shop for local products and learn about the traditions behind them.

Day 5: San Pablo Villa de Mitla

Commonly referred to as Mitla, people travel here to explore the archeological site, wander around the churches, shop at the craft markets, and, most importantly, eat all the different colored moles!

Days 6-7: Huatulco

It’s time to head south to the Oaxaca Coast to Huatulco Mexico , for beaches, waterfalls, and many hidden adventures. Spend time in Parque Eco-Arqueológico Copalita exploring the ruins and along the coast at Huatulco National Park. You can also take a day trip to the Copalitilla Waterfalls or relax in the beach town of La Crucecita .

Day 8: Mazunte

Mazunte is an adorable Pueblo Magico with a great pizza restaurant and a lovely beach. We stayed at some accommodations high on a cliff with amazing views. We decided to leave early because of the rain, but I plan to return and stay there again.

Check out the Mazunte accommodations for your trips to Oaxaca .

Days 9-11: Puerto Escondido

Give yourself at least three days in Puerto Escondido or more if you have time. The main activities here are exploring the beaches and surfing. Don’t expect decent WiFi here, or you will be disappointed. We stayed at Casa Daikiri and loved it!

The location was great, with a pool and a decent kitchen, and the staff was super friendly. You may see lots of advertising for turtle releasing, but I would avoid this as I’m unsure how ethical it is. Do your research and decide what you’re comfortable with.

Day 12: Lagunas Manialtepec and de Chacahua

Lagunas Manialtepec is the place to see bioluminescence and a “frozen” waterfall! Meanwhile, Lagunas de Chacahua is off the beaten path but worth adding to your Oaxaca itinerary if you have time. The lakes here are stunning, and there’s also a traditional medicine center that I’m eager to visit.

Day 13: San Jose

It’s time to leave the Oaxaca Coast and return to the mountains. San Jose del Pacifico is considered the mushroom capital of Mexico, and one or two nights is plenty of time.

Day 14: Santa Catarina Minas and Return to Oaxaca City

I’m sure you’ve been introduced to Mezcal during this Oaxaca itinerary, but how much do you know about the distilling process? Santa Catarina Minas is a great place to stop on your return to Oaxaca City to visit a small mezcal producer and learn all about it. You don’t need to spend the night here, as a few hours is plenty of time.

And that’s it! You’ll end up back in Oaxaca City to return your rental car and hit up the fast WiFi at Convivio Coworking to upload your epic Oaxaca Coast pictures and catch up on emails.

Quick Tip:  View my full  Mexico packing guide  here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Oaxaca Essentials shopping list  here .

Wondering where to stay? Check out these options! NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca Pug Seal Oaxaca Casa Antonieta

Oaxaca Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Oaxaca?

Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Oaxaca which you can read  here  and you can also check out my packing list for Oaxaca on Amazon  here .

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Oaxaca?

I strongly recommend using  GottoGo . You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫  Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Oaxaca?

First and foremost check out all of the amazing Oaxaca tours  Where Sidewalks End  has. They are a small local company and they have some really special experiences.

For everything else I recommend either  Viator  or  GetYour Guide . 

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using  Heymondo  for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out  SafetyWing  digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance  here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay  offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise  Skyscanner  or  Expedia  are my go to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read  here . I personally use  GlocalMe  as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using either Airhub  or  Alosim . Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are  Booking.com ,  Hotels.com , and  Expedia  They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅  Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list  here . I’m currently traveling with  this suitcase  and  this backpack. 

Oaxaca FAQs

Is it safe to drive from oaxaca to puerto escondido.

The drive from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido is generally safe. Only drive during the day to have clear visibility to watch for pedestrians and animals.

Is Oaxaca Worth Visiting?

Yes, Oaxaca is a beautiful area of Mexico worth exploring on a road trip. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or art lover, Oaxaca has something for everyone.

When to Visit Oaxaca?

Spring and fall are the best times of year to visit Oaxaca. These are slower tourist seasons and offer warm, pleasant weather. Winter and summer are the rainy seasons in Oaxaca , so expect frequent thunderstorms.

Mexico Road Trip to Oaxaca Final Thoughts

The southern state of Oaxaca is a beautiful and diverse area of Mexico worth touring on a one or two-week-long road trip. From historic cities to beautiful beaches , Oaxaca has a little of everything. You’ll never run out of things to do on an Oaxaca road trip!

Claire Summers

Hi I’m Claire!

At 34 I sold all my worldly possessions that wouldn’t fit into 3 boxes or my backpack and hit the road.

I started Claire’s Itchy Feet to inspire women to pack their bags and travel more. With no plans to stop anytime soon I’m always looking for my next adventure be it attempting to surf or climbing a volcano I’ll try (almost) anything once!

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

Ruta por Oaxaca de 15 dias: recorrido completo con mapa

• Publicado o actualizado por Jose López
• 4 Comentarios

En este artículo te cuento los lugares que debes visitar durante una ruta por Oaxaca y voy a tratar de ayudarte a decidir cuantos días dedicar a cada lugar. Nosotros recorrimos el estado durante algo más de un mes del que pasamos 14 días disfrutando de sus playas y una semana en la capital por el día de Muertos. Es un destino muy completo y mucho menos turístico que otras zonas de México.  

Mi opinión es que lo mínimo que necesitarás para recorrer Oaxaca al completo son 15 días y de ahí hasta el infinito. Te prometo que es una zona de las que te atrapan, a nosotros nos terminaron faltando días en la zona de la Sierra Norte, donde sólo fuimos de pasada. Pero no te puedo decir que me arrepienta de haber prolongado la estancia en Bahías de Huatulco , la zona que más nos gustó, dos días más. Puedes comenzar con este en el que te cuento qué ver en Oaxaca capital .

Índice del artículo

Cuántos días necesito para una ruta por el Estado de Oaxaca

Lo primero que debes tener en cuenta es que un recorrido por Oaxaca te lleva como mínimo unos 15 días. Puedes dejarlo en algo menos dejándote algunos sitios y pasando menos tiempo en otros, pero será un viaje apresurado. Ten en cuenta que se tarda 6 o 7 horas en ir desde la capital a la zona de costa con lo que solo en eso se te irán casi 2 días.  

La mejor opción para recorrer el estado y lo que suele hacer todo el mundo es alquilar un coche en la capital y devolverlo allí. Puedes ir hasta la costa en transporte público, pero dependerás de buscar cada día como moverte por la zona. Para reservar lo mejor es usar un comparador de precios .

Las carreteras de Oaxaca son tranquilas , no hay mucho tráfico por lo que no me parecieron peligrosas. Pero ten en cuenta que atravesarás zonas de montaña que necesitan más mantenimiento por lo que te debes armar de paciencia y conducir con precaución. Mira la siguiente imagen Una vez llegas a Bahías de Huatulco o a la zona de Puerto Escondido los trayectos no son largos.

Hay hasta tres carreteras entre Oaxaca capital a la costa por lo que puedes diseñar un trayecto circular muy fácilmente.

• 3 o 4 días para Oaxaca capital y sus alrededores.
• 2 o 3 días por Hierve el Agua, Mitla y Teotitlán del Valle.
• 1 o 2 días por la Sierra Norte.
• 4 o 5 días en Bahías de Huatulco.
• 1 o 2 días en Zipolite.
• 1 o 2 días en Puerto Escondido.
• 2 o 3 días en Chacahua.
• 1 día en Santa Catarina Juquila, ya de vuelta a la capital.

Esto es muy libre, hay excursiones en las que se visita la capital y parte del estado en 6 días , pero no es el tipo viaje que a nosotros nos gusta mostrar en el blog.

1. Oaxaca de Juárez, punto de partida de toda ruta por el estado

Oaxaca es una ciudad llena de color, tradiciones y edificios coloniales. Es sin duda alguna una de las ciudades más interesantes de México y el punto de partida de esta ruta. Nosotros le terminamos dedicando una semana y te aseguro que no nos aburrimos. Hay mucho que ver y si haces coincidir tu visita con el Festival de la Guelaguetza o el Día de Muertos la ciudad se pone espectacular.   

Mira el artículo de Oaxaca y otro que tenemos sobre el Día de Muertos . No puedes irte de la ciudad sin pasear por el Zócalo y la zona del Andador Turístico, visitar los preciosos barrios de Xochimilco y Jalatlaco y admirar el Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán.

También hay varios mercados y muchísimos museos entre los que sin duda destaca el Museo del Textil, que da un bonito toque social al mucho del bordado. Pero sin duda alguna lo más interesante es pasear por sus calles y descubrir con tranquilidad el buen ambiente que tiene la ciudad. Creo que queda claro que hay que dedicar al menos 3 días para ver Oaxaca en condiciones.

• Nuestro alojamiento en Oaxaca fue el Hostal Zipolite , económico y en pleno centro. Superó la expectativa. Habíamos reservado también el City Centro Oaxaca pero estábamos en un viaje largo e íbamos ya flojos de dinero por lo que cancelamos y nos quedamos con la opción barata.

2. Los alrededores de Oaxaca, inicio de la ruta por todo el estado

Por los alrededores de Oaxaca hay varias excursiones interesantes. Puedes optar por ir y volver en el día desde la capital o hacer una o dos noches por la zona. Nosotros optamos por dormir en Mitla y visitamos Monte Albán y Tule de camino a esta localidad.

Monte Albán, las ruinas zapotecas más importantes

A solamente 8 km de Oaxaca de Juárez se encuentran las ruinas arqueológicas de Monte Alban. Se trata de la antigua capital de los zapotecas y una de las ciudades más importantes de Mesoamérica. Sin duda, es uno de los lugares que debes incluir en tu ruta por Oaxaca. 

Llegar por libre hasta Monte Albán no es fácil. Un taxi te puede llevar por unos 250 pesos después de regatear un rato. Luego hay furgonetas que salen de los hoteles y que, también tras negociar, te cobran unos 100 pesos, pero tienen el inconveniente de que debes volver a las 2h 30´.

Si lo prefieres también puedes llevar contratada una excursión desde casa . Así pagas en euros, vas con guía todo el día y te ahorras complicaciones.

Tule y su famoso árbol milenario

La siguiente parada es Tule, una localidad a unos 15 minutos de Oaxaca de Juarez en la que hay un árbol con más de 2000 años de vida que al parecer tiene el tronco más grande del mundo. Para nosotros es una visita recomendable, este árbol te deja un poco con la boca abierta. Evidentemente no lo puedes tocar, pero a medida que te acercas te das cuenta de su inmensidad.

El árbol milenario se encuentra en Tule y cerca de allí tienes un mercado donde picar algo y pasear. No hay mucho más la verdad, pero es una parada interesante si pasas cerca. Nosotros fuimos allí en nuestro coche, pero esta excursión que te lleva a dar un paseo en bicicleta hasta Tule desde Oaxaca.

3. Hierve el Agua, Mitla y Teotitlán del Valle

Mitla y Teotitlán del Valle están bastante cerca uno del otro y desde ambos se organizan excursiones para conocer Hierve el Agua. Nosotros decidimos dormir en Mitla pero incluso puedes ir i volver desde Oaxaca, tanto en coche como con una excursión.

Hierve el agua, de lo mejor de la ruta por Oaxaca

Hierve el Agua es uno de los sitios más TOP que visitar durante una ruta por Oaxaca. Se trata de unas cascadas petrificadas de origen natural en medio de la naturaleza. En la parte más alta se forman unas piscinas donde está permitido el baño, siguiendo unas normas como evitar el uso de protector solar o el acceso a ciertas zonas más delicadas. 

Si quieres ver la cascada al completo debes bajar hasta el final por un camino que tiene un par de miradores y tramos con escalones. Las vistas de la cascada desde abajo merecen mucho la pena , pero piensa que después debes subir. Lleva calzado cómodo, agua y gorro ya que hay poca sombra y la subida es intensa. 

A la entrada de Hierve el Agua hay multitud de puestos donde comer, comprar algún souvenir o tomar una michelada fresquita. Llegar en transporte público hasta allí es incómodo y te lleva unas cuantas horas, por lo que lo mejor es que contrates una excursión o vayas en coche de alquiler como hicimos nosotros.

Mitla, uno de los Pueblos Mágicos de México

Mitla es bastante conocido porque es uno de los Pueblos Mágicos de México y porque alberga unas ruinas arqueológicas zapotecas dignas de visitar, sobre todo por lo bien conservadas que están sus pinturas.

El pueblo en sí es una plaza, sus alrededores la calle que te lleva a las ruinas, nos gustó más Teotitlán. Hay dos alojamientos y merece la pena elegir el Hotel Hacienda Don Cenobio y no el Hotel Oyo donde las imágenes no se corresponden a la realidad. Te lo digo por experiencia, en este caso fallamos estrepitosamente.

Teotitlán del Valle, nuestro lugar favorito por la zona

Teotitlán del Valle es famoso por la elaboración de alfombras , además de tener un centro urbano muy chulo alrededor de la Iglesia y del Museo Comunitario que a nosotros particularmente nos gustó mucho. Es pequeño, pero te cuenta perfectamente cómo era la cultura zapoteca, sus tradiciones y algunas curiosidades.

Nosotros estuvimos tanto en Mitla como en Teotitlán y ambas localidades merecen la pena una combinación perfecta para visitar. Te dejo también algunas de las excursiones que te llevan a Hierve el Agua, Mitla y Teotitlán del Valle si prefieres ir desde Oaxaca.

• Y Esta excursión te lleva a Hierve el Agua y Teotitlán del Valle .

4. La Sierra Norte de Oaxaca, pulmón verde del Estado   

Como ya te comentamos al principio del post, Oaxaca es un estado muy completo. En esta ruta no puede faltar una zona que no se visita demasiado y que su mayor pulmón verde: la Sierra Norte de Oaxaca. Esta zona se caracteriza por tener grandes desniveles que van desde prácticamente el nivel del mar hasta casi 3000 metros de altura.

Es una zona que se suele quedar fuera de una ruta por Oaxaca ya que es para ir varios días y perderte caminando por la montaña. Podrás visitar comunidades como Latuvi, Benito Juárez o La Nevería. También hay rutas en bici y tienes la opción de conocer proyectos ecoturísticos. Si te gusta la naturaleza no puedes perderte esta zona donde predominan los bosques de encino y pino, cascadas de infarto y puentes no aptos para personas con vértigo.   

5. Bahías de Huatulco, lo mejor de la ruta por Oaxaca

En nuestra ruta por Oaxaca pasamos casi dos semanas por la costa disfrutando del mar, la comida rica y los atardeceres en la playa. Lo que más nos gustó en la costa de Oaxaca fue la zona de las Bahías de Huatulco donde la naturaleza ha formado playas y calas que están muy resguardadas de las olas y son ideales para ir con niños. Además, esta zona es menos turística -y por tanto bastante más económica- que Puerto Escondido y sus alrededores. 

Si vas a visitar esta te recomiendo que le des un vistazo a este artículo en el que te cuento qué ver y hacer en las Bahías de Huatulco . Hay bastante que hacer por allí además de disfrutar de la playa. Para nosotros, fue sin duda alguna el gran descubrimiento de nuestra tercera vez en México.

• La mejor zona para alojarse allí es Crucecita, nosotros elegimos el Hotel Betsua Vista Hermosa con muy buena relación calidad-precio.

6. Zipolite y Mazunte, nudismo y ambiente surfero un tanto hippy

Si buscas playas kilométricas y salvajes donde pelear con las olas y surfear las playas de Mazunte y Zipolite son las tuyas. Se encuentran a medio camino entre Bahías de Huatulco y Puerto Escondido y son playas salvajes a mar abierto.

Zipolite es la única playa nudista de México, por lo que si buscas esta opción allí puedes despelotarte legalmente. Hay muchos alojamientos a pie de playa que son más económicos que los de Puerto Escondido, en incluso ofrecen cabañas y hamacas donde poder dormir si vas con el presupuesto súper ajustado.

Tanto Mazunte como Zipolite tienen un aire bastante hippy , quizás hippy-pijo sería lo más correcto que nos llamó la atención. Especialmente en Mazunte vimos muchos restaurantes vegetarianos y veganos, puestos de artesanía y tiendas donde comprar productos frescos o alimentos ecológicos. Si te decides hacer la ruta que te proponemos incluso puedes hacer allí alguna noche, nosotros fuimos a pasar el día desde Puerto Escondido. 

7. Puerto Escondido, la meca del surf en México

Puerto Escondido es la localidad más turística de la costa de Oaxaca. Se caracteriza por tener unas playas ideales para surfear y una animada vida nocturna. Sinceramente para nosotros fue el lugar más prescindible de nuestra ruta por Oaxaca, ya que al viajar con bebé las playas no resultan idóneas y tampoco disfrutamos de ninguna noche loca.

Nosotros utilizamos Puerto Escondido para relajarnos, disfrutar de la playa y como base de operaciones para movernos por la zona. Al viajar con bebé vemos más práctico no cambiar de alojamiento demasiado. Visto con perspectiva en vez de hacer allí 5 noches hubiésemos preferido hacer dos y quedarnos tres en la siguiente parada de la ruta por Oaxaca.

• Nuestro alojamiento fue el Casa Terranova. Un apartamento con todo lo necesario y piscina en la puerta.

8. La playa del Parque Natural de las Lagunas de Chacahua

De nuestros días en Puerto Escondido lo mejor fue el día que hicimos la excursión hasta la playa de Chacahua. Nos hubiéramos quedado allí tranquilamente una o dos noches de no tener el alojamiento en Puerto Escondido esperándonos, más teniendo en cuenta que llegar hasta allí no es fácil ya que debes cruzar una laguna en lancha. 

Pero el lugar merece muchísimo la pena, debes ir primero a El Zapotalito, donde se coge la lancha que te lleva a Chacahua. Nosotros elegimos una lancha colectiva que cruza la laguna y todoterreno para llegar hasta un auténtico paraíso: una playa salvaje, pelícanos buscando peces para comer, palapas con hamacas para ver el atardecer mientras tomas una chela, ningún coche, ninguna carretera, sólo arena y mar. Fue de lo mejor de la ruta por Oaxaca sin duda alguna.

Para el trayecto de vuelta trata de negociar con alguna lancha que tenga que volver vacía , te llevarán por el mismo dinero que cuesta el colectivo y pasar el manglar es una pasada. También puedes negociar una excursión por todo el manglar desde el principio , pero se pasan con el precio.

• Al pasar por delante de estas cabañas fue cuando descubrimos que debíamos haber dormido allí.

9. Santa Catarina Juquila y sus alrededores, última parada de la ruta por Oaxaca

Desde Puerto Escondido también puedes ir uno de los días hasta la zona de Santa Catarina Juquila. Es un importante lugar de peregrinación para muchas personas ya que allí se encuentra el Santuario de la Inmaculada Virgen de Juquila. Cerca de aquí, hay un sendero de casi 4 kilómetros que se llama camino de la fe , el cual te lleva hasta el santuario.

Además, en los alrededores de Santa Catarina Juquila puedes hacer muchas actividades como alguna de las rutas de senderismo que pasan por el río Olla, visitar los talleres de tallado de madera que son muy típicos en esta zona o incluso aventurarte a llegar hasta la Cascada de Siete Honduras.

Mapa con la Ruta por Oaxaca de 15-20 días

Al final del texto te he dejado un mapa interactivo con los sitios que te he nombrado en el artículo. Una vez allí lo puedes utilizar para llegar a todos los lugares con la ayuda del GPS de tu teléfono. 

Si tienes cualquier pregunta sobre esta ruta por Oaxaca no tengas miedo de preguntar más abajo. Estaremos encantados de ayudarte si podemos.

4 comentarios

Hola! Quiero ir a Oaxaca en noviembre, quizá la mitad de tiempo en playa y un par de días en ciudad. ¿Qué aeropuerto recomiendan para llegar?

Me encantó la info de tu blog, sin duda será mi referencia. Saludos desde Guatemala! 😍

Gracias por tus piropos. Dependiendo de la ruta que te plantees hay aeropuerto en Oaxaca, en Puerto escondido y en Bahías de Huatulco. El trayecto entre la ciudad y la costa son bastantes horas por lo que por lo que comentas quizás te puedes plantear entrar por el aeropuerto de Oaxaca y salir por uno de los de la costa o al revés. En principio el de Oaxaca tiene más vuelos pero dependiendo desde donde vayas puede incluso que tengas mejor conexión por uno de los otros.

Disfruta mucho de la zona, a nosotros nos encantaron, tanto Oaxaca como su costa.

Hola. Quiero saber si aconsejan volver desde oaxaca hasta cdmx por tierra o aire. Ya que cuento con presupuesto justo y quisiera subir para tomar el último vuelo desde cdmex a bs as. Que recomiendan? Las low cost funcionan bien?

Si vas con presupuesto bajo sin duda la mejor opción será el autobús nocturno. Nosotros fue lo que hicimos para ir desde CDMX a Oaxaca y lo volveríamos a hacer, es peor que el avión pero mucho más barato y además te ahorras todos los trámites del aeropuerto. LA mejor empresa es ADO y tiene diferentes categorías de autobús. Pienso que merece la pena pagar un pelín más para ir en uno de los buenos.

Un abrazo y disfruta mucho de Oaxaca

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3 Days in Oaxaca: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

How to spend 3 days in oaxaca: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You’re going 3 days in Oaxaca (Mexico) and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you the perfect 3-day itinerary in Oaxaca.

During your trip, you will discover Oaxaca’s must-see attractions as well as the city’s surrounding, such as Monte Alban , the artisan villages , a mezcal distillery , the ruins of Mitla and the stunning waters of Hierve el Agua.

In addition to the best places to visit and things to do for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Oaxaca in 3 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

A. Morning at Santo Domingo

B. exploring and dining in oaxaca’s bustling markets, c. strolling along the vibrant streets, d. unwinding with a drink after a day of exploring oaxaca, a. explore monte alban, b. oaxaca’s artisan villages and their crafts, c. tasting tradition at oaxaca’s mezcal distilleries, a. discover the ancient splendor of mitla, b. hierve el agua’s natural springs and scenic beauty, c. teotitlan del valle and its traditional textiles, 3-day oaxaca highlights: your essential map guide, my best tips to make the most of your 3 days in oaxaca, is spending 3 days in oaxaca enough, top hotel picks for your 3-day stay in oaxaca, rent a car in mexico, finding a budget flight to oaxaca, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you, the ultimate 3-day oaxaca itinerary, day 1: exploring the heart of oaxaca.

Start your adventure at the Ex-Temple of Santo Domingo complex . This historical treasure is home to three must-visit locations in Oaxaca:

• The Temple of Santo Domingo de Guzman: This stunning church is a masterpiece of baroque architecture, with intricate gold leaf designs inside that are a must-see.
• The Museum of Cultures: Located next to the temple, this museum offers a deep dive into Oaxaca’s rich history and diverse cultures, featuring an impressive array of artifacts.
• The Ethnobotanical Garden: This garden showcases the diverse plant life of Oaxaca and offers a peaceful retreat with its well-designed landscapes and informative displays.

After immersing yourself in Oaxaca’s rich history, wander through the lively Mercado 20 de Noviembre and Mercado Benito Juárez .

These markets are not just shopping hubs but also cultural hotspots where you can experience the authentic local atmosphere , taste traditional foods, and find a variety of unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Oaxaca.

For lunch, head to the Pasillo de Humo in the 20 de Noviembre Market, where you’ll find some of the best grilled meats in Oaxaca.

The food is great, affordable, and eating there has become a tradition for me. Plus, enjoying a fresh Modelo beer with my meal is perfect, especially since it can get pretty hot and smoky in there, almost like a sauna. 😄

Post-lunch, make your way to the Zócalo , home to the majestic cathedral. Treat yourself to a delightful hot chocolate at El Mayordomo —it’s a local favorite!

In the afternoon, wander through the colorful streets of Jalatlaco neighborhood . This area is known for its vibrant murals and quaint charm.

End your day with a refreshing drink at one of Oaxaca’s popular bars like Mezcalogia or Sabina Sabe. 

For more great options, be sure to check out my guide to the best 5 bars in Oaxaca , where I share my top picks for a memorable night out.

Day 2: Cultural Heritage and Artisan Villages

Kick off your second day with an early visit to Monte Alban. Arriving at opening time (10 am) lets you avoid the crowds and experience the site in a more serene setting.

This ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is not only significant for its well-preserved ruins but also as one of the first major cities in Mesoamerica ! Its importance as a center of Zapotec and Mixtec culture offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history.

• To plan your visit effectively, be sure to check out My Definitive Guide on Monte Alban , where I provide all the essential tips and information you need.

There’s so much fascinating information about Monte Alban that I highly recommend hiring a guide , which you can easily find at the entrance.

If you don’t have a car, you can opt for a guided tour of Monte Alban (click here to book it!) that includes transportation from your hotel.

After Monte Alban, delve into the artistic heart of Oaxaca by visiting the artisan villages of San Antonio Arrazola, San Bartolo Coyotepec, San Martin Tilcajete, and Santo Tomas Jalieza. Each village offers a unique glimpse into the local crafts and traditions.

My Advice If you don’t have a car, I strongly suggest opting for a tour that includes hotel pickup . Those are my two best recommendations:

• Guided tour of the Monte Albán ruins   with hotel pick-up in Oaxaca
• Guided tour of Monte Albán + Oaxaca’s Artisan Villages  with hotel pick-up in Oaxaca

If you’re passionate about mezcal, I recommend adding a visit to Mezcal Lalocura or other renowned mezcal producers around the area to your itinerary.

These tours offer a fascinating insight into the entire mezcal-making process, from the sprawling agave fields to the final distillation.

You’ll get a chance to see how this iconic drink is crafted and enjoy tastings of different varieties.

My Advice If you don’t have a car, choosing a mezcal tour that includes hotel pick-up is your best bet!

On this tour, you’ll visit an agave plantation and explore two mezcal distilleries . It’s a great opportunity to see how mezcal is made from start to finish and to sample different varieties.

Book your spot on the mezcal tour here:

Day 3: Exploring the Historical and Natural Beauty of Oaxaca

As you embark on the last day of your three-day trip in Oaxaca , begin at the archaeological site of Mitla .

This site holds immense historical importance as it was a religious and ceremonial center for the Zapotec civilization .

The detailed geometric patterns adorning the walls and buildings of Mitla are not just artistic marvels; they are also symbolic representations of the Zapotec’s beliefs and cosmology, offering a deep insight into their sophisticated culture.

After stepping back in time at Mitla, immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Hierve el Agua .

These extraordinary petrified waterfalls , complemented by natural pools and breathtaking vistas, are a testament to the beauty of nature.

Whether you choose to take a dip (bring your swimsuit!) or simply enjoy a scenic walk, this location promises a serene and picturesque experience, making it a must-visit on your Oaxacan journey.

Before wrapping up your three days in Oaxaca, make sure to visit Teotitlán del Valle particularly celebrated for its exquisite handwoven rugs .

As you wander through the local workshops, not only do you get to observe artisans skillfully creating these beautiful pieces, but purchasing directly from them ensures that your money goes straight to the craftspeople.

This was where I found my favorite carpet, bought at a fair price , and knowing that my purchase directly supported the artisan made it all the more special.

Make sure to visit the Balaa Xtee Guech Gulal museum , managed by the local community. This visit is a fantastic way to support them while immersing yourself in the area’s crafts, customs, and connecting with friendly locals.

My tip If organizing the day seems daunting, consider booking a tour which includes hotel pick-up , Mitla , Hierve el Agua , and Teotitlán del Valle .

It’s a hassle-free way to experience these incredible spots as part of your “Oaxaca in 3 Days” adventure!  You can book it here:

I book my tour to Teotitlán del Valle! I want to visit to Hierve El Agua and Teotitlán del Valle  

Maximizing your time in Oaxaca is key. Here’s what you should keep in mind:

1. Use the Itinerary as a Guideline : The suggested itinerary includes the top things to do in Oaxaca in 3 days , but don’t feel pressured to follow it strictly. Enjoy at your own pace, soak in the city’s vibe, and remember, you can always come back to see what you missed.

2. Plan for Early Mornings : Start your days early, especially when visiting popular sites like Monte Alban or Mitla, to avoid crowds and the midday heat . This also allows you more time to explore other attractions or relax in the afternoons.

3. Choose Central Accommodation : For convenience and ease of exploration, pick a place to stay in the center of Oaxaca. Staying centrally located allows you quicker access to major attractions, markets, and dining options, making it easier to maximize your time and experience the heart of the city more intimately.

4. Consider Booking Tours if Without a Car : If you’re not planning to rent a car, the best alternative to explore Oaxaca’s surroundings is to book a tour. Fortunately, Oaxaca offers a variety of excellent tours that cover key attractions, including archaeological sites and artisan villages. These tours not only provide transport but also offer insightful guidance, making your experience both convenient and enriching.

5. Carry Cash for Small Purchases : Many smaller vendors, markets, and local eateries may not accept credit cards. Having some cash in Mexican pesos is handy for these transactions and ensures you don’t miss out on local goods or delicious street food.

You might wonder, is three days really enough to experience Oaxaca? Well, it’s a tight squeeze, but you can certainly get a great general idea of the city and its surroundings.

In my experience, those three days were packed with culture, food, and unforgettable memories. Sure, more and more people are opting to stay a week or longer, but if you’re short on time, three days can still be magical .

For more insights and tips on exploring Oaxaca, be sure to check out my other detailed guides:

• 1 Day in Oaxaca Itinerary
• 2 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary
• The 31 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

• Andaina Youth Hostel:  Located in the heart of Oaxaca, only 300 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 800 meters from the Zocalo. Cozy and colorful dormitory or private room with shared bathroom, from 16 $usd per night , breakfast included. Strong points: the friendly atmosphere, the rooftop terrace , the free activities and tours. This is my choice for a budget-friendly hotel in Oaxaca !
• Casa Barroco Oaxaca:  Elegant room with balcony, just a few steps from the main square in a listed colonial house, with two beautiful patios, from 89 $usd per night . Strong points: the beautiful colonial-style building, the charming garden, the helpful staff.
• Casa de Sierra Azul : Located in the historic center of Oaxaca, 200 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 600 meters from the Zocalo. Classic and cozy room with private bathroom, from 140$ usd per night . Strong points: the central location, the bicycles available for guests, the free parking, the delicious breakfast .
• Quinta Real Oaxaca: Located in a former convent from the 16th century, 500 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 700 meters from the Zocalo. Elegant room and romantic atmosphere, from 260 $usd per night . Strong points: the stunning architecture, the outdoor pool, the gourmet restaurant. This is my choice for a luxury stay in Oaxaca!

Renting a car is definitely the most efficient way to discover Oaxaca and fully enjoy your visit!

When it comes to car rentals, I consistently choose Rentalcars.com, and here’s why:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Rentalcars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

Direct flights from a range of locations land at Xoxocotlán International Airport in Oaxaca , connecting it to domestic cities like Mexico City , Tijuana, and Guadalajara , and international destinations including Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Cancun , Merida , and Guatemala City.

To get the best deals on flights to Oaxaca , use our Skyscanner partnership flight comparison tool. It’s your go-to for grabbing the cheapest flights !

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
• Oaxaca : Top 31 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions !
• 1 Day in Oaxaca – A Quick-Start Itinerary
• 2 Days in Oaxaca – Exploring the Essential Highlights
• Monte Alban : what you should know before you go
• Oaxaca : the 7 Best Coffee Shops You Have to Visit
• The 5 Best Bars in Oaxaca to Experience the Local Culture and Mezcal 
• Day of the Dead (Mexico) : How to Celebrate Día de Muertos Like a Local
• Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico   – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
• Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

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4 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary: 25+ Things To Do in 2024

Looking for a Oaxaca itinerary that covers the best things to see, do and eat? Here’s how I recommend you spend a few days in this amazing city.

Oaxaca Mexico, a city that’s as rich in history as it is in flavour. If you’re plotting your journey to this incredible city, you’ve likely been entangled in the usual traveller’s conundrum: how many days in Oaxaca are enough to soak up everything the city has to offer, and what should you fill those days with?

Oaxaca is a destination that combines rich history, stunning architecture and some of the best food you’ll find in Mexico. As someone who has wandered through Oaxaca’s colourful streets more than once, I’ve gathered practical insights to help you craft the perfect itinerary for this remarkable city.

This guide aims to provide you with a straightforward, experienced-based approach to exploring Oaxaca. It’s focused on four days, but you can adapt this itinerary to suit the time you have available.

From navigating the bustling markets to finding the best spots for authentic Oaxacan cuisine, this guide highlights the best things to do in Oaxaca for travellers looking for a blend of culture, adventure and culinary delights.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

Oaxaca travel logistics

Before we jump into my 4-day Oaxaca trip itinerary, here are a few things you need to know before your trip to Oaxaca .

How many days do you need in Oaxaca?

In my opinion, 3 days in Oaxaca is the minimum amount of time you need to dedicate to this city that’s the ideal destination for culture and food junkies.

We had four days in Oaxaca, so that’s how I’ve written this itinerary – you can adapt it to the time you have. If you’ve got 5 days in Oaxaca, then slow down a few of the days and add another day trip. Two days in Oaxaca is possible but I honestly think that it’s just not enough time to get a feel for the city (let alone eat all the food!).

There are plenty of blog posts out there with a one week Oaxaca itinerary, but that only works if you have plenty of time up your sleeve. I’ve written this 4-day itinerary for those who have just enough time to get away for a long weekend . Either way, I guarantee you’ll be booking a return trip before your visit to Oaxaca is even over!

If you do have more time in Mexico, consider combining a Mexico City and Oaxaca itinerary . I have the perfect guide to 3 days in Mexico City that you can couple with this Oaxaca travel guide . It’s very easy to travel from Mexico City to Oaxaca (and vice versa).

Is Oaxaca safe?

I think so! I’ve travelled here both as a solo female and with my husband. I never had any issues at all when I’ve visited and always felt safe , even when we were out walking at night. There were lots of families travelling in Oaxaca, as well as solo females.

That being said, it always pays to be aware of your surroundings. Read my tips on the things you need to know before travelling to Oaxaca .

Regardless of the safety situation, I always buy travel insurance.  Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

How to get to Oaxaca

There’s an international airport in Oaxaca, Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) . Many international flights transit through Mexico City but some cities have direct flights here. Search for and compare flights to Oaxaca here .

From the airport, it’s about a  25-minute drive to downtown . You can hire a car, get a taxi or jump in the shared taxis, which cost around MN$390 per person (as of December 2023). You’ll see the shared taxi stand as you come out of customs. You’ll need to wait until the taxi fills up and as they drop people off to their different hotels, but it usually doesn’t take too long.

Alternatively,  GuateGo  offers private transfers direct to your hotel, which will save you a tonne of time.

If you’re already in Mexico, there are plenty of buses and domestic flights from Mexico City and other major cities to Oaxaca. Mexican buses are super comfortable, especially the long-distance buses.

Best time to visit Oaxaca

The  best time to visit Oaxaca  is  October to February  for mild weather. The hottest months are April and May, and you can expect a fair amount of rain between May and September.

My last visit to Oaxaca was in  mid-January  and the daytime  temperatures were lovely  – not hot but not cold, either. It got only a little chilly at night and we saw little rain.

Visitor numbers swell during major  festivals and celebrations . This includes around Easter, the Guelaguetza festival, a traditional dance festival held in July, Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead festival which is becoming more popular with foreign tourists (late October/early November), and Noche de Rabanos, the “Night of the Radishes” (!!) in December.

If the crowds are huge, then is Oaxaca worth visiting during these festivals? I say yes! They are amazing cultural festivals that you won’t forget.

Where to stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca tourism is rapidly increasing, so there are plenty of  hostels and hotels in Oaxaca .

We stayed at  Hotel Siglo XVII  which was in the centre of the city and within walking distance of both the zocalo and the Templo de Santo Domingo. Rooms are built around a lovely courtyard and the staff are very friendly. While we went out for breakfast most days (to try to eat at as many different places as possible!) a breakfast of fruit and eggs cooked to order is included.  Check the latest rates and book your stay with Booking.com  or  Expedia

Other  recommended hotels in Oaxaca  include:

• Flavia Hotel – luxury hotel with spa services and an infinity pool overlooking the city. Check rates and availability online with Expedia
• Casa Oaxaca  – the hotel associated with a delicious restaurant I mention later on. It’s got an outdoor pool for the hot summer days and is in a great location. Book well in advance as rooms fill up quickly.  Find a room online .
• Casa de las Bugambilias  – this family-run B&B is popular with visitors. Each room features the works of local artists.  See if there’s a room available on Booking.com  |  Read reviews on TripAdvisor
• Casa Antonieta  – this boutique hotel has only six, minimalist-styled rooms. Each room has a small patio attached and there’s a coffee shop that adjoins the hotel so you can start your day with caffeine.  Check the latest rates on  Booking.com   or   Expedia
• Hotel Dainzu  – a woman we met on our trip stayed at this delightful budget hotel and said it was one of the best places to stay in Oaxaca. It has a pretty courtyard and decent-sized rooms. It’s also in a great location in the centre of town.  Check rates on Booking.com  |  Read reviews on TripAdvisor

What to pack

Pack good walking shoes to deal with the cobblestoned streets, a hat and sunscreen.

• Armstrong, Kate (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 672 Pages – 10/17/2023 (Publication Date) – Lonely Planet (Publisher)

Oaxaca itinerary 

Now for the good stuff! Here’s how to spend  4 days in Oaxaca .

Map of what to do in Oaxaca

Everything I’ve recommended in this itinerary can be found on the  map of Oaxaca  below.

Day 1: Eat the best food in Oaxaca

One of the  best reasons to visit Oaxaca  is for the  food , so start your trip off right by exploring the local markets. If you don’t know your  memelitas  from your  mole , then the best way to discover Oaxaca’s food scene is with a tour with  Omar of  Oaxacking .

A native Oaxacan, Omar knows everything there is to know about  Oaxacan food . He doesn’t take his guests to the touristy markets and restaurants. Instead, he hits the  markets  that Mexicans shop and eat at.

During our tour we didn’t see another tourist. We followed him as he weaved in and out of the stalls in the maze-like Mercado de Abastos, and ate more food in four hours than I usually do in a week.

We tried memelitas, fried quesadillas, atole, barbacoa, tlayudas, tostadas, pulque, mezcal, nieves and regional sweets. He shared with us the traditions behind local fruits and vegetables, and tips on how and when to eat particular foods.

It was a tour that we could never have done by ourselves. Even though we can speak Spanish, there was no way an outsider could navigate the intricacies of the market without local help and we wouldn’t have known where to begin with ordering.

He also knows all the great chefs in the city so he’s a resource for finding out about other  hidden and not-so-hidden restaurants . He gave us so many suggestions – too many for us to have enough time to eat at! Omar is so well-known now he’s done work with Gordon Ramsay and recently appeared on Somebody Feed Phil .

Book your  Oaxaca food tour  with Omar through  his website . He also does private and group trips to markets outside of Oaxaca City and can customise a tour to your needs.

Guided option:  Omar’s food tour of Oaxaca is on the higher end (but totally worth it!), so  this affordable option  takes guests to other markets in Oaxaca. This tour focuses on Oaxaca’s famous corn and mole dishes.

After the food tour, you may need a  siesta .

Once you’re ready to get going again, head over to the  zócalo , the square that forms the hub of every Mexican town and city. This part of Oaxaca City is always bustling, full of people selling street food and balloons, families hanging out or school kids skipping class. It’s a fun place to visit – and you should come back here throughout your visit to Oaxaca, both during the day and at night to experience it.

Make your way up  Calle Macedonia Alcalá , which becomes a pedestrian street for a few blocks close to the  Templo de Santo Domingo . You’ll find vendors selling food and all manner of artisanal goods, from straw bags to cushion covers – pick up a few of the usually very well-priced goods.

Head into the  Templo de Santo Domingo , a 16 th -century Baroque church. Inside, it’s a golden wonderland. It’s open daily except during mass and there’s usually someone inside who can take you on a brief tour (for a fee) if you’re interested in learning more about the church. Whether you go inside or just stay outside, the temple is one of the essential things to see in Oaxaca City.

Next door is the  Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca  ( Oaxaca Culture Museum ), housed in a former monastery. Make plans to spend a few hours here as there’s a lot to see, from temporary art exhibitions to the permanent exhibitions that follow the history of Oaxacan civilisation all the way to modern times.

Also close by is the  Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca , the botanical gardens. One of the most beautiful Oaxaca attractions, you can only visit on a guided tour (to protect the plants). Two-hour tours are offered in English at 11am from Monday to Saturday for a small fee (MN$100). The gardens are beautiful and one of the  best things to do in Oaxaca City .

Mexico may be known for tequila, but in Oaxaca you’ll be drinking  mezcal , another liquor made from agave. It’s a surprisingly complex drink that’s smoky and strong. It’s difficult to know where to start, so make a reservation for a  tasting  at  La Mezcaloteca  and let the team guide you through a tasting.

They’ll  customise a selection of mezcals  based on flavours you like, and teach you how to enjoy this alcohol. Make sure to drink plenty of water between tastes – quality mezcals usually start at around 40 percent proof and make their way up to 80 proof! Reservations required.

Make (or stumble) your way to  Criollo . You’ll need a taxi as it’s a fair walk from the city centre.

Here you’ll be delighted by the multi-course tasting menu that celebrates  Oaxacan flavours . The kitchen is open so you can watch the staff preparing every course, including the women who knead, flatten and toast every single tortilla. Mexico’s most famous chef, Enrique Olvera (the man behind Pujol in Mexico City), is a partner in Criollo.

Day 2: Go on a mezcal tour in Oaxaca

If last night gave you a taste for mezcal, today you’re going to learn even more about the drink.

But first, breakfast. Head to  PAN:AM  for the delicious chilaquiles and fresh juices. Don’t forget to pick something out of the bread basket that comes around (a pain au chocolat, for instance). Everything is freshly made in-house.

There are plenty of  mezcal tours  around town (Omar from Oaxacking also leads tours to family-owned, small-batch producers) but we chose and recommend  Las Bugambilias . I found them through the blog  Brooklyn Tropicali , written by an expat living in Oaxaca, and loved that they take their guests to small, family-run  palenques  (artisanal distilleries).

The tour is an all-day affair, with stops at  three different producers in Santiago de Matatlán (a region just outside of Oaxaca). Eighty-five percent of mezcal is produced in Oaxaca state, and most of that is made in Santiago de Matatlán.

You’ll learn in great detail about the  process of making mezcal , and see where it all happens. Staff at each  palenque  leads the group through a tasting of their best mezcals and you can purchase bottles in each location. Lunch is at a family-owned restaurant.

Guided option:  An alternative tour is  this full-day tour  which provides an in-depth look at mezcal production and education about this alcohol.

When you return to Oaxaca later in the day, have a rest before heading out for dinner at  Cabuche . The  enmoladas , tortillas rolled in a rich mole sauce, are a must, and the tostadas are all delicious (toppings change regularly). It’s a small, family-run restaurant. Service can be slow, but it’s made up for by the tasty, affordable food.

Head back to the zócalo, especially if it’s a Friday or Saturday night – you’ll find the area will be buzzing with families and groups of friends out enjoying the evening. Pick up a crispy, hand-rolled crepe from one of the  street food vendors  for dessert while you wander around.

If you’ve still got energy, try one of the  mezcal cocktails  at  Sabina Sabe , a trendy bar on Calle 5 de Mayo, or grab a table at Txalaparta , a dark bar with a relaxed pub vibe.

Day 3: Take a day trip from Oaxaca

You can take plenty of  day trips from Oaxaca  (you could easily spend a week in Oaxaca) and one of the most popular and beautiful is to  Hierve el Agua .

Hierve el Agua is a stunning natural wonder created by thousands of years of calcium-rich mineral spring water carving out incredible formations. Basically, it looks like a frozen waterfall. It’s about 1.5 hours outside of the city and there’s hiking and hot springs there.

There are plenty of tours that organise a day trip to the falls. Having done the mezcal tour with  Las Bugambilias , I imagine they’d organise a great day trip to Hierve El Agua.

Both  this tour  and  this tour  include a visit to Hierve el Agua as well as other ruins including Mitla. GuateGo  also has a tour that includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, mezcal tasting, a visit to see stunning weavings, and – of course! – the chance to wander the pools of Hierve el Agua.

If you want to  visit Hierve El Agua alone , it’s possible. You’ll need to take the local bus or organise a driver.

For dinner that night, enjoy another  world-class menu  at an affordable price at  Casa Oaxaca , a restaurant that focuses on Oaxacan ingredients.

End the evening at  In Situ , one of the city’s mezcal bars that was recently featured on Vice’s  Munchies  program.

They only have mezcal on the menu, though, so if you’ve had enough of this potent drink, this may not be the bar for you! The owner, Ulises Torrentera, is a fantastic guy (we met him in San Diego !) and is often at the bar so stop and say hello to him.

Day 4: Explore historic Monte Albán

Mexico is famous for corn and  Itanoni  is the place to go to imbibe this grain in many forms. Every dish on the menu of this gorgeous little restaurant is  made from  maíz , and it’s popular with tourists and locals alike. You must, must try the tascalate, a delicious corn and chocolate drink (get it  con leche , with milk), and the tamales, tetelas and… ok, just get one of everything. It’s all SO. GOOD.

As soon as you’ve finished breakfast, head out to  Monte Albán  so you can be out there before the crowds descend and the sun rises too high. This  pre-Columbian site  will have you scratching your head in wonder as you ponder how it was built centuries ago when people didn’t have modern-day tools.

You can catch the local bus or jump on the tour bus from the zócalo (buy a ticket inside the store marked “Tours Lani”), which costs around MN$70 per person. GuateGo has a shuttle that departs regularly each day and can be booked online.

Bring plenty of water and a hat and sunscreen as there’s not a lot of shade.

Guided option: If you want to learn about the site, join a tour from Oaxaca City, as there are no guides for hire at the entrance to Monte Albán, as I had expected.  This 3-hour tour  comes recommended. You don’t need a tour guide, though, unless you’re very interested in the history of the site. I kind of wish we’d had someone to tell us more about what we were seeing.

When you return to Oaxaca City after exploring the historic site of Monte Albán, grab a table at  Boulenc   for lunch. They have delicious sandwiches on bread all baked in-house, and plenty of sweet treats at the bakery next door to finish up with. They also sell homemade honey, jams and pickled vegetables. It’s one of the  best places to visit in Oaxaca  for fresh, homemade food.

Hit up the markets in the afternoon for  souvenirs . There are so many beautiful things to take home with you, from hand-stitched tunics, rugs, pottery and handbags. I’m not normally a shopper, but I just couldn’t say no to all the lovely things I saw.

Start in the two markets in the centre of town,  Mercado 20 de Noviembre  and  Mercado Benito Juárez . These two markets are quite touristy but are interesting to wander through. The  Mercado de Artesanías ,  Huizache  and  La Casa de las Artesanías  each also have plenty of products to choose from.

End the day and your time in Oaxaca at  El Destilado . This restaurant is owned by two American guys who fell in love with Oaxacan cuisine. There’s an a la carte menu or tasting menus to choose from. The venue is gorgeous with food to match.

More Oaxaca things to do

If you have more time for your Oaxaca city itinerary, here are a few more things to do:

• Take a  cooking class . Highly recommended are the classes at  El Sabor Zapoteco . A woman we met in Oaxaca absolutely loved the class she took at  Cocina Prehispanica , held in a commune for young women from villages around Oaxaca that wanted to continue their education.  This cooking class includes a visit to a market to collect your ingredients.
• Detox at a  temazcal , a sweat lodge. You’ll clear out toxins as shamans slap you with bunches of basil.  Ceviarem Temazcal  is a popular option.
• Learn about  textiles  at the  Museo Textil , housed in an old colonial mansion.
• Head out to see other  ruins  at  Mitla  and  Yagul . These are just a couple of the many options for  day trips from Oaxaca .
• Explore the local  street art scene on a bike tour  with  Coyote Aventuras .
• If you’ve wandered through the markets in Oaxaca’s downtown, visit another local market outside of town. In nearby  Tlacolula , vendors from different villages bring their goods to sell on Sundays.  Omar from Oaxacking  can arrange transport for this  Oaxaca day trip  and show you the best spots to eat.

Did you find this article helpful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Has this Oaxaca itinerary inspired you to plan a trip? What are your favourite things to do in Oaxaca?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Mexico travel blogs:

• 19 Useful Things to Know Before Travelling to Oaxaca, Mexico
• 3 Days in Mexico City: 20 Things to See, Do and Eat
• The Best Things To Do in Cancun, Mexico: An Insider’s Guide

MEXICO TRIP ESSENTIALS

• Book flights to and around Mexico online with Skyscanner . I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
• Find great hotels across Mexico. Check prices on Booking.com   and Expedia online.
• Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Mexico on GetYourGuide or Viator . There’s something for everyone.
• A copy of the  Lonely Planet guide to Mexico will be handy.
• One thing I always purchase is  travel insurance ! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

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About REBECCA

I'm a travel junkie who started dreaming about seeing the world from a very young age. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. A former expat, I've lived in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Argentina and the United States. I share travel resources, tips and stories based on my personal experiences, and my goal is to make travel planning just that bit easier.

7 thoughts on “4 Days in Oaxaca Itinerary: 25+ Things To Do in 2024”

Thank you for the very useful information guys! I took notes! 🙂

Glad it is helpful!

Worthy of mention for those who are interested in is San Jose del Pacifico which is situated in the mountains and has an out-of-this-world sunset, they also have a strong culture of hallucinogenic mushrooms.

Hello Rebecca, How long was the food tour with Oaxacking? And, was it all on foot and in the main part of the city?

Omar can customise it to whatever you need! We did a 4-hour tour (which I highly recommend so that you have the opportunity to try everything). Everything was on foot. If you do a mezcal tour with him, it’s by car. Let me know if you have any more questions!

I’ve never been to Oaxaca, but now I’m dying to go! The food in particular looks AMAZING. -Claire tallgirlbigworld.com

Oh my goodness, it’s worth going for the food alone!!

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20 Top Things to Do in Oaxaca, Including Mexican Hot Chocolate Tastings and Mural Walks

Culinary and cultural adventure await in this increasingly popular city in Mexico.

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Oaxaca is not just having a moment — it is here to stay. One of Mexico's most enchanting cities , Oaxaca seems to truly have it all, from ancient ruins, excellent cuisine , and fabulous art to indigenous culture, architecture, and dance. I learned this first-hand back in 2017; I was on a backpacking trip that was supposed to cover all of Mexico, but two months in, I got to Oaxaca and couldn't get myself to leave. I didn't finish the trip itinerary that year, and I have zero regrets.

Of course, I am not alone in my passion for Oaxaca.

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"It's one of my favorite destinations in Mexico for its incredible combination of precolombian, colonial, and contemporary influences," says Zach Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico, a curator of highly personalized and expert itineraries all around Mexico. "Let us not forget that Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s biggest states and, like the cultural diversity, its geography is vast, ranging from the high alpine mountains of Sierra Norte and Mixteca to steamy lowland jungles and coastal plains. Throw in some world-class surfing, kite boarding, mountain biking, and hiking, and you’ve truly got something for everyone. While not such a well-guarded secret anymore, you’d be surprised at how few North Americans have actually visited Oaxaca."

Ready to see why we're so hooked this city? Here are 20 of the best things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Related: This All-female Travel Company is Headed to Oaxaca — With Trips Featuring Incredible Women-owned Businesses

Discover the historic core and Zocalo.

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The entire city of Oaxaca is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it makes sense to start your explorations at the historic core. For most cities in Mexico, the zocalo (which translates to public square or market) is at the heart of the its historic core, where you're sure to learn about the city's history, admire some of its oldest architecture, and get some good people-watching in. Oaxaca is no exception. Start in the main square and wander the famous landmarks that are nearby.

Walk the Pasillo de Humo in Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Vegetarians, look away! Oaxaca has many interesting markets (more on that in a bit), but perhaps its most famous is the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, particularly for its Pasillo de Humo, which directly translates to "hall of smoke." The name refers to a seemingly endless aisle of carne asada within the market. It's an overwhelming experience for all the senses, and a rite of passage for any carnivore.

Make your way through other markets, too.

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Oaxaca has so many different markets to explore, and each one offers a unique experience. Mercado 20 Noviembre is one of the main markets for prepared food and ingredients, like spices, herbs, produce, and meat. But Central de Abastos is the largest market in Oaxaca — if you want it, chances are you'll find it here. Feeling peckish? Find the Doña Vale stall and try her memelas, or fried masa cakes, which are now legendary, thanks to Netflix show "Street Food." At Benito Juarez Market, shop for souvenirs and more Oaxacan food. If local art is what you seek, head to ARIPO Oaxaca Artisan Market, which abounds with jewelry, crafts, textiles, and other artisan products made around Oaxaca.

Eat your way across the city.

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While we're on the subject of food, we'd be remiss not to mention Oaxaca's impressive cuisine. Mexican food is beloved around the world, but there is something about Oaxacan food that makes it extra special. Try items indigenous to Oaxaca like crispy tlayudas , decadent enmoladas , crunchy, salty chapulines , and, of course, the seven different kinds of mole perfected in Oaxacan kitchens. You can find all of these dishes at the humblest of street carts, or at fine-dining restaurants around the city, where you can pair a dish with a sexy Mezcal cocktail. If you want insider secrets, a food tour with Oaxacking will blow your mind (and your taste buds). Restaurants not to miss are Criollo , El Tendajon , and Origen . 

Take a swim in a frozen waterfall at Hierve El Agua.

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One of Oaxaca’s most mesmerizing natural features is Hierve El Agua . This impressive landmark looks like a gushing waterfall that frozen mid-spill over the edge of a cliff. Of course, it's not actually frozen, but an illusion, thanks to calcified mineral deposits. It's surreal sight and one of the most popular attractions in Oaxaca. At the top of the falls are natural mineral infinity pools, too, and you can take a dip in them while enjoying mountain and forest views. Make sure your phone is fully charged — you won't want to miss these photo ops.

Walk like a Zapotec at Monte Alban.

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Evidence of Mexico's indigenous past can be found in all regions across Mexico, but Oaxaca has some of the highest concentrations of what is left of the Zapotec and Mixtec empires. The most famous archaeological site in Oaxaca is Monte Alban. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the capital of the Zapotec civilization, and today it's an impressive, preserved collection of palaces, tombs, a ball court, and plazas — all on a hilltop perch with 360-degree views of the valley, mountains, and Oaxaca City.

"Monte Alban, along with other archaeological sites in the region, are a combination of Zapotec and Mixtec, reflecting the various battles and interchanging rule of these warring communities. Mexico's pre-Spanish history is much more than simply the story of the Aztec and Mayas," Rabinor said. What's more, these cultures are alive and well and have influenced modern day cuisine, music, art, religion, rituals, and festivals.

Take a spiritual steam.

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Self-care is an integral part of any vacation these days, so why not a little self-care that comes with centuries of history? Temazcal is an ancient ritual that dates back hundreds of years. It comes from a Nahuatl word that means "house of heat," and many of Mexico's indigenous people practiced temazcal sweat lodge ceremonies for healing. The practice is still used today, though it can be a lot more commercialized, particularly in more touristy areas. For something a bit more true to its roots, the RenaSiendo Temazcal Ceremony is a three-hour experience, complete with the use of onsite pools.

Count gold at Templo de Santo Domingo.

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At the heart of Oaxaca is the Templo de Santo Domingo, a spectacular Baroque Catholic church. Standing at attention in front of a main square and surrounded by agave plants, this beautiful work of architecture is one of the highlights of Oaxaca. Not to be missed is its interior, which is practically bathed in gold. Entrance to the church is free.

Don marigolds at Day of the Dead.

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A Day of the Dead festival should be on every Mexico itinerary, and Oaxaca's is one of the best and most popular in the country. Dia de los Muertos is one of Mexico's most important celebrations, where departed souls are honored and celebrated with candles, parades, offerings, art, color, and music. The festival takes place every year from October 31 to November 2. If you do aim to visit Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as this is one of the busiest times to visit the city.

Sip mezcal in its birthplace.

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Born from the agave fields all across the state of Oaxaca, this distant cousin to tequila is known for its smoky taste, though mezcal flavors do range greatly. It's one of the most celebrated beverages throughout the state, and dozens of mezcal bars in Oaxaca are waiting with open bottles to gift you that perfect pour. One of the best is La Mezcalerita Oaxaca , with three intimate rooms and a sprawling rooftop patio. 

Explore Mitla.

If you'd like to see more ruins than Monte Alban, Mitla is a must. This was the religious center for the Zapotecs, and today's visitors usually go here to see the Column of Life, which is located in one of the tombs. Legend has it that if you wrap your arms around the column, the distance between your hands reveals how much time you have left in life. Believe what you will, Mitla is still a fascinating piece of Oaxaca history.

Get lost among the city's murals.

Street art is a vital part of Mexican culture no matter where you are in the country, Oaxaca's streets included. Public walls all over the city are adorned with brilliant works of street art. A large part of the work is due to a collective known as Lapiztola, a group that uses art and creativity to spread messages of change to the public.

Soak up all the art and culture.

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Oaxaca has plenty of indoor art, too. The city is peppered with museums and galleries. The Museo Textil de Oaxaca , for example, highlights traditional Oaxacan textiles and handicrafts, while the Museo de las Culturas features 14 rooms that tell the story of Oaxaca's history. And don't skip the Museum of Contemporary Art , or Jacobo y Maria Angeles Workshop , a fascinating, under-the-radar spot that focuses on carved copal wood figures, an ancestral practice native to the Oaxaca region.

Visit the world’s widest tree.

Not far from Oaxaca City is the stunning Templo Santa Maria de la Asuncion in the small town of Santa Maria del Tule. In addition to being a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, the grounds of the church are home to El Tule, a Montezuma Cypress Tree known as the tree of enlightenment — it's trunk measures 46 feet in circumference.

Sip some serious hot chocolate.

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Chocolate has always been an important part of Mexican kitchens, and Oaxaca is one of Mexico's top-producing regions for cacao beans, so you can expect the hot chocolate here to be a cut above the rest. Oaxacan hot chocolate is made with water, not milk, and is spun with a whisk to give it a froth on top. Cafe Brujula is a personal favorite — visit the one on C. Macedonio Alcala, and order banana bread to go with it.

Hop the bus to San Jose del Pacifico.

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About three hours south of Oaxaca and nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains is the tiny village of San Jose del Pacifico. A completely different vibe from Oaxaca City, this mountain town is known for its thick pine forests, hippie community and — if I'm being honest — its magic mushrooms. The latter is probably San Jose del Pacifico's biggest draw , and Shamans can guide visitors who are interested in this experience. But you'll find much more to do in San Jose, too, from hiking to temazcal.

Road trip to the coast.

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Continue south from San Jose del Pacifico (another five hours or so) and you will be at the doorstep of some of the best surfing in Mexico. The beach towns along Oaxaca’s coast are known for surfing, funky cafes, fresh fruit, and super laid-back vibes. Each beach town is different, but the major ones to hit are Huatulco, Puerto Escondido (home to the Mexi Pipeline), Zipolite, Puerto Angel, and Mazunte. If you want to get to know Oaxaca’s coastline on a deeper level, local tour operator The Puerto Experience is your lifeline. 

Stay with Oaxaca’s indigenous communities.

While sites like Monte Alban and Mitla tell the stories of the past, the communities responsible for these great wonders are alive and well. Oaxaca is home to a group called Pueblo Mancomunados, which are eight remote and protected villages inhabited by Zapotec people. Visitors can connect with these communities through ecotourism projects, which help develop schools, roads, and healthcare for the communities in the region. Local guides take travelers on hikes, horseback rides, wildlife viewing excursions, and temazcal experiences. You might also eat home-cooked meals and sleep in simple adobe huts, if you choose. It's an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, and one of the best ways to really connect with Mexico's roots.

Celebrate Guelaguetza.

Each July, Oaxaca's streets explode with the Guelaguetza Festival, one of the largest folk festivals in North America. The event celebrates all regions of Oaxaca and honors the region's diverse food, art, and cultures. The event takes place over two Mondays in July.

Take a break at the botanical gardens.

Mardoz/Getty Images

Just steps from Templo de Santo Domingo is Oaxaca's Botanical Gardens . This quiet and beautifully landscaped place is an ideal spot in which to take a break from the heat of the day and wander amongst plants native to Oaxaca. Tours are available, or you can visit on your own.

4 Days in Oaxaca City, Mexico – The Ultimate Itinerary

Written By: Shelley Marmor

Updated On: January 9, 2023

Ready to plan your trip to Oaxaca City, Mexico? Oaxaca is among the top Mexico travel destinations, especially for cultural travelers and food lovers. The Oaxaca itinerary in this article will help you maximize your time in “The Foodie Capital of Mexico.”

Oaxaca (pronounced waa-haa-kah, in case you weren’t sure) has a lot to offer visitors. There are three Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Sites, bustling mercados, colorful colonial buildings, gorgeous nature, and local artisan villages, and this itinerary takes you to all of them.

Oaxaca Itinerary – The Ultimate City Guide

Ready to get to this ultimate Oaxaca itinerary, so you discover the must see, must do, and must eat places in Oaxaca City, Mexico? Let’s dive in, but don’t miss the Oaxaca City FAQ at the end of the article, so you know how to best plan your trip.

Day 1: Centro Historico & Oaxaca Zocalo

On your first day in Oaxaca City, spend some time getting to know the town’s layout on this Free Walking Tour . It will give you a chance to get to know the lay of the land in Downtown Oaxaca City (Centro Historico) and the Zocalo (Main Town Square), which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Oaxaca City has a flourishing street food culture, so be on the lookout for tlayudas (also called Mexican pizza), quesillo (Oaxaca string cheese), tetelas (triangular-shaped hand pies), tamales oaxaqueños (tamales cooked in banana leaves), nieves (sorbet), and tejate, a prehispanic chocolate and corn drink that’s served cold, and very refreshing on a hot Oaxaca day. For the adventurous eaters, make sure to sample one of the most popular Oaxaca delicacies: chapulines (pronounced chap-pull-leen-es) . These small grasshoppers are sold by the kilo, and served in a bag so you can snack on them throughout the day, just like popcorn, nuts or candy.

If Mexican grasshoppers aren’t your idea of a delicious snack, head to the local markets for some non-insect foods. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is part-market, part-food hall, so you can go to each vendor and try whatever you’d like, and also do some shopping.

After eating, head to the Zocalo (Town Square) to see the Catedral Metropolitana de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Cathedral), the biggest church in Oaxaca City. Plaza de la Constitución (Constitution Plaza), the area surrounding the church, is the perfect place to relax on a park bench and spend some time people-watching.

Next, head to the nearby Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán. This 16th century Spanish church was made in the Baroque architecture style, and a must see. Located on the temple grounds, don’t miss the Casa de la Cultura Oaxaqueña (Oaxaca Culture Museum) and Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca City Botanical Gardens).

Note: This 2.5-acre garden features Oaxaca’s native flora and fauna, with hundreds of plants, trees and succulents to see. It has a sensitive ecosystem, so you must visit with a guided tour. They offer tours in English a few times a week, for $100 MXN ($5 USD) per person.

Up next, you’ll want to make your way to Calle de Macedonia Alcala, a pedestrian-only street in downtown that’s perfect for photos, shopping and eating. This popular street is lined with colorful buildings, art galleries, hip bars and yummy restaurants, and is a central hub of activity in Oaxaca City.

You’re probably getting hungry again by now, and since you’re in Oaxaca, you must try the authentic Oaxacan mole (pronounced moe-lay). Here are a few great restaurants where you can sample mole: Las Quince Letras, Los Danzantes and Cabuche.

Nowadays, many people are familiar with mole negro (black mole), there are actually seven types of mole. These include mole colorado (red mole), mole verde (green mole), mole poblano (orange mole) and mole amarillo (yellow mole) — and you can try them all in Oaxaca.

Day 2: Hierve el Agua & Oaxacan Mezcal

If you’ve ever seen photos of Oaxaca City, you’ve likely seen some of Hierve el Agua, with its petrified waterfalls and infinity pools. Hierve el Agua literally translates to “boil the water,” and though the water isn’t actually boiling, there are thermal pools with mineral-rich water that you can soak in.

Located about 1.5 hours southeast of Downtown Oaxaca City, it’s best to head to hierve el agua early in the morning; they open at 9am. Between the mineral pools and the hike down to the bottom of the petrified waterfall, there’s a lot to see at Hierve el Agua, and you’ll want to spend about four hours there to do it all.

The best way to get there is via rental car, and it’s an easy drive up the mountain to hierve el agua. You can also take the camioneta (shared pick-up truck), or hire a private taxi driver for the day. This is a great option if you aren’t renting a car because the cab driver will wait for you in the parking lot, and then drive you back to your hotel when you’re done for the day.

As one of the most-visited places in the Oaxaca City area, Hierve el Agua gets very crowded. If you want to take some Instagram photos without any other people in them, get there exactly when they open at 9am so you beat the tour buses.

In addition to the hot spring pools, which the locals say have healing minerals, the other noteworthy things to see at Hierve el Agua are the “waterfalls.” You see quotes around the word waterfalls because they really aren’t waterfalls; though they do look like it.

From far enough away, it appears as though water is cascading over the cliff-face, but this is just an illusion. This effect was created over centuries, as mineral-rich water trickled down the cliff. Over time, the minerals from these water drops accumulated, and now it appears as though there’s waterfalls at Hierve el Agua.

There are two waterfalls here, a small one and a large one. You can see the small one from the top of the hill, but for the best views of the large one, you’ll need to hike down to the bottom. It is a relatively easy, 1.6-mile (2.5 km) loop trail that takes about 1.5 hours to complete.

When you make your way back up the mountain, you’ll arrive at the hot spring pools. These mineral pools make for the perfect place to enjoy a soak after the hike. If your muscles are hurting, the mineral-rich water should alleviate some of the pain.

After Hierve el Agua, you can head back to Oaxaca City to freshen up for a night out. As the capital of mezcal in Mexico, you must try some local Oaxacan mezcals. Mezcaloteca, which is part-mezcal school, part-tasting room, is the ideal place to learn about it and try some of the best locally-made artisanal mezcal in town. (Note: Reservations required .)

After a few drinks, you’ll probably want a nice dinner in “The Foodie Capital of Mexico.” If you want to splurge, head to Casa Oaxaca. For the best experience, make a reservation a few weeks in advance for one of the rooftop tables, at what many say is the best Oaxaca restaurant.

Day 3: Mitla & More

Your third day in Oaxaca begins in the Mitla pueblo magico (magic town). Never heard of a Mexico pueblo magico? This prestigious title is awarded to small towns with noteworthy characteristics like historic significance, unique cultural traditions and untouched natural beauty. 

San Pablo Villa de Mitla, usually just called Mitla for short, a small town that has prehispanic ruins. It is unique for an archeological site in Mexico because there’s no tall pyramids. Rather, the temples at Mitla are shorter and have intricate stone carvings and colorful geometric designs.

The word mitla is a Nahuatl (Aztec) word, and is derived from mictlán, meaning “a place of the dead.” In the past, Mitla served as a holy burial site for the Aztec, Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations, and only important nobles, warriors and clergy were allowed to be buried there. 

The Mitla Ruins and city of San Pablo Villa de Mitla are about an hour south of Oaxaca City by car. You’ll want at least three hours to explore the buildings, ruins and the town itself. After you’re done, you can begin the drive back to Oaxaca City, but you’ll want to include some stops along the way.

The first place to check out is El Rey de Matatlan, a mezcal distillery where you can see the entire farm-to-table mezcal process. They have a free mezcal tour where you’ll learn about everything from the agave plant harvest, to the process of actually distilling the mezcal. At the end of the tour, you can sample the mezcal and even buy a bottor (or two).

Next, head to Teotitlan del Valle, a pueblo in Oaxaca. This one of the so-called Oaxacan artisan towns, which are small villages that each make just one artisan craft. In Teotitlan del Valle, they make tapetes (hand-woven Zapotec rugs), which are among the most famous Oaxacan handicrafts.

Many of the local master rug-makers open their facilities to tours, so you can see the whole weaving process. After hand-dying the wool, these master artisans use a giant loom to create their hand-made rugs, and no two are identical. After your tours, you can even buy the rugs directly from the artists, and many even offer shipping for an additional fee.

The final stop is the pueblo of Santa María del Tule, home to the famous Arbol del Tule. The Tule Tree holds the world record for the largest tree trunk in the world, so you’ll want to make sure to see it while there’s still daylight to really appreciate how massive this tree is.

El Tule is a 2,000-year-old Montezuma cypress tree. It measures in at 46-feet in diameter (14 m), and takes about 30 full-grown adults with their clasped hands and standing in a circle to wrap all the way around it.

Day 4: Monte Alban Ruins & Artisan Villages

There are a total of three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca, Mexico: 1) Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla, 2) Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley, which spans both Oaxaca state and Puebla state, and 3) Historic Center of Oaxaca and Archeological Site of Monte Alban. This itinerary includes two of the three, and on the final day, you’ll visit the Monte Alban archeological site. Check out 42 Amazing Ancient Ruins of the World

Monte Alban is the most important of all ancient ruins in Oaxaca. It is located just 30 minutes by car from downtown, and a must see on any Oaxaca City itinerary. You’ll want to head there as early as possible, so you can beat the crowds and also beat the heat from the midday sun.

The Ruins of Monte Alban are located on top of a mountain, and there’s basically no tree cover nor shade. This can make for a very sweaty outing, especially if you plan to climb the pyramids. To avoid the heat as much as possible, plan to arrive at 8am when they open.

To give yourself enough time to walk around and climb all the structures and pyramids, allow for about three hours at Monte Alban. From the higher elevation points at the site, you’ll have some stellar views of the Oaxacas valley towns below, including Oaxaca City.

After you’re done at Monte Alban Ruins, check out the nearby Oaxaca artisan towns so you can shop for authentic souvenirs made by local crafts-people. Not far from the ruins, head to San Bartolo Coyotepec, Oaxaca. This small village is known for its barro negro, the famous black pottery from Oaxaca. Also, check out Amazing Historical Sites In the World – That We’ve Seen

People from San Bartolo Coyotepec have been making black pottery since the 1950s. The first person to make it was Doña Rosa. She started to polish the pottery before firing it in the kiln, which gave the finished product its signature black matte finish. Today, the tradition continues, but it was Doña Rosa’s who put her pueblo on the map.

The last art town is San Martin Tilcajete, the fantastical land of the Oaxacan alebrijes (pronounced al-lay-bree-hays). Never heard of an alebrije? They are brightly-colored hand-carved wood figures, and one of the most beloved forms of Mexican folk art. Alebrijes combine two or more animals into a hybrid creature, which some say serves as a spirit guide, akin to a Native American totem. If you’ve seen the Pixar movie Coco , the characters Dante and Pepita are both alebrijes. 

The first alerije was made by Mexican artist, Pedro Linares, who gave them the name alebrije (a made-up word). His artistic legacy lives on in the Oaxaca artisan town of San Martin Tilcajete, where you can see them being made in local shops, and buy the very own you alebrije.

Oaxaca City Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Oaxaca City?

Oaxaca City is the capital of Oaxaca state, located in the Southern Mexico region. It is about 285 mile (460 km) south of Mexico City. Oaxaca state borders Chiapas state on its eastern side, Guerrero State to its west, and Veracruz and Puebla states to its north.

About 160 miles (258 km) south of Oaxaca City, you’ll find the Riviera Oaxaqueña (Oaxaca Riviera). There are so many beach towns in Oaxaca to check out, but with a four-day itinerary, it’s just not possible; you’d want at least a full week to see Oaxaca City and the beaches.

How do I travel to Oaxaca City?

Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX) is located about 20-30 minutes by car from downtown. There are very few international direct flights, but you can easily find connecting flights through the Mexico City Airport, Monterrey Airport, Guadalajara Airport and Tijuana Airport. You can also take the ADO bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca City. ADO is Mexico’s largest bus company, with a fleet of luxury-class buses. There are day and overnight trips available, but some prefer the overnight trip as the drive takes 6-7 hours.

Should I rent a car in Oaxaca?

Getting a rental car in Oaxaca City is the easiest way to see a lot of sites during your four-day trip. To follow the Oaxaca itinerary in this article exactly, a rental car is the way to go. The best place to get one is the Oaxaca Airport, and you can pick it up right after you land. Check rental car comparisons at CarRentals.com

How’s the Oaxaca weather?

Oaxaca City is a desert, so when visiting, expect hot, dry days, but then cool, crisp nights. Weather in Oaxaca can vary by about 20°F from day to night, so you’ll want to pack layers, and don’t forget to bring a jacket which you’ll use each night when the sun goes down.

When is the best time to visit Oaxaca?

Though Oaxaca City is in the desert, it rains pretty heavily from about May to September; though the other months are basically rain-free. For the best weather, visit during the months of October to April, which is the dry season in Oaxaca.

Final Thoughts: Your Ultimate Oaxaca Itinerary

There’s so much to do and see in Oaxaca City — one of the most interesting travel destinations in Mexico. On a four-day trip, you can cover a lot of ground if you’re renting a car because public transportation in Oaxaca isn’t super efficient.

Keep in mind that you can get around by public transport, but you’ll sacrifice a lot of your travel time doing so. If neither option sounds appealing, there are also plenty of tours, and you can book them from local agencies in the Zocalo once you arrive.

What from this Oaxaca itinerary caught your eye? We’d love to hear from you, so please let us know in the comments down below.

Author Bio: Shelley is a former Miami travel magazine editor who ditched the office for the world! She has been a full time expat living in Mexico since 2018 and helps travelers plan their ultimate Oaxaca trip through her Travel To Oaxaca site.

Read more about Mexico Travel

• 25 Best Places To Visit in Mexico
• 23 Amazing Things to do in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula
• Best Things to do in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• 21 Amazing Things to do in Cancun
• Where to Stay in Cancun: Best Hotels and Areas For Every Budget
• 10 Best Things to do in Mexico City for an Epic Trip
• 19 Best Things to do in La Paz, Mexico

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About Shelley Marmor

Shelley is a former Miami travel magazine editor who ditched the office for the world! After traveling solo to half the states in Mexico, she settled down in Merida, Mexico. Shelley helps travelers plan their ultimate Mexico trip through her TravelMexicoSolo and Travel To Merida blogs.

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31 Best Stops Between Mexico City and Oaxaca

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

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How long is the drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The direct drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca is 286 mi (460 km) , and should have a drive time of 5 hrs 19 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Mexico City to Oaxaca, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Puebla , as well as top places to visit like Templo de Quetzalcóatl and Sky Balloons México | Vuelos en Globo Teotihuacán, or the ever-popular Teotihuacan en bici (Teotihuacan bike tour).

Top city between Mexico City and Oaxaca

Best stops along mexico city to oaxaca drive, teotihuacan en bici (teotihuacan bike tour).

Templo de Quetzalcóatl

Sky Balloons México | Vuelos en Globo Teotihuacán

Floating gardens of xochimilco, san andrés mixquic.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Archaeological Zone Tepozteco

Museo y centro de documentación, ex convento de tepoztlán, rancho san martín lavanda, hacienda panoaya, ex-hacienda de chautla, balneario agua hedionda (nueva administración), paso de cortés, government palace tlaxcala, basilica of our lady of ocotlan.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Zona Arqueológica de Cholula

Zócalo de atlixco, plaza atlixco, estrella de puebla.

Matlalcueitl

Capilla del rosario, templo de santo domingo.

Zócalo de Puebla

Catedral de puebla, national puppet museum, africam safari.

All travel reservations in 1 place

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Volcanic Park

The eco river park, palacio de hierro, teleférico de orizaba, dr miguel romero sánchez, top searches in oaxaca, other popular road trips from mexico city, explore nearby places.

• San Felipe del Agua
• San Jose Vistahermosa
• San Andres Huayapam
• Santa Maria del Tule
• Rojas de Cuauhtemoc
• San Agustin Etla
• Teotitlan del Valle
• Magdalena Apasco
• San Martin Tilcajete
• Santa Ana Zegache
• Ocotlan de Morelos
• Teposcolula
• Capulalpam de Mendez
• San Pablo Villa de Mitla
• San Juan Bautista Coixtlahuaca
• Tamazulapam
• San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec
• Pluma Hidalgo
• San Bartolo
• Puerto Escondido
• Huajuapan de Leon
• San Miguel del Puerto
• Santa Maria Huatulco
• Santa Maria Tonameca

All related maps of Oaxaca

• Map of Oaxaca
• Map of San Felipe del Agua
• Map of San Jose Vistahermosa
• Map of Etla
• Map of San Andres Huayapam
• Map of Santa Maria del Tule
• Map of Zaachila
• Map of Rojas de Cuauhtemoc
• Map of San Agustin Etla
• Map of Teotitlan del Valle
• Map of Magdalena Apasco
• Map of San Martin Tilcajete
• Map of Santa Ana Zegache
• Map of Ocotlan de Morelos
• Map of Teposcolula
• Map of Capulalpam de Mendez
• Map of Ixtlan
• Map of San Pablo Villa de Mitla
• Map of Tlacolula
• Map of Yanhuitlan
• Map of San Juan Bautista Coixtlahuaca
• Map of Tamazulapam
• Map of San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec
• Map of Pluma Hidalgo
• Map of San Bartolo
• Map of Puerto Escondido
• Map of Huajuapan de Leon
• Map of San Miguel del Puerto
• Map of Santa Maria Huatulco
• Map of Huatulco
• Map of Santa Maria Tonameca

Oaxaca throughout the year

• Oaxaca in January
• Oaxaca in February
• Oaxaca in March
• Oaxaca in April
• Oaxaca in May
• Oaxaca in June
• Oaxaca in July
• Oaxaca in August
• Oaxaca in September
• Oaxaca in October
• Oaxaca in November
• Oaxaca in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Oaxaca?

Get inspired for your trip to Oaxaca with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Oaxaca Itinerary
• 2-Day Oaxaca Itinerary
• 3-Day Oaxaca Itinerary
• 4-Day Oaxaca Itinerary
• 5-Day Oaxaca Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from mexico city to oaxaca.

Yes! You can drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

How far is Oaxaca from Mexico City by car?

The drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca is 286 miles (460 km).

How long does it take to drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

Driving from Mexico City to Oaxaca should take you 5 hrs 19 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

Gas from Mexico City to Oaxaca would cost around $25 to $58 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

You could check out Templo de Quetzalcóatl and Sky Balloons México | Vuelos en Globo Teotihuacán, or the always popular Teotihuacan en bici (Teotihuacan bike tour)!

What are the best cities to visit between Mexico City and Oaxaca?

People love visiting Puebla, among others.

What's the weather like in Mexico City?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Mexico City in January
• Weather in Mexico City in February
• Weather in Mexico City in March
• Weather in Mexico City in April
• Weather in Mexico City in May
• Weather in Mexico City in June
• Weather in Mexico City in July
• Weather in Mexico City in August
• Weather in Mexico City in September
• Weather in Mexico City in October
• Weather in Mexico City in November
• Weather in Mexico City in December

What are some other road trips from Mexico City?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Mexico City.

• Mexico City to Las Vegas drive
• Mexico City to Puebla drive
• Mexico City to New Orleans drive
• Mexico City to San Antonio drive
• Mexico City to Playa del Carmen drive
• Mexico City to San Diego drive
• Mexico City to San Miguel de Allende drive
• Mexico City to Guanajuato drive
• Mexico City to Oaxaca drive
• Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta drive
• Mexico City to Queretaro City drive
• Mexico City to Nashville drive
• Mexico City to Cancun drive
• Mexico City to Tulum drive
• Mexico City to Guadalajara drive
• Mexico City to Houston drive
• Mexico City to Atlanta drive
• Mexico City to Austin drive
• Mexico City to Dallas drive
• Mexico City to Branson drive
• Mexico City to Chichen Itza drive
• Mexico City to Memphis drive
• Mexico City to Acapulco drive
• Mexico City to Saint Louis drive
• Mexico City to Sedona drive
• Mexico City to Zihuatanejo de Azueta drive
• Mexico City to Tucson drive
• Mexico City to Denver drive
• Mexico City to Veracruz drive
• Mexico City to Santa Fe drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Oaxaca Itinerary (2 weeks)

Welcome to our 2 week Oaxaca itinerary for backpackers.

With everything from picturesque beaches to vast canyons and the raw jungle, Mexico is an extremely diverse country.

And rightfully so, it’s now one of the world’s ultimate countries to backpack.

The Oaxaca Region is one of the most popular to visit in the country, with everything from ancient ruins and miles of beautiful Pacific beaches to some of the best food you can try in the continent.

What's in this guide?

Backpacking Oaxaca Itinerary

In this guide we’ll explore the region of Oaxaca.

With our personalized 2 weeks itinerary , we’ll look in-depth at the destinations of Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido, Mazunte and Huatulco.

Getting around Oaxaca State

Whilst travel between destinations can be somewhat daunting, Mexico had surprised us both when it came to public transport, and for the better too.

The bus system in Oaxaca has many companies serving and connecting the region very well, with both good quality buses and seats.

Many do tend to fly between Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido , as you can sometimes find cheap flights, however the bus is ultimately the most cost-effective option.

It’s important to say here that the bus is not for the faint of hearted, as this one, in particular, tends to cause a lot of travel sickness (think winding mountainous roads for many hours…).

Aside from this, getting around the rest of the state by bus is a breeze.

Although it’s one of the safest states, you still need to do what you can to avoid potential theft. We recommend bringing this secure Money Belt with you.

Other Things to know: Travel Tips

When completing the itinerary below of Oaxaca, you’ll need a daily budget of $20-25 a day.

This amount will cover a dorm bed, food, some local buses and also a few drinks or extras too.

Other costs such as international flights, travel insurance or long-distance buses are not included in this.

Oaxaca is one of the safest regions you can travel to within Mexico. However this goes without saying, you’ll still need to take precautions where possible.

Some of our best advice includes not going out alone late at night, and also looking up the safest areas to stay before arriving.

See this guide on Oaxaca safety for even more detailed tips on staying safe.

Learning some Spanish beforehand will be helpful as well, so you can get around easier and also make friends with the friendly locals .

Be sure to pack well, as the Oaxacan region is one of Mexico’s most varied.

Here you’ll have everything from cool, mountainous towns to the hot, coastal towns that run along the Pacific.

So for this trip you’ll want to bring a variety of clothes, as well as a raincoat if heading within the wet season (which runs from June until October). This snug Poncho does the job perfectly.

Backpacking Oaxaca (2 Weeks)

Now let’s explore our two week itinerary of Oaxaca, where we’ll cover the very best sights and experiences of the region.

Oaxaca City (Days 1-5)

We first kick off this itinerary by arriving in the capital of the region.

Getting to Oaxaca City is pretty easy from Mexico City, where you can either take a bus or a short flight over.

This city is one of the cultural highlights of any trip to Mexico, and is famed for its outstanding food and architecture .

The best area to stay in is within the historic centre, and if possible close to the main plaza where everything is going on.

One of the best things to do here is a walking tour around the historic center, where you’ll see all of the top sights including the Templo de Santo Domingo , the Catedral Metropolitana as well as the Zócalo.

Food lovers must head to Mercado 20 de Noviembre , where you can try a range of authentic Mexican foods (which really are some of the best in the country).

An authentic cooking class like this one is a great way to experience real Mexican food , where you’ll learn to make a couple of dishes yourself as well as visit a local market!

Oaxaca City is also a great place to base yourself in when heading out to explore the nearby region.

Hierve el Agua is one of these trips, where you can explore the crystallized waterfalls that hang over the edge of a cliff.

There’s also a natural infinity pool here too, making for a dramatic photo op.

Another awesome day trip is to the Monté Albán ruins , which is a large archaeological site set on a mountain above the surrounding plains.

Puerto Escondido (Days 6-10)

From Oaxaca City we’ll then take the bus to Puerto Escondid o (or plane if you’re prone to travel sickness, as is common along this route).

This beachside town translates from English as “The hidden port”, but is no longer hidden in any sense of the word!

That’s right, Puerto Escondido has very much found its way onto the major gringo trail through Mexico, and for good reasons too which we’ll cover below.

The best places to stay are either in La Punta (for surfing and nightlife) or in Zicatela (for expansive beaches and a more bohemian vibe).

Both are along the beach and are both great areas to stay. One of the top things you must do here is a turtle release , where you can let baby turtles out onto the sand and guide them into the sea as they start their big adventure.

Head to Bacocho beach around 5pm any day of the week to take part.

Of course surfing is another popular activity to do here, with the town hosting annual global competitions due to its incredible waves .

There’s also many surf schools and safer spots for us mere mortals too.

Other awesome things to do include seeing Dolphins, an ATV ride through the jungle, swimming with bioluminescent plankton as well as lounging on the postcard beach of Carrizalillo .

Of all of these, my favourite (George) trip was to the Bioluminescent Lagoon , where you’ll swim in a tent for the very best viewing conditions.

Mazunte (Days 11-12)

Mazunte is a bohemian town around an hour away from Puerto Escondido by bus, and marks our next stop along the stunning Pacific Coast .

The town itself is pretty small, so it’s not really worthwhile mentioning the best places to stay.

Though of course, next to the beach continues to be the most popular. One of the best things to do here (and is why most come to Mazunte) is to visit the beach of Zipolite.

An official nudist beach, it is one of few with that tag in Mexico, and is a popular place for all to strip their kit off and live their best life.

If you’re not feeling totally comfortable becoming one with the beach, then of course you can still come anyway and enjoy the waves and endless line of bars and beach huts that line the long beach.

Back in Mazunte, another great activity is to go on the Sunset Paddle Tour, where the waves are more still and you’ll be able to experience a truly breathtaking orange and red horizon.

This town is also great for yoga retreats and buying artisanal products, all of which you’ll find along the main strip running from town to the beach of Rinconcito.

For those who love a perfect sunset, then this horseback riding tour will be perfect for you!

Huatulco (Days 13-15)

On our last stop we head to the town of Huatulco , which is located a further hour east of Mazunte.

You can get here by bus as well, which will take you slightly back in-land (the official town is around 7km from the beach; of course there’s some spots and resorts to stay in if you absolutely must be on the coast).

Whilst the town itself isn’t the most cute, it’s the perfect spot to base yourself when exploring the close-by region.

A great thing to do here is to explore a Coffee Plantation in the small town of Pluma Hidalgo, where you can tour the fields, learn about the process and try some pretty decent coffee.

Another awesome activity is to head on a snorkeling tour.

The waters in the bay of Huatulco are some of the clearest along Mexico’s Pacific coast, and here you can head to the best spots to see a variety of species such as Sea Turtles, Angelfish, Parrotfish and Snappers.

Other worthwhile things to do whilst in Huatulco include exploring the seven bays, taking a mud bath in la Bocana beach as well as exploring the ancient ruins of Bocana del Río Copalita.

Best time to visit Oaxaca

We’ve spoken a lot about the best time to visit Mexico on this blog (George is absolutely obsessed with checking the weather when we travel).

Overall (through our experience and the metrics) we have found that the best times to visit Oaxaca are within the months of April and May.

These are just before the start of the wet season, so rainfall in Oaxaca City will be between 1-2.5 inches, and along the coast between 0.5-2 inches.

Average temperatures are very good for both months, with Oaxaca City recording an average of 72°F, with highs of 87°F and lows of 58°F (bring a jumper at night).

Along the coast, average temperatures this time of year are much hotter with between 86-87°F, highs of 94°F and lows of 77°F.

This time of year is also off-season, so you’ll find cheaper flights and hotel prices compared to the more popular Christmas and summer seasons.

Oaxaca Backpacking Tips

⬇️ Below you can find a list of our top recommendations for Oaxaca:

• 🛏️ – Azul Cielo (Oaxaca City), Selina (Puerto Escondido), Hostal Azul y Blanco (Huatluco).
• 🌮 – It’s almost worth finding a food tour in Oaxaca City to try everything out! Otherwise, the street food is amazing here. We recommend trying memelitas, which are open tacos with meat, cheese, sauces, and beans. Also try out froyo, which is a traditional Mexican frozen drink with fresh fruit.
• 🏛️ – Hierve el Agua, Monte Albán Ruins, Zócalo (Oaxaca City), Turtle Sanctuary (Puerto Escondido). See this list of top rated tours in Oaxaca.
• 🍺 – Mezcalería Los Amantes (Oaxaca City), Sativa and the numerous small bars along the beach in Zicatela (Puerto Escondido).
• 💡 – The food and drink. Take a few risks and try out proper Mexican Food, and also Mezcal instead of Tequila.

Oaxaca Backpacking Itinerary

Oaxaca truly is a stunning region, with its culture and foods some of the major pulls for those heading here. As well as it’s cute, authentic cities and towns, here you’ll also find some epic landscapes and beaches too.

In this itinerary-style guide, we’ve looked at the Oaxaca region including the top destinations, how much time we recommend in each, what to see and also our own top tips.

Be sure to come back to this article whenever you need help planning, or even to suggest your own tips once you’ve completed the adventure yourself.

Also see our backpacking Mexico guide for more travel inspiration!

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

“ Dear traveler! Some links in this post contain affiliate links. Meaning, if you click through and make a purchase, book a hostel or sign up for a tour, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Your support means a lot and helps us to carry on traveling and maintaining the quality of this site for you.”

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Ruta por las mejores playas de Oaxaca: Guía completa para recorrerlas

Las playas de Oaxaca son sin duda, una de las zonas turísticas (a nivel de playas) más importantes de la República Mexicana, quizás junto de la zona de Cancún y la Riviera Maya. La verdad es que yo quedé bastante sorprendida por la cantidad de turismo internacional y nacional que visita esta zona del hermoso estado de Oaxaca.

En este artículo en específico te voy a contar cómo hacer una ruta por las mejores playas de Oaxaca, o al menos, algunas de las más conocidas. La idea es que tú puedas tener toda la información detallada para que puedas organizar tu viaje por tu cuenta por este paraíso.

Este itinerario lo puedes adaptar al número de días que tengas disponibles para tu viaje, yo te voy a contar de las principales actividades que puedes hacer en cada lugar y sus características para que puedas elegir.

Aunque si hablamos de un número de días recomendables para que puedas hacer toda la ruta con calma, el promedio es de unos 5 o 6 días. Obviamente quedarán lugares que no estén incluidos, ya que esta zona de México es realmente muy extensa y hay cientos de playas literalmente.

En cada lugar te voy a contar a detalle cómo puedes llegar, qué puedes hacer (incluyendo las mejores playas que puedes visitar), cómo moverte, qué comer y dónde dormir. La idea es que tengas un panorama bastante amplio para que puedas planear todo tu viaje con esta guía.

Cada playa y cada lugar son diferentes, tendrás muchas opciones para elegir dependiendo de tus gustos. Te recomiendo leer toda la guía, además de poder leer las características principales de las playas para que te sea mucho más fácil elegir.

Comencemos.

                                ÍNDICE. DA CLIC EN LA SECCIÓN QUE QUIERAS LEER

Playas de Oaxaca - Huatulco

• Dónde hospedarse en Huatulco
• Qué hacer en Huatulco
• Cómo moverse en Huatulco
• Qué comer en Huatulco

Playas de Oaxaca - Mazunte

• Dónde hospedarse en Mazunte
• Qué hacer en Mazunte
• Cómo moverse en Mazunte
• Qué comer en Mazunte

Playas de Oaxaca - Puerto Escondido

• Dónde hospedarse en Puerto Escondido
• Qué hacer en Puerto Escondido
• Cómo moverse en Puerto Escondido
• Qué comer en Puerto Escondido

Playas de Oaxaca - Consejos de visita

Nota:  Las playas de Oaxaca se pueden agrupar básicamente en dos grupos: El primero son las playas más tranquilas, más familiares y que tienen servicios (como baños o restaurantes) y el segundo son las que son más para deportes de aventura (porque tienen mayor oleaje) y no tienen servicios. 

Uno de los puntos más visitados de la zona de playas de Oaxaca es  Santa María Huatulco, esta ruta comienza precisamente aquí.

Huatulco es conocido por ser un lugar bastante tranquilo para vacacionar, es realmente impresionante la cantidad de turismo que incluso tiene aquí villas en las que puede pasar meses completos. Aquí hay algo para cada viajero y sin duda, podrás encontrar un paraíso.

La verdad es que se le ha apostado muchísimo turísticamente, hoy en día Huatulco es una zona que está muy bien cuidada y conservada, para que cualquier visitante que llegué aquí pueda encontrar un lugar perfecto para disfrutar.

Nota: Por motivos logísticos, este itinerario comienza en Huatulco y termina en Puerto Escondido. Una excelente opción si viajas en avión, es comprar tu ida hacia el primero y el regreso por Puerto Escondido (o viceversa) para ahorrar tiempos.

Cómo ir del aeropuerto de Huatulco al centro o zona hotelera

Una de las maneras en las que más personas llegan a Huatulco (por cuestión de distancias) es a través de su aeropuerto.

Para ir del aeropuerto de Huatulco al centro o a tu hotel (el tiempo es en promedio de 15 a 20 minutos), hay tres maneras básicamente:

1. Taxi privado del aeropuerto

Los precios obviamente son los más elevados que vas a encontrar.

2. Taxi colectivo del aeropuerto

Los taxis colectivos son unas camionetas tipo vans, cuando te subas les dices tu destino y te dejarán directamente allí. Son un servicio más económico que los taxis privados y son una muy buena opción de traslado.

Ya sea para taxi privado o colectivo, compra tus boletos  directamente en la taquilla del aeropuerto , te darán un ticket con el que podrás abordar.

3. Reservar un traslado aeropuerto-hotel

Si lo que buscas es comodidad, si viajas con más personas o con mucho equipaje, y no quieres preocuparte de nada, esta es tu mejor opción. 

Puedes reservar con anticipación un traslado (ya sea compartido o privado)  para que un chófer a tu llegada al aeropuerto ya te esté esperando y te lleve al hotel. 

Los precios están muy buenos, y así te evitas la molestia de andar buscando un taxi. 

Da clic aquí para reservar el traslado aeropuerto-hotel y viceversa

4. Tomar un taxi fuera del aeropuerto

Si tú no quieres gastar tanto, la mejor opción es que salgas caminando del aeropuerto hacia la carretera (son como 5 minutos), aquí podrás encontrar diversos taxis que te podrán llevar hacia la zona hotelera o hacia el centro de la Crucecita por un precio mucho más barato (unos $75 pesos en promedio).

Playas de Oaxaca - Dónde hospedarse en Huatulco

Principalmente hay dos zonas de hospedaje en Huatulco, todo depende de tus gustos y de tu presupuesto de visita. Ahora te explico.

Zona Hotelera

Es obviamente la zona de Huatulco en dónde se encuentran las grandes cadenas de hoteles , la recomiendo si lo que buscas es simplemente descansar y prácticamente no salir del hotel porque son todo incluido.

Las Brisas Huatulco

Se trata de uno de los hoteles todo incluido más famosos de la zona hotelera de Huatulco, cuenta con diversos servicios y zonas comunes como centro fitness, varias albercas, gimnasio, canchas de tennis, etc. Para ir en familia o con amigos es perfecto.

                                                              Hotel recomendado 2

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa

Si lo que buscas es lujo y comodidades en un hospedaje, entonces esta es tu opción en la zona hotelera de Huatulco. Es solamente para parejas, por lo que ir en plan romántico es perfecto. Hotel ideal para aquellos que busquen descansar y todas el confort.

La Crucecita

Esta zona es básicamente lo que se puede considerar como “ el centro de Huatulco”, de hecho oficialmente se llama Santa Cruz Huatulco . Es la zona más económica para hospedarse, encontrarás muchas y variadas opciones y es una excelente opción para moverte hacia las diversas playas y además estar cerca de restaurantes y otras atracciones.

Personalmente me hospedé aquí y la verdad es que quedé muy satisfecha.

AM Amakal Hotel

Bonito hotel ubicado en el centro del pueblo, rodeado de cualquier tipo de comercios y servicios. Las habitaciones son muy amplias, están limpias y son bastante cómodas para descansar, tienen aire acondicionado y algunas cuentan con terraza, también hay piscina.  Buena opción para hospedarse en La Crucecita por un precio económico.

En promedio pasar dos noches en Huatulco es una muy buena idea para disfrutar con calma de la zona.

Playas de Oaxaca - Qué hacer en Huatulco

Obviamente la atracción principal de Huatulco son sus playas, pero también te invito a darte una vuelta por el pueblo de la Crucecita , conocer su plaza principal y su bonita iglesia que tiene en el techo un mural de la Virgen de Guadalupe que es enorme.

Ahora hablando de las playas y sus alrededores, a continuación te cuento.

Playas de Huatulco 

¿Sabías que en la zona de Huatulco hay más de 36 playas diferentes ? Esto sumado a la zona de las 7 bahías, puede hacer un poco complicada la elección de a qué playa quieres dirigirte o quieres conocer.

Si es tu primera vez en Huatulco, te puedo recomendar que lo primero que hagas es ver algunas de las principales playas para que después de ello, puedas tener una idea mucho más global y clara y entonces puedas escoger.

Ojo, la principal y más famosa opción para hacer esto es quizás hacer el tour por las bahías a bordo de un barco. Este recorrido sale todos los días a las 10:30 de la mañana y prácticamente dura todo el día, ya que el regreso es aproximadamente a las 5 de la tarde.

En este recorrido te llevan en el barco a conocer las principales bahías y playas de la zona de Huatulco, en algunas te dejan bajarte para que puedas nadar un poco, hacer snorkel y comer un pequeño refrigerio. El costo es de unos $400 a $500 pesos aproximadamente, esto a precio 2023 (pueden variar dependiendo de la fecha de tu visita).

Si lo prefieres, por comodidad puedes reservar una excursión que pase por ti a tu hotel (y te deje ahí al finalizar) que además incluye más tiempo libre de nado.

Cuando yo llegué a Huatulco mi primer día quería hacer este recorrido, sin embargo, cuando me di cuenta ya era muy tarde. Un taxista local me ofreció hacer el recorrido pero por tierra , básicamente consiste en que te van llevando a varias playas para que puedas verlas y al final les dices una que hayas elegido para que te dejen ahí a disfrutar.

Si puedes hacer este recorrido por tierra primero, te lo recomiendo mucho porque es otra forma de ver las playas y de que puedas elegir la que más te guste para quedarte por el día o unas horas. Además, al principio del recorrido te llevan al famoso "Faro" que tiene unas vistas espectaculares del mar, te lo recomiendo mucho.

El costo varía pero aproximadamente está en $400 pesos por hora  (si vas con varias personas te conviene porque es costo en total NO es por persona). Si necesitas el contacto de una persona de confianza que te pueda hacer este recorrido y te vaya explicando los detalles de cada playa y lugar, escríbeme para pasarte el número de Efrén, un taxista muy amable y seguro que te puede dar este y otros recorridos o llevarte a dónde tu quieras.

Si quieres una opción de tener una visita guiada por diversos puntos de Huatulco con una duración de más de 3 horas, puedes reservar esta excursión dando clic aquí. 

Bien, ahora te digo cuáles fueron mis playas favoritas de Huatulco para que puedas considerar darte una vuelta para disfrutarlas:

• La Entrega.  Probablemente es la playa más familiar de la zona, es perfecta para ir con amigos o con familia a nadar y disfrutar, ya que su oleaje es muy bajo y es una zona muy bonita. Aquí podrás encontrar muchos restaurantes para comer o beber algo.
• Chahué.  Hermosa playa de arena dorada y oleaje moderado, es perfecta para ir bien temprano o ya cayendo la tarde porque casi no hay gente. En esta playa no vas a encontrar servicios como restaurantes, por lo que conviene que quizás puedas llevar tú lo que vayas a consumir.
• El Arrocito.  Pequeña playa ubicado en una especie de formación rocosa que le da un ambiente agradable y privado. Me encantó porque sus aguas parecen de pisicna, ideales para nadar tranquilamente. Es perfecta si buscas un plan tranquilo para ir por la mañana, disfrutar, nadar y descansar.
• Bahía Cacaluta.  Se suele visitar en el tour clásico de las playas, pero se puede llegar caminando, aunque son casi 3 kms de ida solamente. Una playa preciosa, eso sí, sin servicios.
• Punta Arena.  Más accesible que la anterior e igual de bonita, tampoco tiene servicios pero vale la pena si quieres algo tranquilo.

Un aspecto importante que puedes considerar si quizás tienes más tiempo o eres más aventurero, es que muchas de las playas de Huatulco tienen accesos únicos a través del mar o a pie. En éstos últimos, tienes que caminar varios metros para poder llegar a ellas, pero son una muy buena opción si buscas una playa más tranquila y con más privacidad, una de ellas es playa Conejos.

Ten en cuenta que absolutamente todas las playas de Huatulco son públicas, a pesar que un hotel quizás pueda tener acceso preferencial o directo a una playa, tú puedes entrar aunque no estés hospedado.

Algo que me llamó mucho la atención y me sorprendió gratamente fue la limpieza en general de las playas de esta zona, no vi ni una basura o gente dejando basura al terminar su visita. Por favor, continuemos con esto en todas las playas para que sea una realidad en más sitios.

Otro aspecto muy importante que debes considerar y que me llamó la atención es cómo puede variar de características y condiciones cada playa. Puedes estar en una con oleaje tranquilo, arena blanca y agua turquesa para moverte 5 minutos y hallar otra especial para surfear y con arena negra. He aquí otro motivo más para que puedas recorrer diferentes playas de esta zona de Huatulco.

Playas de Oaxaca - Cómo moverse en Huatulco

Para trasladarse en Huatulco y entre playa y playa, la mejor y más fácil opción es hacerlo en taxi. Vas a encontrar muchos taxis por toda la zona y tienen tarifas establecidas de antemano, por lo que es muy difícil que uno te quiera estafar. Las tarifas me parecieron justas por las distancias recorridas.

En el centro de La Crucecita está la central de autobuses de la marca ADO por si quieres moverte hacia lugares más lejanos.

Playas de Oaxaca - Dónde comer en Huatulco

Cuando llega la hora del hambre, en Huatulco realmente podrás encontrar opciones para todos los gustos y presupuestos, dependiendo de la zona en la que te encuentres podrás hallar literalmente de todo.

Una de las comidas más apreciadas es obviamente los mariscos, podrás encontrarlos en diferentes variedades tanto en las playas, como en la zona de la Crucecita y fuera de la zona hotelera. Para los amantes de la comida oaxaqueña lo que más se venden son las clásicas tlayudas (enormes tortillas rellenas de tu ingrediente favorito, lechuga, frijoles, etc).

De igual manera, verás muchos restaurantes internacionales, principalmente de comida italiana y argentina.

Te recomiendo que antes de entrar a cualquier restaurante cheques la carta porque hay muchas zonas que son "más dirigidas a turistas extranjeros" y puedes encontrar precios muy elevados.

En la zona de la Crucecita te puedo recomendar esta opción que me pareció muy buena:

                                         "Restaurante Flamboyant"

Mazunte es un pueblo pequeño que en los últimos años se ha convertido en una de las zonas y playas más visitadas de Oaxaca gracias a su sencillez y belleza. De hecho, recientemente fue remodelado para cumplir con las características necesarias y convertirse en pueblo mágico.

En Mazunte la tranquilidad y la intimidad son parte de la experiencia, amada por muchos surfers o por personas que simplemente buscan disfrutar de su belleza, Mazunte es una excelente opción de playa en Oaxaca.

Cómo ir de Huatulco a Mazunte

Si haces esta ruta cómo te platico, un muy buen plan es trasladarse desde Huatulco a Mazunte (el recorrido es de una hora aproximadamente) para continuar el itinerario. Hay varias formas de hacer este traslado y ahora te cuento de las dos principales para que puedas elegir conforme a tus tiempos y presupuestos:

Literalmente puedes parar un taxi para que te lleve, solamente considera que obviamente es la opción más cara, en promedio el viaje no bajará de $300 pesos mexicanos.

2. Colectivo

Esta es la forma más económica y podría decirse más "aventurera" de hacer el traslado de Huatulco a Mazunte. Lo que tienes que hacer primero en Huatulco es moverte a la zona de la Crucecita, aquí camina hacia la central de autobuses de ADO, puedes preguntar todo mundo la conoce.

Llegando vas a caminar un poco más recto, hasta encontrar un supermercado del otro lado de la calle que se llama Soriana. Camina hacia el supermercado, encontrarás enfrente un paradero de camiones, sigue caminando unos metros más adelante.

Al terminar el supermercado hallarás una pequeña calle, aquí es dónde para un colectivo que se llama "Rápidos Pochutla" , es una camioneta tipo van adaptada. Pídele al chofer que te lleve a San Pedro Pochutla (este es el pueblo en el que necesitarás tomar otro transporte para llegar a Mazunte), y que te baje en el cruce dónde pasan las camionetas a Mazunte para que no te deje hasta el pueblo de Pochutla.

El costo por este trayecto es de unos $45 pesos mexicanos por persona y el recorrido lo hace en unos 40 minutos aproximadamente porque va parando en diversos lugares, ya que este transporte lo utiliza en su mayoría las personas locales que viven en comunidades junto a la carretera.

Cuando te bajes en el cruce de Pochutla, verás una tienda Oxxo en la esquina, camina hacia el otro lado de la carretera y ahí espera las camionetas que van hacia Mazunte. Estas camionetas se les conoce en la zona como "La Pasajera" y es una camioneta en la que la gente se sube en la parte trasera para trasladarse entre varios municipios.

Estas camionetas son muy comunes en la zona y son más utilizadas por la gente local, pasan bastante seguido, en promedio cada 5 minutos. Pregunta si va a Mazunte, te vas a subir (con cuidado) y pídeles que te bajen en la entrada del pueblo, el costo es de unos $20 pesos mexicanos por persona y en promedio hace unos 15 a 20 minutos.

Cuando te bajes podrás encontrar la calle principal fácilmente para buscar tu hospedaje.

Playas de Oaxaca - Dónde hospedarse en Mazunte

Al ser Mazunte un lugar muy turístico, realmente las opciones de hospedaje son para todos los presupuestos . Si viajas con un presupuesto muy limitado incluso podrás encontrar opciones para acampar o dormir en una hamaca.

Es importante mencionar que Mazunte es un pueblo sencillo, por lo que no esperes encontrar grandes complejos turísticos de hoteles, pero justamente ahí está la magia de este lugar. De hecho, la gran mayoría de hospedajes no cuentan con servicio de aire acondicionado o televisión porque la energía en el pueblo a veces no se distribuye uniformemente y tener estos servicios es muy caro.

Casa Tierra Viva

Bonito hotel ubicado junto a la calle principal del pueblo, cuentan con pocas habitaciones, lo que le da un ambiente  privado y relajado. Su dueña, Paty es muy amable y te ayuda en todo o con recomendaciones. Las habitaciones son muy cómodas, con todo lo necesario y con ventilador. Muy recomendable, me encantó este lugar.

Playas de Oaxaca - Qué hacer en Mazunte

Mazunte es una zona que se puede llamar mucho más "relajada" de ambiente que Huatulco  (que tiene turismo que busca mayores servicios), muchos lo consideran incluso como un pueblo hippie. En realidad, el pueblo de Mazunte es muy pequeño, hay una principal avenida que conecta al pueblo con la playa y realmente es dónde se concentra todo el movimiento.

Algo que me llamó mucho la atención es que en Mazunte hay una colonia importante de extranjeros (principalmente argentinos, canadienses y franceses) viviendo ahí. Me contaban los locales que les gustó tanto que dejaron todo en sus países para irse a Mazunte a hacer su vida, muchos han puesto negocios ahí.

En Mazunte podrás hacer varias actividades, verás por qué se ha vuelto la playa favorita de muchos que hasta quieren quedarse aquí. Ahora te cuento qué hacer en Mazunte.

Ir a la playa principal, playa Rinconcito

Esta es la playa principal de Mazunte, la que vas a encontrar si caminas recto por la avenida principal del pueblo. Es muy bonita, tiene arena dorada y el oleaje es moderado, por lo que puedes nadar si quieres.

Si lo deseas, puedes comprar cosas en las tiendas del pueblo para llevarlas y disfrutar de la playa (recuerda no dejar basura, por favor). Te recomiendo ir temprano en la mañana, porque a partir de las 12 del día el sol pega demasiado fuerte que quema la piel aunque te pongas mucho bloqueador, es mejor protegerse y no asolearse demasiado.

Conocer el Museo de la Tortuga

Si eres amante de los animales, en especial de las tortugas, te recomiendo mucho poder visitar este bonito espacio en el que se cuida y se protege a esta especie. 

Se muestra una exposición y te enseñan cómo cuidarlas si las encuentras anidando; vale mucho la pena. ¿Sabías que México cuenta con una de las playas en dónde tortugas marinas más anidan en el mundo? He ahí la importancia de conocer más de estos hermosos animales y cómo protegerlos.

Paseo en bote

Si buscas hacer algo un poco más aventurero, puedes tomar un paseo en un bote de los locales que te llevará en búsqueda de delfines y hasta ballenas. El precio varía dependiendo de la temporada y de cuántas personas sean.

Visitar Punta Cometa

Es quizás uno de los puntos más visitados de Mazunte, Punta Cometa es un espacio sumamente hermoso en el que podrás tener unas vistas espectaculares de Mazunte y de sus playas.

Principalmente es visitada a la hora del atardecer , aunque yo te recomiendo que llegues una hora antes para que puedas tomar fotos tranquilamente y sin gente. Desde la calle principal del pueblo tendrás que subir caminando unos 20 minutos para llegar, ve con calzado cómodo.

Te recomiendo tener mucho cuidado cuando vayas a esta zona, el aire suele soplar muy fuerte y realmente no hay ninguna protección en los acantilados, no te acerques demasiado a ellos y camina siempre fijándote por donde vas.

Otra cosa, se puede bajar a la playa que ves en la foto de arriba pero su oleaje es extremadamente fuerte, si no sabes nadar bien es mejor que ni siquiera te acerques al mar.

Conocer la playa de San Agustinillo

A 5 minutos en auto está esta bonita playa, que es recomendada para los amantes del surf o para simplemente descansar.

Visitar la famosa playa de Zipolite

Playa bastante reconocida entre la zona porque es una playa nudista. Obviamente tú puedes ir (está a 10 minutos en auto) y optar por usar o no traje de baño, todo queda a tu criterio y decisión. Se ha convertido en un punto muy famoso de las zonas de playas de Oaxaca por la misma razón.

Ir a conocer la reserva natural "Ventanilla"

Si eres amante de la naturaleza, de la flora y la fauna, te puedo recomendar que vistes la reserva de la Ventanilla. Aquí podrás ver lagartos y es una zona para aprender acerca de estos animales y su conservación, es administrado por una sociedad cooperativa precisamente de lagartos. También podrás dar un paseo por el manglar de la zona.

Nota:  Si estás en Huatulco y quieres conocer La Ventanilla y Mazunte pero solamente tienes un día, puedes reservar una excursión completa que te lleve y te regrese.

Conocer playa Agua Blanca

Aquí podrás nadar en las pozas naturales de agua y comer mariscos frescos. Para llegar tienes que tomar la carretera Pochutla-Puerto Escondido y hay una desviación de terracería después.

Playas de Oaxaca - Cómo moverse en Mazunte

Al ser un pueblo realmente pequeño, lo más sencillo es moverse por Mazunte caminando. Si vas a lugares con distancias más amplias, siempre puedes volver a tomar las camionetas de "La Pasajera" para moverte entre la zona o tomar un taxi. También puedes rentar una bicicleta en el pueblo si buscas una experiencia mucho más local.

Playas de Oaxaca - Dónde comer en Mazunte

Prácticamente todos los restaurantes en Mazunte se encuentran ubicados en la avenida principal del pueblo y sus alrededores (por lo que todo cerca), podrás encontrar diferentes opciones para todos los gustos.

Yo te puedo recomendar estas dos que me gustaron mucho:

Se encuentra al término de la avenida principal pavimentada que lleva a Mazunte. Su carta es enorme y variada, con opciones de todo. Yo te puedo recomendar sin dudarlo, los aguacates o la papa rellana de camarones y queso; una verdadera delicia.

       2)   "Restaurante Alessandro"

Si buscas comida italiana rica y a buen precio, te puedo recomendar este lugar que se ubica casi al llegar a la playa principal de Mazunte. Las pizzas están hechas de manera artesanal y son muy ricas.

Ahora te contaré de la zona de Puerto Escondido, que es uno de los principales destinos turísticos de este sector de Oaxaca. Es famoso por la  gran cantidad de playas que tiene, por lo es muy importante hacer distinción de éstas para comprender más a detalle cómo se divide esta zona.

Las principales zonas de Puerto Escondido son las siguientes:

• Playa y zona principal . Llena de palmeras, restaurantes y bares.
• Adoquín - Centro.  Es la zona centro de Puerto Escondido y una de las más turísticas.
• Bacocho y Rinconada.  Aquí se encuentran varios fraccionamientos de villas, casas y hoteles. La zona de playa es muy amplia, con mucho oleaje.
• Zicatela.  La favorita de los surfistas por las olas del mar y su ambiente relajado.
• Punta Zicatela.  Hermana de Zicatela, la playa tiene oleaje medio y es muy visitada.

En realidad todas están en un radio que se considera "pequeño", por lo que moverse de una a otra es bastante simple y rápido. Todas las zonas y puntos tienen atractivos especiales y cuentan con características distintas para diferentes gustos o tipos de viaje, por lo que realmente aquí cualquiera puede encontrar lo que busque y cómo pasar las mejores vacaciones.

Cómo ir de Mazunte a Puerto Escondido 

Para trasladarte desde Mazunte a Puerto Escondido (la distancia es de 1 hora aproximadamente) tienes básicamente dos opciones:

Si buscas la opción más sencilla y cómoda, puedes parar un taxi en el pueblo para que te lleve, solamente considera que obviamente es la forma más cara, en promedio el viaje no bajará de $250 pesos mexicanos.

Esta es la forma más económica  para hacer el traslado. Lo primero que tienes que hacer es tomar la camioneta que te mencionaba arriba (obviamente con rumbo contrario del que llegaste), "la Pasajera" y pedirle que te deje en el entronque con la carretera principal hacia Pochulta; el recorrido es de unos 15 minutos solamente y el precio es de $10 pesos aproximadamente.

Cuando te bajes. cruza la carretera con cuidado hacia el otro lado. Aquí tienes que esperar a que pase un colectivo del mismo tipo o en su caso una camioneta estilo van que anuncie que va a Puerto Escondido (éstas últimas son más caras pero tienen aire acondicionado y son más rápidas).

Este colectivo o camioneta tomará la carretera Pochutla-Puerto Escondido, por lo que podrá dejarte en cualquier sitio que decidas, ya sea Zicatela o más hacia el centro de Puerto Escondido. El precio varía dependiendo de en dónde te deje, pero la camioneta estilo van a Zicatela por ejemplo, me costó $50 pesos mexicanos.

Playas de Oaxaca - Dónde hospedarse en Puerto Escondido 

Como te contaba arriba, la zona de Puerto Escondido abarca diversos puntos y playas , por lo que quizás la decisión de dónde alojarse pueda ser difícil al principio. Ahora te explico más acerca de este tema para que puedas elegir en dónde dormir en tu visita a Puerto Escondido y sus playas.

Hay opciones literalmente para todos los gustos y presupuestos, todo depende de lo que busques. Por ejemplo, hay zonas como Bacocho  y Rinconada en dónde se concentran muchos hoteles o villas especiales que son perfectas para ir en familia a descansar.  Aquí podrás encontrar también muchos departamentos en renta con todos los servicios.

Las zonas de Zicatela y la Punta son más relajadas , aquí es dónde se concentra la mayor oferta de hospedaje, hallarás desde hostales hasta departamentos y hoteles con todos los servicios. En la zona centro del Adoquín hay pocos hospedajes porque realmente su playa es más usada por pescadores.

Como te comentaba arriba, las distancias en Puerto Escondido no son enormes, sin embargo, es muy importante que cuando busques tu hospedaje sepas bien la zona en la que te gustaría estar. Esto te lo comento sobretodo para que por ejemplo, no camines demasiado o para que busques con base a lo que quieras hacer.

A continuación te doy varias opciones de hospedaje, en dos de las mejores zonas de Puerto Escondido  para dormir y para diferentes presupuestos para que tu búsqueda te sea más sencilla.

Bacocho y Rinconada

Las Turquezas

Se trata de un departamento en renta que cuenta con todos los servicios(como cocina con refrigerador y piscina) por lo que es perfecto para familias o amigos que busquen más privacidad. Está enfrente de la playa por lo que la ubicación es perfecta.

                                                              Hotel recomendado

Casa Conicarit

Si no quieres gastar demasiado, entonces te recomiendo este bonito hotel que se encuentra muy cerca de la playa Carrizalillo. Cuenta con habitaciones privadas y compartidas (masculinas y femeninas), todas son cómodas, limpias y cuentan con todos los servicios, incluyendo una bonita piscina.

La Playita Beach House

Hermoso hotel que se encuentra sobre la calle principal de Zicatela ( la playa la tienes enfrente ), pero lo suficientemente alejado para que no se escuche ruido de los bares alrededor. Las habitaciones son amplias, cómodas y las instalaciones son perfectas para descansar, la zona de la alberca es perfecta. Muy recomendable, gran relación precio/calidad.

                                                              Hostal recomendado

Casa Daikiri

Si viajas con presupuesto reducido, entonces este hostal es una excelente opción para hospedarse. Este bonito hostal y hotel se encuentra en perfecta ubicación, a unos metros de la calle principal de Zicatela. Cuentan con habitaciones privadas y compartidas muy bonitas, se cuida cada detalle de la decoración y las instalaciones (cuentan con una hermosa piscina). Personal súper amable.

Playas de Oaxaca - Qué hacer en Puerto Escondido

Playas de puerto escondido.

Obviamente el punto turístico más visitado de todo Puerto Escondido son sus playas, pero como te comentaba en un inicio, hay muchas por toda esta zona. A continuación te platico un poco de las principales para que tu puedas elegir a cuál quieres ir.

• Playa principal.  En esta zona de playa hay muchos comercios (principalmente restaurantes), está muy cerca del Adoquín, del centro de Puerto Escondido. Suele haber muchos pescadores, por lo que es recomendable para nadar a ciertas horas y tiene oleaje bajo.
• Playa Puerto Angelito.  Playa de oleaje tranquilo y arena blanca que cuenta con un acceso fácil para todos. Aquí podrás nadar, además de realizar actividades como snorkel y otras; playa perfecta si vas con niños.
• Playa Carrizalillo.  Una de mis playas favoritas de Puerto Escondido es esta, se caracteriza por su peculiar acceso a través de una gran escalera que brinda una vista hermosa de la zona. Esta playa es perfecta tanto para nadar , como para aquellos que están aprendiendo a surfear . También tiene una parte rocosa que suele ser utilizada para bucear.

• Playa Bacocho.  Playa de gran longitud que es perfecta para correr, caminar o simplemente ir a admirarla. Para llegar tienes que bajar por el fraccionamiento que lleva el mismo nombre, es una playa que está rodeada por grande paredes de piedras con mucha vegetación.
• Playa principal Zicatela.  Playa rodeada de comercios y restaurantes, es perfecta para los amantes del surf, se puede nadar pero con precaución. La gente acude mucho a esta zona por las noches para tomar algo o salir de fiesta.
• Playa Punta Zicatela.  Es una de las playas favoritas para los surfistas, es muy bonita y si tú no practicas el deporte, puedes simplemente ir a descansar o asolearte.

Aprender a surfear

Una de las actividades más demandadas en Puerto Escondido es aprender a surfear o perfeccionar tu técnica si alguna vez ya lo has intentado. Es realmente impresionante la cantidad de turismo nacional e internacional que acude a las diferentes playas para poder agarrar su tabla y surfear por las olas.

De hecho, todos los años en Noviembre se hace en Zicatela el torneo internacional de surfing, por lo que en esas fechas la zona se llena de diferentes amantes de este deporte.

Por lo tanto, por todo Puerto Escondido (sobre todo en la zona de Zicatela) verás muchas escuelas que ofrecen darte clases para aprender a surfear , incluso muchos locales te lo ofrecen en la calle. Es algo muy recomendable si eres fan de la adrenalina y si quieres probar algo nuevo, solamente ten en cuenta que no vas a aprender en una única clase.

De hecho, la mayoría de las escuelas ofrecen paquetes de varios días, los costos no son tan económicos, por lo que quizás no es una actividad para todos.Si tú tienes deseos de hacerlo y tiempo, puedes preguntar en las diversas escuelas de la zona para comparar y decidir.

Liberar tortugas

Otra de las actividades más demandadas en la zona por los turistas, es poder ser parte de la liberación de tortugas recién nacidas, para que puedan volver al mar.

Puedes reservar una excursión especial para hacerlo en la playa de Colotepec que incluya el traslado y poder conocer más acerca del centro de protección de tortugas y su labor.

Experimentar la vida nocturna

Puerto Escondido es conocido por su vida nocturna, por lo que si a ti te gusta salir a bailar y echarte unos tragos con tus amigos, aquí encontrarás muchos lugares para todos gustos.

En la zona de Zicatela encontrarás muchos bares al costado de la playa, ideales para ver el paisaje mientras tomas una fría cerveza para el calor.

Dar un tour nocturno para ver la bioluminiscencia

La bioluminiscencia es un fenómeno que ocurre en el mar en el que gracias a diversos microorganismos en el agua, al estar en completa oscuridad y al entrar en contacto con una fuente de movimiento, produce una luz brillante muy hermosa.

Esta zona de las playas de Oaxaca es una de las principales en México para poder observar este increíble fenómeno.

Si tú quieres vivirlo, lo más sencillo es poder reservar un tour que te lleva desde tu hotel a la Laguna de Manialtepec , a unos 30 minutos de Puerto Escondido, esta zona es especial para hacerlo porque no hay mucha luz en los alrededores y entonces tiene el ambiente idóneo para la bioluminiscencia.

Hacer una excursión a las lagunas de Chacahua

Si eres amante de la naturaleza, entonces te puedo recomendar que hagas un recorrido por las lagunas de Chacahua , uno de los secretos mejor guardados de la costa de Oaxaca.

En esta zona podrás descubrir un Parque Nacional plagado de naturaleza, flora y fauna, este lugar es uno de los que guarda una de las riquezas biológicas más grandes del estado.

La forma más sencilla de hacer este recorrido es contratando una excursión que te lleve desde Puerto Escondido que incluya el paseo por diferentes pueblos costeros, islas y obviamente la visita a la laguna principal de Chacahua.

Dar un paseo en lancha

Si te gusta el mar y te gustaría dar un paseo por las principales playas de Puerto Escondido para ver delfines (y ballenas si es posible), entonces puedes reservar una excursión  con visita guiada en bote dando clic aquí. 

Playas de Oaxaca - Cómo moverse en Puerto Escondido

Como te comentaba arriba, la zona de Puerto Escondido no es tan grande, sin embargo si hay distancias considerables que se recomienda hacer en taxi. Por ejemplo, si quieres ir a alguna playa en especial, solamente paras un taxi y listo; tienen tarifas establecidas así que es difícil que alguno te quiera cobrar de más.

Para distancias cortas puedes caminar , solamente ten en cuenta que hay muchas calles que son empinadas y puede ser complicado subirlas con el calor que hace. Yo te recomiendo que intentes no caminar demasiado a horas en las que el sol pega mucho, porque te deshidratarás y no rendirás demasiado.

También por la carretera principal pasarán camionetas o vans por si quieres moverte a una zona más lejana de manera económica.

Playas de Oaxaca - Dónde comer en Puerto Escondido

Obviamente, al ser una zona amplia con diversas playas, en todo Puerto Escondido podrás encontrar opciones para comer de todo tipo y para todos los presupuestos.

Dos de las zonas con más variedad son la playa principal de Zicatela y alrededores, y la zona centro. En la primera, te puedo recomendar este restaurante que es perfecto para ir a desayunar (tienen una sucursal en playa Carrizalillo):

Se encuentra sobre la avenida principal, tienen un menú bastante amplio y diversos paquetes dependiendo de tu hambre. Me pareció un lugar con excelente relación precio-calidad para la zona en la que se ubica, muy recomendado.

Playas de Oaxaca - Consejos para visitarlas

Para finalizar este artículo te quiero dar algunos tips para que puedas planear tu visita por las playas de Oaxaca sin ningún contratiempo:

• Seguridad. Antes de mi viaje a las playas de Oaxaca, tenía dudas de cómo estaba la seguridad en esta zona. Ka verdad es que me llevé una grata sorpresa porque encontré un ambiente agradable y en general, bastante seguro. Obviamente hay que tener las precauciones normales, tratar no estar tan noche en las playas (más si vas solo o sola), cuidar tus pertenencias, tratar de hacer los traslados de día, etc. Pero en general, la zona ahora está bastante tranquila.
• Exposición al sol.  No te dejes llevar solamente por el termómetro, el sol pega más duro de los grados que se pueden mostrar. Ten mucho cuidado de no exponerte demasiado, sobretodo en horas complejas, de verdad que es muy peligroso.
• Comida.  Como te comentaba arriba, ten cuidado de en dónde comes. Fíjate muy bien antes que se trate de un lugar limpio, recomendado o que tenga gente para evitarte problemas.
• Limpieza.  La gran mayoría de playas están muy limpias, por favor, recoge tu basura y lo que lleves para que esto siga así.
• Hospedaje.  Si viajas en temporada alta (Semana Santa, Navidad) trata de reservar tu hospedaje con bastante anticipación porque todo se llena.  
• Gente.  Las personas en esta zona son bastante amables, así que relájate y disfruta, que aquí te van a tratar muy bien. Devuelve ese trato, intenta comprar directamente en los establecimientos locales para que la economía del lugar se beneficie.

Nota: También si lo prefieres para hacer toda la ruta, puedes rentar un auto. Solamente te recomiendo manejar siempre de día, si quizás viajas con otras personas es una muy buena opción.

Da clic aquí para empezar a cotizar la renta de tu auto en Oaxaca

Espero que este artículo con una ruta por las mejores playas de Oaxaca te haya servido para planear tus próximas vacaciones por este paraíso mexicano.

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39 comments

Estoy pensando en ir a Oaxaca, por lo que leí en tu blog podría hacer mi viaje unos día en Mazunte y los demás en Puerto Escondido; ¿es muy caro el traslado del Aeropuerto a Mazunte? yo iría de la CDMX…

Hola, Samanta

A ver, si entendí yo te recomendaría primero tomar un vuelo de la Ciudad de México a Huatulco y de ahpi moverte a Mazunte que está más cerca, pasas unos días ahí y después te mueves hacia Puerto Escondido y de ahí vuelves en avión. El punto es que consideres la ida de un aeropuerto y el regreso de otro, para que no pierdas tanto tiempo y dinero en traslados. Saludos, espero haberte ayudado.

Hola buenas tardes,voy desde España a Mexico en el mes de Abril del 1 al 21. Quiero realizar el recorrido del q escribes y me gustaria saber si vale la pena conocer la ciudad de Oaxaca. Lo q pasa es q no encuentro vuelos directos desde Oaxaca hasta Huatulco,esto es normal? Me podria recomendar algura ruta? Mi interes por conocer Oaxaca es gastronomico. Muchas gracias.

Hola, Gerado Totalmente te recomiendo conocer la ciudad de Oaxaca, es una de mis ciudades favoritas en México. Si debe haber vuelos a Huatulco o a Puerto Escondido desde ahí, puedes buscar en aerolíneas como VivaAerobus o Interjet. Si vuelas hacia Puerto Escondido, terminas en Huatulco y viceversa. Espero haberte ayudado. Saludos 🙂

Hola! Tengo un viaje a Oaxaca con mis niños y suegros, pero llegamos directo al aeropuerto de Oaxaca y de ahí queremos ir a la playa manejando, ¿ qué ruta es más segura Oaxaca -huatulco o Oaxaca a puerto escondido?

Hola, Flor La verdad es que desconozco, pero yo me iría por distancias, desde la ciudad queda más cerca Huatulco, como unas 6 horas. Saludos. 🙂

Viajaré con mi pareja para finales de Octubre. Llegamos por Huatulco y regresamos por Puerto Escondido. ¿Qué recorrido me recomiendas? me interesa la liberación de tortugas y la excursión por la laguna de manialtepec, ¿valen la pena para esas fechas?

Hola, Andrea. La temporada me parece bien, para las actividades no estoy muy segura para la liberación de tortugas, te recomiendo revisarlo con anticipación, para la laguna me parece que se hace todo el año.

Que tengan buen viaje. Un saludo. 🙂

Hola buenas tardes Me gustaría hacer un viaje de la ciudad de Oaxaca a huatulco por carretera con menores, es complicado el viaje en carretera? Gracias

Hola, ¿desde donde lo vas a hacer? Complicado no, simplemente manejar con cuidado. Saludos

Hola Ale! Mas o menos cuanto gastaste en ese viaje por las playas de Oaxaca?

Hola, Rebeca. No recuerdo exactamente la cantidad exacta, yo fui unos 5 días, pero depende muchísimo de cómo te mueves, en dónde duermes, qué comes, etc. Hay opciones para todos los presupuestos, literalmente, así que no tendrás problemas si lo que buscas es ahorrar. Te recomiendo primero poder primero hacer como un itinerario con todo incluido y entonces puedes ir armando un presupuesto diario. Un saludo. 🙂

Hola quisiera el contacto del taxista Efrén que mencionas para el recorrido. Gracias

Hola, Pau. Claro, es: 9711522217 Saludos

Hola toda esta información esta excelente. Me ha ayudado muchisimo. Me hospedare en Mazunte 5 dias ya esta pagado mi hotel allá, cual es la forma mas económica de volver al aeropuerto de Huatulco, mi boleto ya esta asi. Y la segunda pregunta, si me hospedo en Mazunte, para ir al espectaculo de bioluminiscencia en Puerto Escondido, se acaba muy noche para regresar a Mazunte hay riesgo? Cual es el consejo a seguir para no perderme ese paseo? Y para ir a las laguas de Chacahua, cree que podría ir y venir en un mismo día? Costo aproximado y consejo. Muy amable, espero sus comentarios.

Hola, Liz Para ir de Mazunte al aeropuerto de Huatulco, quizás te convenga un taxi, depende mucho de a que hora es tu vuelo y con cuánto tiempo sales de anticipación. Si lo haces con tiempo, puedes irte en transporte público, es lo más barato, necesitarías que la camioneta que te menciono te acerque a la carretera y ahí esperar un bus o van que vaya a Huatulco. La bioluminiscencia es un espectáculo que incluso con suerte lo puedes ver en el propio Mazunte, tienes que ir a una playa que no tenga luz prácticamente, regresar muy noche en transporte público a Mazunte de Puerto Escondido la verdad no lo recomiendo, a menos que contrates un taxi previamente, pero aún tiene riesgo. Para ir a Chacahua te aconsejaría un tour, para que no te compliques en traslados, van y vuelven el mismo día, en Mazunte puedes preguntar y negociar precios. Saludos

Hola Ale, felicidades por tu post! Está súper completo. Te cuento, estoy planeando un viaje para el siguiente año a Oaxaca, sería la primera vez y me gustaría conocer tanto las playas como la ciudad, pero solo serian 6 días, no sé que tan viable sea, o qué consejos me pudieras dar en cuanto al itinerario que pudiera hacer, para conocer lo mas importante. Gracias de antemano.

Hola Si solamente vas 6 días, realmente recomendaría enfocarte solamente a una zona, ya sea la ciudad y alrededores o las playas. Esto por razones de tiempos y distancias, ya que está bastante lejos. Te recomiendo que dependiendo de lo que más quieras ver, entonces te enfoques en armar tu ruta a esos lugares. Saludos 🙂

Wow!! me encantó el artículo, llevo muchos días buscando un itineario así y el tuyo está perfectamente explicado, muchas gracias!

Una pregunta, mi novio y yo queremos ir de luna de miel y nos gustaria estar unos días en Huatulco y otros en Mazunte. Veo que muchas cosas recomiendas hacerlas en taxi. Recomendarías rentar un carro? Quisiera saber si es inseguro andar en carro como turista y sobretodo para movernos de Huatulco a Mazunte

Hola, Pilar.

Que bueno que te gustó el artículo. 🙂 Con respecto a tu duda, si pueden rentar auto, solamente les recomiendo que los trayectos (como de Huatulco a Mazunte) los hagan de día por precaución. Obviamente manejar también con gps y siempre con cuidado.

Hola Ale, ¿Me podrías por favor pasar el contacto de Efrén? Planeamos ir a Huatulco a mediados de Julio.

Gracias, ¡Saludos!, Eduardo Rangel

Hola, Eduardo

Claro, te lo envío por mail

Hola buenas tardes me encanto tu post de itinerario y viaje a Oaxaca, mira te comento estoy pensando en ir a OAXACA, es la primera vez que voy quiero conocer tanto la ciudad o sierra y playas, tengo aproximadamente 14 días para conocer, viajo desde leon gto, no se que hacer primero.. si llegar a Oaxaca ciudad me gustaría conocer Monte Albán y después ir a Oaxaca centro y luego playas? Hierve el agua? No se que opciones elegir que alcanzo a conocer y disfrutar? Agradecería mucho tu recomendación al respecto…recomiendas viajar en avión primero a donde y regresar por donde? Y que agencia de autos me recomiendas?

Somos 2 adultos sin niños y con ganas de conocer y disfrutar mucho el viaje

Hola Odette Si tienen 14 días, yo empezaría por llegar a la ciudad de Oaxaca para recorrerla y sus atractivos cercanos (incluyendo Monte Albán, Santa María del Tule y más). Hierve el Agua desgraciadamente está cerrado al público. Después tomaría un avión a Puerto Escondido y de ahí puedes hacer la ruta que está en el artículo. Desde el aeropuerto de Huatulco o Puerto Escondido podrían volver. Espero haberte ayudado. Saludos

Hola Ale!!, me encantó tu artículo!!. Planeo un viaje a Oaxaca el próximo año de domingo a domingo. Quisiera conocer las playas y Oaxaca capital. Crees que con esos días es suficiente?, Cuantos días estaría bien en la capital? Llegaría a Huatulco y saldría de Oaxaca Una pregunta más: viajaste sola?. Esa es mi idea pero no se si sea seguro. Estoy entre rentar carro y andar en transporte público. Que sería lo más recomendable?

Hola, Alma. Con una semana, quizás estés un poco apurada, pero se puede lograr. Si vas a llegar a Huatulco, dedícale a la zona mínimo 4 días y los restantes a la capital, te recomiendo mucho tomar un vuelo de Huatulco a Oaxaca ciudad para ahorrar tiempos. Respecto a la seguridad, obviamente varía dependiendo de en que zonas estés, sinceramente yo nunca me sentí insegura y viajé todo el tiempo en transporte público, sobre todo en la zona de las playas, hay muchos extranjeros y extranjeros haciendo lo mismo, así que no creo que tengas problemas tu sola. Rentar coche puede ser peligroso porque las carreteras no están en las mejores condiciones, y sinceramente creo que yendo sola es más seguro moverte en transporte público (trata de no hacerlo de noche).

Rentar carro lo podrías hacer llegando propiamente a la ciudad de Oaxaca, porque si hay muchas zonas que están como a 40 minutos de la ciudad y que vale la pena ahí si llegar en coche.

Saludos, espero haberte ayudado. 🙂

Gracias por tus recomendaciones, me sirven de mucho!!. Sabes que antes de leer tu respuesta también pensaba que eran pocos días para abarcar todo. Tú qué me recomiendas?,: agregar dos días más o bien ir solo a las playas y volver en otra ocasión de jueves a Domingo a conocer la capital?

Hola, Alma Pues si puedes agregar dos días, y haces ambas cosas en un viaje, sería buena opción. Pero todo depende de ti, si quizás te gusta mucho la playa, puedes pasar fácil toda la semana por las playas y luego en otra ocasión volver a la capital, puedes valorar eso y ya decidir. 🙂 Saludos

Hola! Llegué por casualidad a tu blog y me encantó lo detallado que trazaste ésta ruta; estoy planeando ir con mi esposo y mi hijo para la penúltima semana de enero y justamente tenía pensado hacer el recorrido por la costa pero llegando a Pto. Escondido y regresando por Huatulco. Tengo más o menos una idea de cómo organizar los días, pero me gustaría saber cuánto tiempo me toma el trayecto del aeropuerto a las playas tanto de Pto. Escondido como de Huatulco; y así mismo qué tan largos son los trayectos entre una playa y otra. Mi idea es alojarnos unos dos o tres días en Puerto conocer las playas cercanas y quizás hacer alguna actividad ecoturistica (esperando que la naturaleza ayude) después desplazarnos a un punto medio, (me recomendarías Puerto Ángel?) Y quedarnos ahí otros dos días y al final movernos a Huatulco. O en dónde me recomendarías ver la bioluminiscencia por ejemplo?

Muchas gracias! Espero puedas aconsejarme ☺️

Hola, Ale. Los trayectos entre las playas son más largos en Puerto, en Huatulco son más playas pero están más cerca. Por lo mismo que son varias, depende a cual vayas para darte tiempos desde el aeropuerto, te sugiero mejor checar en google maps para no errarle 🙂 A Puerto Ángel no fui, pero muchos me dijeron que es muy bonito, así que podría ser buena opción. La bioluminiscencia depende de que sea un día sin luna llena, se puede ver me parece que más en Puerto Escondido, te venden tours para ir.

Espero haberte ayudado. Un saludo. 🙂

Hola! Que buen itinerario 🙂 Crees que si vamos por unos 7-8 dias se pueda recorrer las playas y la ciudad y como recomiendas que empezemos y recorremos? Probablemente rentemos un auto para ir a nuestro paso y conocer a nuestro gusto. Que recomiendas?

Hola Jazmín Es poco tiempo, yo te recomendaría solo ir a la ciudad o a las playas. Pero si quieren ver ambos sitios, empezar por la ciudad mínimo 3 días y si, lo mejor es rentar un auto para llegar a Huatulco, aunque son más de 5 horas solo de ida. Días 4, 5. 6 y 7 dedicarlos a la zona de Huatulco y Mazunte, y considerar también el tiempo de vuelta a la ciudad para devolver el auto. Saludos

Que tal Alejandra, esta muy completo la explicacion de tus recomendaciones en estas Playas de Oaxaca, voy a ir en este mes de Octubre, serían solomanete 4 días, me estaré hospendado en Huatulco, pero tengo pensado ir a Mazunte un día y tal vez a Perto escondido otro día, lo recomiendas ? y si es facil tomar los taxis y si son seguros ? Agradezco tus comentarios, Que estes bien.

Hola, Alan La verdad es que tan solo con 4 días, te recomendaría solamente quedarte en la zona de Huatulco, porque en los traslados vas a perder mucho tiempo para llegar, sobre todo a Puerto Escondido. Quizás Mazunte si puedas ir porque es tan solo 1 hora, así vas por el día y vuelves y los otros días puedes recorrer las diferentes playas y disfrutar de Huatulco. Los taxis es fácil tomarlos, quizás te recomendaría preguntar en tu hospedaje para que te llamen uno de sitio en lugar de tomar uno de la calle. Saludos

Hola ¿Mayo es buena época para ir a las playas de Oaxaca?

Hola, si, es buena época. Solo te aconsejo revisar unas semanas antes de la fecha que desees para verificar que no esté lloviendo demasiado. Saludos

hola Ale, gracias por compartir tus recomendaciones, me han ayudado bastante.

parece ser que no hay vuelos directos de Oaxaca a puerto escondido. Que recomiendas?

Hola, Darío Puedes rentar un auto, pero la carretera es cansada porque son muchas horas de manejo y aún no está en perfectas condiciones (están construyendo una nueva). Hay unas avionetas que hacen el recorrido, pero son bastante caras, igual puedes checar precios. La otra es tomar un autobús. Saludos

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10 things to know before going to Oaxaca, one of Mexico's most intriguing destinations

Jan 24, 2024 • 6 min read

From booking ahead to what to pack, plan your trip to Oaxaca with this know-before-you-go info © Monica Rodriguez / Getty Images

Cultural capital Oaxaca 's combo of authentic regional flavor and big-city grit makes it one of the most intriguing destinations in Mexico .

So whether you're hanging in atmospheric mezcal bars or embracing soulful Day of the Dead festivities, these top tips should serve you well.

Here are 10 things you should know when planning your trip to Oaxaca City.

1. Book ahead for Día de Muertos and Guelaguetza

Reserve accommodations months in advance if you plan on visiting in November for Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) or in July for the Guelaguetza Festival (a renowned cultural event showcasing Oaxaca's folkloric dance and music).

Sure, room rates are pricier this time of year, but the city’s impressive array of lodging options caters to all budgets, from affordable hostels and guesthouses in spacious old homes to brilliant B&Bs and non-franchise boutique hotels in the heart of the historic center.

2. Safety: don't let the headlines spook you

Despite the much-publicized news about Mexico's drug-related violence, Oaxaca remains a relatively safe place to visit.

Of course it's wise to take common-sense safety precautions, as you would anywhere else, but in general, tourists in Mexico rarely get caught up in disputes between rival drug gangs and that's especially true for Oaxaca, a state that has been mostly spared from the violence. 

The US State Department currently has no travel restrictions in place for Oaxaca City, and surrounding areas such as weaving village Teotitlán del Valle , the remote mountain towns of the Sierra Norte and most of the coastal region are considered safe for travelers. 

3. Don't drive in Oaxaca's historic center

Driving in Oaxaca City requires patience, particularly in the hectic historic center, where traffic snarls and a lack of street parking can make life miserable.

You'll be much better off on foot when exploring the Centro's noteworthy sights such as the world-class Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca .

Many downtown streets do not have stop signs or traffic lights but most drivers abide by uno por uno  etiquette, meaning the first vehicle to arrive at an intersection has the right of way.

Beyond city limits, traffic is usually light but expect a fair share of poorly maintained roads with a slew of potholes and unmarked speed bumps.

Also, be aware that protesters regularly stage blockades in Oaxaca. If you come across a roadblock, seek an alternative route or you may find yourself stuck for hours.

When renting a vehicle, always take out liability insurance, known in Spanish as daños a terceros . Walk-in car rentals in Oaxaca start at about M$800 per day with liability coverage included, but you can often find better deals online. Most major credit cards provide free collision coverage for auto rentals.

4. Sip, don't shoot mezcal

When bellying up to a mezcal bar, keep in mind that the distilled agave drink packs quite a punch (usually 45% to 50% alcohol content) and it's best sipped slowly to fully appreciate its distinctive aromatic taste.

Duck into a classic mezcalería such as In Situ to savor the flavor of artisanal mezcals. 

For day trips out to mezcal country in nearby Santiago Matatlán, consider booking a tour with the experts at Experience Agave . Alternatively, if you foresee a boozy DIY romp, you can always leave the driving to a taxi for about M$500 each way. Salud!

5. Take day trips to explore beyond Oaxaca City

With all its museums, art galleries, uniquely savory cuisine and intoxicating nightlife, you may never want to leave the city, but trust us when we say day trips enrich the overall experience.

For a taste of traditional Oaxaca, venture out to the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán or head south to visit artisan workshops for an up-close look at how iconic crafts are made, such as alebrijes (surreal wood sculptures based on mythological animals).

6. What to pack: keep it casual and comfy

Even though you'll see fewer people wearing shorts and tank tops in non-beach towns such as Oaxaca City, casual dress is the norm. Don't forget to pack a long-sleeve shirt and long pants for protection against mosquitoes and the sun.

A light jacket is always useful for cool evenings and air-conditioned buses. If you're heading for Oaxaca's sublime tropical coast , take a swimsuit, flip-flops, loose-fitting clothes and insect repellent. For ecotourism outings in the nearby Sierra Norte mountains, bring a heavy jacket.

7. Take your essentials and always carry cash

You'll need a passport for international travel, a driver's license if you're renting a car and credit or debit cards (but always carry cash as some businesses do not accept plastic).

ATMs dispense Mexican pesos and there's usually a 3% international transaction fee tacked on.

You can exchange foreign currency at Oaxaca's international airport or at money exchange offices clustered around the Zócalo , the main square. Most international flights connect through Mexico City.

8. Etiquette: slow down and do the right thing

Oaxacans typically are not sticklers about etiquette but there are several things to be mindful of when interacting with locals. First, remember that life moves at a leisurely pace in this corner of Mexico, so try not to get upset if someone shows up late or if service is slow in a restaurant.

Also, whenever possible, tip generously in restaurants and hotels as gratuities are crucial to the livelihood of workers in Oaxaca, one of the poorest states in Mexico.

Tip 10–15% in restaurants, 5–10% of room costs in a hotel and M$5–10 for parking lot and gas station attendants. Taxi drivers usually do not expect tips, but always welcome them.

When shopping in Oaxaca , prices are fixed in most stores. It's okay to do some friendly haggling with market vendors, but keep a sense of perspective about the amounts you're bargaining over as most folks are just trying to make a living.

9. Don't drink the water, but do eat the street food

Do not drink water from the tap. Instead, purchase bottled water in supermarkets or convenience stores. Most restaurants and hotels serve purified water.

When it comes to street food, it would be a missed opportunity not to take a few risks in a culinary hot spot like Oaxaca. Look no further than the delectable mole tamales at Tamales de San Agustín Yatareni , or the tender pork tacos at the wildly popular Lechoncito de Oro .

You can lessen the chances of getting sick by carrying hand sanitizer and choosing a place to eat that appears to have good hygiene practices.

If you do get a stomach bug,  Hospital Reforma is a decent option with 24-hour medical attention. Call 911 for emergencies.

10. Stay calm: there are frequent earthquakes in Oaxaca 

Oaxaca is located in one of Mexico's most seismically active regions and is prone to frequent (and occasionally strong) earthquakes, but rest assured that most come and go doing little harm.

If you hear the seismic alert system sound, remain calm and move to an open space away from buildings and power lines.

Should a quake hit while you're on the coast, head inland to reach higher ground. 

This article was first published March 2022 and updated January 2024

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