solo female travel oaxaca

23 Nov Travel Guide to Oaxaca City by a Solo Traveler

Ask anyone, tourists or locals alike, where is the best place to visit in Mexico? Chances are high they’ll say the state of Oaxaca. It’s the most ethnically diverse states in Mexico which means a variety of cultures contribute to the traditions, the food, and more. As a tourist there’s loads to do in Oaxaca state: you can experience the culturally rich capital, escape to the wilderness such as San Jose del Pacifico to try magic shrooms, or enjoy the beautiful coastline like in Puerto Escondido .

When traveling though Oaxaca state, you’ll likely begin in Oaxaca City otherwise known as Oaxaca de Juárez. But more than a stopover, this city is a must-visit. 

The birthplace of mole and mezcal, Oaxaca is the gastronomical capital of Mexico where you can try creations well-beyond tacos both in local markets and in 5 star restaurants and then finish with a stunning cocktail at a rooftop bar. 

In Oaxaca, you can  safely explore the aloe decorated cobble stoned streets, and find a mix of local markets, stylish shops, and historical architecture with modern twists. There’s also a number of day trips to mezcal tastings, textile towns, and cliffside mineral pools.

Sold yet? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

What's in this post

Click to skip ahead

Solo Travel in Oaxaca

How to get to oaxaca, getting around the city, where to stay , things to do in oaxaca .

• Templo de Santo Domingo
• Free walking tour
• Botanical gardens
• Cooking class
• Cerro del Fortin viewpoint
• Local markets
• Memelas at Doña Vale’s food stall
• Mezcalerias & rooftop bars
• Renting a bike and visiting Árbol del Tule

Where to Eat in Oaxaca

Day trips & weekend trips from oaxaca, more resources for your trip to mexico.

*This post includes affiliate links and I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. By using my links you’re merely supporting what I love to do: write this blog! I only recommend products/companies that I use myself.

Solo travel In Oaxaca City

Before jumping in to this guide, I want to offer my perspective on visiting Oaxaca as a solo female traveler myself. This way if you also travel alone, you can better have an idea of what to expect.

First, Oaxaca is a great place for solo travelers. Not only is it safe, but it’s also very easy to explore on your own. Additionally, because the city attracts so many international tourists and nomads, it’s not difficult to meet other travelers to share experiences.

As a solo traveler myself, I stayed in Oaxaca  for nearly two weeks and felt at home here. I met tons of friends to explore the city with as well as future travels. Because most people use Oaxaca City as a stopover before moving on to the coast or elsewhere, it’s the perfect place to make connections for upcoming destinations.

Read other Solo Travel posts

Practical Solo Travel Safety Tips to Help You Confidently Explore the World Alone

Solo travel creates an incredible opportunity to see more of the world on your own time. But especially if you’re......

21 Dos and Don’ts to Travel Safe in Brazil

When I mention that I traveled to Brazil (majority of the time alone) one of the first questions I always......

How to get to Oaxaca City

Getting to Oaxaca City is relatively easy and there are a few options:

If you’re traveling to Oaxaca from outside of Mexico, you can fly into Xoxocotlán International Airport which is 25 minutes driving from the city center. Read more below about how to get to the center.

→ search for cheap flights here

If you’re traveling to Oaxaca domestically from within Mexico , you can also fly to Xoxocotlán International Airport or take a bus.

Buses in Mexico are most easily booked and cheapest on BusBud . You can choose between a few companies and compare prices on the platform, but my most preferred bus companies are typically ADO and Primera Plus. 

To reach your final destination, most bus stations will be a short taxi ride or walk away from the Centro.

→ search for buses to Oaxaca here

If you’re flying to Oaxaca either domestically or internationally, from the airport, to get to Oaxaca city you must take a shared taxi. After collecting any luggage, head to the arrivals exit and go up to the only counter labeled “TAXI.” Tell them where the place you’re staying is located (best to have the address ready on your phone either in your notes or as a screenshot) and they’ll check which zone it falls into. 

Depending on the zone, you’ll pay a certain fee – anywhere in the Centro should be 100 pesos or so – and then you’ll be given a receipt. Take this outside to where the vans are and hand it to the drivers who will assign you a van with other passengers going to the same area. After waiting your turn for your stop, the driver will drop you off  directly at your accommodation. It’s that simple!

How to get Around in Oaxaca

Overall, Oaxaca is a very walkable city, otherwise there are public buses and taxis (no Uber here).  To navigate using the public transport, I recommend talking to your accommodation hosts or using Google Maps. 

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Staying anywhere in the historic center of Oaxaca is the most ideal. You’ll be close to all the action and almost everything I mention will be in walking distance.

What to expect from accommodation prices: Hostels in Oaxaca range from about $7-20 per night. Airbnb as always really depends; you can find some for as low as $18 a night and many for much more. On average, there’s some great finds for $25-50 a night.

My most recommended hostel: Casa Angel . This is where I stayed for my first week and the vibes were immaculate. I met some amazing people, partook in many fun and free activities, breakfast is included and the staff is great. I highly recommend it! Dorm beds are $16-20 a night. Check availability for Casa Angel here .

Best hostel for digital nomads: Selina . I stayed here for my second week in Oaxaca because I needed to focus on work. It was much  quieter and less social than Casa Angel but the wifi was great and I really liked the co-working space. Dorm beds are $18-25 a night. This is pricier than most hostels which is why I really only recommend it to those who are working and traveling. Check availability for Selina here .

→ Search for hotels in Oaxaca  here

All female guesthouse : I didn’t stay here but as a solo female traveler it did draw my attention on Airbnb. This would be a great stay if you’re looking for a community of women and want your privacy in a comfortable room.

→ Search for Hostels in Oaxaca here

THINGS TO DO IN OAXACA CITY

1. visit templo de santo domingo de guzmán (santo domingo church).

Located in the heart of Oaxaca, Santo Domingo looks like a pretty basic church as far as they go in Mexico (although I LOVE the agave plants displayed in front). However, when you enter inside, you’ll be surprised to see intricate decorations including more than 60,000 plates of gold. 

2. Take a walking tour

Participating in a walking tour is always one of the best ways to spend your early days in a new city. I took my free walking tour through Casa Angel , the hostel where I stayed and not only did I learn so much about the history and culture, but also grasped the layout of the city, tried multiple kinds of food, and pinned tons of locations to return to later. I even met friends to hang out with later! The tour really made all the difference during my stay in Oaxaca.

If you’re not staying at Casa Angel, you can also take other free walking tours available such as this one .

3. Explore the Botanical Garden

While in Oaxaca, I never visited Jardin Ethnobotanico de Oaxaca, and I really regret it. This 2.3 acre garden is adjacent to Santo Domingo and a picturesque park full of cacti – the perfect place for your next Instagram photo.

Learn more about visiting here .

This is my favorite thing to do in Oaxaca. I’ll get into the list of a few places I really enjoyed below , but my biggest piece of advice would be to go for street food, local markets, and try everything – especially the mole!

5. Take a cooking class

Forget just trying food, why not learn how to make it too. They call it Oaxacan gastronomy and it’s a renowned art. When taking a cooking class, you’ll learn all about local ingredients and hopefully have some new recipes to take home with you.

Cooking classes are available through   Get Your Guide or Airbnb experiences.

6. View the city from the Cerro del Fortin viewpoint

Make your way uphill to the stadium where you can take in a panoramic view of Oaxaca city. Be sure to bring some water, it’s not too long of a walk up, but it was enough to take my breath away 😅

7. Experience local markets

If you’re looking for a culture kick, stroll through one or many colorful local markets in Oaxaca city. Markets are full of assortments from spices and meat, to leather shoes and textiles, to artisanal products perfect as souvenirs. Don’t forget to be a little adventurous too and try some local snacks and fruits – my favorite part!

There are many markets in Oaxaca, the most noteworthy in the city for tourists are Mercado Benito Juárez, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, and the Tlacolula Sunday Market. The Tlacolula market is especially famous but unfortunately 45 minutes outside of Oaxaca City. If you want an easy way to visit, consider taking a tour .

8. Try memelas at Doña Vale’s food stall

If you’re as big a fan of local food around the world as I am, you’ve probably seen Netflix’s special ‘Street Food.’ In the Latin America season, there’s a whole episode dedicated to Oaxaca, Mexico and one of the featured chefs is the renowned Doña Vale famous for her memalas – thicker, fried tortillas topped with different salsas and Oaxacan cheese.

After visiting her food stall, I can confirm that the show was not overhyping her “simple” snack. So if you’re ready to have your mind blown by her genius recipes, head over to Mercado de Abastos where you can find her kitchen.

9. Wander the streets and plazas

Beyond the free walking tour, I also encourage you to explore the city on your own. Relish in your free time and take the opportunity to admire places you like and capture photographs. I recommend wandering where feels right, but definitely don’t miss the Centro Historico Plaza.

→ Go on a bicycle graffiti tour of Oaxaca

10. Indulge yourself at Mezcalerias and rooftop bars

If you aren’t aware yet, Oaxaca is home to mezcal, a popular alcoholic drink that comes from agave. Many would argue it’s much better than tequila, but I’ll let you be the judge of that.

 In the city you can find this smokey drink almost anywhere but a popular place for cocktails and tasting is La Mezcalerita . There are also a number of rooftop bars throughout the center. Most are prone to overpriced cocktails, but their ambiance is worth it for at least a one time experience. Los Amantes Mezcaleria and Grupo Amantes Boutique hotel both offer delicious cocktails and stunning views of Santo Domingo Church.

Try a Mezcal Mixology experience in Oaxaca

11. rent a bike and take a trip to árbol del tule.

Árbol del Tule or The Tree of Tule is known to be the stoutest tree in the world – its thick trunk has a circumference of 42 meters! The tree is located 20 minute drive from the center of Oaxaca city, so you might as well make a fun trip out of it. Instead of merely reaching your destination by taxi, rent some bikes and take in the scenery along the way. 

Bicycles can be rented at a few places such as Bicibella Oaxaca and Pedro Martinez Oaxaca . You can also book an Airbnb experience .

places to eat in oaxaca

Oaxaca de Juárez is full of impecable food. There’s so many places to try, I absolutely recommend doing some exploring of your own. However, a few that I enjoyed that are worth checking out were:

Mercado Orgánico la Cosecha – A small organic market of several different vendors serving a variety of traditional food. Out of everywhere in Oaxaca city, I probably ate here the most and highly recommend it!

Boulenc – If you’re looking for some delicious sandwiches, salads or pizza then this is the place for you. They also have vegan and vegetarian options.

Magnolia Rooftop – incredible burgers with a view of Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

La Popular – A delicious restaurant serving traditional food at affordable prices.

El Escapulario – A cozy, homey restaurant with delicious mole and tlayudas.

DAY trips & WEEKEND TRIPS FROM OAXACA CITY

1. sierra norte.

Some key info: Sierra Norte is perfect for hiking and giving back to the local community. It’s 2 hours outside of Oaxaca city. Tours are available on Viator an d at many hostels/hotels in Oaxaca city.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manuel Santos 🇲🇽 (@manuel_santosm)

2. Hierve Agua

Some key info: Hierve Agua is such a unique location with hot springs and rock formations that resemble a cascading waterfall. It’s 1.5 hours outside of Oaxaca City. Many tours are available online , some hostels/hotels in Oaxaca City may offer them, or you can go on your own.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sarita 🍃 (@sairahfs)

Some tours to Heirve Agua:

3. san jose del pacifico.

Some key info: San Jose del Pacifico is a small town in the mountain known for its magic shrooms and views above the clouds. It’s about a 3 hours bus ride from Oaxaca City. You can take a bus here and stay overnight or take a day trip .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CAROLINE ROSE | SOLO TRAVEL (@carolinerosetravel)

4. Teotitlan del Valle

Some key info: Teotitlan del Valle is the textile town of Oaxaca where you can learn how Mexico’s vibrant pieces are created. It’s about 45 minutes from Oaxaca City so you can take a day tour here or go on your own by taxi. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Teotitlán del Valle (@teotitlandvalle)

5. Santiago Matalan

Some key info: Santiago Matlan is the World Capital of Mezcal! It’s about an hour outside of Oaxaca City so you can either take a tour or get a taxi there and walk through the town doing taste testing on your own.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lupe Lopez (@loopadoop)

6. Monte Alaban ruins

Some key info: Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán are ancient ruins from 500 B.C. They are about 30 minutes outside of Oaxaca City and can be visited either in a tour or on your own. To go on your own, you can take a taxi or a bus and then pay the 70 pesos entrance fee. Tours are available online on Viator and GetYourGuide

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Cesar Fernandez (@soychicharo)

7. Mercado de Tlacolula

Some key info: A Sunday market, one of the oldest in Oaxaca and a culture hub of many indegenous communities. It is 45 minutes outside of Oaxaca City and can be reached by bus, taxi or through a tour .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Food Feels (@food_feels)

final thoughts & recommend time to stay

Oaxaca city is a destination of its own – one that shouldn’t be missed. You could spend 3 days here, but also easily spend a week (or if you’re like me 2 weeks!).

But however much time you have, come with an empty belly, a ready camera, and an open heart to the Oaxacan spirit that is sure to enchant you.

More Resources for Your Trip to Mexico

Planning your own trip? Here’s some resources I used to book and coordinate my itinerary through Mexico along with some recommendations:

If you’re a budget traveler or looking for an easy way to meet others,  Hostelworld is the best place to search. Below are some of my recommendations, click to search for availability ! 

• Mexico City:  Casa Pepe
• Tulum: Che Tulum Hostel & Bar   OR Mayan Monkey
• Valladolid: Hostel La Candelaria
• San Cristobal:  Posada del Abuelito OR Puerto Vieja
• Puerto Escondido:  Hostal Akumal La Punta
• Oaxaca City: Casa Angel  
• Guanajuato:  Corral d Comedias Hostel
• Guadalajara:  Hostel Hospedarte Guadalajara Centro
• Cabo San Lucas: Mayan Monkey

Booking.com is the way to go when search for hotels in Mexico because they typically offer free cancellation with plenty of affordable to more luxurious stays.

Flights to Mexico are typically cheapest to Mexico City, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Monterrey and San Jose del Cabo. Domestic flights within Mexico also tend to be pretty affordable especially if traveling light. To find the best deal & prices I recommend using Skyscanner . 

The easiest way to search for and book buses in Mexico is with BusBud where you can easily compare options and use a platform in English. Check it out here . My most used and favorite bus companies tended to be ADO (and their partner OCC) and Primera Plus.

Travel insurance is a must for every trip to make sure you’re covered in unexpected situations. My go to is always WorldNomads which has a generous coverage and is made for backpackers. You can search for coverage here . However if you’re looking for a cheaper option for only travel medical emergency insurance, I suggest Safety Wing . 

Tours & Experiences

There’s a lot of free thing to do in Mexico or experiences you can do on your own. I always recommend checking blog posts for inspiration. If you’re interested in tours though like visiting Chichén Itzá , taking a hot air balloon over Teotihuacan , snorkeling in Cancun , and more then I suggest checking on GetYourGuide & Viator . Airbnb Experiences also offer some options.

Know Before You Go

Check out my Mexico Destination Page here for information on visas, health requirements, currency, outlets, and more.

related posts

The Best Apps & Websites for Traveling in Mexico

Whether you’re heading to the Mexican coast for a beach vacation or are backpacking through the vast...

Puerto Escondido Mexico Travel Guide

An increasingly popular beach destination in Mexico, Puerto Escondido is a surfer’s paradise, a Tulu...

Travel Guide to Oaxaca City by a Solo Traveler

Ask anyone, tourists or locals alike, where is the best place to visit in Mexico? Chances are high t...

Liked this post? Pin it to save

No Comments

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Subscribe me to Caroline Rose Travel

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Is Oaxaca Safe? A Solo Female Traveler’s First-Hand Look

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

With its indigenous culture and delicious food, there’s no surprise that Oaxaca is a popular Mexican destination. But if you’re planning a trip to this remarkable city, you might be wondering “is Oaxaca safe?” While, like anywhere, there is a possibility that a problem will occur, in general Oaxaca is safe to visit.

Oaxaca Mexico Travel Warnings

The United States Department of State has issued a number of travel warnings regarding trips to Mexico, but the Oaxaca region is specifically excluded from this list and considered safe to visit.

As of February 2020, the US State Department has ranked the state of Oaxaca with a Level 2 travel warning. Although that sounds a little ominous, all that means — in their own words — is “exercise increased caution”. That’s good advice anywhere in the world: keep your wits about you and don’t put yourself in unsafe situations and you shouldn’t expect any issues.

There are currently no warnings or restrictions for the city of Oaxaca, including day trips to areas like Monte Alban.

Know the Difference: Oaxaca City vs Oaxaca State Oaxaca is the name of both a city (discussed here!) and a state in Mexico. Oaxaca city is safe to visit. However, there is an advisory for the isthmus region of Oaxaca state, which is roughly a 4.5 hour drive away from Oaxaca city (in other words, far removed from where most travelers go). If you’re looking for a beach getaway in Oaxaca state, stick to Puerto Escondido or Huatulco, both of which are safe.

Oaxaca Travel Safety Concerns

As safe of a city as Oaxaca is, there are still the same minor risks you might experience anywhere in the world.

Petty crime, like pickpocketing, is possible particularly in touristy or crowded areas. More blatant theft is also possible, especially for travelers walking alone after night.

Oaxaca has also been the center of some protests and political demonstrations. Most of these are non-violent and non-disruptive toward travelers, but that is always subject to change. As recently as January 2020, there were a few road blockades on the highway, asking drivers to make a “voluntary donation” in order to pass while traveling toward Mexico City or Oaxacan beach towns. Like everywhere in Mexico, it’s always good to allow extra time in your schedule in case of unexpected delays — but that’s more likely to be traffic than a demonstration!

There are also natural phenomenons to take into account when considering a trip to Oaxaca. During the rainy season (May through November), there is a chance of flooding rains or dangerous conditions on the roads. Oaxaca also lies in an earthquake zone and quakes can strike without warning. Most travelers don’t encounter these problems, but you should be prepared with normal precautions just in case.

Buying travel insurance can be a good way to help protect yourself financially in case you encounter issues. Most policies will reimburse you for stolen items, medical expenses, and possibly even the costs of cancelling a trip if needed. Find out if you need travel insurance .

Don’t have a travel insurance policy yet?   My pick is always  RoamRight .

My Personal Experience as a Solo Female Traveler in Oaxaca Mexico

I’ve had the privilege of visiting Mexico on multiple occasions — and Oaxaca is one of the easiest cities in all of Mexico. I think it’s great for first-timers, whether that means your first time in Mexico or your first time traveling solo.

Oaxaca is great because there’s enough tourist infrastructure to keep you in your comfort zone. You’ll find English speakers at some (but not all) hotels, restaurants, shops, and tours. If you have a problem, it’s not hard finding someone to help.

It’s also a great spot because the city tends to stay up late. I’m not much of a nightlife person (and never have been), but since it gets dark by 7pm, it’s comforting to have big groups of locals out afterwards instead of wandering alone on the streets. Safety in numbers!

Since I was by myself (and also because I’m not much into partying), my typical evening would be an 8pm dinner and a 9pm stroll afterwards for people-watching. Some nights I’d stop for a drink (just one, to be on the safe side!) but I was always back in my hotel room around 11pm when there were still plenty of people around for my walk back.

Oaxaca Safety Tips

All the situations are rare and most people will never have a problem. You should be relieved that the city is essentially safe!

Still, here are some travel safety tips to help minimize your risk:

Keep valuable items like watches or cell phones hidden from view. No matter how safe a city is, it’s never a good idea to wave around flashy items. I wear a decoy wedding ring and leave my real one at home

Don’t carry your passport with you. There’s no reason you’ll need it while sightseeing, so keep your passport left securely at the hotel so you don’t have to make an emergency trip to the embassy.

Split your cash and cards instead of keeping it all in one place. I like to divide my cash between my wallet, a pocket, and some saved back at the hotel. Same for my credit cards. That way, if someone pickpockets me, I’ve still got a secret stash somewhere else.

If you absolutely have to carry your passport or large sums of money with you at any time (like to or from the airport), I recommend hiding it in anti-theft underwear . Yes, you read that right — underwear with pockets to keep your valuables safe. Way more reliable than a money belt in my opinion!

Don’t get drunk. Make smart choices and don’t lower your inhibitions. Be honest with yourself about what your tolerance level is and think twice before ordering another round of mezcal.

Be smart at night. Oaxaca is lively at night and you shouldn’t be afraid of missing out entirely from Oaxacan evenings, but there’s a big difference between being out at 11pm and staying out at 3am. Stay with a buddy or group if you can, have a restaurant call you a taxi back to your hotel, and don’t wander down dark alleys.

Steer clear of political demonstrations. No matter how curious you are or if you support the cause, remember that tensions are high. It’s best just to pass on by.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca to Stay Safe

For safety, especially if you’re a solo traveler, I recommend staying in the center. Not only is it convenient to be in the middle of things, but it also means that you’ll have others around after dark when you walk back to your hotel. These hotels are also more likely to have English-speaking staff to assist you with any issues (or just to help with recommendations).

My top pick is the Hotel Parador de Alcala . It’s popular, so you’ll want to book early before the cheap rooms get snapped up. Bonus: it has a rooftop pool!

If that hotel isn’t what you’re looking for, choose something that’s near the Cathedral and Templo de Santo Domingo. This area is packed with restaurants and bars and you shouldn’t have any trouble going out and staying safe.

The Grana B&B looks beautiful and spacious and the Hotel Casona is great value. If you prefer a social setting, try Iguana Hostel — it has a perfect location and would be a good way to meet other travelers.

Oaxaca is a vibrant, colorful city and you should feel completely safe in enjoying it. In a country where unfortunately there are some dangerous sections, Oaxaca remains a secure oasis. Be sure to do the little things to avoid problems and you’ll have a great time in this beautiful city.

Looking for more information to plan your trip? Read my full guide to Oaxaca Mexico or check out all my Mexico articles .

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Solo Female Travel in Oaxaca City

Travel rating.

Based on our research

Meet new people

Get the travel ladies app to meet new people , find travel buddies , share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing ..

Travel index

Safety: Safe

Transport: Easy

Things to do: Interesting

Food: Excellent

Budget: Affordable

Is oaxaca city worth visiting, group travel experience.

I absolutely loved Oaxaca and felt very safe there despite being initially concerned after hearing some warnings! I was with a friend for the most part but also travelled alone at times and felt good walking around even in the evenings. The only factor I’d consider is that I heard from some male travellers that they had to bribe police there to get out of tricky situations, but I’m not sure how common this is. Otherwise I loved it; the food was amazing and the streets were beautiful too :)

United Kingdom

Solo travel experience

I've never been anywhere that felt so cosy. A combination of the rainbow of coloured single-storey buildings and street lighting makes Oaxaca a wonderful place to wander in the evenings. I didn't feel concerned for my safety or encounter any problems. When I arrived there was a parade in one of the streets with huge papier mache people held aloft, dancing behind a band, I followed the smiling, dancing crowd for a while before checking into my hostel. Oaxaca felt small enough to walk around but I did get taxis a couple of times because they were so cheap. There's a shared taxi from the airport which as far as I could tell, was the best way to get into town. Oaxaca is famous for its food, especially the mòle. There's a beautiful covered food market where vendors sell their products next to an area with picnic tables. I ate tamales and drank fresh peach juice. Most of the stalls only accept cash. There are opportunities to learn how to make chocolate and trips to Hierve la Agua: the world's only petrified waterfall

Explore Mexico

Mexico City

Playa del Carmen

Isla Mujeres

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Morelos

Cabo San Lucas

Oaxaca City

Puerto Escondido

San Miguel de Allende

Quintana Roo

San Jose del Cabo

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

[email protected]

• Solo Travel
• Couch surfing
• Travel Buddy
• Meet New People
• Safety Index
• Best countries for solo female travel
• Safest countries for solo female travel
• Cheap countries for solo female travel
• Best places for solo female travel
• Safest places for solo female travel
• Cheap places for solo female travel

The ABSOLUTE Best Things to Do in Oaxaca, Mexico

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Looking for the best things to do in Oaxaca? I’ve got you covered! Oaxaca is one of my favorite places in Mexico, and I think it’s one of the most special cities in Latin America.

Oaxaca ( pronounced wa-HA-ca ) ticks all the boxes — it’s an incredibly beautiful city, it’s an endlessly interesting city; it’s large enough to have tons of things to do but small enough to get around on foot; and the value for money is EXCELLENT. Oh, and did I mention it’s a culinary nirvana?

I arrived in Oaxaca a sleep-deprived zombie, thanks to taking the 10-hour overnight bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas. The sun shone beautifully, warming my face. A strong coffee at a cafe on the Zócalo and a Oaxacan tamale, steamed in a banana leaf and filled with black mole, brought me back to life. I people-watched with a smile on my face. I was hooked on this city already.

I spent a full week in Oaxaca, exploring it top to bottom. Mexico is one of my favorite countries in the world, and I love to visit every winter when possible. Now I’m considering spending a winter or two in Oaxaca, just to enjoy it for longer.

This is my Oaxaca travel guide, and I hope it helps you plan a fantastic trip.

(Please note that there is both a state of Oaxaca and a city of Oaxaca in Mexico. This guide refers to Oaxaca city, also called Oaxaca de Juarez, which is within Oaxaca state.)

This guide was updated as of December 2021.

Table of Contents

Why Travel to Oaxaca?

There are some cities that seem to epitomize their countries. Take Kyoto: you have pristine temples and gleaming skyscrapers, ryokan and high-end kaiseiki meals and local markets selling unusual foods. It’s exactly what people picture Japan to be. Or Sevilla — a city of orange trees and flamenco and ornate buildings and bullfighting, the kind of destination people imagine when they think about Spain.

And Oaxaca is that city for Mexico. While Mexico is a very diverse nation, Oaxaca is like a dream image of what people perceive Mexico to be.

A warm, colorful city located in a valley among mountains. Street vendors serving up delicious food. Women dressed in colorful embroidered dresses. Ancient pyramids just outside the city. Parades and festivals and art.

If you’re looking to base in Mexico for a full week, exploring the city in depth and taking day trips to nearby destinations, Oaxaca would be my top recommendation.

What NOT to Do in Mexico

Oaxaca Travel FAQ

My two absolute favorite things to do in Oaxaca are to experience a temezcal (sweat lodge) ceremony and go for a mole and mezcal pairing class .

Take the Oaxaca free walking tour (remember to tip your guide). People-watching on the Zócalo is free; having a meaty meal at 20 November Market is cheap and fun.

Oaxaca is pronounced “wa-HA-ca.”

Yes, Oaxaca is a very safe city to visit, even for solo female travelers . Take the same precautions you would in your home country: be aware of your surroundings, don’t drink too much, and keep in touch with someone at home.

Things to Do in Oaxaca

One of the best things to do in Oaxaca is simply walk around the city and enjoy the atmosphere. Oaxaca is a city that lends itself to wandering, and I could wander Oaxaca for hours.

Here are some more things to do in Oaxaca:

People-Watch on the Zócalo

The Zócalo is the main square in Oaxaca’s city center. It’s a park with lots of pathways and it serves as a gathering place for Oaxacans. Like many other cities, Oaxaca’s main square is the place to see and be seen around sunset.

Here you’ll find balloon vendors and street food stalls, teenagers giggling in crowds, multi-generational families enjoying each other’s company, and the occasional pair of well-dressed chihuahuas. Occasionally you’ll catch a musical performance. It’s local culture at its best!

Use the Zócalo as your base, and from there you can set out in any direction and enjoy Oaxaca’s streets.

Free Oaxaca Walking Tour

Taking a free walking tour is one of my favorite ways to get my bearings in a new city. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour has daily tours led by local guides.

On this tour you’ll get to know your way around the city while learning about Oaxacan history, arts, gastronomy, Indigenous cultures, and social and political movements. It’s one of the best things to do in Oaxaca on your first day to give you the framework for the rest of your trip.

Just keep in mind that a free tour is not TOTALLY free — your guide expects (and deserves) tips. Most free tours even have to pay their company a portion of the tips they receive. Tip generously for your free tour. Don’t be one of the people who shamefully slinks away.

Free tours are daily at 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, departing from Teatro Macedonia Alcalá.

Eat Meat at Mercado 20 Noviembre

Looking for a fun, local, cheap food experience? Well, this one is particularly for carnivores. Head down to Mercado 20 Noviembre and you get to choose the meat of your dreams!

It’s a bit intimidating, but don’t worry — Oaxacans are lovely people and they’ll help you if you need it. Start out by choosing vegetables to eat, then walk up to one of the butcher counters and order the meat. You’ll be given a number and you can sit down at the tables. When it’s ready, they’ll let you pick it up. From the table, you can order tortillas, condiments, and refreshments from the wait staff (I recommend a Victoria beer).

Mercado 20 Noviembre is just south of Mercado Benito Juárez, another big market in Oaxaca that is worth exploring.

Experience a Temazcal

One of the most unforgettable things I did in Oaxaca was visit Cevarium Temazcal , a traditional “sweat lodge” operated by a lovely Zapotec couple, Blanca and Osvelia. This is an activity that you’ll remember forever.

The Temazcal is a traditional health method for the Zapotec, and this particular Temazcal offers you a way to respectfully engage in an Indigenous activity in Oaxaca.

There were three of us participating: me, Charlie, and another woman. We wore bathing suits and each sat on a small stool inside the low-ceiling temazcal. Then Osvelia closed the door and the heat began! He gave us directions on what to do. We squeezed oranges on ourselves (“Like a turkey,” he said.) We rubbed local clays on our faces and dumped cold buckets of water on our heads. We each sat in our own cool bathtubs in the hot room as Osvelia poured chocolate and mole over us.

I found it to be like a meditation, a way to step outside your body and concentrate on the here and now.

What I most appreciated was how much Osvelia reassured us. “Don’t suffer,” he repeated over and over, reminding us that if it was too much heat, we could lie down or even leave.

On recommendation from others, we did the version with the herbal bath. Book through Facebook Messenger. The regular Temazcal experience costs 1000 pesos ($51) for one person, 1200 pesos ($61) for two people, or 500 pesos ($25) each for 3-6 people; the Temazcal experience plus the herbal bath costs 1300 pesos ($66) per person. Book ASAP because this tends to sell out.

Cevarium Temazcal is located outside the city, but they can send their driver to pick you up for an extra fee (highly recommended because most local drivers won’t be able to find it).

Take a Mole and Mezcal Pairing Class

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Oaxaca was a mezcal and mole pairing . Mole and mezcal are two specialties from Oaxaca, but you have no idea how complex they are until you try them one at a time, savoring them, noting all the differences! It’s a great place to try several moles at once.

This experience is given by Daniel, a sommelier with a really interesting background. In fact, we enjoyed his tour so much that we hung out with him later on and he showed us around the cool parts of the Xochimilco neighborhood.

Think mezcal is tequila’s smokier sister? Get ready to have your mind blown — high quality mezcal isn’t supposed to be smoky at all, Daniel told us! It’s like wine. It’s subtle and vibrant, and once you attune your mind to its flavors, you’ll be amazed. This mezcal tasting might have the side effect of ruining you for mezcal!

You can book it here. Rates from $52. Very highly recommended.

Visit Templo Santo Domingo and the Museo de las Culturas

These two Oaxacan sites are located in the same complex. Templo de Santo Domingo is a church — soft stone on the outside, intricate gold patterns on the inside.

The Museo de las Culturas , or Museum of Cultures, is a museum highlighting the cultures of the many Indigenous communities of the region. Exhibitions focus on pre-Hispanic through the present day. Don’t miss the display from Tomb 7 at Monte Albán, filled with gold, silver, and gemstones.

Templo Santo Domingo is free to enter; entry to the Museo de las Culturas is 80 pesos ($4). The museum is primarily in Spanish, but the Google Translate photo app on your phone can translate in real time.

Visit the Ethnobotanical Garden

Next door to the Templo Santo Domingo is Oaxaca’s ethnobotanical garden , containing a beautiful collection of plants from all over the state of Oaxaca.

Oaxaca is the most biodiverse state in Mexico and the plants are grouped according to ecological region. To this day, the plants are watered manually from water collected from the church’s roof!

These botanical gardens are not a walk-in attraction — you must book a guided tour. English language tours take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 1:00 PM and cost 100 pesos ($5) per person.

Eat All the Oaxacan Food

Oaxacan food is fantastic — the best in Mexico. And for good reason. Take this opportunity to dive into local Oaxacan specialties, many of which are tough to find outside the region.

Here are a few dishes that you should prioritize trying in Oaxaca:

Tlayudas — Large tortillas topped with refried beans, avocado, tomatoes, any kind of meat, and sometimes Oaxacan cheese. Some people call it Oaxacan pizza.

Mole — Forget any mole you’ve ever had, because Oaxaca does them better, and in seven very different varieties. Try as many as you can!

Tamales Oaxaqueños — You may know tamales, but Oaxaca’s version are steamed in banana leaves and often filled with mole negro.

Memelas — Similar to tostadas, but featuring a soft, thick corn base topped with beans, cheeses, meats, and salsas. They’re most popular for breakfast.

Empanadas — Different from other Latin American empanadas, Oaxacan empanadas are tortillas filled with toppings, folded in half, and grilled.

Huitlacoche — Corn fungus, often served in tacos. It’s a seasonal item (May-September). Mushroomy and earthy, it tastes better if you don’t think about what you’re actually eating.

Quesillo — Also known as Oaxaca cheese, this is a stringy white cheese that goes on everything.

Chapulines — Fried grasshoppers. You can use them as a topping or just eat them like French fries!

Tejate — A frothy, chalky-looking beverage that is a bit of an acquired taste, made with ground corn and cacao.

Taking a food tour is a great way to try lots of Oaxacan specialties! Oaxaca Flavors is a tour that will stuff you with more than two dozen delicious specialties over the course of four hours. I recommend doing this early in your trip so you’ll find out your favorites and order more of them. Contact them for current rates.

See below for the best restaurants in Oaxaca.

Take a Cooking Class

Taking a Oaxaca cooking class is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones. Imagine inviting your friends over for Mexican food, they’ll be expecting tacos, and you’ll make them a fantastic meal with complex, deep flavors!

Most Oaxaca cooking classes include a market visit to select produce before cooking. Most classes have everyone pitching in together on communal dishes; others have you cooking your own individual dish.

Here are some options:

This Oaxacan cooking class teaches how to make a full meal including a mole, plus multiple kinds of salsas and tortillas. From $77.

This traditional Oaxaca cooking class will teach you how to make your own meal, down to the tortillas, and has vegan and vegetarian options available. From $51.

This Oaxacan cooking class has you visit a market before cooking a three-course meal together. From $57.

Try Mezcal Cocktails

There are lots of nice cocktail bars and mezcalerias in Oaxaca. While you could peruse the top lists, nothing compares to randomly stumbling into a cool-looking place and staying for one drink, two drinks, maybe more, and declaring it your place.

We enjoyed a bar called Mezcalogia , which had plenty of clever concoctions. Great place for a late afternoon treat.

Book a Professional Photo Shoot

Want REALLY nice photos of yourself in Oaxaca? Book a pro photographer for a few hours! Airbnb Experiences has made it the best way for travelers to get flattering professional photos of themselves around the world for affordable prices.

Juan Pablo has shot for National Geographic and Maxim — and you can be his next subject .

Celebrate the Day of the Dead

El Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, takes place all over Mexico — but Oaxaca is one of the best places to celebrate.

Day of the Dead is a festival combining pre-Hispanic and Christian traditions, a time when the door between the earthly world and the spiritual world has opened. Locals create ofrendas (offerings) for their departed loved ones at their burial sites, bringing things they would have enjoyed while living.

In Oaxaca, it extends beyond the dates of October 31-November 2 — there are comparsas (parades) and events during the last week of October and first week in November, with most of them happening on November 1.

This is a popular time to visit Oaxaca, so book your accommodation as early as possible.

Best Day Trips from Oaxaca

It may be hard to tear yourself away from the city of Oaxaca, but there is SO much beauty surrounding the city as well. Some of the best things to do in Oaxaca are within a few hours’ drive of the city.

Here are some day trips from Oaxaca worth putting on your list.

Hierve el Agua

The single most spectacular natural site close to Oaxaca is the Hierve el Agua, a natural geological formation that resembles a frozen waterfall.

This is where you’l get some of the best Instagram photos of your trip. There are lots of different angles of the formation, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to get some reflective shots. You can even go swimming in the pools — just be prepared for the water to be on the cool side!

Most day trips to the Hierve el Agua include nearby sites — a 2,000-year-old tree called El Tule is very often included, and sometimes you can get the town of Mitla included too.

This is one Oaxaca day trip that I recommend doing as an organized trip rather than doing it on your own — it’s hard to tick all three things off if you’re not familiar with the region.

That said, if you’re looking to do a high-quality photo shoot at sunset, or want to spend the day hiking around the area, you’re better off renting a car and driving on your own.

You can book a tour to Hierve el Agua, Tule tree, and Mitla here. From $21.

Monte Albán

Monte Alban is the best set of ancient ruins close to Oaxaca — and one of the best in all of Mexico. You can actually climb the pyramids here!

Monte Albán is an archaeological site originally constructed in the eight century BCE. Between 500 BCE and 850 CE, it was the most important political center in Zapotec culture.

Today Monte Albán is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the city of Oaxaca. You’ll find a great plaza, truncated pyramids, a ball court, and there are more than 170 tombs.

Don’t miss Los Danzantes — slabs of rock carved in the image of contorting people. While the name suggests they were dancers, today many archaeologists believe they were prisoners depicted mid-torture.

You can book a guided half day tour of Monte Albán here. From $19.

You can also book a shuttle from Oaxaca to Monte Albán here. From $7.99.

Mezcal Fields

Dreamed of getting photos of yourself frolicking in the agave fields? Are you obsessed with mezcal? Or do you just want to spend a day seeing nature beyond the city? A day trip to the mezcal fields is a great thing to do in Oaxaca. You will be one with the agave plant!

If you’re into Instagram photos, this is a great option. But don’t pass up an opportunity to learn more about an often misunderstood spirit.

This Mezcal tour meets in Oaxaca, takes you out to a mezcal distillery and mezcal fields, then provides you with a delicious lunch with even more mezcal. From $79 per person.

If Monte Alban was the most important Zapotec political center, Mitla was the ancient religious center. Dating back to pre-Hispanic times, Mitla was the home of the high priests — the most respected and feared people in society.

Most interesting are the mosaics, carved out in geometric patterns and depicting the Earth, the sky, serpents, and other figures from nature.

It’s easy to combine a trip to Mitla with the Hierve el Agua and El Tule, the 2,000-year-old tree.

Tlacolula Sunday Market

Will you be in Oaxaca on a Sunday? Consider making a trip to the town of Tlacolula. On Sundays Tlacolula becomes home to one of the largest Indigenous markets on the planet.

People come from all over the state of Oaxaca to sell their wares at this market. You’ll find everything from fruits and vegetables to crafts, household supplies, and all kinds of meat.

This is the perfect place to get handcrafted souvenirs from Oaxaca. (Though if you have your heart set on a certain item, check prices in Oaxaca markets beforehand — sometimes it’s cheaper there.)

And the people-watching is unparalleled. Remember to be respectful as a photographer and a visitor to an Indigenous community. Always ask people permission before taking photos of them or their wares.

Don’t miss stopping at Tlacolula’s Templo de la Asunsción to admire its ornate gold chapel.

To get to Tlacolula from Oaxaca, it’s best to take a colectivo , or shared taxi. They take 45 minutes and cost about 25 pesos ($1.25). Ask your accommodation where to get a colectivo to Tlacolula; they’ll know which pickup spot is closest to you.

Where to Eat in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is the best food destination in Mexico — period. Of course, every Mexican extols their own region’s culinary traditions, but most grudgingly admit that Oaxacan cuisine is on another level.

For cheap, filling and delicious meals, head to any of the markets and see which stalls are popular. No matter where you are in the world, if it’s got a big crowd of locals waiting to eat, it’s got fantastic food. And don’t miss the meat experience at Mercado 20 Noviembre mentioned above, or a food tour.

One of the nice things about Oaxaca is that you can enjoy fine dining for a very reasonable price (and often for cheaper than Mexico City). I highly recommend planning for at least one high end meal in Oaxaca. If you’re a hardcore foodie, you’ll want several.

Here are my personal top recommendations for Oaxaca restaurants:

Origen was my personal favorite high-end restaurant we experienced in Oaxaca. Everything was inventive, delicious, immaculately plated, and thoughtfully designed. If you want to treat yourself, they have a five-course tasting menu.

Los Danzantes

Los Danzantes ? You might recognize that name from the Monte Albán ruins! This is another high-end restaurant in Oaxaca with a large courtyard area. The dishes are outstanding and great value for money — yet it feels a bit more playful and fun than other high-end restaurants. Great cocktails, too.

Ancestral Cocina Tradicional

Ancestral Cocina Tradicional is where we had our mole and mezcal experience , which you should do, but if not, I recommend having dinner at the restaurant. They serve all seven of the moles in a magical garden setting. It’s especially nice after dark.

I love a good hipster brunch place — and Boulenc is the hippest brunch restaurant in Oaxaca. Go early or prepare to wait; this place is very popular. Go Mexican and have some delicious molletes (toast with beans, pico de gallo, and cheese)…or go American with some killer pancakes.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Where’s the best place to stay in Oaxaca? Oaxaca is a compact and walkable (albeit hilly) city. As long as you aim for the city center, you’ll be in a good spot for exploration. Know that staying right on the Zócalo can be a bit loud (though Mexico is a loud country in general — you’ll want to bring earplugs no matter where you’re going).

If you’re looking to stay somewhere a bit less touristy, you might like the Xochimilco neighborhood, just off the center. They’ve got great coffee shops and a wonderful local ambiance. It’s cheaper, too.

Best Oaxaca Hotels

Here are the top-rated hotels in Oaxaca at various price points:

Best Luxury Hotel in Oaxaca: Pug Seal Oaxaca

This luxury boutique hotel located in the center of town is filled with color, art, and high quality luxury finishings. The murals are a nod to Oaxacan tradition while having a more modern feel. Rooms surround a gorgeous courtyard and the hotel is known for its delicious (and included) breakfasts. Pug Seal is a local Mexican brand that keeps it from being a cookie-cutter luxury hotel.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Oaxaca: Nana Vida Hotel Oaxaca

For a hotel that is solid and upscale, Nana Vida Hotel Oaxaca ticks all the boxes. It’s cozy, colorful, and filled with art. What sets it apart is the staff, who earn consistent, gushing raves from past guests. There’s a restaurant on site and its location, in the heart of the city center, puts you close to the action.

Best Budget Hotel in Oaxaca: Capital O El Nito

There are dozens of simple hotels all over the city center, where you can get a simple room for a low price. Capital O El Nito offers you exactly that — a clean room, an attentive staff — but with a killer location, just steps from the Zócalo.

Best Hostel in Oaxaca: Azul Cielo Hostel

Located on the edge of the city center, a 10-minute walk from the Zócalo, Azul Cielo Hostel offers a lot more value for money than more central hostels. The rooms are clean and colorful; there’s a sizable terrace with a bar, and they even offer yoga classes, Spanish classes, bicycle rentals, and cultural activities. Private rooms, coed dorms, and women-only dorms are available.

Find deals on Oaxaca hotels here and see all Oaxaca home rentals here .

Best Time to Visit Oaxaca

There is no bad time to visit Oaxaca! While there are seasonal fluctuations, Oaxaca’s location in a valley at 5,102-foot elevation (1,555 meters) means that weather is relatively consistent for most of the year, with warm days and cool nights. You can plan a trip any time of year and have an enjoyable time in Oaxaca.

(That’s not the case for every city in Mexico. Land in Mérida in May and you’ll be sweltering with high humidity and scorching high temperatures; visit Mexico City in December and you’ll need a winter coat at night!)

Dry season in Oaxaca is from October to April; rainy season is from May to September. Even so, rainy season usually has clear mornings and brief showers in the afternoons.

The hottest months in Oaxaca are April and May; the coldest months in Oaxaca are November and December.

But if you’re looking for the sweet spot, where you have warm, sunny weather and very little rain, aim for October, November, February, or March.

Oaxaca gets the most visitors from December through February. Holy Week and Easter are a popular time to visit for Mexican travelers; expect higher prices and lower availability at this time.

Looking for Oaxaca festivals? Day of the Dead, El Día de los Muertos, is the biggest one of all. Festivals and parades are celebrated from the last week in October through the first week in November.

The Guelguetza Festival takes place in July and features dance performances from Oaxaca’s many Indigenous communities.

How to Get to Oaxaca City

Oaxaca is home to a small international airport. You can find direct flights to major Mexican hubs including Mexico City, Cancún, Mérida, and Guadalajara, as well as Oaxacan destinations like Puerto Escondido; internationally, there are direct flights to Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston.

Keep in mind that this means that you need to plan your itinerary carefully — you can’t fly direct from Oaxaca to Tuxtla Gutiérrez (near San Cristóbal de las Casas) or Querétaro (near San Miguel de Allende).

Check for flights on Skyscanner — I find they tend to have the best rates.

If not flying, your best bet is to take the bus to Oaxaca. ADO buses are a safe, clean, and reliable way to get around Mexico, though you’ll want to bring your headphones, as there’s often a loud movie playing. You can see their schedules here.

Oaxaca is a six-hour bus ride from Mexico City, a 10.5-hour bus ride from Puerto Escondido (it takes an indirect route; you can drive it in about four hours), and a 10-hour bus ride from San Cristóbal de las Casas.

I took an overnight bus from San Cristóbal de las Casas to Oaxaca. It’s the most efficient way to get between the two cities, and it saves you a night’s accommodation, but I know very few people who get a good night’s sleep on a bus.

Another option is renting a car. While you don’t need a car while in Oaxaca, renting a car can be very helpful when driving long distances in Mexico. It’s also good if you want to tackle any of Oaxaca’s day trips independently. You can find the best deals at RentalCars.com .

Is Oaxaca Safe?

Yes, Oaxaca is a very safe place to visit — including for solo female travelers. In fact, it’s one of the top destinations in Mexico I would recommend for a first-time solo female traveler.

Mexico is probably the country that receives the worst PR in American media. If all you watch is cable news, you’re probably convinced that Mexico is a hellhole where cartels are waiting to butcher innocent tourists.

Mexico has its problems, but all of those cartels are operating FAR from where tourists go and have no interest in them.

What you actually get in Mexico — particularly away from the beach resorts — is towns and cities where wonderful, warm people are living normal lives. A lot of first-time visitors to Mexico are stunned at how different this is from what they’ve been told.

As for Oaxaca itself, this is a small city where locals look out for each other. Additionally, Oaxaca is home to lots of street vendors, which means that people will always be around. Most crimes against women happen in isolated situations, not when there’s a whole audience to witness them.

Tourism is the bread and butter of Oaxaca — for Mexican travelers as well as international travelers. They want you to have the best experience possible, and they know nobody will come there if it’s not safe.

If you’re traveling to Oaxaca, whether on your own or with a friend or partner, follow my universal travel safety advice : Research your destination before you arrive. Only take what you need when going out and leave the rest of your belongings locked up in your accommodation. Limit your drinking. Keep in touch with someone at home who knows where you are and where you’re going.

Planning a Trip to Mexico:

Solo Female Travel in Mexico: Is it Safe?

• Two Weeks in Mexico: The BEST Yucatan Road Trip Itinerary

Places to Visit in the Yucatán and Mexico’s Caribbean Coast:

• Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico, The Lake of Seven Colors
• Guide to Isla Holbox, Mexico’s Most Magical Island
• 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Places to Visit in Inland Mexico:

• Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Stay In
• 35+ Best Things to Do in Guanajuato, Mexico
• How to Visit Sumidero Canyon from San Cristobal de las Casas

Places to Visit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast:

• 24 Fabulous Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico
• Guide to Bucerías, Mexico, an alternative to Puerto Vallarta

Oaxaca is waiting for you!

I just know that you’re going to fall in love with Oaxaca! It’s the kind of city that fills you with happiness — along with delicious tlayudas and memelas and tamales and mole.

Go enjoy your trip to Oaxaca — then come back and tell me all about it.

More on Mexico:

Two Weeks in Mexico: The Ultimate Itinerary

Ultimate Guide to 50+ Best Cenotes in Mexico

Destination Guides: Bacalar , Isla Holbox , Campeche

See all Mexico posts here .

Have you been to Oaxaca? I’d love to hear your travel tips!

Oaxaca Travel Guide

Your ultimate guide to oaxaca mexico, oaxaca travel guide contents.

Location | Getting There | Where to Stay  |  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Safety  | Oaxaca Blogs |  FAQ

Oaxaca Travel: At a Glance

Known for its colorful festivals, artisan towns, amazing cuisine and unique history, Oaxaca state is still somewhat off the beaten path, but gaining in popularity each year.

There are two parts to the state — Oaxaca City and the mountain towns (like San Jose del Pacifico ) in the north, and the beaches of Oaxaca on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

Q: How do you pronounce Oaxaca?!

A: You’re not alone in wondering, How do you say Oaxaca? , as it’s a very common question! The Oaxaca pronunciation is  waa-HA-kah .

Oaxaca Travel: Know before you go

• ✈️ Airport: Oaxaca Airport (code: OAX), Puerto Escondido Airport (code: PVR), Huatulco Airport (code: HUX) ⏰ Time Zone: Central Daylight Time (GMT-5)
• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso
• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, Japanese and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the United States. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .
• 📲 Mexico SIM Card : Wondering, Do I need a SIM card for Mexico? The answer is yes, every traveler will want a one for the reasons explained in this article all about the best Mexico SIM cards .
• 🚙 Car Rentals : The Mexico rental car process can be a bit daunting, and many people are apprehensive to drive in a foreign country. I get it! Check out this guide to Renting a Car in Oaxaca for info on the process.

oaxaca travel guide

Where is oaxaca located.

Oaxaca state is located in southern Mexico. The state is popular with Mexico culture travel, and Oaxaca City is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so don’t miss out on all the amazing Oaxacan food .

Besides Oaxaca City, travelers also flock to the beaches of Oaxaca on Mexico’s Pacific Coast — like Puerto Escondido , Mazunte , Huatulco and Zipolite.

Oaxaca Mexico map

What’s the best way to get to Oaxaca Mexico?

🇲🇽 oaxaca city.

For Oaxaca City, you’ll want to fly into Oaxaca City International Airport (code: OAX), located about 20 minutes from Centro Historico (Historic Downtown Oaxaca City). From there, you can book private transportation , take a taxi, colectivo (small, shared van) or rental car to your accommodation.

Note: There is no Uber in Oaxaca state, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

🏝 Oaxaca beaches

On the beaches of Oaxaca, there are two airports; the first is Puerto Escondido International Airport (code: PXM), for those traveling to Puerto Escondido and Chacahua National Park.

The second, Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (code: HUX), is the better option for Huatulco, Mazunte and Zipolite, San Agustinillo and Puerto Angel.

Traveling from Oaxaca City to the beaches?

Check out these detailed guides, Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido and Oaxaca City to Huatulco .

Best places to visit in Oaxaca

Wondering where to stay in Oaxaca Mexico ? Many visitors will opt for the northern part of the state in Oaxaca City, or the beaches of Oaxaca on the coast. There are several Oaxaca beach towns , with Puerto Escondido being the most popular of them all.

Oaxaca City, Oaxaca Mexico

Known for its festive Day of the Dead celebration, Oaxaca City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as the state’s capital and cultural epicenter. When talking about the city, most will just say Oaxaca, though its official name is Oaxaca de Juarez.

Is Oaxaca worth visiting? Absolutely! Oaxaca, in a word, is magical! It’s easy to fall in love with the friendly people, colorful mercados (markets), artisan towns, festive street parties, delicious Oaxacan food , and more.

Puerto Escondido , Oaxaca Mexico

The most popular Oaxaca beach town! One of the things that put Puerto Escondido, meaning  hidden port , on the map are its surf waves. However, even non-surfers will enjoy all the beautiful Puerto Escondido beaches as well.

How do I get from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido? Though there’s only about 160 miles (257 km) between Oaxaca City and the beaches of Oaxaca, this isn’t the easiest trip. Head to this article for info on how to get to Puerto Escondido from Oaxaca City.

Best things to do in Oaxaca Mexico

Besides all the mouth-watering  Oaxaca cuisine you’re going to want to devour, there are also a good amount of Oaxaca day trips just outside of the city to see the beautiful nature, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colorful colonial cities, pueblos magicos (magic towns), and much more.

Discover some of the Oaxaca highlights below ⤵

Bahias de Huatulco

Hierve el Agua

Zipolite (Mexico Nude Beach)

Día de los Muertos

San Agustinillo

Lagunas de Chacahua

Monte Alban Ruins

Pueblos Mancomunados

Best oaxaca tours.

Tours in Oaxaca Mexico are a great way to see the sites — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Oaxaca, tours are the best way to get around as transportation costs can add up quickly! If you do want a Oaxaca rental car, check out this guide to Renting a Car in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know .

Oaxaca travel guide

Is oaxaca safe for tourists.

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico. In fact, Oaxaca consistently ranks as one of the safest states in Mexico, which includes both Oaxaca City and the beaches of Oaxaca on the coast.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . —Carlos Barron, FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca; they do. As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

Is Oaxaca safe for solo travelers?

On a personal note, I lived in Oaxaca by myself for four months, and felt quite safe. Now, this wasn’t magic; I made it a priority to stay safe by not walking home alone at night, never drinking too much, etc. Check out my Mexico Solo Travel Guide for more info on Mexico travel safety for solo female travelers.

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend three companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from:

• World Nomads — For general travelers and adventure travelers.
• SafetyWing — For general travelers and digital nomads in Mexico.
• Travel Insurance Master — Mexico travel insurance search tool, for those who want to compare policies.
• 👉 Click on any of the links above to get a FREE quote on your policy!

Oaxaca Travel: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drink the water in oaxaca mexico.

No — Neither unfiltered Mexico tap water nor the drinking water in Oaxaca is safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

So what can you do?

• If you’re renting an Airbnb with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more. I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe.

🧳 Mexico Packing list

Wondering what else you need on your packing list for Mexico? Check out this guide — Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download !

What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?

The best time to visit is during the Oaxaca dry season from October to May . Overall, northern and central Oaxaca have a temperate, desert-like climate — though you’ll want to try to avoid the rainy season from April to September, as it rains quite a bit.

During the other months, you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights.

The most popular time to visit Oaxaca is during Día de Muertos ( Day of the Dead ), held Nov. 1-2 each year. The Guelaguetza Festival in July is another popular time for Oaxaca travel.

The beaches of Oaxaca and beaches in Huatulco have a much more tropical climate than Oaxaca City. The rainy season lasts from April to late-October or November, and the coast of Oaxaca sees a lot  of rain.

The best time to visit the beaches of Oaxaca is from November to April , when the temperatures are mild and the humidity and mosquitoes are at bay. This is also during the annual whale migration, when pacific gray, humpback and blue whales swim along the coast of Oaxaca to their breeding grounds.

What’s the Oaxaca weather like?

Weather-wise, northern Oaxaca has deserts and mountains, so it’s more cool and dry. You will however, see quite a bit of rain during the Oaxaca rainy season from about April to September.

The Oaxaca beaches on the coast have a much more tropical climate, so expect warm temperatures year-round, and a lot of rain from about May to October.

☀️ Oaxaca City Weather: Temperature averages

Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

Yes — Oaxaca Mexico is a unique Mexico destination that so many types of travelers will want to check out.

From the food, art and culture in Oaxaca City, to the off the beaten path Pueblos Mancomunados and the Oaxaca magic mushroom town of San Jose del Pacifico , to the tropical Oaxaca beaches — there’s something for everyone.

How many days do I need in Oaxaca?

A great place for slow travel in Mexico, you could spend a month in Oaxaca and not see all the top spots and hidden gems. From the mountains in the northern part of the state, to the beautiful beaches all the way south, and so much to see in between — Oaxaca state would make a great longer trip.

Since many travelers don’t have a month, you’d realistically need at least seven full days to explore both Oaxaca City and one or two Oaxaca beach towns . If you’re just staying in one part of the state, either the city or the beaches, four full days will suffice.

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico!

Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, and the Maya language.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered around $18-21 pesos to $1 USD for about the last decade. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Busy Season & Slow Season

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

🧳 Download your FREE Mexico Packing Checklist here!

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Mexico cities, and packing for a Mexico beach vacation.

Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

• Filterable Water Bottle: Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico.

A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

• Mexico SIM Card: Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a TELCEL Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit, so you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

•  Anti-Hangover Meds: Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 70,000 reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against a hangover.

•  Sun Hat: No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

•   Sunscreen: As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, Mineral-Based Sunscreen is ideal.

Headed to the beach? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly reef safe sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (AKA rash guard) instead.

•   Bug Repellent: Mosquitoes are common throughout Mexico — especially on the beaches! REPEL Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🤔 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country.

Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30 USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country.

If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer ( I wish it did! ), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe for Travelers Right Now ? However, for the most part, Mexico is actually statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers.

Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info.

💃 Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Safe Destinations for Female Travelers .

In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Mexico? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in Mexico.

As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula and Baja California Peninsula.

The one caveat to Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips!

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them!

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

🗣 Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save this infographic an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions, even when you’re off-WiFi.

Is Oaxaca Safe? What You Need to Know As a Solo Traveler

03/01/2022 by Emily Becker 1 Comment

This post was written by Emily Becker, who is a Mexico-based freelance writer for BMTM.

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico that has a glorious reputation for being one of the most culturally vibrant places in the country. The state is mountainous, with a rugged coastline that gives way to sandy beaches and quintessential surf towns. The capital, Oaxaca de Juárez (or Oaxaca City), is a bustling place, bursting with color. It’s the gastronomic capital of Mexico — and for good reason.

That said, the question on your mind as a traveler is probably: Is Oaxaca safe? As a solo female traveler who has visited the city of Oaxaca a handful of times, I’m here to address your biggest safety concerns with these tips:

Table of Contents

1. Choose Your Accommodations Wisely

My biggest piece of advice for staying safe in Oaxaca City is choosing accommodations that are in the Centro, Xochimilco, Reforma, or Jalatlaco neighborhoods. The first time I visited, I stayed in the Centro, and although I felt safe, it’s a noisy place to stay.

If you want to stay central but in a quiet and safe neighborhood, opt for Xochimilco or Jalatlaco. Both of these areas are famous for their impeccable street art scenes, so you’ll want to visit them anyway. I stayed in the Xochimilco neighborhood the last time I was in Oaxaca and absolutely loved the quaint streets, colorful murals, and family atmosphere.

Reforma is also a safe neighborhood, but it’s a bit further out. It takes about a 20-minute walk to get to the Centro from Reforma, depending on what end of the neighborhood you’re in.

2. Be Wary of Taxis

The first time I visited Oaxaca at the end of 2019, I was shocked by how much the taxi drivers harassed my friend and me. To be honest, I would not have recommended taking a regular taxi in Oaxaca if you had asked me then.

However, the city has cracked down big-time on harassment, and more and more women are coming forward to denounce their aggressors. I can’t be certain if these two things are connected, but I noticed a shift this last time I visited Oaxaca. I wasn’t harassed at all — not in the street or in taxis. Maybe this is unique to my experience, but I’d like to hope that things are changing.

A great way to ensure your safety while taking taxis in Oaxaca is to take quick photos of the license plate and taxi number before you get in. Make this obvious — when the driver sees your vigilance, they will be more likely to be on their best behavior.

If you still feel unsure about taxis in Oaxaca, consider trying DiDi. It’s like Uber and allows you to file a complaint if your driver makes you feel unsafe.

3. A Little Mezcal Goes a Long Way

Oaxaca is known globally for its mezcal, and there are plenty of places to try it. Since so many people flock to Oaxaca to do so, it’s no surprise that there’s a dense party culture here. Any given day, you can find mezcalerías , bars, and clubs full of people drinking and partying.

If you’ve tried mezcal, you know that it’s quite strong. If you haven’t, well, I’ll save you from a nasty hangover by breaking the news.

I’ve always had a great time in Oaxaca, dancing and socializing while sipping mezcal, but it’s never a good idea to binge-drink in a foreign place.

Maybe I sound like a broken record, but be careful how much you drink when you travel. Letting your guard down too much can put you at risk — and no party is worth losing control.

If you want to try the different kinds of mezcal in a more low-key environment, opt for a daytime mezcal tasting. Many tours offer them as a part of the excursion, like this one .

4. Eat Street Food Wisely

Oaxaca is street food heaven. From tlayudas to mole and everything in between, you could spend your whole trip eating nothing but street food and be completely satisfied with the variety you’ll find.

Not all street food stands are created equally when it comes to hygiene, however. Especially if your stomach is not used to the spices used in Mexican cooking, you might find yourself wishing you hadn’t gone for that second splash of salsa verde on your roadside tacos.

To have the best chance of avoiding any tummy troubles while enjoying Oaxaca’s incredible street fare, look for the stands where there are long lines of people waiting to order. Chances are, locals won’t be lining up somewhere that has a reputation for being unhygienic.

Another tip is to eat inside the market. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is full of small stalls, and many of them are local favorites, where you’ll find lots of people enjoying a meal. These stalls are usually cleaner than the ones on the street, as the market has a higher standard of hygiene.

I recommend taking a lap around the market or the street food stalls near the Zócalo around lunchtime, say 2 or 3pm. See which place is the most popular, and go back around 4 or 5pm, when there are fewer patrons.

5. Dress Down

Oaxaca is definitely not the place to flaunt any flashy jewelry or designer clothing that could make you a target for petty crime. Considering that most people — locals and tourists alike — dress pretty casually, anything too glamorous would make you stick out like a sore thumb.

6. Learn Some Basic Spanish

Sometimes I find that people from Mexico are shocked that I speak Spanish fluently, which makes me chuckle a little bit. Speaking the language has opened many doors for me and allowed me to make friends easily, even when I was a beginner.

For some people, it can be daunting to take on learning a new language. You don’t have to be fluent to stay safe in Oaxaca, but it sure helps to know at least a little bit of Spanish.

If you can master basic greetings and key phrases, you’re off to a great start. Being able to ask for help if you need it, tell a taxi driver to stop, or let a waitress know about your food allergy are all important things to be able to express in Spanish.

7. Stick to the Centro at Night

Walking around alone at night anywhere isn’t a great idea, but if you are going to do it in Oaxaca, stick to the Centro. It’s well-lit, there are plenty of people, and you’ll find pedestrian-only streets that are safer to walk along.

I noticed that some of the streets outside of the Centro were dark, with unexpected alleys and overall not the safest vibe. When in doubt, just take a DiDi car, or avoid going anywhere you’re not familiar with at night, especially if it’s outside the city center.

8. Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems

It’s never a good idea to walk around with copious amounts of cash while traveling, and Oaxaca is no different. However, ATM fees can be way too high to consider taking out small amounts more frequently. To get around this, take out what you need in the morning at a bank’s ATM (avoid ATMs in the big markets or on the street), then take a DiDi to your accommodation and lock your cash in a safe. Only keep what you need when you leave your room.

Even if you only take small amounts of cash with you when you go out, consider dispersing it between your wallet, purse, bra, etc. That way, if you are robbed or pickpocketed, the thief won’t take everything you have. Some travelers recommend having a dummy wallet with a bit of cash and expired cards to hand over.

READ NEXT: The best travel purses for women

9. “No, Gracias”

This one is less about your safety and more about the safety of others.

You might notice a lot of people in the city center asking for change. Sometimes you’ll see children selling goods as well. Even after living in Mexico for over two years, I’m still unsure what my cash would be supporting if I were to buy from those children or give change to people on the street. Some reports suggest that contributing to this informal market is the same as contributing to child trafficking, and that’s enough for me to avoid it altogether.

I know that is is a complex issue, and I don’t claim to have all the answers, so use your own judgment on this one. I always just smile and say “no, gracias” to the kids, and then they go on their way.

10. Vet Any Tour Companies

As you walk through the Zócalo in Oaxaca’s city center, you’ll see loads of people promoting tours to nearby sites. A lot of these are fine, but to say that they’re all totally safe or worth your money would be a stretch. Some tour companies don’t always follow safety protocols and do a sloppy job of giving tourists accurate information about the sites.

It’s best to just avoid the hawkers altogether in Oaxaca, and opt for a tour from GetYourGuide or Viator instead. I’ve even done Airbnb Experiences here and had a wonderful (and safe) time.

11. Get a Mexican SIM Card

I don’t think that many people realize how cheap it is to pick up a SIM card and use it while they’re in Mexico. A SIM from Telcel (the biggest provider in Mexico) costs 150 pesos ($7.50 USD), and you can easily pay as you go, loading data onto your SIM using your credit or debit card.

Having a SIM card can be a great way to stay safe, because you’ll have the peace of mind of being able to connect at any time. You’ll be able to access maps if you get lost, use a translator app to communicate better, and make a call if you’re in danger.

Some US phone companies allow their users a certain amount of data per day while in Mexico, so ask yours before you head to Oaxaca to see if getting a SIM card is even necessary. You can also consider getting an international eSIM for convenience.

12. Traveling Solo as a Woman in Oaxaca

My first experience traveling in Oaxaca was very different from those that followed. I don’t have a clear explanation as to why, but perhaps I’ve just become better at traveling alone and now know how to avoid scams, food poisoning, and overall danger.

The first time I went to Oaxaca, I was followed and catcalled twice. On top of that, a couple of taxi drivers made very inappropriate comments to me that made me feel unsafe.

To be honest, I was hesitant to solo travel here again. But since I had arranged to meet a friend in Oaxaca in January of 2022, I decided to face my fear and spend a few days alone here before she joined me. This time was totally different. Not a single taxi driver harassed me, for which I felt a huge sigh of relief. I also noticed less street harassment, even though I was there longer and was out and about more this time around.

Is this to say that Oaxaca is safer now? Not really. I recognize that my feeling safer this last time I went to Oaxaca might be due to chance. Perhaps two more years of living in Mexico has also made it easier for me to blend in?

First Name:

In any case, I still think Oaxaca is totally worth visiting as a solo female traveler. But it’s especially important for us to be vigilant, to plan our trip carefully, and avoid dangers like scam artists and men who prey on drunk foreign women in bars (yes, they exist).

Try to do as much as you can during daylight hours, avoid drinking too much, and make sure your phone is working order in case of emergencies. Never engage with catcallers and they’ll leave you alone.

Pin me for later:

Overall, Oaxaca takes the cake as one of the most exciting places to visit in Mexico. If you keep in mind these safety tips, you’ll be a bit sharper and able to make safer decisions when you visit Oaxaca de Juárez or the coast, allowing you to have an incredible experience.

Thinking of heading to Oaxaca? Check out our guides to Oaxaca City , Puerto Escondido , and Zipolite !

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

03/02/2022 at 5:13 pm

Hey Emily! I think it was great how you gave it another chance as a solo traveler especially since it had so much going for it otherwise and you had so much nicer an experience the second go around. Also appreciate the honest, unfiltered description of the experience and how to best handle it. Plus how being a solo female traveler should not restrict you to enjoy exciting places, so empowering to not let these bad elements dictate how you live and where you want to explore if using common sense (which honestly would apply to anyone!). You make Mexico seem such a desirable destination from corner to corner. I love all the colors! Cheers!

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Oaxaca Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

From the moment I arrived, I knew Oaxaca was a special place. The city’s energy and mine just synched. We were a pair. My eyes constantly shifted to every shade of color, every movement, as if I had an insatiable hunger to take in everything.

That love has only grown deeper with each subsequent visit (and there have been many).

Oaxaca is a city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and picturesque parks. It’s also one of the gastronomic centers of Mexico and a hub for making mezcal in the country.

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico , Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Today, Oaxaca is a center for heritage tourism, owing to the many historical attractions (including Monte Albán, a UNESCO Heritage Site; and Mitla, a Zapotec archeological site) in the city and surrounding area.

With mouth-watering food, the best mezcal in the world, and tons of history, it’s no surprise I fell in love with Oaxaca. I’ve never met anyone who didn’t love it. All the hype you hear about it is true.

This travel guide to Oaxaca will help you see all the sites, save money, and fall in love with it too.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Oaxaca

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oaxaca

1. Wander the historic downtown

The entire downtown of Oaxaca was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. There are over 1,200 historic buildings here, most of which are hundreds of years old. Historical downtown Oaxaca is the perfect place to explore iconic landmarks like the Zocalo courtyard (the courtyard in front of the National Palace), the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, and the Santa Domingo Cultural Center. Spend some time wandering to take in their vibrant colors and historic architecture, and stop in for a Mezcal cocktail at any of the lively downtown bars.

2. Explore Mercado 20 de Noviembre

This covered market is home to all kinds of delicious street food as well as fresh, local produce. Construction on the market began in 1862 but wasn’t finalized until 1882, and was later named after the start date of the Mexican Revolution in 1910. It has remained one of Oaxaca’s culinary and cultural hubs for over a hundred years. Be sure to try some of the amazing grilled meats as they are a local favorite! Definitely eat here at least once. It’s open daily from 7am-9pm.

3. See Monte Albán

This pre-Columbian archeological site is located just 15 minutes outside the city. Founded in the 6th century BCE, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of ancient Zapotec pyramids, terraces, and canals that span several miles. Admission is 70 MXN while full-day tours (that include other stops) are 724 MXN.

4. Explore Mitla

This pre-Columbian UNESCO site was built in 850 CE and was mostly destroyed by the Spanish when they arrived in the mid-16th century. However, some buildings were left intact, which you can get up close and explore (some of which date as far back as 400 CE). Mitla was one of the main religious and spiritual hubs for the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec people, and was used as a sacred burial site. Admission is 75 MXN while skip-the-line tickets are 160 MXN.

5. Try a street-stall hamberguesa

Other things to see and do in oaxaca, 1. learn about mezcal.

I love mezcal (which is one of the reasons why I love Oaxaca). This is the birthplace of mezcal, a spirit distilled from agave. Unlike tequila, which is also made from agave, when making mezcal, the heart of the plant is cooked in a pit in the ground before it is crushed. Then water is added, and it’s allowed to ferment. Since the plant is cooked, mezcal has a much smokier flavor than tequila.

If you want to learn more about this popular (and delicious) spirit, Rambling Spirits runs the best mezcal tours in Oaxaca. Go with them if you want to learn more. Their guides have incredible knowledge and can take you to places the bigger tours can’t. I learned a ton on this tour and highly recommend it! Most tours leave after lunch so it’s a perfect way to spend the remainder of your day.

2. Take a free walking tour

One of the first things I do when I visit a new city is take a free walking tour. They’re the best way to see the main sights, get introduced to the city and culture, and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers free daily tours that show you the hidden gems of the city and what life is like for the locals who live here. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

3. See the Templo de Santo Domingo

This Baroque Roman Catholic church was started in 1572, though it wasn’t completed until 1731. It was originally used as a Dominican church and monastery. During Mexico’s revolutionary war (1910-1920), the church was annexed and used as a barracks and military building. It was transformed into a museum in the 1970s and is now home to all kinds of religious and pre-Columbian artifacts. The interior is incredibly ornate, with intricate carvings on the walls. Admission is free. Be sure to dress respectfully.

4. Wander the Botanical Garden

These gardens span over two acres and are located near the Church of Santo Domingo. The gardens feature different plants from across the state (Oaxaca is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country). In addition to the flowers, trees, and cacti that dot the garden, there are also sculptures and works of art too. Self-guided tours are not allowed so you’ll need to go with a guide. One-hour tours are offered Monday through Saturday. There is only one English tour available per day, however. Admission (including the tour) is 50 MXN for Spanish tours and 100 MXN for tours in English.

5. Visit Puerto Escondido

Located on the Pacific Coast 6 hours away by car, Puerto Escondido is famous for its stunning beaches and rambunctious nightlife. If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Oaxaca, head here to lounge away the days and party all night. Playa Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito are the best beaches for swimming and lounging while Playa Zicatela is great for surfing. Avoid staying in the middle of Zicatela as it’s boring. If you’re backpacking, stay at the very south where all the hostels are. It’s a lively area.

6. Take a food tour

If you’re a foodie like me, one of the best ways to get a sense of the local food scene is to take a guided food tour. I highly recommend doing one here since Oaxaca is such a center for gastronomy. Oaxaca has some of the most diverse selections of dishes in Mexico. Oaxaca Eats runs several tours, most of which last around 4 hours. You’ll get to sample 20+ dishes. Tour prices vary but expect to spend 2,000 MXN.

7. Wander the Sunday market

Mercado Tlacolula is one of the most popular markets in the region. It’s essentially been in operation for centuries and is a good place to buy local crafts, produce, food, and everything in between. It’s located 45-minutes outside the city so you’ll need to drive there or take the bus, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. There are thousands of people here and tons of amazing food to try. Don’t miss barbacoa (stewed meat) and chicharrón (fried pork rinds).

8. Try a cooking class

If you want to learn how to make some of the amazing dishes you’ve eaten here, take a cooking class . Most classes take you to the market so you can buy fresh ingredients before you start cooking. Classes last around 5 hours and are hands-on and fully immersive. Usually, you’ll make one appetizer, some salsa, a main mole dish (mole is a specific sauce and one of the region’s specialties), and a dessert. Expect to spend around 1,900 MXN for a class.

9. Go hiking in Sierra Norte

Sierra Norte offers visitors over 100 kilometers (62 miles) of hiking trails spanning over 40 different trails. Located just two hours by car from Oaxaca, you’ll also see a handful of Zapotec villages (Pueblos Mancomunados) along the way that offer village-to-village treks and homestays. At Sierra Nore, keep in mind that trails are not well-marked so you’ll need to hire a guide (going solo is possible but not recommended). Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and can point out wildlife (there are pumas, bobcats, armadillos, and more here), identify plants, and ensure you don’t get lost (plus, hiring a guide helps support the local economy). Multi-day tours (which trek from village to village) cost around 3,600 MXN per person for a 3-day tour.

10. Experience a Temazcal

Temazcal (meaning “house of heat”) is a traditional Zapotec sweat lodge. You’ll sit in a small domed hut that becomes increasingly warmer. You’ll rub everything from clay to fresh fruit juices and peels on your skin as you heat up, cooling down by dunking yourself in cold water. It’s a very meditative, spiritual experience with numerous health benefits. Visits usually last an hour and cost around 600 MXN.

11. Celebrate Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead (Día de Los Muertos) is one of the biggest celebrations/festivals in all of Mexico. It occurs between October 31st and November 2nd and is a time meant for remembering loved ones who have passed. Locals paint their faces, visit cemeteries, and give offerings. There are all kinds of celebrations and parades too. Oaxaca hosts one of the biggest festivals in all of Mexico. It’s one of the best (and busiest) times to visit Oaxaca. Be sure to book your accommodation early as hotels and hostels sell out months in advance. If you want a local guide during the Day of the Dead , expect to pay around 1,250 MXN.

  If you’re visiting other cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Cancun Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide

Oaxaca Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in dorm costs between 250-450 MXN per night regardless of how big the dorm is. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast. Most have self-catering facilities too. Private rooms cost 600-1,500 MXN per night.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity can be found outside the city for around 200 MXN per night. The campgrounds are 20 minutes outside the city by car.

Budget hotels – Budget two-star hotels with ensuite bathrooms start at 700 MXN per night. These include basic amenities like TV, AC, and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is also available here, with private rooms starting at 200 MXN per night (though they average closer to 950 MXN). Entire homes/apartments cost at least 400 MXN (but average double or even triple that price). Be sure to book early for the best deals.

Food – Oaxaca is a gastronomical hub in Mexico and is known for unique dishes such as tlayudas (a tortilla filled with beans, lettuce, cheese, and your protein of choice, grilled to be crispy on the outside), memelas, and mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, sometimes including chocolate, and served with rice and tortillas).

Street stalls and markets are your best choice for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadillas, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Oaxaca, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

Be sure to hit the markets here too. At the Mercado Sanchez Pascua, there is a tamale lady in the back who has some of the most delicious tamales in Oaxaca (try the salsa verde!). She is so popular that she’s often sold out by 10am. In the most famous market, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, there is a section full of BBQ stalls where you can order a plate full of meat and some veggies on the side, cooked right in front of you. Don’t miss out.

Surprisingly, there are not as many taco stands around the city center but if you make your way up to the ADO bus station and look across the street, there is a long line of taco stalls set up. Most of them have the exact same fare — tacos al pastor, for 10 MXN each. At the far end, you will see one with pots full of bubbling stews of meat — tacos casuales — and they go for 15 MXN each.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 80-200 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. For comparison, a combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 110 MXN.

A national beer is around 30 MXN while a latte/cappuccino is 45 MXN. Bottled water is 10 MXN. A glass of mezcal will cost between 80-240 MXN depending on what kind you get.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one) to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic bottles.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 500-575 MXN per week for basic staples like rice, beans, veggies, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants are Boulenc, Los Danzantes, La Mezcaloteca, Tlayudas El Negro, Cactus Loncheria, Lechoncito de Oro, Santo Sabor Restaurante, Tastavins, Casa Taviche, Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante, and Praga Coffee Bar.

Backpacking Oaxaca Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Oaxaca, expect to spend 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few cheap attractions, such as a visit to Monte Albán and a free walking tour. If you plan on eating out more or drinking lots of mezcal, add another 60-150 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of 1,750 MXN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,400 MXN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, have plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided food or mezcal tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Like the rest of Mexico, Oaxaca is super affordable. However, with so many tempting eateries and mezcalerias, it’s easy to go overboard and spend too much (that’s what happened to me and my entire group of friends). Lucky, there’s plenty of ways to cut your costs. Here are some tips to help you save money in Oaxaca:

• Shop at the markets for food – Oaxaca’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Binge on fresh fruit, tacos, and grilled meat — it’s all super cheap!
• Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the city — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats. Most meals won’t be more than 30 MXN.
• Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers daily tours that give you a solid intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to connect with locals and find free accommodation. If you send your request in advance, you can likely find a host who can share their insider tips and knowledge with you.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Oaxaca is easy to explore on foot and the bus goes pretty much everywhere you need it. Skip the taxis!
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has plenty of affordable hostels. Here are some suggested places to stay if you’re on a budget:

• Hostel Central
• El Cielo Oaxaca
• Iguana Hostel Oaxaca
• Azul Cielo Oaxaca

How to Get Around Oaxaca

On foot – Oaxaca is super pedestrian-friendly. Unless you’re heading out to the nearby ruins, you can just walk everywhere in the downtown area.

Bus – Collectivos (shared taxis that drive set routes) are available around the city and usually cost around 15 MXN.

Taxi – Taxis start at 55 MXN and go up by region traveled. For example, anywhere in the historic center costs 55 MXN, even if you only travel 1 block or 10. If you want to go to the neighboring region of La Reforma from the historic center, it costs 70 MXN, and so on. A taxi to the airport should be about 150-200 MXN, depending on which region you’re staying in (and what time of day/night it is, with nighttime being a bit higher). While affordable, they add up quickly so skip the taxis if you can.

Though Uber is not in Oaxaca, you can use a similar app called Didi. International credit cards don’t seem to work with the app, so make sure you have close to the right amount of change as the suggested fare cost (taxi drivers don’t usually have a lot of change). Rides with this app exclusively use taxis.

Bicycle – Bike rentals can be found for around 100 MXN for a half-day rental. For a guided mountain bike trip, expect to spend around 1,300 MXN for a half-day excursion.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 650 MXN per day. Unless you’re going to do some day trips (or multi-day trips) outside the city (such as a trip to Puerto Escondido) then you likely don’t need a car. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years.

Some companies require renters to be over 25. Deposits on car rentals can also be quite steep, with some companies asking for $1,000 USD as a deposit

When to Go to Oaxaca

Oaxaca’s elevation offers a relatively pleasant climate year-round. The most popular time to visit is December-January when many Canadian and American tourists flock south to avoid the winter. This is when the city is busiest and prices are highest. Daily highs are comfortable and not too hot, hovering around 25°C (77°F).

Expect crowds around the Day of the Dead (late October/early November). If you’re visiting then, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

The summer sees more rain, though the weather is still warm and sunny. Expect daily averages around 26°C (79°F).

How to Stay Safe in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is generally one of the safest cities in Mexico. You don’t find the kind of drug or tourist-related violence and thefts you find elsewhere. That being said, it is still always best to practice personal safety and never stop being aware of your surroundings.

Be sure to take a taxi home after a night out just to be safe. Also, don’t carry all your valuables with you everywhere you go (unless it’s to or from the airport). Leave your passport at your accommodation and only take enough money with you for what you feel you need to do.

When possible, it’s always best to walk with a friend or a small group. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry and waving around lots of money or high-end electronics (both during the day and at night). There’s been a rise in late-night petty theft since COVID so it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if you are coming around major festivals.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, even walking alone. However, the standard precautions always apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city.

If you rent a vehicle, never leave any valuables in it overnight.

If an emergency occurs, dial 911. If that doesn’t work (since 911 isn’t available everywhere), dial 066. Overall, dangerous crimes against tourists are very uncommon here. The people who do tend to be involved in incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid all of that and you’ll greatly reduce your risks here. I never feel unsafe here and neither do my friends that live here, even the women.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

Is Tulum Safe?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Travel To Oaxaca

Your ultimate guide to oaxaca, mexico.

Welcome, I’m Shelley …

I have lived in Mexico since 2018, and visited 19 out of 32 states so far (many as a solo female traveler). At this point, you might say I’m a Mexpert!

Today, I use my knowledge & insider tips to help travelers just like you plan the Mexico trip of your dreams, travel to Mexico confidently & safely, and cross Mexico off your bucket list.

🎁 get Your Free guide!

6 things you need to know before you go to oaxaca….

Hot off the press!

All the latest oaxaca travel blogs….

Turtle Release Puerto Escondido: 5 Best Tours in 2024

7 Best Puerto Escondido Surfing Lessons to Book in 2024

17 Best Puerto Escondido Hostels for Travelers in 2024

6 Best Huatulco Snorkeling Tours To Book in 2024

Ultimate San Agustinillo Oaxaca Travel Guide for 2024

Visiting Mitla Oaxaca: Ultimate Travel Guide for 2024

17 Best Oaxaca Walking Tours You Won’t Want to Miss in 2024

12 of the Best Restaurants in Oaxaca Solo Women Will Love

by Carolyn Ray | Jul 7, 2022

• Toggle High Contrast
• Toggle Font size

Last updated on March 26th, 2024

Featured image: I spent a day with Dona Juana making tortillas over an open fire, shifting my perception of food forever

In Oaxaca, where restaurants make food into an artform

By Carolyn Ray, Editor, JourneyWoman

In Oaxaca, there are tastes for every budget — from the Lechoncito food cart that serves pork tostadas for a few pesos under a streetlamp to Casa Oaxaca which looks over stunning Santa Domingo Church, to Crudo, the Japanese fusion experience that seats only four people at a time.

I am no culinary expert, but one of the things I love about Mexico is that everything is fresh. No processed food here, just right out of the ground, the garden, or if you like grasshoppers – the field. Because I was staying mostly in bed and breakfasts on this trip, I ate out A LOT. If you want to experience the ‘real’ Oaxaca, go into the villages, as I did for a cooking experience over an open fire . This set the stage for all other culinary experiences — I will never buy machine-made tortillas again.

Here are my mini-reviews of 12 places to try – and some others I didn’t get to.

(PS. You can save a PDF or print this list by using the printer icon at the top of the article, right under the photo).

In a city made for wandering, the Adama Restaurant is hidden along the path of the ancient aqueduct where you will experience middle eastern delights with a Mexican accent.  Small and intimate setting not to be missed. Website here .

2. Ancestral

In the quaint neighborhood of Xochomilo, Ancestral Restaurant is hidden behind a brick wall where traditional Oaxacan dishes are exquisite.  Try the mole negro con pollo. This is a lovely safe neighbourhood to enjoy graffiti too. Reservations are recommended. Website here .

JW reader Marsha and I at Adama, one of her favourite places in Oaxaca.

3. AM Siempre

When exploring in Xochomilo, a great café for a sandwich and cold refreshments is the A.M. Siempre, serving traditional Oaxacan foods.  The whole family is there to welcome and share their hospitality with their guests.  Website here .

Combine a French bakery chef with an Oaxacan food chef and you get an unforgettable dining experience at Boulenc. I went twice and it’s always busy but the service is quick and friendly.  A perfect place for a huge sandwich and cocktail in Centro. I recommend a small table upstairs in the back to get a different perspective and atmosphere.  Website here .

5. Cafe Bre

This women-owned coffee shop serves a delicious breakfast and the coffee is outstanding. It’s also a great place to work in the middle of Centro. Website here .

Enjoying a coffee tasting at Cafe Bre with the Tyladona team.

Grasshoppers (Chapulite) are a staple and served with everything including guacamole.

Oaxaca, Mexico: A Safe Place For Women to Wander

Seven experiences for women in Oaxaca, Mexico, where creativity and community go hand in hand plus first-hand tips on where to stay and eat.

6. Casa Oaxaca

Known as the most exclusive restaurant in Oaxaca, rooftop dining combines traditional and fusion cuisine with a bird’s eye view of the city. Reservations are recommended.  Website here .

7. Casa Taviche

Casa Taviche is located in Centro and has a bright and informal ambiance perfect for lunch. The avocado salad is superb.  It is vegetarian-friendly with gluten free options.  Website here .

I walked by Crudo, the newly popular Japanese fusion restaurant, several times before realizing I had to make a reservation to get in. This very small place seats only four people at a time (at 3, 5, 7 and 9 pm) at a countertop, with Chef Ricardo Arellano, preparing meals right in front of you. We talked extensively about sustainable seafood and local products. Make a reservation through their Instagram page here .

Delicious pumpkin flower soup – yes please!

9. El Lechoncito de Oro

Street food is a must in Oaxaca.  The gold standard is El Lechoncito de Ora, the favourite late night snack frequented by the locals in the neighborhood.  The choices are limited but the taste is grandly evidenced by the perpetual queue at this popular truck stop.  Website here .

10. Tlayudas Dona Flavia

A tlayuda meal is a must in Oaxaca.  In the barrio of Reforma, experience these large tortilla style traditional feast found in many restaurants, as well as street food vendors.  Be advised, one delicious dish will feed two people, and try some of the local non-alcoholic beverages. Website here .

11. Tierra del Sol

One of the best rooftop views of Templo de Santo Domingo and a wide selection of traditional Oaxacan recipes is an invitation one can’t resist.  A canopy of umbrellas guards against the noon-day sun and the occasional rain clouds in summer. Website here .

12. Levadura de Olla

I have one word for this restaurant – TOMATOES. Run by female chef Thalia Barrios Garcia, this is one of the newest and most exciting restaurants in Oaxaca. Her food mirrors the women of her family and is mostly vegetarian. The tomato platter will melt in your mouth, especially the green ones. Make sure to visit the tomato room while you’re there.  More here .

If you go to Oaxaca

Book your flights.

I flew American Airlines (on points) through Houston. Aeromexico flies to Oaxaca via Mexico City.  Use tools like Expedia or Google Flights to look up the best flight prices. Being flexible with dates can save you even more money.

Find Somewhere to Stay

I prefer bed and breakfasts and homestays when I travel, but you can find a hotel on Expedia and earn points towards free stays. Hotels.com offers a free night stay for every 10 nights booked. Looking for an apartment or something more long-term? Check out VRBO .

Insure Your Trip

Travel insurance is more important than ever. Compare plans and policies for the best coverage for your trip using Insure My Trip . Traveling for an extended amount of time? SafetyWing offers ongoing coverage on a month-to-month basis, and World Nomads offers coverage for extended trips.

Looking for a Tour?

Head to the Women’s Travel Directory to find a woman-friendly tour around the world. We are adding more Mexico tours and guides to. our Directory all the time!

Travel Extras

Speaking Spanish will help you feel more acclimated. Why not brush up on a new language before your trip with Babbel .

Don’t forget your JourneyWoman branded accessories while you’re on the go!

More on Culinary Travel

Where to Eat in Florence, Italy, From a Culinary Expert

With thousands of restaurants in Florence, culinary tour entrepreneur Coral Sisk shares lesser-known places to enjoy in the off season.

How to Enjoy Dining Alone: 30 Tips from Solo Women Travellers

Solo women share their best tips on how to enjoy eating alone, revel in your own company and embrace the wonder of the moment.

Beer, Chocolate and Fries Anyone? Where and What to Eat in Flanders, Belgium

Discover what to eat in Flanders, Belgium with some of the world’s best beer, chocolate and fries. Dine, slurp and drown in butter, cream and farm-fresh food.

Carolyn Ray

As the CEO and Editor of JourneyWoman, Carolyn is a passionate advocate for women's travel and living the life of your dreams. She leads JourneyWoman's team of writers and chairs the JourneyWoman Women's Advisory Council and Women's Speaker's Bureau. She has been featured in the New York Times, Toronto Star and Zoomer as a solo travel expert, and speaks at women's travel conferences around the world. In March 2023, she was named one of the most influential women in travel by TravelPulse and was the recipient of a SATW travel writing award in September 2023. She is the chair of the Canadian chapter of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), a member Women's Travel Leaders and a Herald for the Transformational Travel Council (TTC). Sometimes she sleeps. A bit.

We always strive to use real photos from our own adventures, provided by the guest writer or from our personal travels. However, in some cases, due to photo quality, we must use stock photography. If you have any questions about the photography please let us know. Disclaimer: We are so happy that you are checking out this page right now! We only recommend things that are suggested by our community, or through our own experience, that we believe will be helpful and practical for you. Some of our pages contain links, which means we’re part of an affiliate program for the product being mentioned. Should you decide to purchase a product using a link from on our site, JourneyWoman may earn a small commission from the retailer, which helps us maintain our beautiful website. JourneyWoman is an Amazon Associate and earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you! We want to hear what you think about this article, and we welcome any updates or changes to improve it. You can comment below, or send an email to us at [email protected] .

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

Anna Sherchand

Solo Female Travel Blog

oaxaca itinerary for 5 days solo female travel

• ← Previous

You May Also Like

Best Day Trips from Hobart

Major Festivals in Nepal For Travellers

13 Best Weekend Getaways From Perth

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Work with me
• Privacy policy

• Years in review
• United Kingdom
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• Africa Overlanding
• Central America
• New Zealand
• Solo Travel
• Budget travel
• Travel tips
• Travel itineraries
• Hidden gems
• Bucket list
• Travel resources
• Digital nomadism
• Blogging tips
• Start a travel blog

Mexico , Solo travel

Solo female travel in mexico (2024) – a complete guide.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

If you’re unsure about solo travel in Mexico, I’m here to guide you, answer any questions you may have and, hopefully, persuade you! I understand what travelling to Mexico alone as a woman is like: I spent six months backpacking here in 2019, starting by travelling to Mexico City alone , and returned to live here in 2022. Now, it’s 2024 and I’m still here!

MEXICO ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld / Airbnb Copy of Lonely Planet Mexico Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Food tours: Eatwith Getting around: Rentalcars.com / Busbud Travel insurance:   True Traveller  (European travellers) /   Hey Mundo  (other nationalities) /   Safety Wing  (digital nomads)

Thinking of solo female travel in Mexico? Pin this for later!

Is Mexico safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Mexico is safe for solo female travellers. I’ve recently put together guides on solo female travel in South Africa and solo female travel in India . Although I loved travelling in both places, I’ll admit they have their safety concerns. I’m not saying nothing bad ever happens in Mexico but I am saying that it’s overall a fantastic place to travel solo with far fewer concerns for females than either India or South Africa. As long as you are sensible, it is safe to solo travel in Mexico .

For first-time solo female travellers , I’d always suggest starting out somewhere easy like Europe or Southeast Asia. In an ideal world, I’d say save Mexico until you’ve got your confidence up in those places. However, if you’re really keen to, it’s still doable for a first-timer if you have your wits about you and follow advice. If you’ve travelled alone before then you’ll have no issues. I hope these solo female travel tips for Mexico will guide you during your trip.

Read next: everything to know about safety while travelling alone as a woman

Good things about solo travel in Mexico

1. It’s a popular place with foreign travellers so you’ll meet loads of other people doing the same thing as you. 2. There are hostels in abundance so you’ll always have a safety net during solo female travel in Mexico. Hostels are a great way to make new friends which is one of the best things about travelling solo in my opinion! 3. It’s affordable. You don’t have to worry about blowing the budget by booking a hotel room for one.

Challenging things about solo travel in Mexico

1. In the same way as solo travel in Cuba , it’s tricky to get by if you don’t speak Spanish. But it’s not game over: download the Google Translate app and pack a Latin American Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary . 2. People have a tendency to be negative about travel to Mexico (mainly as a result of US media I think). One of the problems with solo female travel is people critiquing your decision to travel somewhere alone. Ignore female travel myths about Mexico and stick to your guns; you got this!

Let’s get this out of the way: I hate people banging on about cartels and drugs. I find TV shows and Netflix series from the US so small-minded when depicting Mexican people. Areas of Mexico with cartels and issues relating to the drugs trade are far removed from tourist areas. They’re typically in the Northern states where you’ll have no reason to visit since they don’t have any tourist attractions. Around Central and Southern Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula, there’s a clear tourist trail with countless safe and charming towns and cities. Basically, don’t stress about issues that won’t affect you in areas you won’t go to!

Read next: is solo female travel worth it?

In terms of minor crimes like pickpocketing , yes there is a bit of this. It usually occurs in busy and crowded areas like markets. When it comes to solo female travel in Mexico City, there are areas you’ll want to avoid, as well as areas where you should go while keeping an eye on your bag. It’s nothing that doesn’t exist around major cities in Asia, Europe and the US. In answer to the question, is Mexico safe? , well no – nowhere in the world is truly 100% safe. There are always threats to women (even without them leaving their homes). However, in terms of your solo trip to Mexico, there are no threats so severe that you can’t have a fantastic and trouble-free trip. I’m proof of that!

Tours in Mexico

Not quite ready for solo travel in Mexico? There are pros and cons to group tours vs solo trave l but they certainly offer extra security. One option is to take a short introductory tour then go solo afterwards. My favourite tour operator is G Adventures , an ethical company partnering with locals. They offer 18-30-something tours which are fast-paced and budget-friendly, as well as classic tours and National Geographic adventures.

How to get around in Mexico

Mexico is an easy country to travel internally. The best ways for solo female travellers in Mexico to get around include: Buses – I’ve always been impressed with the bus network in Mexico. There are a few main networks like ADO which are pretty upmarket. Your ticket usually includes snacks, a drink and access to an entertainment service via the screens on the back of each seat. Bus travel isn’t as cheap as travelling solo in Southeast Asia ; a 4-hour bus usually averages around $40.

To book buses in Mexico, I use Busbud .

Colectivos – these mini vans are an affordable, local option that you can take for short distances. Knowing some Spanish will go a long way when using these. Internal flights – these are really cheap in Mexico, sometimes cheaper than buses. I generally avoid flying internally for environmental reasons but sometimes it’s too tempting. Coming back to Mexico City from Oaxaca, it was a choice between a $40 two-hour flight or a $60 bus that would take 18 hours. There are several budget airlines in Mexico like Viva Aerobus (which I have dubbed the Ryanair of Mexico), Volaris and Aeroméxico. I use Skyscanner to compare and book flights.

BlaBlaCar – some people may have safety reservations about shared car rides but I’ve personally taken BlaBlaCar while travelling as a solo female in Mexico and felt safe. I’ve travelled from Mexico City to Guadalajara, Tepoztlán and Queretaro and each time I made friends with the drivers and saved money compared to the bus.

Taxis – in cities, always take Uber when you can. The regular taxis in Mexico City don’t have the best safety reputation, plus they’re more expensive than Uber. I always take Uber or UberPool as soon as it gets dark in Mexico.

Accommodation for female travellers in Mexico

Mexico has abundant options when it comes to accommodation. You’ll find options for all budgets and styles from backpacker hostels to resorts and 5* hotels. Here’s a quick review of the best types of accommodation for solo travel in Mexico. Hostels: Mexico has plenty of decent hostels; you’ll find several in each city. These are colourful and comfy places to meet other people when travelling solo . Some of my favourite hostels include Casa de Dante in Guanajuato, Hostal Hospedarte in Guadalajara, Hostal Central in Oaxaca, Tower Bridge in Puerto Escondido, Casa Esterito in La Paz, Viajero in Sayulita, Posada del Abuelito in San Cristobal… And many more! Airbnbs: There’s so much choice when it comes to Airbnbs in Mexico and you’ll great value. The hosts I’ve stayed with have been incredibly friendly and taken me around on tours and to their favourite restaurants. Hotels: I’m not much of a hotel person but there are plenty of great options if you prefer the comfort of a hotel over hostels. Browse options on Booking.com . I use this booking platform a lot as they also have private apartments and hostels; it’s a great way to browse all the options in one go. After a few bookings, you qualify for discounts, free breakfasts and room upgrades. Housesitting – for free accommodation, housesitting in Mexico is a great idea! The premise here is that you stay in a local’s home while they’re out of town. In exchange for looking after their home and sometimes pets, you get a cosy home from home! Read my review of TrustedHousesitters for more about this platform.

How to dress for solo travel in Mexico

There’s no strict dress code for solo female travel in Mexico. Like anywhere, the more conservative you dress, the less attention you’ll receive. In Mexico City, locals tend to wear jeans and puffer jackets even in weather I’d describe as warm. It’s just a different perception of the temperature. Nothing bad will happen if you wear shorts and dresses but you’ll look like a tourist. It depends how much you want to blend in. When it comes to beach areas and more touristic places like Tulum, you can really wear whatever you want. It’s warm so I’d suggest whatever you wear at the beach at home.

Packing for female travel in Mexico

The first Mexico packing tip that might surprise you – Mexico isn’t always hot! Or even mild. Sometimes it can be downright cold especially in hilly regions of Central Mexico. I remember falling asleep watching my breath on the air in Guanajuato and cursing my lack of extra layers. The same can be said for Mexico City which drops below 0 in the winter months. Knowing what to pack for Cancun won’t help you in the capital! Make sure to pack jeans and a jacket unless you’re visiting in the summer or sticking to the Yucatan Peninsular. It’s easy to get laundry done in Airbnbs and lavanderia (laundrettes) so don’t pack too much. This is my recommended packing list for a week’s female travel in Mexico:

• 1 x casual dress
• 1 x jacket / sweater
• 3 x shoes: comfortable city shoes, sandals and beach shoes
• 1 x night out outfit
• 2 x swimwear
• 1 x beach shoes
• 7 x underwear.

SIMs and internet in Mexico

Although your accommodation and every cafe in town will have Wi-Fi (and there’s decent free city Wi-Fi you can connect to), I always get a SIM card when travelling so I can guarantee I can get a safe Uber ride home at night etc. Getting a SIM card is easy. Just walk into any OXXO store and ask for a SIM with credit (Telcel and OXXO SIM are reliable options). I pay 150 pesos for a month’s data and calls, but there are packages from 50 pesos. A little bit of Spanish will help you with this transaction or, failing that, use the Google Translate app to show the cashier what you want. Alternatively, get an e-SIM before you arrive with Airalo . This is an e-SIM platform covering 200+ regions and my new favourite app! Browse their Mexico packages so you’re connected as soon as you land.

Best time of year to visit Mexico

While it depends on your destination, the best time to visit Mexico is usually considered November to April. Temperatures are manageable and there’s almost no rain. From April, temperatures pick up before the rainy summer months. Rains can be quite severe and tail off by September. If you don’t mind the rain, you can still visit through this season. Everything is beautifully lush and green. If you’re not a fan of spring breakers and higher prices, avoid touristic areas like Cancun during March and April. You should also check if you’re visiting during a Mexican national holiday. During these, popular towns and cities are so packed you can barely move!

Safety tips for solo female travel in Mexico

Don’t walk at night.

As a general rule, it’s best not to walk alone at night in Mexico. In places like Oaxaca and safe neighbourhoods like Condesa in Mexico City, you’ll likely be fine but it’s best to air on the side of caution. Hop in an Uber once it gets dark.

Get travel insurance

An essential for solo travel in Mexico (and anywhere for that matter) is travel insurance. I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) which covers both gadgets and pre-existing conditions. They’ll still insure you if you’re already travelling which is quite rare. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Check neighbourhoods before visiting

Have a general idea of your surroundings. For example, there are some neighbourhoods to avoid in Mexico City like Doctores. While it’s unlikely you’ll wander into them as they’re generally far from tourist areas, it’s best to be safe. The same goes for other areas of Mexico. You’re never going to accidentally stumble 500 miles into a cartel area but it can’t hurt to Google a new city’s safety ranking before visiting.

Don’t drink tap water

You’re likely to get very sick if you drink tap water in Mexico. Instead, buy bottles and check they’re sealed or, better for environmental reasons, bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up with filtered water (your accommodation will have this) or a filtering water bottle which sterilizes water for safe consumption.

Food and sanitation

I can’t lie – I mainly included this section to talk about all my favourite Mexican foods ! It’s such a fantastic cuisine and totally different to the Westernised version of Mexican food I’d tried in the UK. It’s not all about tacos either; there are so many other delicious dishes to try like tostadas, tortas, flautas, gorditas, tamales, churros and more.

If you’re on a short solo trip, it can be hard to squeeze in all the different dishes. I’d suggest signing up for a food tour so you get to try a bit of everything! Take a food tour in Colonia Roma or an adventurous San Juan and Merced markets food tour. My Mexico City food blogs:

• Where to eat in Roma & Condesa
• Where to eat in Coyoacan
• Eat Like a Local tour review
• Aura Cocina cooking class review

In terms of food safety, I would always suggest eating where’s busy as food is less likely to have been sitting around. Sanitise your hands before eating and avoid ice in your drinks.

Solo Mexico City tips

The question on many would-be travellers’ lips is, ‘ Is Mexico City safe for solo female travellers ?’ Yes, I absolutely recommend Mexico City for solo female travel! It’s a fun, vibrant and cultural city. Like capitals often do, it feels different to the rest of the country, hence why I put together these Mexico City travel tips . Since many solo travellers to Mexico start their trip in the capital, it’s a great way to meet other people to potentially travel around with. Pick a good hostel, like Casa Pepe in the historic centre, to get your solo travels in Mexico off to a good start. Mexico City has great nightlife so it’s a fun place to be with a group.

Related read: How to spend 5 days in Mexico City

Best neighbourhoods for solo travel in Mexico City: Stay in Roma Norte or Condesa and wander the tree-lined walkways and pretty parks. The food in Condesa and Roma Norte is worth a trip alone! Another safe and tourist-friendly neighbourhood is Coyoacan in the south of the city, known for its pretty cobbled streets and famous ex-resident, Frida Kahlo. If you have the budget, Polanco is a swanky area of Mexico City with some cool galleries and museums.

Getting around Mexico City: During the daytime, you can get around using the Metro (underground) and the Metro bus (overground) for just 5 pesos a journey. You just need to buy and top up a Metro card in any station. To travel around within neighbourhoods, use EcoBici for bicycle hire with generous discounts for weekly or longer passes. Download the app, scan a bike and jump on! At night, use Uber to get around safely.

Confidence tips for traveling to Mexico City alone as a woman

If you’re nervous, stick to areas like Roma, Condesa, Centro and Coyoacan to start with. Avoid Doctors and Tepito completely. Wear a handy bum bag with secure zip in busy areas like Centro and keep a close eye on your belongings in markets.

For an extra confidence boost to get you started, take tours with GetYourGuide or Viator .

Useful items for solo female travel in Mexico

• The latest copy of Lonely Planet Mexico / Cancun, Cozumel & the Yucatan
• A Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook & Dictionary
• A handy bum bag with secure zip
• Microfibre quick-drying towel
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Mosquito repellent
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( men’s ) ( women’s )
• Solo photography pick: Manfrotto tripod and Joby Gorillapod
• A GoPro if you’re making videos – I use the HERO8 Black
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: A stainless steel reusable water bottle with straw lid to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Metal straw kit with straw cleaner and cloth bag .

Best places in Mexico for solo female travel

The sheer volume of awesome destinations has to be my favourite thing about travelling in Mexico. As my friends in Mexico City and I always say, you could live in Mexico for years and not make it everywhere. My favourite places to travel alone in Mexico include:

Mexico City

As mentioned above, Mexico City is a good place for solo travel. An optimal amount of time to spend is 5 days in Mexico City . Things to do in Mexico City for solo travellers include exploring charming suburbs, hipster neighbourhoods, lively markets, historical buildings, art galleries, museums, nightlife, green spaces and world-class cuisine. Don’t miss Xochimilco , a neighbourhood known as the Venice of Mexico.

Read next: how to plan an epic solo trip to Mexico City

Puebla city

Just two hours drive from Mexico City is Puebla city. This small city is beyond charming and a great base for exploring Puebla state. My favourite thing about Puebla is definitely Calle de Dulces, in English – Sweet Street! You can browse the dulcerias (sweet shops) and buy delicious confectionaries for a few pesos. Puebla is a pretty city with open squares, an Artists Quarter and numerous crafts markets and museums. Don’t miss the nearby city of Cholula which is famous for its ancient pyramid.

Tepoztlán, Morelos

An hour’s drive (in good traffic) from Mexico City is this charming town in the state of Morelos. Due to its positive safety rating, it’s one of the best places in Mexico to travel alone. As well as some pretty street art, there’s loads of amazing food in Tepoztlán including pre-hispanic pink hibiscus and squash burgers in the main market. The town has historical significance as the renowned birthplace of Mexican god, Quetzalcoatl, and there’s an ancient pyramid with lofty panoramic views that you can hike through the woods to reach. Tepoztlán (not to be confused with Tepotzotlán) makes for a great weekend away or mini trip from Mexico City. The hostel scene isn’t amazing but EKKO Hostel does the job.

Taxco, Guerrero

Another of my favourite destinations near Mexico City is Taxco, a charming ex-silver mining city 2.5 hours from the capital. Although I visited with friends, I have no doubt it’s a lovely place to visit while travelling solo in Mexico so long as you enjoy your own company. There are plenty of affordable guesthouses and apartments but no backpacker hostels. Things to do in Taxco include shopping for silver, eating unique local cuisine and taking the cable car to Hotel Montetaxco (pictured).

Guadalajara, Jalisco

Guadalajara is the second-largest city in Mexico, four hours north of Mexico City. In many ways, it’s quite similar to the capital: there’s a busy historic city and some stylish, upmarket areas on the outskirts. You can take several day trips to Tequila, the town where the infamous spirit is produced, and Lake Chapala and Ajijic. You can spend around four days in Guadalajara experiencing the vibrant nightlife and excellent cuisine. I’d recommend staying in Hostal Hospedarte in Chapultepec which is a fun and modern neighbourhood.

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

San Miguel is a charming, colourful city popular on the tourist trail. It’s a well-known American and Canadian retirement hub so it feels very Westernised and for that reason, isn’t my favourite destination in Mexico. However, it’s a pleasant place to spend a couple of days. You can browse craft markets, soak up views from the Mirador, eat chocolate-stuffed churros at  Chocolates y Churros San Agustín and take a half-day trip to the natural hot springs at La Gruta Spa .

Related read: San Miguel de Allende travel guide

Guanajuato city

Guanajuato is a safe and friendly place for solo female travel in Mexico. This small historical city in Central Mexico (the capital of Guanajuato state), not far from San Miguel de Allende, is built predominantly of rainbow-coloured houses set inside a sweeping valley. As well as fantastic local food and the quirky Mummy Museum , it’s a lovely place to soak up panoramic views and take solo travel photos from El Mirador viewpoint.

San Cristobal, Chiapas

A new destination I visited in 2023 was the beautiful city of San Cristobal. Although the surrounding state of Chiapas has some safety issues (which can be avoided when travelling to the other popular destination of Palenque), pretty San Cristobal is super safe for solo travellers in Mexico. Things to do in San Cristobal include wandering the central square, hiking up to either of the churches at opposite sides of the city both offering fantastic views, buying souvenirs at Mercado de Artesanias de Santo Domingo and visiting museums dedicated to Jade, Amber and Chocolate. Take day trips to Sumidero Canyon and autonomous villages, Chamula and Zinacantán, where prehispanic traditions and languages prevail. Posada del Abuelito is a great hostel with free breakfast and activities like movie nights and tamale-making classes.

Oaxaca 

After Mexico City, my favourite city in Mexico has to be Oaxaca. Due to its safety record and popularity with other travellers, it’s the perfect place for solo travel in Mexico. Oaxaca refers to both the state and its capital city. In this instance, I’m talking about the city which is famous for its culinary scene (don’t miss the mole or tlayudas!), mezcal distilleries and nearby Hierve el Agua , a petrified waterfall surrounded by forest and natural swimming holes.

Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

Another destination in Oaxaca state for solo female travellers is Puerto Escondido. This coastal region has beautiful beaches and abundant nature experiences. Take excursions such as dolphin-spotting boat rides and wildlife cruises along Manialtepec Lagoon where you can witness the magical bioluminescence once the sun’s gone down. As a well-known backpacker destination, there are plenty of hostels in Puerto Escondido and rapidly developing tourist infrastructure due to the boom the town has experienced in recent years. In 2019 when I first visited, it was still a hidden gem and now not so much. The fish tacos and seafood tostadas in Puerto are next level! Beware if you take a day bus from Oaxaca City to Puerto, it takes a mountain pass which is one of the windiest roads I’ve ever experienced! Take sickness tablets or opt for an ADO bus along the new highway.

Other places on the Oaxaca coast 

Mazunte : I loved this chilled, hippie town with wonderful beaches and the chance to capture magical sunsets from Punta Cometa (accessed by a 20-minute hike) or the more boujee option of El Copal hotel and bar. If relaxing and visiting all the amazing cafes isn’t enough, take a wildlife boat trip or an eco-tour to Laguna Ventanilla.

Zipolite : visiting the country’s only legal nude beach is something to tick off your Mexico bucket list ! This chilled beach town with a lively LGBT scene is a unique destination just a 10-minute drive from Mazunte. 

Huatulco : this region boasts beaches, waterfalls, the inland coffee region of Pluma Hidalgo, and Parque Nacional Huatulco which is best explored by boat. There’s not a big backpacker scene but there’s one hostel, Azul y Blanco in La Cruceita (a 15 min walk from Santa Cruz Huatulco beach town) and plenty of tours and activities in Huatulco to potentially meet others. 

Note – the Oaxacan coast is notorious for big waves so there aren’t THAT many beaches where you can swim.

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

Another well-known beach town in Central Mexico is Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco state. Popular on the travel trail after visiting Guadalajara, it’s a great place to relax, party or splash some cash during a luxurious beach break. As well as beautiful beaches, the Old Town is easy to explore on foot and there’s fantastic local cuisine, dive opportunities and an LGBT+-friendly scene. PV is a popular American and Candian holiday hotpsot so prices are high; backpackers will prefer nearby Sayulita and San Pancho along the Nayarit Riveria (in Nayarit state rather than Jalisco) for boho, backpacker vibes and great surf.

Tulum, Quintana Roo

Although it’s one of Mexico’s most expensive and touristic areas, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Tulum like visiting beautiful beaches, crystal-clear cenotes, dive sites and archaeological ruins. This city on the Yucatan coast has become a hippie hub home to Instagram hotspots and matcha cafes. Since English is widely spoken and there’s well-developed tourist infrastructure, it’s an easy place for beginner solo female travel in Mexico.

Merida, Yucatan

The largest city on the Yucatan Peninsular is Merida , known for its colonial architecture and Mayan heritage. With its sunny squares and beautiful buildings, it’s a safe and friendly place in Mexico for solo travellers.

Foodies will enjoy the unique Yucatan cuisine like cochinita pibil, a slow-cooked pork dish marinated in banana leaves.

Another idyllic, traditional Mexican town not far away is Valladolid where I enjoyed spending a few days. Both destinations offer day excursions to cenotes, lesser-visited Mayan ruins like Uxmal and other nice towns like Izamal.

Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo

This picturesque island off the Yucatan Peninsula is a must-visit for solo female travellers in Mexico – and everyone else for that matter! On Isla Holbox , you can visit isolated beaches, swim with whale sharks, take island boat trips, see luminous plankton and even cycle around the whole island by bike. There’s a boho vibe with colourful street art and endless places to sip margaritas and eat seafood.

Mexico solo travel itinerary

It really depends on how much time you have but here are a couple of suggested 2 week Mexico solo travel itineraries: 2 weeks in Southern Mexico: Days 1-5: Mexico City Days 6-7: Puebla. Don’t miss Calle de Dulces ! Days 8-12: Oaxaca Days 12-14: Puerto Escondido. Finish with some beach chills! 2 weeks in Central Mexico: Days 1-5: Mexico City Days 6-7: San Miguel de Allende. Eat at San Augustin Chocolates & Churros ! Days 8-10: Guanajuato Days 11-14: Guadalajara 2 weeks in the Yucatan Day 1: Arrive in Cancun and head to Holbox Days 2-4: Holbox Days 5-6: Vallodolid Day 7: Chichén Itzá and Izamal Days 8-10: Merida Days 11-14: Bacalar. Note – my preference is avoiding very touristic places like Cancun and Tulum but that’s up to you.

What to budget for solo travel in Mexico

Mexico is great for affordability although it’s certainly increased in price in the last few years. But if you eat street food and stay in hostels, it’s manageable on a budget. However, if you stay in stylish areas of Mexico City like Roma or Condesa, or basically anywhere in Tulum or Cancun for that matter, it’s not that cheap at all.

Budget for accommodation: If you stay in hostels, you can spend $12-20 a night on accommodation. To stay in basic hostels or private rooms in shared Airbnbs, I would budget $15-30 per night instead. Private Airbnbs and rooms in nicer hotels usually start around $40 a night. Budget for food: If you love Mexican street food as much as me, you can spend your entire trip eating street food for $2 a meal. If you eat in modest local restaurants (as opposed to ones popular with foreigners), expect to spend 70-100 pesos per main dish. Keep an eye out for restaurants with comida corrida (‘food on the run’) meals which often include two courses and a drink for around 100 pesos ($5). If you consume world cuisine, brunch, cocktails and speciality coffees, well…. get ready to spend almost the same you would at home!

Budget for activities:  You can take very affordable tours in Mexico. Browse tours on GetYourGuide from $30 a day

Budget tips for solo travel in Mexico

Stay in Airbnbs or hostels with kitchens to save money or eat healthily. Rather than hiring a whole apartment, I often like to find rooms in local homes. You usually get to meet the locals this way, too! If you shop at local markets over supermarkets, you’ll find cheaper groceries. Pick up fresh tortillas and serve them with cooked veggies, meat, mole sauce or salsa… Whatever you have lying around!

Events in Mexico

If you can time your solo female travels in Mexico around these events, do! They’ll give you memories for life.

Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead)

I thoroughly enjoyed the chance to experience Day of the Dead. This unique cultural holiday held from 31 October – 2 November sees Mexican families spend the night in graveyards and build altars in their homes to commemorate their deceased family members. Rather than being sad or morbid, it’s a lively cultural celebration showing respect to their ancestors. Taking a Day of the Dead tour with Coyote Aventuras in Oaxaca was a fun experience while solo travelling in Mexico. If you choose to celebrate Day of the Dead in Oaxaca , make sure to book accommodation a couple of months in advance because it’s so popular. Another iconic place to celebrate Dia de Muertos is Janitzio Island on Lake Pátzcuaro in Michoacan state.

Mexico City Alebrijes Parade

A few days before Day of the Dead in Mexico City, a parade of model alebrijes (fantasy animals rooted in Mexican folk art) make their way from the Zócalo to the Angel of Independence in Reforma where they remain for a few weeks. This colourful and lively celebration is worth timing your trip around.

How to meet people & make friends

• Stay in hostels – this is the numero uno option to meet other backpackers.
• Airbnb rooms in shared houses – whether these are other guests or the owners, this is a good way to meet other people getting to know the city (or better yet, those who already know it well).
• Food tours and walking tours – you can bet other people will be new to the area, too. If it’s a food tour, you can guarantee a shared interest!
• Join a foodie experience with EatWith – from market visits to supper clubs, these are usually led by friendly locals.
• Join expat groups on Facebook – if you’re staying somewhere more than a few days, tap into the expat community. Post and introduce yourself or see if any events are being held.
• Language exhange groups – use Facebook or Meetup to find these. As an extra bonus, you get to brush up on your Spanish.
• Dating apps – apps like Bumble have a BFF friend feature.
• Volunteer – use Workaway or Worldpackers to find opportunities By staying put longer, you’ll make deeper connections. If you want to sign up, I can offer you discount codes for both Workaway and Worldpackers.
• For more tips, use my guides to meeting people while travelling solo and meeting people in a new city (based on my experiences in Mexico City). If you decide to travel with people you meet, see my guide to picking an A* travel buddy .

Thanks for reading my solo travel Mexico guide!

Guides to solo female travel in Asia :

• Solo travel in Bali
• Vietnam solo travel guide
• What to know about solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo female travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India
• Solo female travel in Taiwan
• Korea solo travel

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Where to travel alone in Europe for women
• Solo female travel in Lisbon
• Solo travel in Portugal for women
• Complete guide to solo travel in Croatia
• Is Italy safe for solo female travellers?
• Is it safe to travel to Romania alone?
• Solo female travel in Albania

Guides to solo travel in the Americas:

• A solo female travellers guide to NY
• Solo travel in Guatemala
• Solo female travel in Belize
• Cuba solo travel guide

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

VISITING MEXICO? These are my trusted resources: Getting around by air – the quickest (and often cheapest) way to travel between Mexican cities is by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Getting around by bus (environmental option) – buses in Mexico are comfy with free snacks and an in-journey entertainment system. I use Busbud to find the best prices. To stay connected, download an e-SIM with Airalo and connect immediately. Browse their packages for Mexico . Driving in Mexico – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Mexico (and all around the world) For hotels in Mexico, I use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse Mexico tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I always check Viator too in case they have a better price. For Mexico food tours with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Liked this guide to solo female travel in Mexico? Pin it for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

10 thoughts on “ Solo Female Travel In Mexico (2024) – A Complete Guide ”

Oh Rose, you’ve totally helped me make up my mind! Thank you so Much!

Yay! So glad to hear that!

Thank you so much for the detailed information! Super duper helpful! Which year did you travel in Mexico solo? Love your blog.

Hi Xia! It was 2019-2020 and I will be back later this year!

Thank you! Me too. Planning to go to Tulum and Oaxaca Oct/Nov. Would be nice to follow on your adventures.

thank you so much, I’ve solo travelled in many parts of Asia and Europe but have been a little nervous about Mexico.

I spent four months in South America but with my ex.

This has been so helpful, in looking at Mexico City, Oaxaca , Merida and Tulum ( hopefully as a help exchange to relax a while )

I’ll start practicing Spanish now 🤗 gracias

Hi Ella thanks for reading and commenting. You will love Mexico. I also need to practise A LOT lol

Brilliant thank you! Now looking at your two week southern Mexico itinerary suggestion for our family holiday this year!! Questions- would it be good for teenage kids too? Is it best to hire a car or use buses to get between towns? Would you recommend booking all accommodation in advance or just winging it as we go? Finally, the weather in July – good or horrible?? Don’t mind some rain… Thank you!

Hey Sam! It’s easy to get buses around. I think you can wing it with accommodation! And I have no experience about travelling with teenagers – sorry! Have a fab trip

Thank you for this information! It’s definitely helpful for planning my upcoming trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You can see how this popup was set up in our step-by-step guide: https://wppopupmaker.com/guides/auto-opening-announcement-popups/

Find Solo Trips For Women in Oaxaca

How A Trip Works On GAFFL

Find solo trips for women in oaxaca, get connected, trip together.

• Solo Trips for Women
• Solo Trips for Women in Oaxaca

Have A Good Itinerary But No Friends Or Family Members To Join You?

Start your trip in minutes and connect with like-minded travelers in oaxaca., faq about solo trips for women oaxaca, why should oaxaca be on every solo female traveler's bucket list, is oaxaca safe for solo female travelers, what are the best places to visit for solo/single women, what are the best solo female travel tips, why should every woman try solo travel at least once, benefits of taking a solo trip as a woman.

What GAFFL Users Are Saying

"It’s really nice to have a platform like GAFFL with lots of travelers wanting to do the same as you, a real beautiful cultural exchange. You can meet people so easily and in a trustful way. We were four girls, from French, German and American backgrounds, without knowing each other from before. We spent an amazing week together, 2000km driving, camping on the way. We saw kangaroos, koalas, penguins and pelicans"

“I have found GAFFL to be an amazing tool for finding similar minded travel partners to embark on an adventure. Through GAFFL, I had organized a trip to Mexico City last month and Quazi joined the trip from Victoria, BC. We spent 14 days of straight exploring, hiking, eating and drinking. Quite an amazing experience - all thanks to GAFFL!”

"I accidentally scrolled across GAFFL and I'm so pleased I did. I met Amaia and immediately decided to road-trip together. We're spending 10 days together and it's great because we have so much in common. Couldn't have done it without GAFFL helping us find one another! It has honestly made NZ so much cheaper to explore as I get to split the costs with someone too​"

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » North America » Oaxaca

Is Oaxaca Safe for Travel? (Safety Advice for 2024)

Oaxaca may look like a mouthful (pronunced wa-ha-ka ) but now we’ve got that cleared up, you’re about to receive core life memories. The sheer depth of culture in Oaxaca rivals that of anywhere else in the world. It’s complete with a vibrant art scene, soulful food, and landscapes to make your heart fall out your arse. 

The central valleys teem with archaeological sites. Hop over to the coast for sandy beaches and easy-living. Nature-lovers take note: Oaxaca is also one of the most biologically diverse states in Mexico.

A surfer’s paradise as much as foodie heaven, Oaxaca looks great on paper. And actually, it’s even better in real life. It’s no wonder this is one of the top destinations to visit in Mexico.

Though, there we have it: the buzz word. We are in Mexico . So how safe is Oaxaca really?

There are certain things – and certain areas – that aren’t as safe as you’d want them to be. A lot of the time, nature plays a role in posing a danger.

If you’re wondering whether or not Oaxaca is safe, read on. Here are some tips, important info, and details you’ll need for your journey around this magical Mexican state.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, as things change quickly. The question of “Is Oaxaca Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on who you ask.

The information in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practice common sense, you will probably have a wonderful and safe trip to Oaxaca.

If you see any outdated information, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. Otherwise, stay safe friends!

Updated April 2024

Is Oaxaca Safe to Visit Right Now?

Safest places in oaxaca, 20 top safety tips for travelling to oaxaca, is oaxaca safe to travel alone, is oaxaca safe for solo female travellers, where to start your travels in oaxaca, is oaxaca safe for families, getting around oaxaca safely, crime in oaxaca, what to pack for your oaxaca trip, getting insured before visiting oaxaca, faqs on oaxaca’s safety, so, how safe is oaxaca.

Yes, Oaxaca is safe for tourists to visit! And actually, I recommend that you DO visit! In 2018, an analytical database reported 1,121,615 international visitors to Oaxaca . Majority having no troubles with their stay.

Mexico has been working hard to increase tourism in Oaxaca – and it’s working. The focus on the safety of visitors has made a noticeable difference, making it a great place to explore in Mexico . 

While the USA Oaxaca travel advisories remain at “exercise increased caution” for most of the state, this is mainly due to petty crime such as pickpocketing. 

Oaxaca is safe for tourists, yet large, and very diverse. The colourful capital, Oaxaca City, is one of the most visited destinations in Mexico and for the Day of the Dead festival.

The state has a large coast on the Pacific Ocean, and between them is a large mountainous region. If you want diversity, Oaxaca is your place.

Especially as far as Latin America goes, Oaxaca is a destination with few complications. That is not mean to say that there are NO safety concerns in Oaxaca. Having some safety tips under your belt is still invaluable. 

While much of Mexico suffers from travel warnings , high crime rates and dangerous drug dealings, Oaxaca remains relatively safe. It’s a great alternative to Mexico City.

Drug-related violence, though still existing, is low and generally under control in Oaxaca. It’s extremely unlikely that any would affect tourists minding their own business.

Natural disasters are a small risk in Oaxaca. Hurricane season affects Oaxaca from June to November. The size of these storms vary, but can cause widespread flooding, landslides, and disruption of local services.

Earthquakes can and do occur. Big tremors are uncommon but it’s good to be aware that they can occur.

Oaxaca’s coastline has powerful undercurrents and waves. Even strong swimmers get into trouble. On many beaches, you’ll find flags and warnings, which you should always heed.

So that’s the basics. But let’s go into a little more detail now.

Check out our detailed  where to stay guide for Oaxaca   so you can start your trip right!

The safest places to visit in Mexico are usually the places with the most tourism. For this reason, much of Oaxaca state is safe to visit. Although visitors are recommended to exercise increased caution. (Good advice for anywhere you’re travelling.)

These “safe destinations” have very few issues. However, you should still follow local laws and practice your usual safety protocol.

• Oaxaca City – Visiting Mexico is not complete without staying in Oaxaca City. It’s one of the more colourful and culturally rich places, with exciting art and endless places to eat. Go with an empty belly, leave with a full heart.
• Puerto Escondido – This popular backpacker spot attracts travellers from all over – and many find themselves not wanting to leave. On the Pacific Coast, people come for the surf, incredible food, and a relaxed vibe.  Puerto Escondido’s hostels are something you should definitely experience.
• San Jose Del Pacifico – Once a hidden gem, now a pretty popular tourist town. This astonishing mountain spot is a place where time slows down. There’s nowhere else like this in Mexico (or even the world).

Unsafe Places in Oaxaca

While Oaxaca is mostly safe, there are certain areas of the state to avoid . Though there are very little to see in these places anyway, you really can skip across them and not miss a thing. 

The USA government also recommends avoiding certain highways. This could be due to the safety of the road or illegal roadblocks. These rarely affect tourists – especially using reputable bus companies – though if you’re driving or hitchhiking in Mexico, it’s good to do thorough research.

• Towns bordering the state of Chiapas – including Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.
• Anywhere at Night – some select areas are okay such as downtown Oaxaca City, though it’s best to use a taxi or public transport if you’re going between areas or back to your accommodation.
• Sketchy Neighbourhoods – ask your accommodation staff if there are any barrios to avoid. Again, there will be nothing to see here anyway. 

Keeping Your Money Safe in Oaxaca

One of the most common things to happen to you whilst travelling is losing your money. And let’s face it: the most annoying way for this to actually occur is when it’s stolen from you.

Petty crime is pretty much a problem all over the world.

The best solution? Get a money belt.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

So the safety concerns for Oaxaca and the conclusion of “is Oaxaca Safe to visit?” comes down to knowing some crucial safety tips . This is not an exhaustive list, though they will help you experience safety in Oaxaca and enjoy this incredible adventure. 

So here are some of our top safety tips for Oaxaca to keep you travelling smart.

• Don’t walk around looking rich – Leave designer clothes, flashy watches, and expensive jewellery at home. 
• Try to dress down and blend in with what you are wearing – Erring on the side of casual is best. Try to reflect what other people may be wearing around you.
• Do your research – Oaxaca is a big place so plan accordingly. Different areas have different safety standards and cultures, too. Puerto Escondido is very different from Oaxaca City, for example.
• Learn Spanish – You don’t need to be fluent, but you’ll be surprised how much this helps – including getting yourself out of some sticky situations. 
• DO NOT WALK AROUND ALONE AT NIGHT – Even in groups, it’s still very risky. I cannot stress this enough. Very certain areas are okay but it’s always better to ask locals before you do. 
• Limit the amount of money you carry around with you – The more you have, the more you potentially lose. Store cash in different places of your person and luggage. Travel money belts are great for this.
• Be careful when using ATMs – Use them during daylight hours and preferably inside a mall, shop, or bank. Put it away discreetly before you leave the machine.
• Keep an eye on your belongings – Even on your suitcase when checking in at a hotel or bus station. 
• Always keep an emergency stash of cash – Never keep all your cards/ currency in one place. And hide it all from thieves with a hidden money belt .
• The emergency number is 911 – remember it.
• Be careful of people who claim to be police officers – Not everyone is who they appear to be. If you aren’t sure, ask for details such as their name, badge number, patrol car number, etc.
• Watch out for scam artists – People approaching you asking for personal information or financial help. Treat unsolicited chats like these as suspicious.
• Watch for warning on beaches – Not all beaches are safe for swimming. If there are no flags or lifeguards, ask the locals. Even the calmest looking waters can have extremely strong undercurrents. The Pacific Ocean takes no prisoners.
• Take a good medical kit with you – you never know when you might need it!
• Research tour companies – If you’re heading out on a tour, make sure you are going with a reputable company that has good safety standards.
• Don’t leave food and drink unattended – Spiking does occur, so keep an eye on it and take care.
• Don’t get involved in drugs – I know it’s fun, but drugs are the source of many problems in Mexico. There are certain places that are okay in Oaxaca but unless you’re 1000% sure it’s really not worth the hassle.
• Keep an eye on earthquakes – Small tremors are common. Large tremors are uncommon. It’s good to have a general idea. 
• Pay attention to the weather – Local reports will tell you about any tropical storms on the Pacific coast. 
• Get a local sim card – This helps a lot. 
• If somebody tries to rob you, hand over the goods – It is just not worth being a hero in these kinds of situations.
• Get trusty travel insurance – an absolute essential for any trip. Make sure your travel insurance covers the type of trip you’re having.

Oaxaca is safer than much of Mexico overall, but that doesn’t mean that you’ll be able to wander around freely without a care in the world. Keep these tips in mind and make sure to keep vigilant as you explore this amazing Mexican state.

Yes! Oaxaca is an amazing place to travel – even alone.

It may not be a well-developed tourist destination, but it’s doable – and worth it. I’ve put together some tips for solo travellers in Mexico and Oaxaca to bear in mind when you travel around.

It’s a great place to go for history, with the colonial centre of the capital city to explore, as much as it is a foodie destination with a wealth of delicious treats to enjoy.

• Make friends ! – Always rule number 1 for solo travellers. There’s safety in numbers – plus it’s a lot more fun. 
• Do your research – Have a rough idea of your itinerary, book accommodation ahead and read reviews, and ask other travellers for recommendations. 
• DO NOT walk around at night alone – some very select places are okay. Generally, this is a big no no. Know how to get to your accommodation before you leave. 
• Keep your phone charged – Your lifeline.
• Choose good hostels in Oaxaca – The state has no shortage of great choices. Read reviews, ask for recommendations, and stay somewhere that suits your personality.
• Stay alert. Don’t walk around with your iPhone in hand, not paying attention to your surroundings. I hope this is not the first time you’re hearing this.
• Download useful travel apps . Maps.me, Hostelworld, and even Tinder (to some extent) can be super useful for safety in Oaxaca.
• Take care when visiting beaches by yourself. Don’t leave belongings and valuables unattended on the beach. 
• Ask locals for their insider knowledge – They will know interesting spots to visit, and places to eat, plus areas to avoid.
• Sun Protection! You don’t want to get sunstroke or increased risk of skin cancer.
• Let someone know where you are. Friends and family back home, or at the very least someone your accommodation staff. 
• Don’t push yourself too much. Know when to stop and when to take a break. 
• Travel light. Less baggage, less worries – literally. 
• Keep track of your money and don’t keep it all in one place. You lose your wallet, you lose everything. Spread your bank and credit cards around. 

Usually, Oaxaca feels like some remote wonderland of Mexico where everything’s fine. But the truth is, it’s not always. It’s somewhere in between, where you still need to watch out for your belongings and travel with some level of vigilance.

Yes! Oaxaca is one of the best places in Mexico for solo female travellers .

Though, like anywhere, travelling alone as a woman comes with some extra things to think about. Here are some tailored tips to keep you solo travellers super safe on your adventure.

• Listen to your spidey senses – female solo traveller tip 1: if your gut tells you something isn’t right, it probably isn’t. Get yourself out of there. 
• Choose accommodation carefully – there are great hostels for women in Oaxaca.
• Chat with other female travellers – they understand the road you’re on better than anyone. 
• Only use reputable bus companies – especially if you’re travelling at night, it’s worth paying the extra bit of cash for a safe journey.
• Read reviews before you book – that goes for hostels, hotels, tour companies, or anything else. 
• Damn it, DO NOT WALK AROUND ALONE AT NIGHT – I’ve repeated this so many times already but it’s vital that everyone visiting Oaxaca understands this. 
• Choose accommodation in a good location. In Oaxaca City, for example, stay close to attractions so it’s easy to get back at night.
• Dress modestly – Mexico is still quite conservative. Breaking boundaries is great but this is not the time or place. See what local women are wearing and try to match. 
• Saying no is ALWAYS okay – you don’t need to please anyone, especially if it involves your safety.
• Make a fuss – It is unlikely that any hassle will turn ugly, but in a worst-case scenario, let everyone around know!
• Be careful of how much you drink – Keep your wits about you.
• Careful who you share information with – If someone’s asking too much personal information – red flag. Never share details of your accommodation or itinerary. 

As a solo female traveller, one of the biggest dangers is falling in love with the place. It’s hard to drag yourself away when your time is up.

One of the coolest places to stay in Oaxaca. It is a hip and colourful neighbourhood best known for its quirky cafes and bars.

This is a question that comes us a lot. Is Oaxaca safe for families? YES! 

Oaxaca is a kid-friendly place to travel to. From Oaxaca City itself to the beach, the coast, and the mountains, there’s a lot to keep everyone entertained.

Oaxaca city is very different from the likes of Mexico City. It’s walkable, colourful, and full of amazing character.

It is perfect for exploring with children with plenty to enlighten their senses. Lots of Mexican families travel to Oaxaca too, and you’ll see the main squares full of kids playing day and night. 

The coastal area is also an ideal spot. Though the road from the city to the coast is long, don’t rush, plan accordingly, and you’ll arrive to enjoy all the best that you can expect from any coast anywhere. 

Just pay attention to beach warnings. It is not always safe to swim everywhere. If there are no flags, ask at your accommodation whether or not it’s safe to swim.

Remember, like everywhere in Mexico, the places with the most visitors are the safest areas. So when you’re looking for a safe place to travel in Oaxaca with your family, bear that in mind. If you’re travelling between places, only use reputable companies like ADO Bus .

Also, much of the state of Oaxaca has high altitudes. So even sometimes when it doesn’t feel hot, the sun can be extremely strong. Make sure you have all the sun protection!

All in all, Oaxaca is a safe destination for families if you exercise increased caution (like you should everywhere).

Getting around Oaxaca safety isn’t overly complicated. You have the choice of buses, minivans, taxis, or driving yourself. They’re generally all pretty safe options – with a few important pointers. 

Depending on where you go, the roads in Oaxaca can be complicated. From Oaxaca City to the coast it’s pretty rough. 

Roads are narrow and winding, aren’t well maintained, and hazards aren’t well marked. Bear this in mind, whatever type of transport you choose.

Driving in Oaxaca is safe enough, but may be challenging. Drivers in Oaxaca City are more aggressive, won’t stop for pedestrians, and don’t tend to follow traffic laws too much. 

Local laws aren’t necessarily followed by police or drivers – so just be slightly aware of that. Go slowly, stop as you need to, and absolutely avoid driving at night at all costs.

Taxis in Oaxaca are generally safe. Though ensure that they are official taxis. 

Use the sititos (taxi ranks) or ask your accommodation where to find them. If you are worried about the driver, take note of the driver’s name and license plate number.

Public transport varies throughout the state of Oaxaca, from luxurious buses to local pickup trucks. Reputable bus companies like ADO bus are your best bet. They do checks on the drivers and passengers, take toll roads, and drive sensibly. 

Local buses, like the buses that drive around Oaxaca City, are regular and cheap. However make sure to HOLD ON TIGHT because they do not always drive the safest.

Minibuses are a great option for mid-distance travel. Lineas Unidas are super cushty, will give you an assigned seat, and generally drive safer than other minibus firms. 

Depending on where you are going will depend on where you take them. Your best bet is to search on Google Maps, or ask locals for advice.

Oaxaca has a low crime rate compared to much of Mexico – though that doesn’t mean it doesn’t occur. Fortunately, most of this crime is petty theft which is pretty easily avoided. Violent crime is rare in Oaxaca. 

Wherever you are, at the beach or in Oaxaca City, keep your valuables close. 

Not watching your back and letting your guard slip when you’re on the beach at night, for example, or walking around looking like you’re wealthy, could result in being a victim of crime.

Protests in Oaxaca City are common, for example, and are usually held by union workers. Not often turning violent, these gatherings do throw up roadblocks and prevent travel in and around the capital city or further afield.

I do suggest that you avoid drugs in Oaxaca. I love a joint as much as the next person but, for various reasons, Mexico is not really the place to do it. There are some very select places where you can get away with it but there’s absolutely no way I’d list them here for fear of someone running with that idea. 

Police are corrupt, you don’t need to give them any more reasons to hassle you, and drug cartels are the source of many of Mexico’s issues. It’s really best for everyone’s sake to just not get involved. 

Apart from that, Oaxaca is one of the safest places in Mexico to take your travels.

Everyone’s packing list is going to look a little different, but here are a few things I would never want to travel to Oaxaca without…

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Yesim stands as a premier eSIM service provider, catering specifically to the mobile internet needs of travellers.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Before you go anywhere, having top-notch travel insurance for Mexico is vital. If something goes awray, and that does happen, this is your guardian angel.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Oaxaca.

What should you avoid in Oaxaca?

Avoid these things in Oaxaca in order to have a safe trip: – Don’t walk around looking rich – Avoid being careless when getting money out of the ATM – Don’t walk around at night (especially if you are alone) – Don’t get involved in drugs of any kind

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?

Yes, Oaxaca is pretty safe for tourists, especially those who stick to our travel tips and use their common sense. Being prepared and cautious during your trip will almost always keep you out of trouble.

What are the main safety issues in Oaxaca?

Tourists often experience small crimes like petty theft or pickpocketing. It’s rare (but not impossible) for tourists to face serious or violent crimes.

Is Oaxaca safe for female solo travellers?

Yes, we’d even go as far as saying that Oaxaca is the safest place in Mexico for female solo travellers. As long as you use basic common sense and stay aware of your surroundings, you should have a trouble-free trip in Oaxaca.

Is Oaxaca City safer than Mexico City?

Generally, yes. Oaxaca has a much lower crime rate than Mexico city. Though I always recommend that you should practice the same safety precautions in both cities, regardless.

At this point, I hope you’ve come to realise that the question of whether Oaxaca is safe to visit or not isn’t necessarily straightforward. Yes, you absolutely can visit Oaxaca and have a safe trip. Safety concerns are low and you’ll create memories to enlighten your life. 

I’ve been in and out of Oaxaca for a few years now and never had any worries. So yes, it can be done. Without a doubt, I’ll be back to visit Oaxaca again one day. 

Families, solo female travellers, and even LGBT travellers are all safe in Oaxaca. BUT you must practice some caution. This is Mexico after all and you are a guest here.

If you’re going to walk around with your Rolex, looking at maps on your iPhone 22, hailing illegal cabs in the night, and smoking a fat joint in the central squares, you can probably guess it’s definitely not going to be safe. Though, that would apply to most places really.

Be aware of your surrounding, but don’t get consumed by worry. Keep your sensible head on, exercise increased caution, prepare yourself with good travel insurance, and you’ll be rewarded ten folds by this impossibly beautiful state; one that leaves a big, fat, taco-shaped stamp on your heart.

Looking for more info on traveling to Oaxaca?

• Let me help you choose where to stay in Oaxaca
• Swing by one of these fabulous festivals
• Don’t forget to add an epic national park to your itinerary
• Check out my favorite Airbnbs in the centre of all the action
• Plan the rest of your trip with our fantastic backpacking Mexico travel guide!

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Share or save this post

i am an american retired in puerto escondido. i often drive to the capital. i have had very little problems with safety. yes, it’s best to be careful but that’s true everywhere. the food is indeed delicious and cheap, and asking for recomendations is always smart. when in doubt look for the crowds. taco stands, street food is similarly safe.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Immersive Oaxaca: Zapotec indigenous heritage, gastronomy and artisans

Oaxaca City – Mezcal – Gastronomy – Textiles – Alebrijes – Artisans – Hierve El Agua – Monte Alban – Temazcal Purification Ritual & Massage

This fully immersive women-only and female-powered tour will take you to the heart of Mexico where indigenous Zapotec people keep their vibrant culture and heritage alive. Explore its famous gastronomy (mezcal, mole, chocolate, corn), its landscapes and its traditions through the eyes of passionate female entrepreneurs and artisans.

Highlights : Pre-Columbian Monte Alban archeological site | Hierve El Agua waterfalls | Mole, chocolate and rainbow tortilla making class | Mezcal palenque visit and maguey cutting | Mezcal tasting and dinner nestled in the agave fields | Mezcal cocktail making demo | Oaxaca city walking tour | Food tour of Oaxaca’s markets | Alebrijes painting workshop | Barro Negro and Huaraches workshop visit | Candle making workshop | Textile dyeing workshop | Traditional Temazcal “sweat hut” ritual and massage | 100% indigenous female-powered tour

Activity level : Moderate, expect to walk 10,000-15,000 steps a day on uneven surfaces, nature paths and cobblestoned streets.

No mandatory single supplements * | 14 spots | Veg / Vegan friendly

*Prices per person, we pair you with another traveler to avoid supplements, or upgrade to have your own room

Trip Overview

29 December 2024 to 4 January 2025 – Photographer onboard . SOLD OUT – Join Waitlist

Lily, our Zapotec guide

Payment plan

$3,195 USD pp sharing

Max. 14 guests

See inclusions

Trip summary

Find the day by day itinerary below:

• Day 1 : Arrival, walking tour and welcome dinner
• Day 2 : Walking food & women owned business tour and mezcal tasting
• Day 3 : Modern huaraches, alebrijes painting, black pottery & dinner
• Day 4 : OPTIONAL Hierve El agua, local lunch, Temazcal ritual and massage
• Day 5 : Textiles dyeing workshop, candle demo and mole, chocolate and rainbow tortilla making class
• Day 6 : Monte Alban, palenque visit, maguey fields, mezcal cocktail making class and farewell dinner

Day 7 : Departure

Detailed itinerary.

Day 1 : Arrive in Oaxaca

We will start the tour at our local boutique hotel with introductions before heading out for a walking orientation tour of the city center, where our hotel is.

Our walk will end at the location of our welcome dinner, a female owned restaurant that is shaking things up for Oaxacan cuisine with innovative twists on forgotten recipes and the recovery of many ancient ingredients.

Our first introduction to local dishes you probably never heard of will be an exciting one!

Overnight at Nana Vida or Casa de las Bugambilias /El Secreto depending on departure

We will be staying at one of two of the best boutique and female owned hotels in the historic center of Oaxaca, where all activities, restaurants, markets and sights are within 10min walking distance.

Our hotels are housed in traditional colonial houses that will be our home away from home.

Rooms are comfortable and colorful, located around a main courtyard and individually decorated with bright murals, paintings and furniture that is locally sourced.

Note : Some of the rooms do not have AC but all come with a ceiling fan. Temperatures in Oaxaca drop at night and AC is rarely needed.

Breakfast will be enjoyed in the courtyard, surrounded by trees, birds and colorful flowers. Walking inside is leaving the buzz and noise of the city outside and stepping into a cozy cocoon of quietness and calm.

If the trip is sold out, we will have the house all to ourselves, occupying all the rooms.

Note : When staying at Casa de las Bugambilias / El Secreto, your room may be at either of the two properties who belong to the same owner, share the same standard of quality and are 1 block apart.

Inclusions : Welcome dinner with local drinks. Guests need to make their way to the hotel from the airport. We can provide details of a local driver.

Casa de las Bugambilias / El secreto

Day 2 : Walking food tour of the markets + mezcal tasting

Welcome to Oaxaca!

Our day will be filled with what makes Oaxaca most famous: its food.

We will walk the streets and markets of Oaxaca city and explore the many recipes and ingredients that make it such a unique cuisine.

We will taste around 25 foods and drinks from restaurants and stalls exclusively owned by local women, as we stroll through the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO-listed city center.

We will learn about the dozens of different kinds of corn, and about the ancient Mesoamerican farming and agricultural practice called la milpa , which grew corn, beans and pumpkin in the same plot of land and forms the basis of Oaxacan cuisine.

The diversity of Oaxacan cuisine, often not found anywhere else in Mexico or overseas, and how it has been influenced and has influenced other Mexican regions, will surprise you.

We will taste freshly ground chocolate beans (and order your own pot of gooey goodness), various moles and several dishes you probably never heard of before but will now crave.

Our tour will also take us to the three main markets in Oaxaca where we will mingle with the locals and taste various grilled meats in the famous Pasillo del humo (smoke corridor), popular local snacks such as culona ants or fried grasshoppers and ice creams of interesting flavors.

The food tour will be sprinkled with visits to female owned, local artisan businesses and shops that you can revisit later during your free time, to make room for more delicious food.

Our female guide will also introduce famous Oaxaca’s artists, intellectuals, galleries and the city’s printing tradition.

We will also talk about its recent history, most notably the events of 2006 which led to a civil rebellion and the formation of an anarchist community that lasted 7 months and made Oaxaca a semi autonomous region with its own currency.

You will then have free time to explore Oaxaca on your own or go back to the hotel for a power nap.

We will meet again in the evening for a mezcal introduction and tasting where you will learn all about the production of mezcal and the various types of maguey plants that are used to produce it. This will help you choose what to drink during the rest of the week and give you a basis to recognise the many varieties.

Like wine, mezcal can be made from many different kinds of maguey species, each tasting differently and requiring a different length of time to mature and reach the necessary sugar content.

We will taste several varieties and get our taste buds going before dinner, when you will have free time to explore Oaxaca on your own.

After the extensive food tour, you will probably only have space for small street snacks!

Overnight at the hotel

Inclusions : Breakfast at the hotel, guided walking food tour of Oaxaca’s markets, mezcal introduction and tasting. Dinner not included.

Day 3 : Artisans

Oaxaca is famous for its artisans and today we will explore the many crafts, both traditional and modern.

We will start the day with a visit to Paolas modern huaraches workshop where she will share her family’s leather tradition and the history of huaraches , traditional Oaxacan sandals worn by the farmers.

Instead of continuing with her family’s leather tannery, she decided to transform the traditional sandal into a modern item that could come straight out of the pages of fashion magazines.

She hand makes each piece of her colorful sandals employing local leather and materials. You won’t be able to resist buying a pair.

We will continue our day in San Martin Tilcajete, a town that has become synonymous with Oaxaca’s pioneers in the world of the wood carved figurines called alebrijes .

These colorful allegorical and fantastical sculptures are made using local copal wood and painstakingly hand painted, sometimes for weeks.

Albrijes are not an ancient Zapotec tradition, but rather a relatively new comer into the world of artisanal work, yet with a link to Zapotec spirituality.

The magical creatures, often made of the mix of two animals such as a lizard body and a dog head or a lion head on butterfly wings, were imagined by a Mexican cartoonist in the 1940s in Mexico City.

They came to Oaxaca via a workshop organized by an American artist in the 1980s and stayed.

We will visit one of the workshops where we will learn about the super elaborate process to carve the statue and then paint it, by hand. We will also make our own, which we will decorate ourselves.

With our finished statue we will go to lunch at the beautiful restaurant of a local project that supports reforestation of the copal trees, whose wood is used to make the alebrijes .

In the afternoon, we will visit the workshop where black pottery sculptures are made.

Black pottery gets its name from the process used to cook the pieces which burns them until they turn black. The result is a beautiful sculpture or piece that is silver in color and bright in finishing.

We will return to Oaxaca for dinner at a local restaurant that serves Oaxacan cuisine from the Isthmus, the narrowest part in Mexico’s territory, and a culinary world on its own.

Food in the Isthmus is influenced by the proximity to the Pacific Ocean and the lush rainforests.

We will enjoy dishes that include ingredients such as fish, fried banana and prawns.

Note : For NYE departure, this evening we will join the NYE celebrations in town, get ready to welcome the new year like only Oaxacans can!

Inclusions : Breakfast at the hotel, transportation to all the sights in private minibus, huarache moderno workshop visit, alebrije workshop tour and painting class, lunch in open air restaurant, black pottery tour, dinner in town.

Day 4 : Hierve el Agua, Temazcal ritual and massage

Today is all about self-care and natural healing.

OPTIONAL: This morning we will start bright and early for a hike and dip into the magical natural hot spring pools of Hierve el Agua.

On our way, we will stop at a casual donut and coffee stall to gran an early snack.

The petrified waterfall system of Hierve el Agua is about an hour drive from Oaxaca and can be accessed through a path and with the help of a local guide from the nearby village.

The formations were created millions of years ago and are located on top of a hill, surrounded by a complex Zapotec irrigation system of terraces that makes for stunning landscapes.

The thermal hot spring water that fees the pools and created these formations comes out at around 24 Celsius, making for a wonderful spa experience.

We will walk to the pools and have time to enjoy the thermal waters and the views.

We will continue to a local restaurant for a traditional lunch and meet the rest of the group who opted out of Hierve el Agua.

Our afternoon is all about the ancient Zapotec healing ritual of the Temazcal.

We will be welcomed into abuelita Lucy’s home up on the hills for an ancient traditional medicine ritual that dates back to pre-Hispanic times.

The ceremony will start with a cleansing welcome tea and continue with a one long hour session in the “sweat hut” where she will guide us through a meditation and renewal ritual as the hut fills with steam infused with herbs and medicinal plants.

Note : For the Temazcal ritual, it is recommended to wear a swimming costume.

Abuelita Lucy will guide the energy with sound and help us heal and renew our body and soul as we reconnect with Mother Earth.

The temazcal ritual will continue with a one hour message in the open air huts at sunset and finish with light snacks and drinks.

We will return to Oaxaca in the evening.

Inclusions : Breakfast at the hotel, transportation to all sights in private minibus, lunch at a local female owned restaurant, temazcal ritual, one-hour massage, drinks and snacks.

Day 5 : Teotitlan textiles, candles and cooking class

If yesterday was all about eating, today will be all about Zapotec artisans and learning how they make their beautiful textiles, candles and food.

Our morning will start in Teotitlan del Valle, a village about an hour from Oaxaca that is famous for its colorful textiles that are naturally and traditionally dyed.

We will meet two artisans, Aurora and Veronica, who represent two generations of Zapotec women keeping the natural dyeing traditions alive.

We will learn how dyes are produced, by hand, from natural ingredients such as insect pests which only grow on certain cacti, plants grown in their own gardens, herbs and flowers.

They will show us how the yarn is spun, by hand from wool, and how they dye it into bright colors.

Veronica will also demonstrate how she weaves beautiful carpets and other items in her loom. You will have the chance to purchase what they make as souvenirs.

Our time in Teotitlan will continue with a visit to a local candle making workshop where traditional religious candles are being made by hand, using a secret technique.

Candles are made of beeswax and rolled by hand then decorated with brightly colored designs. Our local female artisan has also perfected a secret method to decorate the candles, but you’ll have to come to find out what that is!

We will then head over to a local restaurant to make our own lunch. This afternoon is all about how to take local recipes you tried yesterday, back home.

We will learn how to prepare mole, Zapotec chocolate drinks and rainbow tortillas from scratch, using a traditional metate , a Zapotec sort of mortar an pestle.

Mole is Oaxaca’s most famous food and Mexico’s most traditional, often ranked as the country’s number one contribution to the world’s gastronomy.

Originating in prehispanic times and translated to English as “sauce”, mole can consist of up to 100 ingredients and take days to prepare, slowly cooking in pots over fire.

There are many different kinds of moles, some sweet, some spicy, some savoury.

We will learn to make the most popular mole in Oaxaca that is usually served with chicken. We will get to try our creations for lunch, accompanied by our handmade tortillas.

Making tortillas, the staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine, from scratch, is not easy.

We will take turns to grind the corn in the metate, how it has always been done, to make the dough, or masa, needed to make the tortillas, and will blend it with natural dyes to make colorful rainbow tortillas that will cook in the traditional griddle.

We will also prepare several of Oaxaca’s many chocolate drinks, some of which you tried during the food tour. Oaxacan hot chocolate is thickened with corn and prepared with water, not milk. There are many variations of this drink, all of which are equally delicious.

After a feast of our own making, we will return to Oaxaca for free time for dinner, if you still have space for more culinary exploration!

Inclusions : Breakfast at the hotel, transportation to all the sights in private minibus, textile dyeing workshops, candle demo and cooking class including mole, chocolate and rainbow tortillas. Dinner not included.

Day 6 : Monte Alban and mezcal

Our last full day will be spent at two very important places: the archeological site of Monte Alban and the maguey fields of Santiago Matatlan, the cradle of mezcal.

We will start the day with a guided visit of Monte Alban, the most important and largest pre-Columbian archeological site in Oaxaca.

Monte Alban was one of the earliest cities in Mesoamerica and consists of several raised terraces that look like stepped pyramids.

It was important as the main center of Zapotec political and economic power for 1,000 years since 500 BC and was then abandoned.

After Monte Alban, we will drive to the center of mezcal production in Oaxaca, Santiago Matatlan, to visit two female owned palenques, or mezcal production facilities.

At the first one, we will learn about the production process and even try our hands at cutting one of the piña s, the maguey plant core, directly in the fields.

We will jump on the back of a truck and head to the many maguey fields that surround the town of Santiago Matatlan in search of a mature plant that is ready to be harvested and learn how to do so.

We will get our hands dirty trying to pull it off the ground (hint: it is not easy!) and cut the leaves until we reveal the sweet core that will be the main ingredient to produce mezcal.

We will return to the production premises to learn how the process of cooking and distilling the piña s continues until the bottle.

We will have lunch on site and continue the afternoon with a visit to another female owned palenque managed by a mother-daughter duo. We will go back to the fields for a visit and tasting among the maguey, followed by a mezcal cocktail making class and a sunset farewell dinner in the fields.

We will return to Oaxaca after dinner and enjoy one last night before departure.

Inclusions : Breakfast at the hotel, transportation to all the sights in private minibus, guided visit of Monte Alban, maguey cutting, palenque visit, mezcal cocktail making workshop, lunch and farewell dinner with mezcal.

We say goodbye to Oaxaca after one last breakfast. If you have free time, you can return to any of the markets for some shopping or to try all your favorite foods.

Inclusions : Breakfast at the hotel. Airport transfer not included.

About Your Host, Lily

Lily was born and raised in Santa Monica, California, home to the largest Oaxacan Zapotec migrant community in the U.S. After spending her summers in Oaxaca with her parents in the dream home they built, she rematriated in 2013.

Seeing the lack of representation of indigenous woman-led initiatives in the tourism sector, she decided to start her own sustainable travel company centering the conversation around indigenous voices.

Her experiences support local businesses and offer an insight into Zapotec traditions to travelers who are invited into the local communities.

Lily’s business now works rotating over 50 service providers, 80% of which are woman owned and led, to make sure everyone gets a fair share of the tourism funds.

Bonus : Our NYE 2024 trip will be accompanied by our Co-Founder Mar Pages , and a professional photographer who will take pictures of the group for you to treasure, share and keep.

✔️ 6 Nights in shared twin accommodation in local female owned boutique hotel in the historical city center. We pair you with another traveler so you don’t have to pay a single supplement

✔️ All activities, visits and entry tickets as mentioned in the itinerary.

✔️ Tips for drivers.

✔️ Fair compensation to all the local female artisans we visit to appreciate their time sharing their craft with us.

✔️ Daily Breakfast (6), Daily Lunch (5) and 4 Dinners.

✔️ Water during all included meals. Alcoholic drinks at dinner on welcome and farewell dinners.

✔️ Transportation to and between activities as listed in the itinerary.

✔️ Zapotec female host for the duration of the trip, local female guides for the food tour, the history tour and Monte Alban.

✔️ Tips for drivers and artisans included in the tour. Tip for the host not included.

✘ Optional: Hierve el Agua, which can be added in our portal after booking.

✘ Other activities not included in the program that you book yourself.

✘ 2 Dinners. Our included meals are very complete so you may not want to eat anymore.

✘ Transportation from and to the airport in Oaxaca. Private airport pick up costs 35 USD each way and we can provide details of a trusted driver.

✘ Visa, if required, we can provide invitation letters.

✘ Travel & Medical Insurance ( Required )

✘ Souvenirs

✘ Tips for the Guide (at your discretion)

Payment Info

New Year’s Eve trip 2024 (with photographer)

3,195 USD

Payment Plan:

30% deposit to secure your spot (non refundable*)

Final balance due 90 days before departure

*The initial 30% is refundable if the minimum number of guests is not reached. By joining our trips you agree to our T&C .

The Solo Female Travelers difference – What makes us unique

All our tours follow the same values and philosophy that makes us who we are which you can find  here .

Our Oaxaca trip is 100% female and indigenous powered and exclusively supports businesses owned by women, including restaurants and hotels.

We do not adhere to the practice of other tour companies who require local artisans and guides to make a living from the commissions made on your purchases or even demand them payment to bring you to their workshops. Instead, we compensate all the female artisans who are part of our itinerary for taking the time to share their craft with us irrespective of whether you make a purchase or not.

Interested in joining us in Oaxaca? We are keeping the group to 14 guests maximum so don’t wait up. Select your package below and click the Book button or pick a time to book a video call with us and get all your questions answered. Note : Please do not book any flights until the trip is confirmed.

Credit card payments carry a 3% surcharge. Wire transfer details are available via email: [email protected] .

IMPORTANT : This trip can accommodate vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diets, but is not suitable for celiacs. If you are unsure, please reach out before booking.

29 December 2024 to 4 January 2025 (Photographer onboard) – Sold out

Interested in Oaxaca? Join Waitlist

Let’s Talk!

Have questions? Pick a convenient time and date below to talk to us live, we’d love to meet you!

Tour gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

This is a trip of a lifetime and we know there are many things you’d like to know more about.

We care deeply about the wellbeing of our guests and our trip follows all local regulations. We require guests who develop a cough or cold-like symptoms to use a mask and separate themselves from the rest of the guests. COVID testing is not mandatory though it will be encouraged.

Payments are not refundable if the trip goes ahead. This is why we require all guests to purchase travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances that would prevent them from traveling. In the event that the trip needs to be postponed for reasons beyond our control such as a global pandemic or COVID after the the 30% deposit is due, any payments made will be put towards a similar trip in the future. We recommend checking with an aggregator such as Travel Insurance Master to compare quotes and coverage.

Most travelers do not need a visa for Mexico. In cases where a visa is required it will be issued by the Mexican embassy in your country of origin. We can provide invitation letters if necessary.

This trip includes 6 breakfasts, 4 dinners and 5 lunches and does not include 2. In the cases where a meal isn’t included, it is because we do not think you will be hungry for more food after a very complete meal at lunch so we have opted to leave the meal time free for you to explore Oaxaca’s amazing street food snacks. All activities mentioned in the itinerary are also included, with the exception of the optional trip to Hierve el Agua which you can add to your booking via our guest portal. We have also opted to include tips for everyone to make your experience more comfortable. The only tip not included is that of the host which you can tip at the end of the week based on your experience.

All costs above are considered on a sharing basis with two guests per room in twin bedding; we will pair you with another solo female traveler on the trip. If you wish to have your own room, a single supplement applies and you can select the single room in the Booking section above.

Because of the nature of Oaxacan food being primarily vegetarian, vegan and vegetarian diets can be accommodated. We can also cater to gluten-free guests but are unable to accommodate celiac disease due to the risk of cross contamination from the many meals we eat at people’s homes.

This is a female-only small group trip specifically designed for women traveling on their own. If you wish to travel with a female friend, partner, family member, etc. they are absolutely welcome, however we are not able to book male travelers on this trip.

How wonderful! If your daughter is above the age of 16, we will be glad to have her with us.

Yes, this trip is 100 female powered. It will be hosted by Lily, our local Zapotec host, and we have engaged the services of over 10 female guides and artisans as part of the tour.

We recommend talking to your doctor to decide what medication and vaccinations you need to get before your trip. You can see the CDC list of recommendations here .

Oaxaca has mild weather all year round and our tours happen during the dry season. Rain is unlikely and the day temperatures vary widely between day and night, so we recommend packing a light jacket for the evenings. Since this is a trip that has a lot of inbuilt walking tours, comfortable walking shoes are a must. A swimming suit is recommended if you will be joining us in Hierve el agua.

The prospect of getting sick while alone in a foreign country is daunting, and this is why we require all our guests have comprehensive travel and medical insurance that includes international evacuation. Should you fall sick, we will escort you to the nearest medical facility so you can get the help you need.

While the cost of medical healthcare in Mexico is relatively affordable, travel and medical insurance is mandatory to come on our trips and we recommend you get the most comprehensive coverage that includes international evacuation. We recommend checking with an aggregator such as Travel Insurance Master to compare quotes and coverages.

Our payment plan includes 2 instalments: a 30% payment to secure your spot, and the remaining 70% payment 90 days before the trip. You can make any partial payment between the 30% and the 70%.

Yes payments can be made by credit card (additional fee of 3%) or by wire transfer.

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel Destination: Oaxaca, Mexico

August 20, 2013 by Guest

We are pleased to present a new  Solo Travel  Destination Post from Alie, a member of the  Solo Travel  Society  on Facebook . Alie is from the United States, and submitted the following report about Oaxaca . Do you have a solo  travel  destination that you would like to recommend?  Submit your description here , along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!

Solo travel  rating:   1.5  (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult. Please see chart below)

Languages spoken: Spanish

Teotitlan del Valle cathedral

Reasons to Visit Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a feast for the senses. Whether you love discovering a new favorite food, visiting ancient sites, or poking around in local markets, galleries and churches, there is no limit to the things to see in this diverse city.

The main Zocalo of Oaxaca provides endless people watching and is lively all day and into the evening. Oaxaca is a culture lovers paradise with a wide variety of local artisans vending their wares. It is easy to get lost wandering the cobblestone streets while looking inside all the different little shops. There are beautiful weavers and unique hand painted animals that are definite standouts. If you are curious about the source of these products, it is easy to take a tour or a bus out to the small weaving community of Teotitlan del Valle, where you can see the craftsmen at work.

Not far from the city center, Monte Alban is a wonderful ancient site that is easily accessed and provides stunning views over the city. After you've returned to town, it will be difficult to decide where to eat. Oaxaca is known for its moles, richly spiced sauces that are generally served over meat. At times, the sauce has a base of chocolate, which is locally produced, and it is a real treat. To buy the chocolate or mole sauce itself, you can check out the chocolate sellers (I enjoyed Mayordomo) down by the central market area. Another Oaxacan specialty is the “tlayuda.” This Oaxacan dish features an oversized tortilla with refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and your choice of meats (chorizo sausage, spiced pork, spiced beef – or all of them!), all topped with delicious fresh Oaxacan cheese, known as “quesillo.” Another delicious meal is to be had in the 20 de Noviembre Market in the carne asada hall. Here you order meat by the kilo, it is cooked for you on the spot, and you can add fresh tortillas and homemade salsas.

Accommodation is reasonable and well priced around the San Domingo church area. I recommend looking at Hostal Casa del Sol which has private rooms and dorm beds that are situated around a sunny courtyard with communal breakfast tables that make meeting other travelers pleasant and easy.

I always felt very comfortable walking in Oaxaca even into the later evening, and some of the most beautiful sites in the city are the large cathedrals drenched in night time spotlights. If you go, bring comfortable shoes, sunblock, and some space in your bag for your new treasures that you will certainly find while wandering around town.

Chilis in the market.

Children's Day festival in the Zocalo.

Solo Travel  Destination Rating System

Safety   – 2  (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)

Language   – 2  (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)

Navigation – 1  (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)

Culture – 1  (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)

Average Rating – 1.5  (1 is easiest, 4 is most difficult)

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

Get Solo Travel News & Deals

• Create Your Advertiser Account
• Login to Your Advertiser Account
• Solo Travel Statistics
• Media & Speaking
• Privacy Policy & Disclosure

The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.