30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Oaxaca | Apr 2025
Hierve el Agua, Tule Tree, Mitla and Mezcal Distillery Tour
Experience the ultimate day trip in Oaxaca with our extensive itinerary tour. Our journey begins at the awe-inspiring Tule tree, a living testament to over 2,000 years of history.
4.69 (945 reviews)
From $50.00
Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour
The difference is the quality of our Guides, a lot of experience but above all passion to tell the story of Monte Albán.
4.82 (618 reviews)
From $27.38
Tour Monte Albán, Hierve el agua, Teotitlán Del Valle and Mezcal
We are the only ones to take you to see the most attractive points of Oaxaca in a single day. Monte Albán, the archaeological site par excellence, learn the history from one of the tourist guides.
4.86 (132 reviews)
From $258.27
Hierve el agua half day tour
Marvel at the stunning views of Hierve el agua. Enjoy the natural pools and the surprising height of the waterfalls. Venture on an excursion where you will visit Hierve el Agua alone, a set of two waterfalls that have been petrifying for millions of years due to the mineral solution of calcium carbonate in the water.
4.82 (28 reviews)
From $35.45
The Real Traditional Oaxaca Cooking class
hello every one! i After several years cooking fine dinning and living in scandinavia for some years my mind was changed.
4.79 (212 reviews)
From $95.71
The Mezcal Journey
Our experience is an educational tour to learn about the culture of mezcal and all the tradition that surrounds it. We will begin our trip starting from the center of the city of Oaxaca and we will visit the towns of Mitla and Matatlán.
4.92 (198 reviews)
From $91.15
Tour to Copalitilla Magical Waterfalls from Huatulco with admission included
Discover and explore the mountains of the sierra where we will find the spectacular Magical Copalitilla waterfalls, at approximately 1:30 hours we will arrive at a fascinating place within the jungle where we will find beautiful pools of crystalline waters and waterfalls ideal for swimming, taking photos and contemplate nature.
4.87 (294 reviews)
From $53.00
Hierve el Agua Guided Full Day Tour in Oaxaca
We will get to know an important part of Oaxaca, its culture, history, art and gastronomy. We take a tour with a professional team, we will visit 6 special places.
4.68 (103 reviews)
From $60.00
Full Day Tour of the Bays of Huatulco
What makes this tour unique is the possibility of discovering seven different bays in Huatulco, each with its own beauty and attractions.
4.27 (173 reviews)
From $34.90
Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour
If you visit Oaxaca, you must visit Hierve el Agua. Hierve el Agua is a natural scenery of petrified waterfalls. The first thing we do on the tour is to go directly to Hierve el Agua as our first stop.
4.82 (364 reviews)
From $55.00
Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez
I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT: IT IS NOT A RESTAURANT, I DO NOT CONSIDER MYSELF A CHEF I am Minerva Lopez and I am a traditional cook from Oaxaca and I have more than 40 years of experience in pre-Hispanic and traditional cooking.
4.82 (165 reviews)
From $101.28
Immersion Tour and Oaxaca Markets, All gastronomy included
Our tour is planned by a team of gastronomy lovers. The team developed a complete platform where what we are looking for is that any lover of food and unique culinary experiences enjoy the culinary heritage of Mexico to the fullest.
4.75 (287 reviews)
From $50.59
Mezcal wild Experience
Hello I am Alvaro and together we will begin this journey to the world of mezcal, our tour begins by heading to my picturesque town called Mitla surrounded by beautiful mountains and agaves, for my family and for me Mezcal is more than a drink, it is part of our culture, motivated to share with you my culture and our traditions, we will tour the agave fields with majestic landscape to know more of them and know why we find mezcals with different flavors, photos and laughter will not miss, after, we will go to my family's distillery to know step by step the process of elaboration and the passion with which it is made, we will conclude by tasting different varieties of mezcal along with a delicious and authentic Oaxacan food.
4.70 (40 reviews)
From $85.58
Half day tour to Monte Albán
Discover what makes the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monte Alban one of greatest archeological sites in the Oaxaca Valley! This 4-hour tour takes you by comfortable coach to the nearby ruins, which rest on a panoramic mountaintop with views of Oaxaca.
4.62 (382 reviews)
From $30.38
Oaxaca Conmigo Private Tours
Number #1 Private Tour Company in Oaxaca We are a small group of natives licensed guides curating Private Tours, offering 7 unique Experiences in Oaxaca! We drive you in comfortable Sedan Cars, SUV vehicles and Toyota Vans so you can come with your couple, friends and Family.
4.95 (237 reviews)
From $246.11
Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour
Casa Crespo is Oaxaca in its kitchen. Tradition lives there, where chef Oscar Carrizosa, (originally from the Mixteca region) mixes the ingredients of the 16 ethnicities of Oaxaca with the original seasoning that he inherited from his grandma.
4.66 (303 reviews)
From $73.00
Huatulco Airport Transfer in Private Service
Safer and more comfortable Huatulco International Airport transportation service to explore every corner of Bahías de Huatulco, discover the most beautiful secrets of the paradisiacal Bahías de Huatulco and travel directly to your hotel, Airbnb or anywhere you stay in a one-way or round trip.
4.80 (59 reviews)
From $25.00
Boil the Water, Mitla, Tule, Mezcal and more
This is a very long but very complete tour if you only have a few days to get to know Oaxaca, you will visit 5 of the most important places in Oaxaca!! 1.
4.19 (112 reviews)
From $37.98
Dolphin Watching in Puerto Escondido
Come with us! We want to share our passion for marine experiences with you in this real adventure. See dolphins in their natural habitat! this activity has become very popular lately, that means more boats looking for dolphins, and WE WANT YOU TO EXPERIENCE THE FREEDOM OF NATURE SO WE WILL LOOK FOR SCHOOL OF DOLPHINS WHERE NOT SOO MANY BOATS SO YOU CAN ENJOY THE TRIP!!
4.84 (185 reviews)
From $46.74
Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery tour
If you visit Oaxaca, you must visit Hierve el Agua. Hierve el Agua is a natural scenery of petrified waterfalls. The first thing we do on the tour is to go directly to Hierve el Agua as our first stop.
5.00 (21 reviews)
From $55.00
Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class
This cooking class is developed through deep research with people specialized in pre-Hispanic food, we seek to spread the heritage value of Oaxaca vegetarian food.
4.83 (184 reviews)
From $60.08
Turtle Release Escobilla Sanctuary and crocs in Ventanilla.
Ecotourism allows the relationship between the community and visitors to be equal to share and discover natural resources, if you reserve this excursion will support the conservation of these natural areas and the local community.
4.87 (30 reviews)
From $42.00
Mezcal & Mole by a Certified Sommelier
Our Mezcal and mole is the only professional Mezcal and mole pairing done by a sommelier founder of the Agave Spirits Institute.
4.75 (53 reviews)
From $76.00
Bioluminescent Night Tour
IT IS A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE IN PUERTO ESCONDIDO; OF FEW ON THE PLANET IS A PHENOMENON THAT IS FOUND IN VERY FEW PLACES THE DARKNESS IS AN ALLY TO BE ABLE TO APPRECIATE IT; YOU WILL ONLY ENJOY IT WITH YOUR OWN VIEW IT IS MAGICAL AND UNIQUE.
4.38 (53 reviews)
From $115.00
Private Historic City Tour + Street Food of Oaxaca - Best Rated
Join us on a private walking tour in Oaxaca City, where we'll take you on a journey through its rich history and tantalize your taste buds with a street food adventure.
4.88 (26 reviews)
From $58.00
AUTHENTIC OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local.
This is a project run by Betsaida, Zapotec woman, born & raised in Oaxaca. This project started 6 years ago with the simple desire to share to the world, the beauty & cultural richness of Oaxaca.
4.98 (386 reviews)
From $91.15
Private Transportation from Oaxaca Airport to Hotel
Quality and experience in our transfers, are safe transfers, with service with a professional driver in professional tourist transfer.
4.63 (82 reviews)
From $49.00
Traditional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma's Recipes
We welcome you into our home with open arms! Immediately, you will feel part of our family and our traditions. We begin our welcome, the same way my abuela did with me, with hot chocolate and pan.
4.99 (118 reviews)
From $90.00
Private transfer from Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido - new highway
We have available a modern vehicle, with air conditioning, insurance, government permits, in good condition and a driver with driving experience.
4.59 (39 reviews)
From $359.99
Baby Turtle Release Tour + Pick up + Courtesy in Puerto Escondido!
Have you ever dreamed of releasing baby turtles into the sea? Turtles come to lay their eggs in and around Puerto Escondido throughout the year.
4.69 (13 reviews)
From $82.00
What activities can I do in Oaxaca?
Oaxaca, Mexico is a vibrant and culturally rich city with plenty of things to see and do. Here are some recommendations for things to do in Oaxaca: 1. Explore the Historic Center: Start your visit by wandering through the streets of the historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire the colonial architecture, visit the impressive Santo Domingo Church, and explore the vibrant markets. 2. Visit Monte Albán: Just outside of Oaxaca City, you'll find the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán. Explore the ancient pyramids, temples, and ball courts, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valley. 3. Discover Oaxacan Cuisine: Oaxaca is known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some local specialties. Sample traditional dishes like tlayudas (large tortillas topped with meat, cheese, and vegetables), mole (a rich sauce made with chocolate and spices), and mezcal (a smoky agave-based spirit). 4. Take a Cooking Class: If you're interested in learning more about Oaxacan cuisine, consider taking a cooking class. You'll have the opportunity to learn traditional recipes, visit local markets, and prepare your own meal. 5. Visit the Ethnobotanical Garden: This unique garden showcases the diverse plant species of Oaxaca, many of which are used in traditional medicine and rituals. Take a guided tour to learn about the cultural and medicinal significance of these plants. 6. Explore the Museums: Oaxaca has several interesting museums to visit. The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca displays a collection of archaeological artifacts, while the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca features contemporary Mexican art. The Textile Museum showcases the rich textile traditions of the region. 7. Take a Day Trip to Hierve el Agua: About two hours from Oaxaca City, you'll find the stunning natural rock formations and mineral springs of Hierve el Agua. Take a dip in the natural pools and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. 8. Attend a Traditional Festival: Oaxaca is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations. If you're lucky, you might be able to witness events like the Guelaguetza, a traditional dance festival, or the Day of the Dead celebrations in November. 9. Shop for Artisan Crafts: Oaxaca is famous for its artisan crafts, including pottery, textiles, and alebrijes (colorful hand-carved wooden figures). Explore the markets and shops to find unique souvenirs to take home. 10. Relax in the Zócalo: The main square of Oaxaca City, known as the Zócalo, is a great place to relax and people-watch. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafes, enjoy some ice cream, and soak in the lively atmosphere. These are just a few of the many things to do in Oaxaca. The city offers a rich cultural experience with its history, cuisine, crafts, and festivals. Enjoy your visit!
When is the best time to travel to Oaxaca?
The best time to travel to Oaxaca, Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect warm and sunny weather with minimal rainfall. The temperatures are pleasant, ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to high 20s Celsius). This is also the peak tourist season, so you can enjoy various cultural events and festivals that take place during this time, such as the Day of the Dead celebrations in November. If you prefer to avoid crowds and are looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to October. The weather is still relatively dry and warm, and you can enjoy lower hotel rates and fewer tourists. However, if you don't mind the rainy season, which occurs from May to October, you can still visit Oaxaca during this time. The rain showers are usually short-lived and followed by clear skies. The landscape becomes lush and green, and you can experience a more authentic and less crowded Oaxacan atmosphere. It's important to note that Oaxaca can experience occasional earthquakes, so it's recommended to stay informed about any potential risks and follow the advice of local authorities.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Oaxaca
Oaxaca is a vibrant and culturally rich city located in the southern part of Mexico. It is known for its indigenous heritage, colonial architecture, delicious cuisine, and traditional arts and crafts. Here are some highlights of Oaxaca's travel culture: 1. Indigenous Heritage: Oaxaca is home to numerous indigenous communities, including the Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. These communities have preserved their ancient traditions, languages, and customs, making Oaxaca a hub for indigenous culture in Mexico. Visitors can explore archaeological sites such as Monte Albán and Mitla, where they can learn about the ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. 2. Festivals: Oaxaca is famous for its vibrant festivals, which showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. The most well-known festival is the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), celebrated in late October and early November. During this time, the city comes alive with colorful altars, parades, and traditional ceremonies to honor the deceased. Other popular festivals include the Guelaguetza, a celebration of indigenous dance and music, and the Radish Night (Noche de Rábanos), where locals create intricate sculptures from radishes. 3. Cuisine: Oaxaca is a paradise for food lovers. The city is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, which combines indigenous ingredients with Spanish influences. Oaxacan dishes such as mole (a complex sauce made with chocolate and chili peppers), tlayudas (large tortillas topped with various ingredients), and mezcal (a traditional agave-based spirit) are must-try delicacies. Visitors can also explore the bustling markets, such as the Mercado de Benito Juárez, to sample local street food and buy traditional ingredients. 4. Arts and Crafts: Oaxaca is famous for its traditional arts and crafts, which are deeply rooted in indigenous traditions. The city is known for its vibrant textiles, pottery, woodcarvings, and alebrijes (colorful, handcrafted animal sculptures). Visitors can visit local workshops and markets to see artisans at work and purchase unique handmade souvenirs. 5. Colonial Architecture: Oaxaca's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is filled with beautiful colonial architecture. The city's main square, the Zócalo, is surrounded by stunning buildings, including the Cathedral of Oaxaca and the Government Palace. Walking through the city's streets, visitors can admire the colorful facades, ornate balconies, and charming courtyards that reflect its colonial past. Overall, Oaxaca offers a rich and immersive cultural experience for travelers, with its indigenous heritage, festivals, cuisine, arts, and architecture. It is a destination that celebrates and preserves Mexico's diverse cultural traditions.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Oaxaca
When visiting Oaxaca, Mexico, there are several shopping lists or souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home. Here are some popular options: 1. Oaxacan Textiles: Oaxaca is known for its vibrant and intricate textiles. You can find handwoven rugs, blankets, tablecloths, and clothing made by local artisans. Look for pieces made using traditional techniques such as the Zapotec weaving style. 2. Alebrijes: These are colorful and whimsical wooden animal figurines that are hand-carved and painted by artisans in Oaxaca. They make for unique and eye-catching souvenirs. 3. Black Pottery: Oaxaca is famous for its black pottery, known as ""barro negro."" The pottery is made using a traditional technique and has a distinct black color. You can find vases, bowls, and other decorative items made from this pottery. 4. Mezcal: Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit made from agave plants. Consider bringing back a bottle of mezcal as a unique and authentic souvenir. You can also find mezcal-related accessories like shot glasses and mezcal tasting sets. 5. Traditional Crafts: Oaxaca is rich in traditional crafts such as hand-painted ceramics, carved wooden masks, and woven baskets. These crafts showcase the region's cultural heritage and make for beautiful souvenirs. 6. Chocolate: Oaxaca is known for its delicious chocolate. Look for locally made chocolate bars, hot chocolate mixes, or traditional Oaxacan chocolate drinks like champurrado. 7. Handmade Jewelry: Oaxaca has a thriving jewelry-making industry, and you can find unique pieces made from silver, amber, and other gemstones. Look for earrings, necklaces, and bracelets crafted by local artisans. 8. Traditional Clothing: Oaxaca is known for its traditional clothing, including embroidered blouses and dresses. Consider buying a piece of traditional clothing as a souvenir to remember your trip. Remember to support local artisans and buy from reputable sellers to ensure the authenticity and quality of your purchases.
Oaxaca travel review
Oaxaca, Mexico: A Journey Through Culture and Tradition Nestled in the southern part of Mexico, the state of Oaxaca is a hidden gem that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its vibrant colonial architecture to its colorful markets and ancient ruins, Oaxaca is a destination that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. One of the highlights of Oaxaca is its capital city, also named Oaxaca. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a treasure trove of colonial architecture, with its cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings adorned with intricate balconies and wrought-iron designs. The city's main square, known as the Zocalo, is the heart of Oaxaca, bustling with locals and visitors alike. Here, you can relax on a bench and soak in the atmosphere while enjoying the view of the stunning Cathedral of Oaxaca, a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque architecture. Beyond the city's architectural wonders, Oaxaca is renowned for its culinary traditions. The region is a food lover's paradise, with its diverse cuisine influenced by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec cultures. Oaxacan cuisine is known for its rich flavors and unique ingredients, such as the famous mole sauce, made from a blend of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate. A visit to Oaxaca would not be complete without indulging in a traditional meal at one of the many local restaurants or street food stalls, where you can savor dishes like tlayudas (oversized tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat) or chapulines (crispy grasshoppers seasoned with chili and lime). Oaxaca is also home to a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with its markets brimming with handmade textiles, pottery, and woodcarvings. The city's Mercado de Artesanias is a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and take home a piece of Oaxaca's artistic heritage. Here, you can browse through stalls filled with colorful textiles woven on traditional looms, intricate pottery adorned with Zapotec motifs, and delicate alebrijes, whimsical wooden sculptures carved by skilled artisans. Beyond the city, Oaxaca offers a wealth of natural beauty to explore. The region is home to several stunning archaeological sites, including Monte Alban and Mitla, which provide a glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once thrived in this area. These sites are not only historically significant but also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. For nature enthusiasts, a visit to Hierve el Agua is a must. This natural wonder features petrified waterfalls and mineral-rich pools, creating a surreal landscape that is perfect for swimming and hiking. The nearby Sierra Norte mountain range is also a paradise for outdoor activities, with its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages waiting to be discovered. No trip to Oaxaca would be complete without experiencing one of its vibrant festivals. The region is known for its colorful celebrations, such as the Guelaguetza, a traditional dance festival that takes place in July. During this time, the city comes alive with music, dance, and traditional costumes, as locals and visitors come together to celebrate Oaxaca's diverse cultural heritage. In conclusion, Oaxaca is a destination that offers a truly immersive experience into Mexico's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the colonial architecture of its capital city to indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine and discovering its ancient ruins and natural wonders, Oaxaca has something to offer every traveler. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey through Oaxaca, where you'll be enchanted by its charm and captivated by its traditions.