Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: A Complete Travel Guide
Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico offers a mix of history, culture, and amazing food. The city is full of colorful streets, lively markets, and beautiful colonial buildings, making it a great destination for any traveler.
Outside the city, you can explore natural wonders like Hierve el Agua and the Sierra Norte mountains. There are plenty of opportunities for adventure, sightseeing, and relaxing in peaceful surroundings. Oaxaca is known for its festivals, local crafts, and incredible cuisine, and also for having one of the best Dia de los Muertos celebrations in the country.
In this complete Oaxaca travel guide, we’ll go over the best neighborhoods to stay, top dishes to try, how to get around, and must-see sights to help you plan your most epic visit.
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Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: A Brief Intro
So are you ready to learn all about visiting Oaxaca, Mexico? Let's start off our guide with some basic facts about Oaxaca, and what it's known for.
What is So Special About Oaxaca, Mexico?
Oaxaca is one of the most colorful places in Mexico to visit, and is home to beautiful gardens, vibrant murals, and cute cafes. It's known for having one of the most delicious cuisines in the country, and it also stands out for its over-the-top holiday celebrations, particularly those of Dia de los Muertos.
Oaxaca city is also special for its nearby archaeological sites, an abundance of mezcal fields, and some breathtaking natural landscapes, making it a well-rounded destination for all different traveler types.
Where is Oaxaca Located in Mexico?
Oaxaca is located in the south of Mexico, about 285 miles (460 km) southeast of Mexico City. Tucked away in a valley surrounded by the Sierra Madre mountains, the city of Oaxaca sits at an elevation of roughly 5,000 feet (1,550 meters), making it vastly different than the country's beach destinations.
Oaxaca de Juarez is the capital of Oaxaca state, and it’s the perfect jumping-off point for exploring ancient ruins such as Monte Albán and Mitla, nearby mountain villages, and the Pacific coast.
What is the Difference Between Oaxaca and Oaxaca de Juarez?
When most travelers talk about visiting Oaxaca, Mexico they are referring to Oaxaca de Juarez, the main city of Oaxaca. Oaxaca is not just a city, but also a state though, and is full of incredible places to explore.
One of the most popular Oaxacan destinations other than the city of Oaxaca de Juarez is Puerto Escondido, a trendy beach town along the Pacific coast of Mexico, which is a few hours away from Oaxaca city.
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Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: How to Get There
Now that you know a bit about visiting Oaxaca, Mexico, let's check out how to get there!
What is the Best Way to Travel to Oaxaca?
The best way to travel to Oaxaca due to its location in Mexico is to fly directly into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), which is just outside the main city Oaxaca de Juarez.
You can also visit Oaxaca from other parts of Mexico by bus, renting a car, or hiring a driver.
If you're wanting to find the cheapest way to get to Oaxaca, or to simply compare all the options for getting to Oaxaca, then check out our full guide below!
Planning a trip to southern Mexico and wondering how to get to Oaxaca? This colorful city is one of the country’s cultural gems, famous for its vibrant markets, mezcal, and ancient traditions.Whether you’re flying in from abroad, coming from Mexico City, or traveling from the coast, there are several easy
Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: Entry Requirements
If you're planning on visiting Oaxaca, Mexico directly from another country, you'll have to keep in mind the specific entry requirements.
Do I Need a Visa for Mexico?
Nationalities that DON'T need a visa for Mexico include Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Malaysia, Malta, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Niue, Norway, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad and Tobago, The UAE, The UK, The USA, and Uruguay.
IMPORTANT Visa Info
Many countries (including the US) will actually only need to go through a machine to go through customs. You won't get a stamp, but you WILL receive a piece of paper that you NEED to keep with you.
If you lose the paper, you'll have to pay a fine to get a new one (which is precisely what happened to me). You must physically have that paper - not just a picture or digital copy.
It's a massive inconvenience as the counter is very far from the check in counters, and they'll try to force you to pay in cash. I begged, and they ended up finally letting me pay with credit card, but I nearly missed my check in with the running back and forth.
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Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: Local Adjustments
If you're visiting Oaxaca, Mexico for the first time, it's important to know that some things may be different than you are used to at home! Here are a few of those things to keep in mind in order to make your trip smoother.
Language in Oaxaca
Spanish is the official language in Oaxaca, Mexico
Is English Spoken in Oaxaca?
There are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops that have English-speaking staff, but learning a bit of Spanish will really help you get around much better.
Local Currency
Mexico uses the Mexican Peso, and you should definitely keep cash on you while exploring Oaxaca. The exchange rate is typically around 1:20 for the USD.
Electrical Plugs
They the same outlets as the US, which are for plug types A & B. Mexico operates on a 127V supply voltage and 60Hz.
Can You Drink the Water in Oaxaca?
It's not advised to drink the water in Oaxaca, so we recommend getting large jugs of water from the supermarket and then refilling a reusable water bottles so you can be a more eco-friendly traveler.
Is it Customary to Tip in Oaxaca?
Tipping in Mexico is typically a standard 10% in restaurants, and you should also save some cash to tip in hotels.
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What to Do & See While Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico
Now that you know all the basics for visiting Oaxaca, Mexico, let's dive into all of the fun things to see and do!
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Top Things to Do While Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico
Roam Around Zocalo
Visit Santo Domingo Church
Explore the Oaxaca Botanical Gardens
Check Out the Museums
Photograph the Colorful Neighborhoods
Shop at the Artisan Markets
Watch a Performance at the Macedonio Alcala Theater
Tour the Markets
Discover the Art Galleries
Explore the Street Art
Other Fun Activities to Do While Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico
Try a Quesillo & Paper-making Tour
Check Out an Art Printing Workshop
Experience a Day of the Dead Altar Workshop
Day Trips from Oaxaca de Juarez
While the city of Oaxaca has plenty to offer, there are also some incredible nearby destinations which include:
- Tree of Tule: the widest tree in the world!
- Monte Alban: one of the most important archaeological sites in the region.
- Mitla: another significant archaeological town
- Hierve el Agu: a petrified waterfall - one of the most stunning wonders of Mexico!
Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: Local Food & Drink
One of the best ways to enjoy visiting Oaxaca, Mexico is by diving into the delicious food scene. Oaxaca is known for its unique cuisine, as well as its Mezcal production, making it a great place to eat and drink your heart out.
Here are some dishes you won't want to miss out on:
- Mole Negro: Oaxaca’s signature dish, this rich, dark sauce is made from over 30 ingredients, including chocolate, chiles, and spices, typically served over chicken.
- Tlayudas: Known as “Oaxacan pizza,” this large crispy tortilla is topped with refried beans, cheese, avocado, lettuce, and your choice of meat.
- Memelas: Thick corn tortillas spread with beans and topped with cheese, salsa, and sometimes chorizo, making for a popular local street food.
- Tamales Oaxaqueños: Unlike other tamales in Mexico, these are wrapped in banana leaves and filled with mole, chicken, or pork for a flavorful twist.
- Chapulines: Toasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime, salt, and garlic - for the adventurous travelers out there!
- Enmoladas: Tortillas filled with chicken or cheese, drenched in mole sauce, and sprinkled with sesame seeds and queso fresco.
- Tejate: A traditional pre-Hispanic drink made from corn, cacao, mamey seeds, and flor de cacao.
- Quesillo (Oaxacan Cheese): A stringy, mozzarella-like cheese often used in tlayudas and quesadillas. It’s mild, salty, and seriously one of the most addicting cheeses in the world.
Looking for a seriously delicious no-frills restaurant with crazy good prices? Head to Tacomiendo, which has a few branches throughout the city.
Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: Getting Around
Now that you know the basics of visiting Oaxaca, Mexico and what to do and eat, let's help you navigate the city.
Is Oaxaca a Walkable City?
Oaxaca is pretty big, but is also very pedestrian friendly! There are plenty of charming neighborhoods, so we'd recommend exploring on foot as much as you can.
There are a lot of pedestrian only streets in Oaxaca.
What is the Best Way to Get Around Oaxaca?
Other than getting around Mexico on foot, you can also get around by local bus within the city, and to reach other nearby points of interest. If you prefer to save time and don't mind spending more, you can always grab a taxi or order a Didi, which is a more popular ride share app.
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Where to Stay While Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico
Now that you know what to do and how to get around, let's find you a place to stay while visiting Oaxaca, Mexico.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City: Neighborhoods
- Centro Histórico: The heart of Oaxaca and the best area for first-time visitors. It’s filled with colonial architecture, lively markets, museums, and most of the city’s top restaurants, cafes, and nightlife. Staying here means you can walk to almost everything.
- Jalatlaco: A colorful and artistic neighborhood just east of the city center. Known for its cobblestone streets, street art, and relaxed local vibe, it offers a quieter stay while still being close to the main attractions.
- Xochimilco: One of Oaxaca’s oldest and most charming areas, north of the center. It has a more local feel with artisan workshops, cozy cafes, and scenic streets, perfect for travelers who want something authentic yet peaceful.
Jalatlaco is a colorful neighborhood and great place to stay while visiting Oaxaca, Mexico.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca City: Recommended Hotels
Now that you know which neighborhood to stay in, here are some carefully-picked properties for a variety of budgets.
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Esencia Hostal Terminal Oaxaca: A simple and affordable stay right across from the ADO bus terminal, offering clean rooms, free WiFi, and easy access to public transport.
- Nomada Hostel: A cozy hostel with both dorms and private rooms, featuring a communal kitchen, rooftop terrace, and a laid-back, social atmosphere just outside the busy city center.
- Maka Hostel: A stylish and vibrant hostel in Oaxaca’s historic center with a rooftop pool, free breakfast, and daily activities that make it easy to meet other travelers.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Boulenc Bed and Bread: A trendy boutique stay near Santo Domingo Church with beautifully designed rooms, a great in-house bakery, and a central location ideal for exploring Oaxaca on foot.
- Hotel Cazomalli Oaxaca: Located in the colorful Jalatlaco neighborhood, this charming hotel combines traditional décor with modern comfort and offers a relaxing rooftop terrace.
- Grana B&B: Bright, stylish rooms just a block from the Ethnobotanical Garden and pedestrian street; includes garden patio, organic breakfast options, and warm, boutique hospitality.
Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Azul de Oaxaca: A boutique art hotel in a colonial building offering designer rooms, a serene courtyard, rooftop bar, and an on-site restaurant with contemporary Oaxacan cuisine.
- Casa Bonita Hotel & Luxury Residence: A refined retreat just outside the city center with spacious rooms, a pool, lush gardens, and a restaurant serving high-end local dishes.
- Suites de La Parra: Centrally located with elegant décor, excellent service, and upscale amenities including an outdoor pool and rooftop dining with city views.
Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico: Safety
Many people assume Mexico is unsafe, and that that's the case across the entire country. Well, here's some fun news for you!
Is it Safe Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico?
Oaxaca is considered one of the safer destinations in Mexico for travelers. The city welcomes a couple million visitors each year, and the atmosphere is really warm and welcoming.
Petty theft like pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas during big events, so you will always want to keep an eye on your belongings just in case. Serious crime is rare though, and you won't have to worry about the stereotypical concerns of safety in Mexico.
We also met a ton of digital nomads in Oaxaca, and plenty of solo travelers, making it an ideal destination for young tourists.
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Other Things to Know About Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico
Now you know almost everything you need for visiting Oaxaca, Mexico! But don't go just yet - here are a few final things to keep in mind for your trip.
Weather in Oaxaca
Oaxaca has pretty mild year round, with dryer, sunny months from October to April, and wetter, more humid weather in the the months of May-September. In the dry season temperatures are warm and pleasant during the days, and have cooler evenings, while the wetter months are a bit hotter.
You can experience swimming weather year-round in Oaxaca.
What is the Best Month to Go to Oaxaca, Mexico?
The best time to visit Oaxaca is in October to celebrate Dia de los Muertos and experience all of the incredible festivities in the weeks leading up to it.
With pleasant weather all winter long, other than October the best time of year to visit anytime in the dry season, lasting until April. This is when you can really take advantage of the incredible weather and avoid the heavy rains and higher humidity.
Dia de los Muertos is the best time of year to visit Oaxaca.
Packing For a Trip to Oaxaca, Mexico
- Comfortable Clothes for walking around
- Light sweater for the evenings
- Bathing Suit (for hotel pools or for visiting Hierve el Agua)
- Towel
- Waterproof Camera (we use the GoPro for water activities, and the Insta 360 with the extra long selfie stick for drone-like shots)
- Camera - (we use the Sony A7Riii)
- Wide Lens (we use the Sony GM 14 mm)
- Telephoto Lens for capturing up close shots of the petrified falls from afar (we use the Sony GM 70-200)
- Tripod to get pictures while no one is around or for astrophotography at Hierve el Agua (We use the Rangepod Tripod)
- Sunscreen (make sure it's reef safe if you are going to Hierve el Agua)
- Sunglasses
- Insulated Water Bottle (to hold the temperature)
- Flip Flops for Hierve el Agua or when heading to the beach (we personally always get Havaiana flip flops, as they are comfy and long lasting)
- Sneakers for hiking and outdoor adventures
- Small Bag or Backpack - take a look at these backpacks for travelers!
- Power Bank (we use Anker power banks, as they are the best in the market and last super long)
- Toiletries
- Cash (you'll need cash for activities, tipping, and local vendors)
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Is Oaxaca Worth Visiting for Tourists?
There are so many great reasons to visit Oaxaca! It certainly is worth visiting no matter what kind of traveler you. It has vibrant colors, a rich food scene, fun nightlife, and breathtaking nature surrounding it.
No Matter if you're an adventurous couple, a family with young children, or a solo-female traveler, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy in Oaxaca, Mexico.
How Many Days to Spend in Oaxaca
The city of Oaxaca definitely deserves a couple of days, and there are also some other great day trips to take while there. We'd recommend spending 3-4 days so that you can enjoy all of the top things to do in Oaxaca, and around it - although you could certainly spend a full week if you plan on traveling slow or taking it easy.
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So are you ready to experience the vibrant city of Oaxaca? Visiting Oaxaca, Mexico is definitely a must while exploring this fun and colorful country. It's one of our favorite places in Mexico, and we're sure you're going to love it just as much as we do.
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