oaxaca street food tour betsy

10 Best Oaxaca Street Food Tours for Foodies in 2024

Ready to book one of the best street food tours in Oaxaca City?

You’ve come to the right place! This guide highlights the 10 best Oaxaca street food tours, allowing you to experience this vibrant city’s unique and delicious cuisine.

Exotic flavors, traditional ingredients, and innovative preparation methods all contribute to the joy of discovering new places, and eating street food in Oaxaca is no exception.

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best tour in Oaxaca is Earth, Corn & Fire: Tasting the Roots of Oaxacan Cuisine , with a perfect 5 Star rating.

On these Oaxaca Mexico food tours, you’ll explore local markets to taste the best food in Oaxaca City.

From devouring mouth-watering tacos, to indulging in the famous mole, these Oaxaca food tours offer a one-of-a-kind foodie experience.

Taste the best street food in Oaxaca with the top food tours Oaxaca Mexico has.

Ready to savor the authentic flavors of Mexico, taste the best food in Oaxaca and book one of the best Oaxaca culinary tours? Let’s go! 

Top 3 Picks: Best Oaxaca Street Food Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Earth, Corn & Fire: Tasting the Roots of Oaxacan Cuisine ✔️ Breakfast, lunch, snacks ✔️ Drinks

  Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with Oaxaca Market Tour ✔️ All ingredients ✔️ Tour to a local market

Foodie Tour in Oaxaca City ✔️ Concierge services ✔️ Use of free bikes

10 Best Oaxaca Street Food Tours

1. earth, corn & fire: tasting the roots of oaxacan cuisine.

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 5 hours | 🌮 Check Rates & Availability

Embark on a delicious journey through the vibrant streets of Oaxaca and discover the essence of traditional Oaxacan cooking on this Earth, Corn & Fire food tour . 

Explore neighborhood markets , taste Oaxaca’s iconic dishes and street snacks, and learn about local corn in various forms.

Our guide Luis was excellent — He was friendly and familiar with the city and he provided a very interesting and well paced tour. We walked and talked and ate a wide variety of local foods . -Connie ( read more reviews )

You’ll also meet market vendors who have been in the business for decades and even visit a gallery run by young artists.

This tour offers an edible crash course on the elements that are a bedrock of traditional Oaxacan cooking and how they’re being preserved. 

You’ll end your journey with a delicious meal in a family-run restaurant in Oacaxa City, where you’ll sample different types of mole , one of the city’s most famous creations.

2. Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with Oaxaca Market Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 4.5 hours | 🥘 Check Rates & Availability

Have you ever wanted to learn how to cook authentic Mexican food? Well, now you can on this Flavors of Oaxaca cooking class , which includes a market tour. 

Join a small, intimate group and explore a local market to gather the freshest ingredients for your cooking workshop.

Great day!! Really good teacher. Very fun and educational . The open market place was very inspiring with a virtual cornucopia of culinary bliss. -peter ( read more reviews )

With no set menu, you and your group can choose which traditional dishes to prepare.

You’ll then be immersed in Oaxacan cuisine and learn about the rich history and techniques behind each dish.

During your hands-on experience, you can create a delicious meal from scratch with the guidance of your knowledgeable instructor. 

Special dietary restrictions can be catered to, and complimentary drinks are offered as you cook and savor your culinary masterpiece. 

With a small group size, you can expect personalized attention and a genuinely unforgettable Oaxaca city food tour .

3. Foodie Tour in Oaxaca City

⭐️ Rating: 4.92 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 4 hours | 🫔 Check Rates & Availability

Indulge in the traditional flavors of Oaxaca on this exciting Walking Foodie Tour .

Discover the city’s street food stalls, markets, and more while savoring dishes like mole, memelas, tamales, tlayudas, and more.

Join a small group on this culinary adventure and explore the city with a knowledgeable guide.

Carlos was a magical guide — so keen to tailor the tour to my requirements and very knowledgable and patient with my many questions — I feel I made a friend in Oaxaca! -Barbara ( read more reviews )

Carlos will share his passion and love for Oaxaca and its cuisine, providing insight into the history and culture of the local food scene .

This tour offers a unique opportunity to support local markets and street food vendors while indulging in a memorable local and delicious culinary experience. 

Whether you are a foodie or simply seeking a new adventure, this is hands down one of the best tours in Oaxaca Mexico.

4. Eat Like a Local on This Authentic Oaxaca Food Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 5 hours | 🌯 Check Rates & Availability

Satisfy your culinary cravings and immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Oaxaca on this Eat Like a Local Authentic Food Tour .

In this foodie adventure, you will taste 24 traditional dishes at the city’s three main markets and street food stalls.

Best tour we ever took, and if we could give 10⭐️ we would! Betsaida is a wonderful, knowledgeable guide and her tour exceeded our expectations . -Bernard ( read more reviews )

And you’ll learn all about Oaxaca’s history, culture, and gastronomy as you explore the city’s hidden gems.

Come hungry and ready to experience why Oaxaca is considered one of Mexico’s most important gastronomic destinations on this incredible local food tour. 

💡 Note: This is one of the Oaxaca Mexico tours that is not suited for vegans or vegetarians . It is also best suited for active travelers, as there’s a lot of walking involved.

5. Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class with Sonia Silvia

⭐️ Rating: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 4.5 hours | 🌶️ Check Rates & Availability

Discover the traditional flavors of Oaxacan cuisine while listening to stories and sipping on mezcal in this hands-on Traditional Oaxacan Cooking clas s . 

You’ll first learn about the ingredients found in most Oaxacan homes before diving deep into the world of mezcal .

Baldo, your knowledgeable guide, will serve countless samples along with Oaxacan-style snacks, like gusano worms, chicatana ants, and chapulines — the infamous Mexican grasshoppers.

Sonia and her son Baldo were wonderful hosts and it is a beautiful location as well. The cooking experience was informative and the food was delicious. -Chris ( read more reviews )

Then it’s time to make your meal. You’ll make tortillas, tetelas, and memelas by hand during the class and learn how to make salsas using a molcajete. 

You’ll also create one of the seven moles from scratch using a metate cooking stone and taste the famous mole negro.

Everyone will participate in the different cooking processes, and the class is available in English.

Come with an empty stomach and leave with a full belly and a newfound appreciation for Oaxacan cuisine on this Oaxaca eats food tour .

6. Eating with a Local at the Oaxacan Markets

⭐️ Rating: 4.97 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 5 hours | 🥙 Check Rates & Availability

Explore the city’s bustling markets and taste over 20 traditional dishes alongside a local guide on this foodie adventure to some of the best Oaxacan markets . 

Enjoy Oaxacan cuisine’s rich culture and history as you savor each bite.

Your passionate local guide, Betsy Morales, will share her knowledge and love of Oaxaca’s internationally renowned gastronomy.

Such an amazing food tour ! I’d highly recommend doing this at the beginning of your stay in Oaxaca to get a lot of tips and recommendations on the best local foods in the area. -Kelly ( read more reviews )

Betsy was born and raised in the city, and her insider insights will enhance your experience.

With each dish, you’ll delve deeper into the flavors, techniques, and ingredients that make Oaxacan cuisine so special.

This tour not only indulges your taste buds but also supports the lifeblood of the community by visiting local businesses. 

One of the best Oaxaca tours , don’t miss this chance to feel like a local for a day and taste the authentic flavors of Oaxaca City, Mexico.

7. Visit Three Oaxacan Markets & Eat Like a Local

⭐️ Rating: 4.99 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 5 hours | 🫔 Check Rates & Availability

Discover the city’s main markets and street food stalls as you sample over 24 traditional dishes on this Eat Like a Local Walking Tour .

Some highlights include pre-Hispanic meals, five unique moles, handmade corn tortillas, grilled meats, tacos, and more.

Betsaida is so lovely and energetic, it was a pleasure to hear stories of history and customs, as well as her introductions to countless foods. -Scott ( read more reviews )

As you walk just over a mile, taking in the city’s sights and stopping at historical landmarks and notable points of interest, you’ll savor each bite while learning more about the stories of the culture and history of Oaxacan cuisine.

On this Oaxaca food market tour , you’ll be able to taste the diverse ingredients and cooking methods that have made Oaxaca one of the best foodie destinations in Mexico. 

Don’t miss this street food tour Oaxaca opportunity to eat like a local and experience the authentic flavors of Oaxaca.

💡 Please note that this tour is not appropriate for vegans or vegetarians .

8. Authentic Oaxaca Street Food Tour by Locals

⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 2.5 hours | 🫑 Check Rates & Availability

Satisfy your taste buds with authentic Oaxacan flavor on this Authentic Oaxaca Street Food Tour guided by local foodie experts.

Explore the city’s markets, including Mercado Benito Juarez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre, and taste the Oaxaca traditional foods that have made the city’s cuisine nationally and internationally recognized.

Elizabeth was a fun and knowledgeable guide. She provided very helpful information about the different foods and Oaxaca.  -Robin ( read more reviews )

Sample some of the Oaxaca best foods, like the famous el tejate — a non-alcoholic maize and cacao beverage.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, there’s also the regional delicacy of Oaxaca grasshoppers (chapulines).

Visit the Mercado 20 de Noviembre’s meat hub and taste mouth-watering roasted meats, classic tamales, and crispy tlayudas . 

End your food tour with a sweet finish of Oaxacan desserts that will leave you craving more. The best Oaxaca food tour for anyone craving a local experience.

9. Take a Tour Through the Abastos Market

⭐️ Rating: 4.94 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 9 hours | 🌽 Check Rates & Availability

Embark on a unique experience by visiting Abastos Market , home to the famous memelas Doña Vale featured on Netflix Street Food: Latin America.

After breakfast with Doña Vale herself, you’ll explore the market with a local guide, starting with the shaman section to see the herbs and plants.

Javier is a great guide and takes you to the best spots – also makes extra touches for vegetarians ! A must-do early on in your trip. -Eden ( read more reviews )

Stroll through the colorful fruit and vegetable section, snap some photos, and learn about the daily life of the locals who shop at the market. 

You’ll also discover the rich flavors of Oaxacan cuisine with dishes like pumpkin flower empanadas, tejate, pulque, mezcal, tamales, yellow empanadas, barbacoa tacos, and more.

This is the perfect opportunity to visit the famous Abastos Market, one of Oaxaca’s largest markets. 

All food is included in the tour, so come hungry and ready to experience the authentic tastes of Mexico on one of the best Oaxaca Mexican food tours .

10. Tacos and Secret Bars in Oaxaca City

⭐️ Rating: 4.97 out of 5 Stars | ⏰ Tour Length : 3 hours | 🌮 Check Rates & Availability

Get ready to experience the city like never before on this Tacos and Secret Bars tour . 

Explore the hidden gems of Oaxaca’s nightlife as you travel through its neighborhoods, savoring the best tacos and sipping cold beers at some of the city’s most beloved bars.

Gerardo made this trip so enjoyable and easy. It was the perfect amount of tacos in real Oaxacan neighborhoods and good information. -Christine ( read more reviews )

With a knowledgeable local guide at your side, you’ll delve into the history and culture of the city while indulging in delicious Oaxacan food and drinks . 

You’ll visit two taquerias and end the night at one of the guide’s favorite bars in the city center.

The experience can be tailored to your preferences, making it the perfect night out in Oaxaca.

11 Best Oaxaca Street Foods 

So what food is Oaxaca known for? Here are some of the best Oaxaca street foods you should try when visiting the city. Ready for an Oaxaca foodie guide?

Let’s look at some of the best food Oaxaca has to offer:

Tacos are undoubtedly the king of Mexican street food, and Oaxaca has some of the most delicious varieties you’ll ever taste.

From carne asada to barbacoa and al pastor, Oaxacan tacos are packed with flavor and texture.

🌮 Among the most popular taco options are tacos de guisado (“stew tacos”), barbacoa (BBQ), birria (shredded meat), carne asada (grilled beef), carnitas (fried pork), chorizo (sausage), and pescado (fish).

Tacos al pastor is also a must-try. These tacos feature thin slices of marinated pork cooked on a spit, similar to shawarma, and are often served with pineapple, pico de gallo, cilantro, and lime juice.

Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned Oaxaca Mexican foodie, you can’t go wrong with a plate of delicious tacos from the local street vendors — one of the best Mexico Oaxaca food dishes.

2. Tlayudas

Although some might refer to it as a Mexican-style pizza, the comparison ends there.

🫓 🔥 Tlayuda Oaxaca food is made by toasting a gigantic tortilla on a traditional cooking comal , a large, flat cooking surface commonly used in Oaxacan street food.  

To give the tortilla a rich, smoky flavor, it is smeared with asiento, an unrefined pork lard, before being cooked. 

Once the tortilla is ready, it is topped with refried beans, fresh tomatoes, onions, lettuce or cabbage, avocado, Oaxacan string cheese , or quesillo.

This fresh cheese is made by hand and then rolled into a ball, and it is beloved throughout Mexico and beyond. 

The tlayuda is then folded into fourths and can be topped with tasajo or chorizo for those who want to add meat. 

Head to the local markets to find some of the most authentic and delicious versions of this classic Oaxacan dish.

3. Memelas (Memelitas)

Memelas , also known as Memelitas, is a traditional Oaxaca food dish.

These small, thick tortillas are cooked on a comal and then topped with beans, cheese, and your choice of meat. 

The tortillas are made with masa, the same dough used for making tortillas, but they’re thicker and have a slightly chewy texture.

After cooking the tortillas, they’re topped with a layer of refried black beans and crumbled queso fresco, a fresh cheese staple in Mexican cuisine. 

For added flavor and heat, various types of meat can be added to the memelas, including chorizo, tasajo (thinly sliced beef that’s been marinated), or cecina (thinly sliced pork). 

Memelas can be found in many street markets throughout Oaxaca, with each vendor putting their own spin on this classic dish.

 🤤 MEMELAS DOÑA VALE

📍 Memelas Dona Vale is  located here , in Central de Abastos Market.

You can try memelas in markets all over the city, but there’s one place more popular than the rest— Memelas Doña Vale .

Some say it’s among the best places for memelas in Oaxaca, if not the best.

Memelas Doña Vale in Mercado Central de Abastos is a must-try on any Oaxaca City foodie tour .

It was even featured on Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America show.

The chef and owner, Doña Vale (Ms. Vale), is known for her memelas and unique salsa morita .

This delicious, hand-made salsa uses chile morita , a smoked jalapeño pepper that tastes like smoky chipotle.

4. Tamales Oaxaqueños

Tamales are an iconic Mexican food staple enjoyed across the country in many different variations. 

The basic concept of a tamal involves a mixture of masa, or corn dough, typically filled with meat, vegetables, or other ingredients and then steamed in either a corn husk or a plantain leaf. 

🫔 In Oaxaca, tamales are often made with the same masa mixture as in other regions of Mexico but with the unique addition of a plantain leaf , which gives them a distinctive flavor and texture. 

In Oaxaca, you’ll often hear tamales referred to as “hoja” tamales, with “hoja” being the Spanish word for “leaf.”

Tamales are a staple of Oaxacan cuisine, and you’ll find them sold by street vendors in local markets and small, family-run restaurants throughout the city. 

For those who want to try the best Oaxacan tamales, head to the Tlacolula market on Sundays .

You will find here a wide variety of mouth-watering tamales, including the classic Oaxacan-style tamales wrapped in plantain leaves.

5.  Tetelas

Another Oaxaca typical food dish, tetelas are great if you are looking for vegetarian options.

These small, triangular-shaped hand pies are made with a mixture of masa and black beans, with most tetelas not containing meat. 

They are stuffed with a black bean paste, a common Oaxacan preparation, and quesillo string cheese .

Many tetelas also contain hoja de santa , a leaf from the pepper plant used in many Oaxacan dishes, giving them a unique flavor among Oaxacan street food options.

Tetelas are cooked on a traditional Mexican comal , which gives them a crispy exterior and a soft and chewy interior.

Once cooked, they’re served hot, so the quesillo thoroughly melts within the triangular pocket. 

This makes them perfect for eating on the go, as they’re one of the most convenient Oaxaca foods.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, tetelas are a must-try for anyone visiting Oaxaca.

6. Oaxaca Mole

Mole is a beloved and iconic sauce in Oaxacan cuisine, known for its complex blend of spices, chiles, and other ingredients.

Oaxaca has seven different types of mole , each with a distinct flavor and appearance. 

The most famous type is mole negro (black mole), made with more than 20 ingredients, including chiles, nuts, fruits, and spices.

It’s often served over chicken, pork, turkey or beef, and is an Oaxacan celebratory meal staple. 

Other popular varieties of mole include: mole amarillo (yellow mole), and mole coloradito (red mole).

Yellow mole is made with yellow chiles, and has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. Red mole is made with ancho chiles and gets its color from chocolate and tomato. 

They’re both usually served with rice, and over chicken or turkey.

While mole is often served in restaurants, it’s also a popular street food in Oaxaca , where you can find it smothered over enchiladas, tamales, and even empanadas.

7. Empanada de Mole Amarillo

Empanada de Mole Amarillo is a classic Oaxacan street food that combines mole sauce’s rich and complex flavors with an empanada’s crispy and flaky texture. 

These savory pastries are made with a masa dough filled with shredded chicken, potatoes, and carrots and then smothered in a rich mole sauce.

The mole amarillo sauce is made with various ingredients, including chiles, tomatoes, and spices, and has a distinct yellow color.

The empanadas are then baked or fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior that complements the rich and spicy filling.

These football-shaped savory pastries are made with a thick masa dough filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and meats like chorizo or cecina.

The dough is then folded over the filling and fried to a crispy golden brown. 

Molotes are often served with various toppings, such as salsa, crema, and fresh cheese, and are sold by street vendors in local markets and at food stalls throughout Oaxaca.

9. Elotes and Esquites

Quite simply, elote is corn on the cob grilled to perfection.

However, elote is taken to the next level by smothering the corn in mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh lime juice. 

The resulting dish is a delicious portable snack perfect for eating on the go. They represent Mexican cuisine’s bold and complex flavors, with a mix of smoky, spicy, and salty flavors.

Esquites are another classic Mexican street food that’s a popular snack for locals and visitors alike.

Similar to elote, esquites are made with grilled corn, but the kernels are removed from the cob and served in a cup.

The corn is mixed with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice, creating a savory and delicious snack perfect for eating on the go. 

🌭 When getting your esquites, be on the lookout for bandeiras or “Mexican corn dogs.” These two make for a fantastic carnival food-style combo!

10. Chapulines (Mexican Grasshoppers)

Chapulines , or grasshoppers in English, are bite-sized snacks toasted on a comal and seasoned with garlic, lime juice, salt, and chilies. 

Despite their unusual appearance, chapulines are actually delicious, with a flavor that’s been compared to salt and vinegar chips. 

Compared to chips, however, chapulines offer much more protein and are considered a healthier snack.

The texture is a bit crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. 

While you can find chapulines throughout Mexico , they’re most popular in Oaxaca State.

You’ll find them sold by the kilo from street vendors and in Oaxacan markets , and you can usually get chapulines at sports events as well. 

Some restaurants in Oaxaca also serve guacamole with chapulines as an appetizer.

Nieves is a refreshing and delicious Oaxacan street food that’s a must-try during a hot day in the city. 

The name “nieves” means “snow” in Spanish, and it’s essentially a cross between shaved ice and fruit sorbet.

Nieves are made with fresh, local fruits or sweet ingredients, which are frozen, shaved, and served. 

You’ll find nieves sold from old-school ice cream carts on the streets of Oaxaca City , and the best place to try them is at the Plaza de las Nieves at the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad Church. 

Since Central Mexico has a long growing season, there are always interesting and unique flavors of nieves to try, such as tuna (cactus pear), guanabana (soursop), zapote (mamey), maracuyá (passion fruit), and even rose petals.

🍨 OTHER BEST OAXACA DESSERTS

If nieves sound yummy to you, be on the lookout for paletas (popsicles), raspados (shaved ice, sometimes called granizados), and mangonadas (a type of thick mango smoothie).

Oaxaca City Travel Guide and FAQ

How do you pronounce Oaxaca?

Wondering about the Oaxaca pronunciation? It’s a common question, so if you are, you’re not alone! The word Oaxaca is pronounced waa-haa-kah .

Where is Oaxaca located?

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico, surrounded by other Mexican states like Chiapas and Puebla.

🗺️ Oaxaca Map

The southern edge of the state sits on the Pacific Ocean. Oaxaca City is the state’s capital city.

It is located about six hours south of Mexico City , you can book direct flights.

What is the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?

The best time to travel to Oaxaca is during the dry season, October to May .

If you don’t mind some rain during the Oaxaca rainy season, you will also get lower prices — as this is the slow season.

🌡️ Oaxaca weather

If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca busy season runs from about late October for the Day of the Dead through mid-January.

Many also visit Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City) for the Guelaguetza in July, the second biggest Oaxaca festival .

Oaxaca City has a desert climate, so hot days and cool nights.

The temperature in Oaxaca City fluctuates a lot, so be mindful and bring layers when packing for Oaxaca.

If you hate the heat, avoid the hottest months of April to May so you have an enjoyable Oaxaca vacation.

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?

For the vast majority of travelers, Oaxaca is safe to visit. In fact, Oaxaca is one of the safest states in Mexico .

Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe.

⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic and a Oaxaca safety guide, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca City; they do.

However, if you take the same general travel precautions you would anywhere else — i.e. stay aware of yourself, your belongings, and your surroundings — you should be safe traveling to Oaxaca City.

What’s the closest Oaxaca Airport?

Wondering, Is there an airport in Oaxaca City? Yes, there’s Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX), located about 20-30 minutes from downtown.

While you might see this airport called Xoxocotlán International Airport, know that it’s still OAX Airport.

There is only one airport in Oaxaca City. ▶Book your Oaxaca flights now!

🚐 Best Oaxaca Airport Transportation

Is there uber in oaxaca city.

No — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

They do have DiDi Taxi through the DiDi Rider app, which lets you call a Oaxaca taxi via the app. It’s basically like using Uber or Lyft, but you will get a regular cab.

• Download DiDi Rider for iPhone
• Download DiDi Rider for Android

🚕 Are taxis safe in Oaxaca Mexico?

For the majority of travelers, yes, taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.

I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app, so I have a record of my trip and the price is already set for me, but you can also just hail a cab on the street.

How do you get around Oaxaca City?

Oaxaca City is walkable, so if you’re just staying in the city itself, you can walk and use taxis and public transportation as needed.

If you’re doing Oaxaca day trips , a rental car or group tour is your best bet, and I recommend booking Oaxaca tours via Viator and Airbnb Experiences .

How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?

Within Oaxaca City itself, you can see the highlights in 2-3 full days .

However, many visitors could realistically spend a week in Oaxaca City — especially art, food and culture lovers.

If you want to explore the artisan towns and unique areas surrounding the city, you’ll want another 1-2 full days.

🚗 Oaxaca City Pro Tip: The best way to do this is by renting a car in Oaxaca and driving.

The best things to do near Oaxaca include exploring Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas, San Agustín Etla, Teotitlán Del Valle and San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a pueblo magico (magic town), and UNESCO Site.

Also, we recommend a day tour to Monte Alban , a large pre-Columbian archaeological site.

Want to visit the best Oaxaca beaches — including Puerto Escondido , Zipolite , Huatulco , San Agustinillo and Mazunte ? Then you’ll want another 3-4 full days.

What is Oaxaca known for?

Wondering, Why is Oaxaca so popular? There are five things Oaxaca is known for — art, culture, the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebration, mezcal and food .

In fact, Oaxaca is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so try both the street food in Oaxaca and the restaurants — and of course, don’t miss these best Oaxaca mezcalerias (mezcal bars).

For a deep dive into this topic, check out this What is Oaxaca famous for? article. In it, you’ll learn even more about what makes Oaxaca unique.

Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?

Yes — Oaxaca is magical; it’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be.

There’s everything from rich history, colorful festivals , UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made Oaxacan mezcal , beautiful nature, colonial architecture, indigenous artisan communities, and of course, the Oaxacan food .

As you’ll usually need to take at least two flights to Oaxaca, Mexico, or even a flight and a bus, you might still be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it.

I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that FU+K YES IT IS!

Final Thoughts: Best Oaxaca Street Food Tours​​

Food in Oaxaca Mexico is a standout cuisine not to be missed!

The top 10 street food Oaxaca Mexico tours listed offer a unique and delicious taste of this vibrant city cuisine, showcasing the best of its flavors, traditional preparation methods, and mouth-watering dishes. 

Still undecided on which one to pick? The best food tour in Oaxaca is this Tasting the Roots of Oaxacan Cuisine Tour , with a perfect 5-Star rating.

From visiting local markets to sampling the best tacos and moles, these tours provide an immersive culinary experience and a better perspective of the Oaxaca food scene. 

If you want to taste the best food in Oaxaca Mexico, book your street food tour today and indulge in the flavors that have made Oaxacan cuisine a standout in Mexico.

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Discover the authentic flavors of Oaxaca. We are more than just a business: we are passionate women committed to supporting local and fair trade.

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At Oaxaca Street Food Tour

Our journey began in 2019 with a clear mission: to make Oaxaca's markets accessible and exciting for all visitors. We are dedicated to connecting explorers with the authentic essence of Oaxaca, where food is much more than a culinary experience—it's a link to the rich traditions and vibrant culture of the region.

A Feminist and Local -Supportive Approach

We take pride in embracing a feminist approach in our work, promoting the participation and empowerment of women in the food industry. Every step we take is rooted in supporting local businesses and fair trade, ensuring that our culinary experiences directly benefit the businesses that host us.

Connecting Hearts Through Food

Our tours not only take you to taste the most delicious flavors of Oaxaca but also invite you to immerse yourself in the history behind each dish and product. From bustling markets to hidden corners, each stop is designed to awaken all your senses and create meaningful connections with local culture.

StreetFoodTour

DRIVING FORCE BEHIND

Hola, I´m Betsy, the driving force behind Oaxaca Street Food Tour, a culinary experience rooted in my deep love for Oaxacan markets and street food culture.

Growing up I amidst the vibrant hustle of Benito Juárez market, where my family operates Tacos Rosy—a beloved establishment serving locals for over 25 years—my connection to food and community runs deep. Markets and streets were my favorite places to eat, aside from my Abuelita´s kitchen. It was here, amidst the sights, sounds, and scents of market life, that I developed a profound understanding of Oaxacan cuisine's richness and diversity..

I understand too the struggles faced by small, local businesses competing against larger, more financially endowed establishments. With my tours, I not only showcase the incredible flavors of Oaxaca but also provide support to these small businesses, empowering them to thrive amidst a competitive landscape. Recognizing that markets could be overwhelming and challenging for visitors to navigate, I was inspired to create Oaxaca Street Food Tour. My goal: to bridge the gap between visitors and the delightful, flavorsome world of Oaxacan street food, making these vibrant markets accessible and enjoyable for all.

Meet the Team

She is a lover of food and good seasoning. He likes to eat slowly and try everything that comes her way. Her love language is cooking and her desire to share new flavors. Camila offers a sensory experience named NaMá: guided gastronomic meditations.

She delights in taking her time to eat, exploring every flavor that comes her way. For Daniela, cooking is more than just preparing a meal—it's a love language, a way to connect and share new culinary experiences.

Me Encanta Oaxaca

As authentic locals, we love sharing our culture, history and the delicious oaxaca food with travelers. join me encanta oaxaca and taste the real local oaxacan food with our food tours and be part of a hands-on cooking class., cooking classes, authentic oaxaca , eat like a local, méxico city, street food bike tours, happy travellers.

AMAZING! Ah Bet is AMAZING! Her spirit, her big smile and her love for the City of Oaxaca is contagious. This is  definitely not only a food tour but you get to comprehend what’s behind the making of this City and how the food reflects that. Betsaida madeus completely comfortable, engaged the group…

THE BEST FOOD TOUR IN THE WORLD! Betsaida from me encantas Oaxaca was wonderful. I have done food tours all over the  orld. This was the BEST! She was passionate about Oaxaca.  Learned about history, food,  famous people, movie references to Oaxaca, and architecture.  Betsaida was incredibly thoughtful…

ONE OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS WE DID IN OAXACA! Wow! what an experience. The whole process was amazing and Betsaida was so kind and  welcoming and onderful. We started at the market and picked up the raw ingredients and then went to her place whe and she had a beautiful and equiped kitchen and we got to make…

We promote local consumption

At Me Encanta Oaxaca we share our passion with travelers from all over the world to taste the authentic local food of Oaxaca, through our food tours and cooking classes, through which we promote sustainable tourism and encourage local consumption. 

A seen on Netflix

«Somebody Feed Phil» Season 5 follows Phil as he travels to Oaxaca, Maine, Helsinki, Portland and Madrid

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For the 2nd year in a row, we’ve been awarded a Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award! Thanks to all of our guests’ reviews for this honor.

We’ve been awarded a Tripadvisor Travelers’s Choice Award for 2023! Thanks to all of our guests’ reviews for this honor.

Savor the unique tastes of oaxaca.

Home to a culinary expression unlike any other in Mexico, Oaxaca dazzles the palate with flavors both traditional and boldly creative. A Oaxaca Eats Food Tour will take you straight to the heart of Oaxacan cuisine in four hours of leisurely exploration. 

Stroll the streets of the historic Centro with our bilingual guides, soaking up the color and learning about local food, history and traditions. You’ll visit 4 restaurants — some well known and others off-the-beaten-path — enjoying an array of up to 15 food and drink selections (including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages) , along with generous servings of Oaxaca’s warm hospitality.

• Clock 11:30 A.M. and 4:00 P.M.
• Hour Glass 4 hours

Classic Downtown Food Tour

From mole and Mezcal to chocolate and chapulines (grasshoppers) — explore the magic of Oaxacan cuisine!

• Clock 4 P.M.

Sunset Food and Cocktail Tour

As the sun sets over Oaxaca, sip hand-crafted cocktails and dig into local Oaxacan cuisine.

What Makes a Oaxaca Eats Food Tour Different?

For one thing, you won’t rush from street vendor to food stall in the midday heat! Instead, you’ll stroll through the historic Centro to private seatings at 4 select restaurants that feature both traditional Oaxacan cuisine and its modern expressions. Your local guide will answer any and all questions about local culture and food, and give you tips on how best to spend your precious time in Oaxaca. You’ll come away feeling deeply satisfied, not just by the delicious variety of food and drink but by your newfound appreciation for this unique part of Mexico.

Dig Into Our Sampling Of 5-Star Reviews

My husband and I spent a wonderful four hours in the company of Itzel from Oaxaca Eats. We were the only two people on the tour so it was really special (normally there are 4-6 people on each tour). Itzel has superb knowledge of both the history of Oaxaca and its food. We visited four restaurants and often had more than one course at each (make sure you come to the tour hungry!) The chef from each venue came out to talk us through each dish. We never felt rushed and the food was all delicious. Recommended!

This tour was ABOVE and BEYOND what we were expecting to experience. Rocio was our guide and she was so passionate about sharing her people, her city, her country, her culture, and all of the wonderful food and restaurants in the tour with us. We scheduled this tour for the beginning of our trip and we're so happy we did because we then were able to return to some of the restaurants again (and again) throughout our visit. We highly recommend and this was, hands down one of our favorite things that we experienced while in Oaxaca City.

Our family of 4 (kids 7 and 10) spent a wonderful 4 hours with Itzel, an amazing tour guide! Not only did she know the Oaxacan food, she was a walking history book who made sense history understandable for our kids. She was funny, patient, and treated everyone with respect. The amount of food and drink we had for the price was astounding and my son says “astonishing”. We loved every stop on the tour from the local market, to a posh, organic market to some beautiful terraces of some upscale restaurants. This is a MUST DO if you are in Oaxaca. And her tip for chocolate ice cream at Rito’s was 100% on the money!! Mil gracias Itzel!

We were two of three people on the food and cocktails tour with Kristina and had a great time! We alerted the company that one of us eats a plant-based diet and she was able to work with the different restaurants in order to accommodate us. On top of that, there were many plant-based items that she had never tasted either so it was a treat for everyone. One of our favorite plant-based items was the Aguachile which was marinated mushrooms in “Chile water” that tasted a bit like ceviche. Another was the tetelas in the mole sauce at Tierra del Sol Casa. We even went back the next day for more! Kristina was very knowledgeable of the food, drinks, culture and city life and we would recommend taking this tour with her.

This culinary experience was extraordinary, my favorite of many years. The owner Lorena and tour guide Kristina were welcoming and enthusiastic, as were the proprietors and staff at the four restaurants we visited. The many small dishes and cocktails were creative, delicious, and beautifully presented. I attended alone but quickly felt integrated with group. This was an absolutely lovely experience and cannot recommend it more highly.

TAKE THIS TOUR. We had the best time on this walking food tour. Marcos was our guide and he was so friendly and knowledgeable about the foods we were eating and the restaurants and how they are preserving the regional cooking. Be hungry when you arrive. We visited 4 different restaurants but had several items at a couple of the restaurants. Don’t eat breakfast and you may not need dinner either. The restaurants chosen were all very different, but all delicious. It was really wonderful to experience the variety of foods in Oaxaca. If you are on the fence about doing the tour, get off it and book it. This was a highlight of our trip.

Wonderful tour with Oaxaca Eats today! We visited four special restaurants and ate delicious things we would never have found on our own. It was such a treat to be taken around by a local who loves food as much as we do. Our tour guide was Fernanda, and she truly loves what she does. She epitomizes the warm hospitality of Oaxaca, and we enjoyed great conversation throughout the tour. Can't recommend this company enough, and I'm a picky customer!

Giving Back to Our Community One Tour at a Time

Oaxaca Eats Food Tours is a local, woman-owned business committed to sustainable tourism. We care about our community and the environment by:

• Supporting two local non-profits through a 5% donation from each ticket sale. Esperanza Infantil and the Institute of Historic Organs in Oaxaca .
• Keeping the profits in the community by hiring locally-based staff at a living wage and paying our tasting partners for all food, drink and gratuities.
• Limiting our carbon footprint with walking tours, on-line booking and paperless tickets.

35 BEST Things to Do in Oaxaca for Food, Culture & History Lovers

by Julie | Apr 2, 2024 | Mexico , Travel

Want to fall in love with Oaxaca as much as I did?

This travel guide will help you do just that! In this post, you’ll find 35 of the best things to do in Oaxaca City. It’s perfect for those who want to experience this magical city’s history, culture, food, art, and natural beauty.

The guide also has information on day trips to the towns, ruins, distilleries, waterfalls, and mountains around Oaxaca, which I visited during my three trips there.

I’ve also included detailed instructions on getting to these attractions by public transportation for those on a budget.

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate and a Bookshop.org Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Please see this website’s  Disclosure  for more info.

In This Oaxaca Post, You’ll Find…

• What to Do in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Where to eat in oaxaca.

• How to Get to Oaxaca
• How to Get Around Oaxaca

Top 35 Things to Do in Oaxaca

There are so many things to do in Oaxaca that you’ll need to stay a week to see them all . In this guide, we’ll start with all the things you can do in the historic center and then make our way through things to do for foodies, history buffs, art lovers, and archaeology nerds. Finally, I’ll share with you all the ways you can experience the natural beauty around Oaxaca City.

1. Wander around the Zocalo

Any trip to a city in Mexico should begin in the Zocalo (Oaxaca’s main square) . This is the heart and soul of every Mexican city. Oaxaca is no exception.

Around the Zocalo, you’ll always find the oldest and grandest buildings including the main church of the city. There will be plenty of benches to sit and watch the city go by , street vendors to buy food and souvenirs from, places to get your shoes shined, and expensive and touristy restaurants to grab an overpriced meal from. Someone will always be protesting something or asking you to donate to some cause. Locals, tourists, migrants, protestors, young couples, families, and friends all seem to congregate in the Zocalo.

The main square in Oaxaca has all of those things and more.

Here are just a few of my favorite things to do in Oaxaca’s Zocalo:

Grab a cup of hot chocolate

The best place to people-watch in Oaxaca is at the reasonably priced Restaurante Mayordomo, a chain restaurant found all over the city.

However, don’t eat a meal here. Instead, just order a traditional Oaxacan hot chocolate drink and a pastry called pan de muerta (yolk bread). You’ll be asked whether you want the drink with milk or water. The traditional way is with water. But milk is also very delicious.

Listen to Music in the Zocalo

Every evening I was in Oaxaca there was a musical performance in the Zocalo: an orchestra playing Western classical music, a band playing salsa music (and people dancing salsa), or a small group playing traditional Mexican music. They start at around 4:30 pm .

There was also another performance taking place next to the Cathedral. I think it was a comedy performance. My Spanish wasn’t good enough to fully understand what they were saying but there was plenty of laughter from the crowd.

See Political Protests and Rallies

The Zocalo is also the center of political protests in Oaxaca . One day, there was a massive teacher protest. On one Saturday, a massive group of people was protesting against violence against women (this is an important issue in Mexico as 10 women a day are murdered in Mexico for being female – in the United States it’s 5 women a day). I heard there were clashes between the protestors and police. I didn’t see it, but I saw the aftermath the next day: the Cathedral was covered in graffiti and the remnants of posters littered the Zocalo.

Visit the Cathedral of Oaxaca

Next to the Zocalo is the Cathedral of Oaxaca . Construction began in 1535 and finished in 1640. Due to earthquakes, it has been reconstructed many times over the years.

The façade is made of green cantera stone, a material particular to Oaxaca and found on most colonial buildings. It was built in the Neoclassical style, a unique style for Mexico, as most churches in Mexico are baroque.

The Cathedral is often open to the public, so you can easily have a look inside.

2. Check out the beautiful colonial buildings

One of my favorite things to do in Oaxaca is to aimlessly wander around the historic center, taking in all the beautiful colonial buildings that line the cobblestone streets.

One of my favorite streets for architecture is Andador de Macedonio Alcala . This pedestrian-only street connects the Zocalo with Santo Domingo Church. It’s lined with galleries, cafes, and shops housed in pink, blue, green, and yellow colonial buildings.

Break up your wanderings with a stop at a café for coffee or hot chocolate or at a rooftop bar for a beer or cocktail. I highly recommend the rooftop terrace at Praga Coffee Bar. The cocktails are fun but pricey, and the views are fabulous.

I also like the coffee shops, Cafebre and Cafe Brujula .

3. Stop by Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman

• OPEN: Around 4:00 or 5:00 pm
• LOCATION: Google Maps

One of Oaxaca’s most beautiful buildings is Santo Domingo Church and Monastery . Built between 1575 and 1608, the church was named in honor of Santo Domingo de Guzman, a Spanish monk who founded the Dominicans. This religious order was known for protecting the indigenous population against the greed of the colonists.

The interior is just as spectacular. The ceilings are covered in detailed carvings and gold leaf.

The Cultural Centre of Oaxaca is attached to the church. It’s worth a visit as it holds the contents of Tomb 7 from the Zapotec site of Monte Alban.

Culture Tip: In Mexico and Central America, many religious structures are referred to as convents. In English, a convent is solely a place for nuns. But the word is also used in Latin America to describe a monastery. Santo Domingo is referred to as a church and “convent”, but it was originally ONLY for monks and NOT nuns.

4. Tour the Oaxaca Botanical Gardens

• GUIDED TOURS: 11:00 am (M-Sa) in English; 10:00, 11:00, 12:00 (M-Sa) in Spanish; 10:00 am (Sa) in French
• COST: MXN$100 for the English tour and MXN$50 for the Spanish tour

One of the hardest places to get into in Oaxaca is the Botanical Gardens (Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca). But it is so worth it even if you’re not into plants and flowers. I’m not in general. But I adored this place, probably because the gardens are full of cactus varieties, and something about these plants fascinates me.

Why is it so hard to get into?

You have to join a one-hour tour. Unfortunately, tours in English take place once a day at 11:00 a.m. They used to limit the tours to 15 people, and you had to line up 2 to 3 hours ahead of time. I heard the limit has been raised and arriving 30 minutes prior is good enough.

There is a famous Instagram photo of a row of cacti reflected in a pool of water. When I visited, the pool was empty to prevent mosquitoes from proliferating and causing a dengue fever outbreak.

5. Visit the Solidad Basilica

Just a few blocks from the Zocalo is another not-to-miss architectural wonder in Oaxaca: Basilica de Nuestra Senora de la Solidad.

Mexicans love baroque architecture, and Solidad takes this style to a whole new level. Built in 1682 and 1690, the church’s facade is full of the most beautiful and symbolic sculptures and geometric designs. Check out the carved relief on the outside of the church of the Virgin Mary weeping over the body of Christ (the skull, cross, and branches with leaves represent life after death). The city over her other shoulder in the background is Jerusalem.

Another reason to add this church to your Oaxaca itinerary is the view from the church, which shows the neighborhoods clinging to the hills in the distance.

You might be interested in these Mexico travel guides:

• Campeche Travel Guide
• Merida Travel Guide
• Valladolid Travel Guide

6. Check out the Aqueduct of Oaxaca

Another historic and architectural attraction you must visit in Oaxaca is the aqueduct. Built between 1727 and 1751, the aqueduct brought water down from Cerro de San Felipe to the citizens of Oaxaca City. It was replaced with a more modern system in 1940. However, you can still find 300 meters of the aqueduct from 2a de Rufino Tamayo (south of 190) to Calle Jose Lopez Alavez (north of 190) in Xochimilco Barrio .

7. Go on a Walking Tour of Oaxaca

• OPEN: 10:00 AM or 4:00 pm daily
• COST: tip – MXN$100 – $200 (US$5 – $10)
• MEETING LOCATION: Teatro Macedonia Alcala
• CONTACT INFORMATION: Facebook or Free Walk Oaxaca Website

I highly recommend doing a FREE walking tour on your first or second day in Oaxaca . I’ve done this tour twice.

A guide generally takes you on a tour on foot of the historic center, tells you the history of the city, and brings you to places that you probably wouldn’t find on your own. Without the tour, I never would have known about the organic food court , some cool restaurants and cafes, and the Xochimilco neighborhood .

The length of the tour varies by tour guide and the enthusiasm of the guests. The first time I took the tour, I went with Raul, and it lasted over three hours! The second time, I went with Oscar, and it lasted two hours, but afterward, we all went out to eat together.

At the end, you should give a tip depending on how good the tour was, how long it was, how many people were on it, and how much you can afford. I recommend tipping between MXN$100 and $200 .

Reserve your spot on the Free Tour’s website . In February 2024, they had tours in English at 11:00 am .

More Walking Tour Ideas for Oaxaca

8. wander around xochimilco neighborhood.

One of the coolest neighborhoods in Oaxaca is Xochimilco. It’s a place with old colorful buildings, narrow alleyways and courtyards, small shops, galleries, cafes, hip restaurants, and loads of street art.  The neighborhood is split in half by Calle 190/Highway 190 (it’s easy to cross). Check out both sides of the street.

You can find Xochi’s best street art on the north side of 190 . Walk along Calle Jose Lopez Alavez has my favorite art.

I also recommend getting a coffee or brunch in either the garden at Rupestre Pan y Café or the rooftop terrace at Filemon.

Wander around some of the small side streets that go up the hills.

Finally, keep on walking north to the part of the aqueduct where the river flows under the aqueduct.

Pro Tips: Wear insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes when in Oaxaca. Dengue Fever is real here and you don’t want to get it. Mosquitoes that are infected with Dengue usually reside in urban areas during the day, especially at dusk and dawn.

9. Get Lost in the Jalatlaco Neighborhood

Another charming and historic neighborhood to wander around in is Jalatlaco. Just like Xochimilco Barrio, the streets here are also covered with cobblestones and lined with colorful cafes, restaurants, hotels, and street art .

I first visited Jalatlaco in 2021; the neighborhood was quiet and subdued. Then, I went back in 2024, and it felt transformed . It had become a hip neighborhood with charming cafes, bakeries, bookstores, and shops. The street art had expanded, surpassing Xochimilcol.

If you have to choose between spending an afternoon in Xochimilcol or Jalatlaco, I’d choose the latter.

Is Oaxaca safe? I was in Oaxaca for 3 weeks in 2021 and over 2 months in 2024. I felt safe walking around during the day and in the early evening alone. However, according to ex-pats on a Oaxaca Facebook group I joined, there have been cases of people getting mugged late at night in the southeastern part of hte historic center. There was one story of 2 guys leaving a bar late at night, being hustled into separate taxis, and then robbed, beaten, and abandoned somewhere in the countryside.

10. Watch a Calenda Procession

One of the highlights of my trip to Oaxaca was seeing a calenda . Calendas take place after a wedding, christening, or even a graduation ceremony. They usually happen on Friday evenings, Saturday mornings and afternoons , and occasionally on Sundays. and sometimes on Friday evenings.  

After the wedding ceremony, the bride, groom, and guests come out of the church and participate in a procession down the streets of Oaxaca . There’s always a band (trumpets and drums), a large twirling balloon, female dancers with baskets and turkeys on their heads, two giant paper maché bride and groom puppets, and two people dressed up in a costume with flowing strips of colored material. Strangers are encouraged to join in the procession. It’s a lot of fun!

How do you know a calenda is going to take place?

I hung out in front of Templo de Santo Domingo on a Saturday morning, came back in the afternoon, and waited for a christening or a wedding party to exit. I knew a wedding was taking place inside the church because the front door was closed and there was a sign on it saying you can’t go in. A calenda band was also hanging out in front of the church. In the morning, there was a christening and a graduation and in the afternoon a wedding.

11. Join a Food Tour

• OPEN: 9:30 AM – 3:00 pm
• COST: MXN$1,500 (US$89)

The three food tours I did were the highlight of both of my trips to Oaxaca (and perhaps all of Mexico).

• Oaxaca Street Food Tour with Betsy Morales
• Me Encanta Oaxaca with Betsaida.
• Viajero Hostel had an inexpensive tour

I’ve been on food tours in Singapore , Japan, Vietnam, Ecuador, and Guatemala; the first two were some of the best ones I’ve ever done !

By going on a food tour, you get to try foods that you would normally never eat on your own and learn about the history of Oaxacan cuisine.

Oaxaca Street Food Tour with Betsy

The Oaxaca Street Food Tour included a visit to La Cosecha Organic Market, 20 de Noviembre Market, and the Benito Juarez Market. We tried squash blossom tlayuda, huitlacoche (fungus that grows on corn), several moles, barbecue, hot chocolate, chapulines (fried grasshoppers), and loads more.

The best part was eating grilled Oaxacan meat and veggies at the famous Pasillo de Humo (Smoke Alley).

Betsy knew how to pace things so that by the end of the tour I didn’t feel like I had eaten too much .

Me Encanta Oaxaca Food Tour with Betsaida

My favorite food tour was Me Encanta Oaxaca . At the start of the tour, Betsaida told us that we’d be tasting 24 different foods and drinks . It actually ended up being around 40 (I lost count)!

We ate at two popular street food stalls in the historic center before we headed to a small local market, Mercado Sanchez Pascuas , and tried some fantastic tamales, mezcal, coffee, honey, and local fruits!

Our last major stops were Mercado Benito Juárez , where we tried grasshoppers and tejate, and more mezcal, and Mercado 20 de Noviembre , where we stopped at Smoke Alley for some grilled meat.

Check out my detailed review of Me Encanta Oaxaca Food Tour .

12. Learn How to Cook Oaxacan Cuisine

Another thing food lovers should do during their stay in the culinary capital of Mexico is to learn how to cook Oaxacan cuisine by taking a cooking class.

I did two cooking classes:

• Flavors of Oaxaca Cooking Class with Casa Crespo
• Cooking Class with Minerva

In both classes, each person prepared different parts of the meal. For example, one person chopped the onions while another blended the ingredients. If you are a serious cook, you might leave the class dissatisfied because you don’t get to cook your own dish. However, for those unserious cooks, it’s an interesting experience.

Flavors of Oaxaca Cooking Class

After a local market tour, we prepared the meal together. At the end of the class, we (except for the teacher) all sat down to eat what we had made. 

I liked that the teacher, Oscar Carrizosa, asked us what we wanted to cook and followed our requests. We made many dishes, such as a mole, several different salsas, tamales, a dessert, a ceviche, and soup. The food we made turned out to be the best meal I had during my time in Mexico.

However, I found the teacher to be cold, unfriendly, and impatient.

The Casa Crespo cooking class was average.

Cooking with Minerva

In Cooking with Minerva, we first toured the famous Abastos Market to pick up ingredients. Then we traveled by car to Minerva’s house in Santa Maria Atzompa, where we had some hot chocolate and pan de yema and cooked Estofado Mole together. At the end of the course, we (except for the teacher) ate what we cooked. The food was good.

Minerva was kind of cold and distant.

I would say that Cooking with Minerva was also just average. I’ve had better classes in Singapore and Vietnam.

13. Stroll Through 20 de Noviembre Market

The 20 de Noviembre Market has got all the things you want in a market: cheap, delicious, and authentic food . A bonus is that the vendors are pretty welcoming and patient to people who don’t speak Spanish very well.

The indoor market is just two blocks from the Zocalo. It’s a giant building with entrances on every side, and it’s filled with (I think) only vendors selling food and drinks. They’ve got pretty much everything you want here: mole, tlayuda, grilled meats, Oaxacan sweets, hot chocolate, bread, and on and on .

Shop around! You’ll notice one stall charges MXN$120 for a tlayuda while another just a few doors down only MXN$90.

One section called Pasillo de Humo is devoted to vendors selling grilled meats. The food looks delicious but ordering it seems overly complicated and intimidating. However, if you join either Me Encanta Oaxaca Street Food Tour or Oaxaca Street Food Tour , which I mentioned earlier in this post, the guides will take you to this market and show you how to order.

I ate here over and over again during my three months in Oaxaca.

The other market, Mercado Benito Juarez, has less food than Mercado 20 de Noviembre. If you take the food tour with Betsy, she’ll take you to both.

14. Eat at La Cosecha Organic Market

• OPEN: 9:00 am – 4:45 pm (W – Su)

Another market to check out is La Cosecha Organic market. I loved the small and quiet market’s relaxed vibe .

The vendors were always kind and welcoming, and because it was never crowded, it was also never overwhelming or stressful like sometimes at the other bigger markets. Therefore, I think it’s the perfect market to visit when you first arrive in Oaxaca or if you’re intimidated by ordering food in another language. Plus, the food and drinks were always delicious and reasonably priced.

You can buy all kinds of different foods–mole, seafood soup, craft beer, coffee, fruit juices, and the best tlayuda (with squash blossoms) I’ve ever had.

15. Visit the Sunday Market in Tlacolula

• OPEN: Sundays
• TOUR: Tlacolula and Yagul Ruins tour

The Sunday market in Tlacolula is another great food experience in Oaxaca. This market goes on for what seems like an endless number of blocks. People from all over the area come and sell everything under the sun from backpacks to cowboy hats to computer parts.

The star of the show is the food , though. The market is a great place to buy fruit far cheaper than in the historic center of Oaxaca.

You can also find people selling food that they made themselves. If you come across a woman and her husband selling cornbread , don’t hesitate to buy some.

There’s a huge indoor market with sections devoted to specific kinds of food. One huge hall is all about bread, another is about grilled meats, and another is just about vegetables.

I highly recommend buying chapulines (grasshoppers) from vendors walking around. They can be lime or chili-flavored. I bought a bag for MXn$5.

Make sure to stop in at the church, Templo de Santa Maria de la Asuncion Tlacolula . Inside the church is a stunning chapel called the Capilla del Senor de Tlacolula that should not be missed.

I visited twice and found the morning less crowded than the afternoon.

You can either go to Tlacolula on your own with public transportation or join a tour that combines the market with a visit to the fabulous Yagul ruins.

How to get to the Tlacolula market:

Tlacolula is a small city about 20 miles (30 kilometers) from Oaxaca City. Here’s how I got there by public transportation:

• I went to the baseball stadium and stood on the corner of 190 and Calle De Los Derechos Humanos (Human Rights Street) ( Google Maps ), which was in front of a BMW dealership ( Google Maps ), and waited for a bus or shared taxi that says “Tlocalula” or “Mitla” on it. Either the bus or taxi works.
• A blue and white ATSA bus came by first, so I got on that. It cost MXN$20 . A shared taxi from the same place cost MXN$30 (US$1.50).
• The bus stopped in Tlacolula on the corner of 190 and Juarez ( Google Maps ). Juarez is on the same street as the Sunday market.

The first time I went to Tlacolula, it took 1 hour to get there by bus as the bus kept on dropping off and picking up passengers along the way.

The second time, there was a blockade on the highway . Some people from a town near Oaxaca were protesting that the government had done nothing to help them after a flood destroyed their homes. My friends and I had to get off the bus and walk through the blockade to catch another bus. There were also tuk-tuks there to pick people up.

How to get back to Oaxaca from Tlacolula:

• I crossed Highway 190, stood in front of a pharmacy on the corner of Juarez and 190 , and waited for an ATSA bus or a shared taxi to pass.
• This time a shared taxi pulled up first and that’s what I took to get back to Oaxaca. It cost me MXN$30 (US$1.50) .
• Shared taxis will take you to the Second-Class Bus Station, but you can be dropped off anywhere along the way.

16. Do a Mezcal Tasting Tour

Oaxaca is the mezcal center of Mexico , so make sure to try this popular drink at least once while here.

Mezcal is an alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant . Tequila is also made from the agave plant, but it can only be made from blue agave, while mezcal can be produced from any agave.

Although locals have been drinking mezcal for centuries (it was even illegal at one point), it has only become popular outside of Oaxaca in the past four or five years. Now, people from all over the world come to the state just to try its mezcal. Although it is made in other states in Mexico, Oaxaca’s mezcal is the best due to its altitude and climate.

If you want to visit a mezcal distillery on your own with public transportation, check out Mezcal El Rey de Matatlan . I visited this distillery on a tour to Hierve de Agua , and I enjoyed the tour and the explanation of how the mezcal is made. It’s rather touristy but it was still interesting and we got to try some good mezcal. I recommend this place if you’re not that into mezcal and you don’t want to spend so much time or money drinking alcohol.

The same tour company does another shorter tour to the distillery and Hierve de Agua .

For info on how to get to Mezcal El Rey by public transportation, see the section on getting to Tlacolula .

17. Explore the Ruins of Monte Alban

• OPEN: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• COST: MXN$90
• TOURS: Monte Alban with guide or Monte Alban with village art tour

Just 30 minutes by bus from Oaxaca, Monte Alban rivals even the best Maya ruins in other parts of Mexico. If you love history and archaeology, this is one attraction that you shouldn’t miss.

First settled in 500 BCE and abandoned in 800 CE, Monte Alban was the Zapotec people’s political and economic center.

The best structures are around a football-sized plaza that reminded me of the National Mall in Washington D.C. On the two long sides of the plaza are palaces and pyramids and at the north and south ends are two acropolises.

My favorite thing to see is the Dansaka –a row of stone carvings of dancing toothless and disemboweled old men . You can see the blood gushing out of some of them as they’ve had their guts cut out or male body parts cut off.

The archaeological park is huge, so give yourself 2.5 to 3 hours to see it all. Don’t skip the museum because the stelae and artwork outside in the park are fakes. The real ones are in the museum.

How to get to Monte Alban and back to Oaxaca:

If you know nothing about the archaeological site, a tour with a guide is a good idea. There are very few explanations in the park. I went to the park on my own without a guide.

Visiting Monte Alban with a Tour Guide:

• Oaxaca by Locals has a guided tour of just Monte Alban for a great price of US$30. I used this company for my Hierve de Agua tour and really liked them.
• You can also do this Monte Alban Tour which includes visits to 3 art towns near Oaxaca : (1) town of San Antonio Arrazola to visit some alebrije workshops (wooden sculptures) (2) the town of Santo Tomás Jalieza to see how textiles are made using a backstrap loom (3) the town of San Bartolo Coyotepec to see how the famous black clay pottery is made.  

Getting to Monte Alban on Your Own

There are two tourist buses that take you to Monte Alban and take you back to Oaxaca for a decent price:

• Lescas Tours Oaxaca – I used them on my second visit to Monte Alban (MXN$120 round-trip)
• Autobuses Turisticos on Francisco Javier Milna – I used them on my first visit to Monte Alban (MXN$90 round-trip)

Lescas Tours Oaxaca

Book your seats at least the day before. My friend and I showed up right before the first shuttle and got on but we took the last spaces on the shuttle.

The office is across from the Cathedral in the Zocalo. Don’t follow Google Maps’ opening and closing times. They’re wrong.

It should have taken 30 minutes to get to Monte Alban, but this company took 45 minutes because the driver stopped three times for personal reasons.

This is their schedule as of February 2024:

This is their schedule going back to Monte Alban (they will write your return time on your ticket. If you don’t want that return time, you have to contact them via Whatsapp.

This travel agency is okay for transport to Monte Alban, but I recommend not using them for guided tours. My friend went on one to Hierve de Agua, and the guide mumbled and wasn’t enthusiastic at all. Then, he disappeared halfway through the tour. Then they dropped her off in the middle of nowhere. She’s 70 years old, doesn’t speak Spanish, can’t use Google Maps, and can’t walk very well. It was late at night and she got completely lost.

Autobuses Turisticos on Francisco Javier Milna Street

They’re cheaper at MXN$90, but their bus isn’t as comfortable. It should have taken 30 minutes to get to Monte Alban, but this company took 1 hour because they kept on driving around the block looking for more passengers.

Here are their times for Monte Alban:

• 12:00 pm (noon)

Here are their return times. You also don’t get a choice of when you return:

18. Explore the Ruins of Mitla

• OPEN: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (Tu – Sa) – only allow 200 persons per day to enter
• COST: MXN$95

If you’re thinking about skipping Mitla because you’ve heard it’s small and hard to get to, don’t. It’s worth every blood, sweat, tear, and penny you need to visit . I loved it–one of my favorite places in Oaxaca.

Mitla is a completely different experience from Monte Alban. While the ladder wows you with its size and grandness, Mitla sucks you in with its details and design.

Mitla and Monte Alban had different purposes. While Monte Alban was a political center, Mitla was a religious center.

There are three structures open to visitors. The first two are the best ones.

(1) Right next to the ticket office, the first set of ruins consists of a maze of courtyards and rooms. It was probably the home of a high priest. Besides the stunning geometric carvings on the top part of the walls, look out for the original red paint and the paintings of a jaguar, bird, and snake above one of the doorways.

(2) The second structure not to miss is the stunning Group of Columns . It reminded me of the Palace of Knossos in Crete.  

How to get to Mitla from Oaxaca:

• I got to Mitla by taking a shared taxi from the corner of Highway 90 and De Los Derechos Hermanos (Human Rights Street) , right near the baseball stadium ( Google Maps ). If you stand on the corner in front of the BMW dealership/repair shop , the red and white shared taxis and buses will come by one after another. I got a taxi that said “Mitla” on a sign in its window. It cost me MXN$40 (US$2), while a bus cost MXN$20 (US$1). I was told that taxis wait around to fill up before leaving. Mine did not. It left with just me in the car, and I was the only passenger most of the way.
• Taxis are quicker (45 minutes) than buses (over 1 hour), but my taxi driver drove way too fast and took too many risks passing cars on Highway 190 compared to the bus.
• The taxi driver dropped me off in the center of town .
• I then walked for about 15 minutes to the ruins. It was a bit hard finding the entrance to Mitla because what street the entrance is on is not indicated on Google Maps. Just look for signs pointing to the Arsenal Mercado. The entrance is across from a parking lot that is next to the market.

How to get back to Oaxaca from Mitla:

• The bus station ( Google Maps ) in Mitla is a 15-minute walk from the ruins.
• I had to wait for 20 minutes for the bus. The ride cost me MXN$20 (US$1).
• The bus stops to pick up and drop off passengers whenever someone needs to get on and off. It also stops at the bus station in Tlacolula, so if you want to combine a visit to Mitla and the Sunday market in Tlacolula or combine Mitla and Yagul, you can.

19. Get Off-the-Beaten Path at the Yagul Ruins

• OPEN: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (M – Su)
• WEBSITE: Yagul Archaeological Site
• TOUR: Yugal plus Tlacolula Market

The ruins of Yagul are the hardest ones to get to, but they are still worth your time and energy. Part of what makes these ruins so special is the landscape. Yagul is on a hill overlooking the valley of Oaxaca. You get one grand view of fields, towns, and a range of mountains topped with puffy white clouds in the distance.  

The other reason Yagul is so special is the ruins themselves. You get a series of mazelike rooms and courtyards that you don’t generally see in other sites in Mexico.

Plus, you’ll most likely get the whole place to yourself .

There are restrooms at the ruins but no gift shops or food or beverages for sale.

You could probably do Yagul and Mitla on the same day or combine it with a visit to the Sunday market in Tlacolula .

If you don’t want to visit Yagul on your own, you can join a tour with a visit to Tlacolula .

How to get to Yagul from Oaxaca:

• You’ll need to head to the baseball stadium and catch a bus or a shared taxi from the corner of Highway 190 and Avenida De Los Derechos Hermanos (The Avenue of Human Rights).
• Stand on the corner in front of the BMW repair s hop .
• A taxi cost me MXN$30 (US$1.50). The bus was MXN$20 (US$1).
• After about 30 minutes, the taxi dropped me off on the side of the highway across from a sign for the ruins.
• Crossing the highway was easy as there weren’t many cars.  
• Then I walked for about 30 minutes along a road that ended at the Yagul ruins.

How to get back to Oaxaca from Yagul:

• You’ll need to walk back to the highway to get a shared taxi or bus. A guy who worked at the site actually gave me a ride to the highway.
• At first, I had some trouble getting a taxi to stop because I didn’t know where to stand and the taxis were driving way too fast for them to see me and stop in time. I think 5 taxis passed by before one finally stopped. It cost MXN$30 (US$1.50) .
• Finally, a taxi stopped and dropped me off near the baseball stadium.

20. Visit the Voces de Copal Art Gallery

By far, the best handicraft in Mexico is alebrijes. They are colorful wooden sculptures of fantastical creatures, and Oaxaca is the best place to buy them .

These colorful paper mache sculptures originated in Mexico City. They can be seen at the Regional Art Museum in Cholula, just outside Puebla .

The people of Oaxaca then made their own style of alebrije using wood.

Now, the best place in Mexico to buy them is in Oaxaca City and the surrounding villages of Arrazole and San Martin.

If you’re short on time and don’t want to visit the two villages, stop by the Voces de Copal Art Gallery ( Google Maps ) in Centro Historico. This gallery features works of art by Jacobo and Maria Angeles . They are the best alebrije that money can buy. Even if you can’t afford one, it’s fun to just look around.

21. Tour the Alebrije Workshops of Arrazole

The town of Arrazole is one of the two best places to buy alebrije in Mexico . In the center of the town are two blocks of just alebrije workshops and galleries. You can spend an afternoon walking from one gallery to another.

Raul, my guide on the “free” walking tour, lives in Arrazole. On Saturday afternoon, he took me and two other foreign tourists to check out the workshops and galleries there. But you can easily do it on your own.

You can also do a tour that combines a visit to Arrazole with Monte Alban and some other towns in the area.

How to get to Arrazole from Oaxaca:

• I got a shared taxi on Periferico Street in front of Mercado de Abastos ( Google Maps ). Look for taxis that say they are going to Arrazole (there usually is a sign in the taxi’s front window or painted on the side of the taxi).
• It cost MXN$12 per person .
• The ride took 30 minutes to get to Arrazole on a Sunday afternoon.
• I was dropped off near the alebrije workshops

22. Tour the Alebrije Workshops of San Martin

The other town full of alebrije workshops and galleries is San Martin .

Two of the most famous artists, Jacobo and Maria Angeles, have their workshops here. They give free tours in English and show how the wooden sculptures are made. It’s worth it!

You can also sign up for a workshop and learn how to make your own alebrije .

How to get to San Martin from Oaxaca:

• Go to Automorsa, also called Auto Transportes Morale s and get on a van going to Ocotlan. It’s on 622 Bustamante Street .
• I paid MXN$30 ($US1.50) for a ride to San Martin (30 minutes).
• The van or bus will drop you off at the intersection of Highway 175 and Avenida Ote , which is the road leading into San Martin .
• Across the street from where the van or bus drops you off is Azucena Zapoteca , a wonderful restaurant that serves some of the best food in Oaxaca and at a reasonable price. Have brunch or lunch there.
• Then walk or take a tuk-tuk into San Martin for MXN$8-12 .

How to get back to Oaxaca from San Martin:

• Just wait on the side of Highway 175 and a bus or shared taxi will pass by.

23. View the Street Art of Oaxaca

• OPEN: anytime or on a 4-hour tour
• COST: free or with tour US$42
• LOCATION: all over Oaxaca, but mostly in Xochimilco and Jalatlaco

Oaxaca is full of really cool street art: edgy, political, and whimsical. The best places for street art are in the neighborhoods of Xochimilco and Jalatlaco .

You can go on a street art tour by bike or just walk around yourself . I chose the latter. However, I wish I had done the street art bike tour as I would have learned more about the history and culture of Oaxaca and Mexico. It’s four hours long and you get to visit three neighborhoods: Xochimilco, Jalatlaco, and downtown Oaxaca. You can sign up for a tour with Coyote Aventuras .

24. Visit the Textile Workshops and Galleries in Teotitlan del Valle

The rugs in Oaxaca are the most beautiful I’ve seen in Mexico. In the town of Teotitlan del Valle , several family-owned workshops are making Zapotec rugs by hand.

The families do everything by hand–from dyeing the wool using natural ingredients to weaving the rugs.

Lots of tour agencies run tours that combine a visit to Teotitlan with other nearby attractions like Hierve de Agua. I’ve visited the town on three different tours:

• Coyote Aventura —Their unique tour included a mezcal tasting, a hike, and a visit to a weaving workshop in Teotitlan. It was expensive and the guide wasn’t so good.
• Oaxaca by Locals – This jam-packed and fun tour stopped at El Tule, Mitla, a mezcal tasting, Hierve de Agua and a weaving workshop at Teotitlan. The price and guide were excellent!
• En Via Foundation Microfinance Tour – You can read here about this fabulous En Via Tour on my blog.

25. Shop for the Black Clay Pottery of San Bartolo Coyotepec

It seems like the art of Oaxaca is endless. One other ancient craft that the local people have been doing for centuries is making black clay pottery ( barro negro ) .

The center of this handicraft is in San Bartolo Coyotepec , where you’ll find a museum dedicated to the art form and a handicraft market around the main square .

Black clay pottery is a tradition that dates back 2,500 years. Today, people use the technique and pottery to make black skulls, which are popular during the Day of the Dead celebrations.

To get a pottery demonstration, you’ll need to join a tour:

• Enjoy Oaxaca – This tour takes you to Monte Alban, Arrazole for the alebrijes, and San Bartolo for the black pottery.

How to get to San Bartolo Coyotepec:

• Go to Automorsa, also called Auto Transportes Morales , for vans to San Bartolo. It’s on 622 Bustamante Street .
• Get dropped off in front of the San Bartolo sign in the main plaza , which is across from the main church (Google Maps).

How to get back to Oaxaca from San Bartolo Coyotepec:

• You can get a shared taxi or bus from in front of the San Bartholomew Church on Highway 175 ( Google Maps ).
• Expect to pay MXN$40 (US$2) per person for a shared taxi or MXN$30 ($US1.50) for a bus.

26. Stop by the Espacio Zapata Gallery

• OPEN: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm (M – Sa)

Oaxaca has loads of art galleries. For me, the most interesting one was the Espacio Zapata Gallery . Founded by the art collective, ASARO (Asamblea de Artistas Revolucionarios de Oaxaca), the gallery contains art with a political edge –commentary on important historical events and people of Mexico.

The gallery has two works of art that you shouldn’t miss.

(1) One is a famous drawing of a young girl crying and the numbers 68, 43, and 3 . The number 68 represents 1968, the year the government opened fire on protesting students, 43 is for the 43 students who disappeared as they made their way to Mexico City, and 3 is for 3 additional people who disappeared. You can find reproductions of this drawing all over Mexico.

(2) The other work of art is the Last Supper of Mexico . Notice who takes the place of Jesus and see how many powerful Mexicans you can identify in the painting.

27. Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca

• OPEN: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (Tu – Su)
• COST: MXN$95 (US$5.65)

If you’re going to see just ONE museum in Oaxaca, make sure it’s the Museum of Oaxacan Culture. Without a doubt, this is the BEST museum in Oaxaca . And if you’re a history nerd like me you’re going to love it even more!

Attached to the Templo de Santo Domingo, the Museo de las Cultura de Oaxaca focuses mainly on the pre-Hispanic history and culture of the area, specifically the Zapotec and Mixtec people.

The highlight is the Mixtec artifacts from Tomb 7 at Monte Alban . After the Zapotecs abandoned Monte Alban, the Mixtecs came in and used one of the abandoned temples as a tomb to bury one of their kings, his servants, and his treasures of silver, turquoise, jade, and gold.

28. Palacio de Gobierno

• OPEN: Closed to the public

Palacio de Gobierno is another place I sadly wasn’t able to visit. It wasn’t closed due to the pandemic but because the protesting souvenir vendors had set up camp in front of the building. If you have a chance to get in you’ll supposedly be treated to a beautiful mural by Arturo Garcia Bustos showing famous figures from Oaxacan history and culture .

29. Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art of Mexico

• OPEN: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm; 4:00 – 7:00 pm (M – Sa)
• COST: MXN$90 (US$4.50)

The Rufino Tamayo Museum is another museum in Oaxaca for those interested in Mexico’s ancient history . It includes a collection of over 1,000 artifacts from the pre-Hispanic cultures across Mexico . There are five rooms, each of which is painted a different color that matches the color in the artifacts.

30. Museum of Contemporary Art of Oaxaca

• OPEN: 10:30 am – 8:00 pm (W – M; closed on Tu)
• COST: MXN$20; Sundays are FREE

Located in a renovated seventeenth-century mansion called the House of Hernan Cortes (the conqueror never stepped foot in Oaxaca), the Museum of Contemporary Art of Oaxaca is where you can see both contemporary and traditional works of art of some of Oaxaca’s most famous artists .

31. Museo Casa de Juarez

• OPEN: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm (Tu – Su)
• COST: MXN$75 (US$4.46)

This small museum is dedicated to the early life of Mexico’s first and only indigenous president, Benito Juarez . He lived here from 1818 to 1828. When he was 12 years old, he came to this house looking for his sister. The owner of the house, Antonio Salanueva adopted him and gave him an education.

Honestly, you can easily skip this museum . There is so little information on Benito Juarez here that you’re better off saving your money and reading Wikipedia. Actually, there’s a little plaque right before the ticket booth (you don’t even have to pay) that is pretty much all you will learn about the famous historical figure.

Most of the exhibits are replicas of rooms (a kitchen, dining room, and office) found in a typical nineteenth century Oaxacan upper class home. The furniture and objects are not the ones that were originally here.

32. Museum of Oaxacan Textiles

• OPEN: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm (M – Su)
• LOCATION:   Google Maps

The Museum of Oaxacan Textiles is another museum you can easily skip . I’ve visited twice and I’ve been disappointed both times . It’s a very small museum with a few rooms and very little information or displays on Oaxacan textiles.

The first time I visited, one room with a handful of displays of Oaxacan textiles and no explanations and a giftshop were open.

The second time I visited there were a few more rooms open. But they mostly had displays of Japanese kimonos . If I want to see Japanese kimonos, I’ll go to Japan.

It’s too bad that you can only see a small portion of the museum’s collection of 5,000 textile pieces .

33. Hierve el Agua

• COST: MXN$15 and MXN$50 entrance fee

One of the most popular Oaxaca attractions is the petrified waterfalls and natural springs of Hierve el Agua . Located 70 kilometers from Oaxaca City, Hierve el Agua means “boiled water” in Spanish. The water is not boiling, however. It’s in fact cool and refreshing, perfect after a long day of sightseeing in the Oaxacan sun.

Hierve el agua can be hard to get to (a bus to Mitla and then a truck to the waterfall). That’s why I visited with this tour through Get Your Guide and had a great time. The tour also goes to El Tule (the famous tree), Mitla, a bakery, and Valle de Teotitlan . The guide, Andrea, was passionate and enthusiastic. Sadly, we only spent 2 hours at Hierve de Agua. We needed 30 more minutes at the waterfall and pools.

Going during the wet season (fall) will provide you with better views and more water but more people . If you go from January to June, there will be fewer people but less water in the pools . Avoid the weekends when it gets even more crowded with locals.

When I visited, I first went on a steep hike down to the bottom of the waterfalls . Bring at least a full bottle of water on this hike! I met people along the way that were having a hard time with the hike and didn’t look like they were going to make it. Then back at the top of the waterfalls, I went for a swim in one of the two pools .

How to get to Hierve el Agua:

• Take a bus or shared taxi to Mitla from the 2 nd Class Bus Station ( Google Maps ) or the corner of the Baseball Stadium ( Google Maps ).
• Then right where the bus drops you off, take a pickup truck from Mitla to Hierve el Agua. The truck leaves when it gets at least ten passengers.

34. Hike the Forests and Mountains of Oaxaca

• COST: US$100 – $125
• TOUR COMPANY: Coyote Aventuras

One tour company that does lots of hikes and gets good reviews is Coyote Aventuras . I went on one of their hiking tours. The things we did on the tour were fantastic . We went to a mezcal distillery, a weaving workshop, and a hike up a mountain with stunning views.

However, the guide was unfriendly and irresponsible . We went on a hike AFTER drinking a lot of mezcal. Then we had to hike down in the dark while it was raining. At the end, she said that she was afraid we were going to die if it had rained harder!

I don’t see that particular tour on their website any longer. However, they have other unique tours in which they combine a hike with a cultural activity like mezcal, weaving, or visiting a local’s home. Check out a list of their current hikes here .

35. Explore Cerro del Fortin

• OPEN: 24/7 – but may not be so safe in the evening

I never made it to Cerro del Fortin. At the time, there were posts on the Oaxaca Expat Facebook group about muggings taking place on the trails during the day. It was too bad because the hill supposedly has nice panoramic views of the city.

Cerro del Fortin also has a famous concert venue called Auditorio Gualaguetza ( Google Maps ), the location of the Oaxacan annual folk dance festival that takes place in July.

You’ll also find a planetarium, an observatory, a statue of Benito Juarez, and a Christian cross.

Oaxaca Travel Guide & FAQs

• Where to Get Your Laundry Done

Make sure you stay in the Central Historic Distric t or the neighborhoods of Xochimilco or Jalatlaco . These are the safest and most convenient places in the city. I particularly liked the area near Jardin Conzatti ( Google Maps )– safe, quiet, and beautiful.

I used booking.com to book my hotels in Oaxaca.

Budget Hotels and Hostels in Oaxaca

As a full-time solo traveler, I usually stay in budget hotels and guesthouses. I stayed in these two hotels during my three trips to Oaxaca:

Posada de Los Angeles – ( Booking.com | Agoda ) I stayed in this hotel twice. In 2021, I stayed for almost 3 weeks, paying between US$17 – $21/night . It was simple but comfortable. The WiFi was good, and I loved the location ,  within walking distance of the ADO Bus Station, major attractions, restaurants, and cafes.

The second time I stayed at Posada de los Angeles in 2024, the price increased to US$40 – $50 . However, nothing physically about the hotel had changed, but this actually was bad. It seemed like they were using the same towels and bedding that they used in 2021. The towels were so stiff, stained, and scratchy that for the first time in my travels, I used my own towel. The bedding was the same as in 2021. The pillow case was stained and the pillow was so lumpy and gross that I didn’t dare sleep on it. You could tell that they hadn’t even bothered to improve the place since I first visited in 2021. The staff (same people as in 2021) were unfriendly and unsmiling. I was so disappointed because I had recommended Posada de Los Angeles to so many people.

Casa los Arcos Oaxaca – ( Booking.com | Agoda ) Luckily, I found this small wonderful guesthouse in an even better part of Oaxaca (near the aqueduct). I paid US$35 (cheaper for longer term stays).

They have just 3 rooms. My room was clean, quiet, and comfortable ! No stained or scratchy towels. Some rooms have private bathroom, but some have a shared bathroom.

There’s a wonderful rooftop terrace with chairs, tables, and a hammock . You can also use their fully stocked kitchen : large fridge and freezer, stove, oven, microwave, coffee maker, and blender. The WiFi worked fabulously for me. There’s no air conditioner, but even during the hottest month of April, it wasn’t too bad.

The owner, Azael, is friendly and very kind. He doesn’t speak English but his wife does.

I stayed here in February and March 2024 and again for the month of April 2024.

If you’re looking for a place that’s more social like a hostel, I’d stay at Hostal Central Oaxaca .

Mid-Range Hotels in Oaxaca

If you want something fancier than a simple budget guesthouse, a friend stayed at NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca – ( Booking.com | Agoda ) and she loved it. It’s in a great location and has a 9.5 rating on Booking.com with over 900 reviews.

Luxury Hotels in Oaxaca

Casa Antonieta – ( Booking.com | Agoda ) This hotel has a 9.5 rating with over 200 reviews. Elegant, stylish, and just 2 blocks from the Zocalo.

Besides the 20 de Noviembre Market , Benito Juarez Market , and La Cosecha Market , which I mentioned earlier in this post, here are some more restaurants that I love in Oaxaca.

Good coffee and/or pastries:

• Cafebre ( Google Maps ) – Good coffee and good atmosphere!
• Boulenc ( Google Maps ) – Excellent pastries and coffee; there’s pizza and burgers as well; very popular
• Pan con Madre ( Google Maps ) – OMG! The pastries here are just divine! The coffee is second rate – so hot that you can’t taste it! They also serve pizze, but i haven’t had it yet. (MXN$40 – $50/pastry)
• Panaderia La Bamby ( Google Maps ) – CHEAP pastries (MXN$5 – $7); the donuts are great but the rest of the pastries aren’t the best but I still often went here because it was soooooo CHEAP!

For those on a budget (Under MXN$100)

• Comedor La Villa Alta ( Google Maps ) If you’re on a budget, go here! They have set lunch and breakfast menus for MXN$50
• Dona Ceci – ( Google Maps ) For inexpensive delicious quesadillas, memelas and tlayudas, head to Dona Ceci. Lots of vegetarian options. (MXN$40 – $60)
• Tacos de Cazuela del Carmen Alto ( Google Maps ) – This food stand is only open in the morning; they have great memelas.
• Tacos del Carmen ( Google Maps ) – This popular food stand run by a group of older women is a great place to go in the morning and in the evening. I love their mushroom quesadillas (Oaxaca is famous for their mushrooms). In the morning it’s called Empanadas del Carmen. (MXN$40- $60)

Tasty food at a reasonable price (MXN$100 – $200)

• La Popular ( Google Maps ) – This place is AMAZING! The food is sooooo good! But a warning: the service sucks. Order the pazole verde, the cochinita pibil tacos, and the vegetarian tlayuda. (MXN$80 – $110 – without drinks).
• Mundo Ceiba A.C.   – ( G o ogle Maps ) During my first time in Oaxaca, I used to eat here all the time after I finished teaching. I ALWAYS ordered the shrimp tacos
• La Olla – ( Google Maps ) You can’t miss this restaurant as the exterior is bright pink; I had some very good mole roja here at a reasonable price
• Don Juanita – ( Google Maps ) You MUST go to Don Juanita’s and get the tacos el vapor ! They are divine.
• Okasa Lovely Food – ( Google Maps ) I went here several times for breakfast; your meal comes with fruit, juice, and unlimited coffee refills for MXN$100! It was always full of locals

Stop here when in Xochimilco

• Filemon – ( Google Maps ) Great breakfast; delicious coffee; and a rooftop terrace with terrific views
• Rupestre Pan y Café – ( Goog l e Maps ) Lovely courtyard area with really good food

For a special occasion

• Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante – ( Google Maps ) This is THE place to eat in Oaxaca. A bit expensive and at times hard to get into, if you have the money it’s well worth it.
• Criollo – ( Google Maps ) A bit out of the way for most people (it’s not in the historic center) but another popular place to visit; get the testing menu or go for breakfast

How to Get to Oaxaca City

You can get to Oaxaca City by bus or plane. I’ve taken the bus many times and I’ve had a friend I traveled with in Oaxaca fly into its airport.

By Plane to Oaxaca City

Oaxaca has an international airport with flights to and from Mexico City as well as to the United States. The airport is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the center of Oaxaca. You can read this AMAZING guide on how to get from Oaxaca Airport to Oaxaca City .

By Bus to Oaxaca City

Most long-distance buses in Oaxaca leave from and arrive at the safe and clean ADO Bus Station ( Google Maps ). ADO is the largest bus company in Mexico–they cover routes south of Mexico City and in the Yucatan area of Mexico. Another bus company that goes to Oaxaca is

You can buy your ticket at the bus station or you can buy them online. I have had a lot of trouble over the years buying tickets on the ADO website on a laptop. It used to only work for me in Incognito Mode. However, in 2024, that doesn’t even work. Luckily, for my last trip from Mexico City to Oaxaca, I found out that ADO has an App for your phone and I was able to easily book my ticket through the phone app . You can pay for the ticket with a credit card or through PayPal .

Make sure you are arriving at the ADO Bus Station and not the

I’ve used Reservamos to buy tickets but they don’t let you choose your seat, they don’t accept credit cards from the U.S., and they charge a large service fee.

Bus Bud is another website that sells bus tickets for Mexico. They don’t list all of the available buses and they charge a fee, unfortunately.

From San Cristobal to Oaxaca: ADO and OCC have night buses for MXN$1068 to $1240 (US$64 – $74). It takes 12 to 13 hours . I took this overnight route and it wasn’t too bad at all. We left at 8:00 pm and arrived at around 9:00 am.

From Puebla to Oaxaca: It takes ADO and ACC buses 4.5 to 5 hours to get from Puebla to Oaxaca and costs between MXN$500 and $736 (US$30 – $44). This is a safe and comfortable route. You can read more about getting to and from Puebla in this useful guide .

From Mexico City to Oaxaca:   There are buses leaving hourly throughout the day from Mexico City (TAPO Station – Oriente Bus Station) to Oaxaca de Juarez. It takes 6.5 hours and tickets usually range between MXN$876 and $1,068 (US$53 – $64) , but there a promotions for as low as MXN$576 (US$35).

Getting from the ADO bus station to your hotel: When you exit the ADO Bus Station in Oaxaca, you’ll see a line up of yellow taxis waiting to rip you off. The last time I tried to take a taxi from the bus station (April 1, 2024), I thought the taxi driver was playing an April Fool’s Joke on me. He wanted MXN$150 for a ride that usually costs half that amount. Instead, I ordered a taxi using the DiDi App on my phone. It took about 10 minutes for the taxi to arrive (it was rush hour) at the station. But it only cost me MXN$76 .

Popular Destinations on the Coast of Oaxaca

From Oaxaca to Mazunte and Zipolite: I got a minibus to Mazunte (also goes to Zipolite) at Eclipse 70 ( Google Maps ) for MXN$300.  Bus left at 7:15 am. You can also get tickets at Lineas Unidas ( Google Maps )

From Oaxaca to San Jose del Pacifico: The buses that go to Mazunte and Zipolite also stop in San Jose del Pacifico. You can get tickets at either Eclipse 70 ( Google Maps ) or Lineas Unidas ( Google Maps ).

From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido: You can get minibuses to Puerto Escondido at Terminal de Service Express ( Google Maps ) or Villa del Pacifico ( Google Maps ).

How to Get around Oaxaca

I walked nearly everywhere in Oaxaca. Most of the best places in Oaxaca are located in the historic center. The two barrios are also right next door to the central market.

If you need a mode of transportation quicker than your two feet, then you can use taxis . Unfortunately, Oaxaca has banned Uber from the city. However, there’s another ride-share app called DiDi that works well. It’s a Chinese company that works just like Uber but uses yellow taxis . Download the App on your phone and you can order a taxi to pick you up wherever you are and take you to your destination. You can pay by cash (I always did) or by credit card.

One problem with DiDi is that the license plate of the taxi on the DiDi App doesn’t match the license plate of the taxi that shows up. It’s frustrating! I always verified that it was my taxi by asking the driver’s name and my destination and having him verify my name.

Also, the final amount for the ride doesn’t always match what the App says. And when I searched for my guesthouse on the App, I could never find it, so I always had to choose a nearby hotel to be dropped off at.

Where to Get Your Laundry Done in Oaxaca

If you want to get your clothes washed, the best thing to do is to take them to a lavanderia , sort of a like a laundromat where someone washes your clothes for you. Self-service laundromats are rare in Mexico.

I’ve gotten my laundry done at two places in Oaxaca. One place was EXCELLENT and another place was AWFUL! I’ll tell you about both, so you don’t make the mistake I did.

• Burbumatic – They charged me MXN$130 for 3 kilograms of laundry. I dropped my clothes off in the morning at 9:00 am and they were not ready until 4:00 pm the next day. Actually, when I arrived at 5:00 pm, they still weren’t ready and had to wait for the person to take them out of the drier. The clothes were not clean. The stain on one of my shirts was still there, and they didn’t smell clean–as if the person didn’t use much laundry detergent to clean them.
• Mr. Klyn – They charged me MXN$105 for 3 kilograms of laundry. I dropped my clothes off in the morning at 10:00a m and picked them up at 8:00 am the next day. The clothes were clean (the stain on my shirt was gone) and they smelled like they had been washed! Go HERE!

Final Thoughts on BEST things to Do in Oaxaca

If you don’t have time for all 32 places on this list, here are my top 6 things to do in Oaxaca :

• Go on a food tour
• Visit Monte Alban
• Wander around the historic center and the neighborhoods of Xochimilco and Jalatlaco
• Visit Hierve el Agua
• Check out the alebrije in Arrazole or San Martin
• Explore the street art on your own or with a tour

If you’ve been to Oaxaca and you’ve done any of these things on my list, let me know about your experience. If you’re planning on visiting Oaxaca and have any questions, please leave them in the comments below. Thank you!

Where to Go Next in Mexico

• 15 Best Things to Do in Campeche
• 23 Best Things to Do in Merida
• 7 Best Things to Do in Palenque
• 24 Best Things to Do in Puebla
• 15 Best Things to Do in Valladolid
• 15 Best Day Trips from Merida

Best Resources for Planning Your Trip to Mexico

Book your flight to mexico.

Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights to Mexico. They will turn up results for all airlines including major ones and local airlines. You’re going to find EVERYTHING that’s available and thus get the cheapest price.

Book Your Accommodations for Mexico:

The best hotel booking sites for Japan are Booking.com . They have the biggest selection, and they consistently churn out hotels and hostels at the lowest prices of any other booking site. Another website for backpackers and budget travelers is Hostel World .

Book Your Tours for Mexico:

The three best tour booking sites for Mexico are Viator and Get Your Guide . Viator has the biggest selection. Get Your Guide has terrific customer service. They will help you if you have trouble with your tour, especially if the tour company cancels on you or doesn’t show up.

Stay Connected When in Mexico:

To have access to the internet and not spend a lot of money while you’re out and about in Mexico, get a physical SIM card or an eSIM. I used Airalo eSIM in Mexico . While setting up can seem overwhelming at first, the SIM card has worked well for me in Mexico.

Are you on Pinterest?

Hey! How about saving one of these pins to Pinterest to read for later?

And feel free to follow me on Pinterest, where you’ll find lots of travel articles for everywhere around the world.

You Might Be Interested in These Mexico Posts…

• Yucatan Travel Guide
• Palenque Travel Guide
• Oaxaca Travel Guide
• Puebla Travel Guide
• Merida Food Guide

Wow! We were hoping to get to this part of the world for only three days before the pandemic ruined our plans. But maybe this was a good thing, we would have missed out on many places and things to do. When we do get to Oaxaca, it will be for much longer, and I will be armed with your excellent guide – Thank You.

Thank you! I really hope you have a chance to visit. Three days is not enough. Five at least.

Having not visited Oaxaca, I would not have known where to start my list of things to see and do. So your blog post was a great start. I am glad you included instructions for getting to spots by public transport. Often when we travel we rely on local options if they are safe and reliable. I can see why 3 weeks was still not enough time to enjoy it all.

Thanks. I hope you have a chance to visit. It’s a great city.

Oaxaca looks like excellent place to visit with so many things to see and do. I have never been to Mexico, so it’s something to consider for my future travels.

I hope you get a chance to travel to Oaxaca. It’s a fascinating and beautiful destination.

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Welcome to The Bamboo Traveler, a travel blog dedicated to helping those travelers who want to dig deeply into the history, heritage, and culture of a place. Whether it’s through the pages of your passport or the pages of a book, I’ll help you travel the world and uncover the history, culture, food, architecture, and natural beauty of some of the world’s most fascinating places.

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

Ready to book the best tours in Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is one of most beloved destinations in Mexico. There’s everything from the vibrant capital of Oaxaca City, to the surrounding Sierra Sur mountains — and the best way to see it all is with a local guide on some Oaxaca tours.

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best Oaxaca tour is this Hierve el Agua Tour & Mezcal Tasting , with a near-perfect Five Star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This elegant and culturally rich city is surrounded by natural splendor and ancient ruins. The people express their creativity through politically-charged street art, elaborate handicrafts, and the flavorful Oaxaca cuisine.

On the Top 20 best Oaxaca tours featured in this article, you’ll immerse yourself in the beauty and intriguing history of the region — one of the most unique places in Mexico, and one of its most complex.

Taste amazing foods in Oaxaca City’s three most-popular markets on various Oaxaca culinary tours, explore the street art scene by bicycle, or go on a day trip to the region’s famous petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua.

These Oaxaca excursions and tours will introduce you to the special magic of Oaxaca. Without further ado, let’s get to this list so you can discover what are soon to be your favorite Oaxaca day tours.

Top 3 Picks: Best Oaxaca Tours

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ultimate Hierve el Agua Hike & Mezcal Tasting ✔️ Traditional Oaxacan breakfast ✔️ Entrance fees and tickets

Oaxaca Monte Alban Tour: Ruins & Beyond ✔️ Hotel pick-up and drop-off ✔️ Certified guide

Artisanal Oaxacan Mezcal Tour with Alvaro ✔️ Traditional Oaxacan snacks ✔️ Tasting of mezcal

Best Oaxaca Tours for Travelers

1. ultimate hierve el agua hike & mezcal tasting.

⏰ Tour Length : 12 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.93 out of 5 Stars | 💧 Book now

One of the best tours to Hierve el Agua Oaxaca Mexico , this 12-hour hike and mezcal tasting tour is a must do.

The day starts bright and early with a 6am start, because the best time to visit Hierve el Agua is early. You can spend the two-hour drive to San Isidro Raoguía waking up slowly, enjoying the scenery, or taking a nap.

This was honestly so amazing to do. The hiking, the information on so many different things, and just the whole experience itself was amazing. I would definitely book through them again for other tours! —YESSICA ( read more reviews )

Once there, you’ll eat a yummy breakfast with a local family. Next, you’ll get plenty of free time to explore the rock formations at Hierve de Agua , relax in the thermal pools, and enjoy the natural beauty.

After that, you’ll go on an approximately three-hour hike over rugged terrain to find a hidden waterfall that few tourists know about. How cool is that!?

The tour finishes off at the home of a master mezcal-maker in Matatlán, one of the best places for Oaxaca mezcal . You’ll have lunch with his family and try a dozen or so different mezcals.

Are you excited yet?! You should be — this is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca City , and Hierve de Agua is one of the must see Oaxaca sites in the whole state.

Best Oaxaca Tours

2. oaxaca monte alban tour: ruins & beyond.

⏰ Tour Length : 7-8 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🥾 Book now

With a perfect 5 Star rating, Monte Alban Ruins & Beyond is the best of all Monte Alban tours Oaxaca has to offer.

During this full day, nine-hour experience you’ll explore the ancient Zapotec capital of Monte Albán . Your super storyteller guide will explain the history of the ruins and talk about the treasure that was found there.

Pick up was timely. We spent the perfect amount of time at each location for it to be fascinating but not overly done. It was a full day but it didn’t feel like it. Juan is fun and knowledgeable. Good group of guys! —mario ( read more reviews )

Next, you’ll visit San Martín Tilcajete to learn and see how Oaxaca alebrijes are made. These colorful wooden folk art creations represent mythical beasts, and each one is unique.

After that, you’ll meet some famous woman cooks in Mercado de Ocotlán in the small town of Ocotlán. This is one of the best markets in Oaxaca , and you’ll be able to buy artesanias (artisan souvenirs) and a delicious lunch.

Last of all, you’ll learn about barro negro , the black clay ceramics in San Bartolo Coyotepec . Past guests have said they loved meeting and learning from each of the artisans on this tour.

Unsure about taking Monte Alban Oaxaca tours? Don’t hesitate to book this one with a perfect Five Star rating ⭐️ It also includes bottled water, transportation from your Oaxaca hotel , and an expert guide.

3. Artisanal Oaxacan Mezcal Tour with Alvaro

⏰ Tour Length: 6 hours | ⭐️ Ratings: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | 🥃 Book now

The history of mezcal dates back hundreds of years, and this Educational Mezcal Tour with Alvaro explores the history, culture and tradition surrounding the national spirit of Mexico.

The experience starts with a visit to the Oaxaca villages of San Pablo Villa de Mitla (usually called Mitla Oaxaca for short) and Santiago Matatlán . These are two of the best places to see artisanal Oaxaca mezcal production.

I love that we went to less-visited mezcal sites for Oaxaca. The history and information about mezcal and how to make it was one of a kind. The mezcal was delicious. I learned so much. —Carmen ( read more reviews )

Santiago Matatlan Oaxaca is known as the World Capital of Mezcal. This is where the majority of Oaxaca mezcal comes from, and most mezcaleros (mezcal makers) use artisan methods passed through generations.

Mitla is a Oaxaca pueblo magico (magic town) known for its culture, history, ancient ruins, architecture and mezcal — locally called la bebida de los dioses , or “the drink of the gods.”

Here, you’ll start your walking tour through rows and rows of agave plants. After some activities and photos, you’ll take a mezcal factory tour. On this tour, you get a front row seat to see how mezcal is made.

Of course, no Oaxaca mezcal tour is complete without a mezcal tasting (or two). The experience ends with a traditional Oaxacan food lunch — which will obviously include more mezcal.

4. Best of Oaxaca Private Tour (2 Day Tour)

⏰ Tour Length : 3-9 hours per day | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🇲🇽 Book now

If you’re looking for two jam-packed days of Oaxaca sightseeing, look no further than this awesome Monte Alban Tour & Beyond with one of the best Oaxaca tour companies.

As one of the best private tours in Oaxaca, you’re in charge. You get to customize your itinerary and enjoy a number of amazing stops over the course of two days, like the Prehistoric Caves of Mitla, El Tule Tree and Monte Alban Ruins.

A must see Oaxaca landmark, don’t miss Monte Alban archaeological site . Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of all the most intriguing parts of the ruins and learn about the life and culture of long-lost civilizations.

David was fantastic. Customized the schedule to our liking and the days went smoothly. He was very knowledgeable about the sites and the history of the locals. We had a fantastic lunch and tour. Highly recommended. —Myrna ( read more reviews )

After enjoying Monte Alban to the fullest, you’ll explore the Oaxacan artisan town circuit. The Ruta de Artesanias (Oaxaca Art Route) includes towns like Teotitlan del Valle, Santiago Matatlan and San Bartolo Coyotepec.

In these towns (and a few more), you’ll learn about natural dyes and rug-hooking, fantastical wooden alebrijes , barro negro black pottery, locally-made Oaxacan mezcal , and Oaxacan textiles made on a backstrap loom.

To round out the fun, you’ll hike up to the prehistoric Mitla Caves for a peek at red, white, and black petroglyphs. There’s also a visit to the Mitla Ruins in Oaxaca, a 16th century Catholic church and Puerto Morelos Market.

This tour includes transportation, and parking. No meals or beverages are included.

5. Oaxaca Cooking Class & Mezcal Tasting with Sonia Silvia

⏰ Class Length : 4.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | 👩‍🍳 Book now

Ready to experience one of the highest-rated cooking classes in Oaxaca City? Then you must book this Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class with Sonia Silvia .

Sonia is a local woman who’s had a passion for traditional Oaxacan cuisine since she was a child. Her love of Oaxaca food is infectious, and she even passed it down to her son, who assists with the class.

Sonia learned how to cook from her mother, using clay pots and preparing dishes al carbon (over charcoal). Today, she continues learning from some of the best traditional chefs in the region of Oaxaca.

I had an amazing time learning about the different types of mezcals, methods of cooking, and even ingredients! Just exactly the kind of knowledge I’ve been looking for! —marie eliza ( read more reviews )

Sonia begins the class by showing you the different ingredients you’d typically find in a traditional Oaxacan kitchen. She’ll even take you for a quick look around her garden, where she grows herbs and organic chilies.

Sonia’s knowledge of food will be matched by her son’s knowledge of locally-made Oaxaca mezcal . He’ll guide you through some of the region’s best mezcals and invite you to experience them during a mezcal tasting.

There is one catch, though! You’ll need to drink it Oaxacan style, which includes consuming chicatanas (winged ants), chapulines (grasshoppers), and gusano (worms). Are you brave enough?

Next, it’s time for the main event. Sonia will show you how to make handmade tortillas, tetelas and memelas. She also specializes in salsas made the old school way, in a molcajete (Mexican mortar and pestle).

During the class, you’ll be able to create one of the seven Oaxacan moles from scratch. You’ll leave completely satisfied, but do make sure to come with an empty stomach.

If you want to cook authentic Oaxacan food in a family home while also trying some of the region’s best mezcal, then this is the experience for you. Note: Classes are in English and Spanish, with vegan and vegetarian options.

6. Oaxaca Food Tour: Eat with a Local at the Oaxaca Markets

⏰ Tour Length : 4 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | 🌮 Book now

The Oaxaca Markets Tour with Betsy is the highest-rated and best Oaxaca street food tour .

Tasting local foods is an amazing way to delve into the culture of Mexico outside Mexico City — and there’s no better way to do that than on a food tour with a local guide to show you around so you skip the tourist traps.

Head into the best markets of Oaxaca and eat like a local. This is one of the Oaxaca Mexico food tours where you’ll taste more than 20 different traditional dishes and drinks from both Oaxaca City and Oaxaca state.

We had a great time in the tour. Betsy is a lovely host and she did a great job of selecting great venues and offering a variety of foods. —kristen ( read more reviews )

On this Oaxaca Mexico food tour, you’ll explore three of the top markets in Oaxaca City : La Cosecha Organic Market, November 20th Market (Mercado 20 de Noviembre), and Mercado Benito Juárez Market.

Delve into the flavors, aromas, traditions, and culture of Oaxaca with your expert host, Betsy. She shares local secrets and great recommendations to help you have an amazing time while traveling to Oaxaca .

This is one of the Oaxaca food tours that includes authentic Oaxaca food , all dishes and beverages, and a Oaxaca tour guide. It’s hosted in both English and Spanish.

7. Mezcal and Mole Tasting with a Certified Sommelier

⏰ Tour Length: 1.5 hours | ⭐️ Ratings: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | 🥃 Book now

This Mezcal and Mole Tour is led by Daniel, a professional mezcal sommelier. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime, immersive adventure into the worlds of Oaxaca mezcal and Oaxaca mole — and one you’ll never forget.

Located in a mountain-view tasting room, participants will taste all seven moles of Oaxaca ( Note: They’re all vegetarian). Each Oaxacan mole has been perfectly paired with seven artisanal and ancestral mezcals.

Absolutely incredible. I learned so much, loved all the moles and all the mezcals, and the host was exceptional in every way. Highly highly recommend! —Carmen ( read more reviews )

Each mezcal has been carefully chosen to showcase the characteristics of different agaves. By the end of the meal, you’ll have a full belly, a nice buzz, and a vast knowledge of Oaxaca mezcal !

Along with tasting delicious moles and mezcal, this experience is the perfect place to learn about and discuss traditional Mexican foods and Mexico’s rich gastronomic heritage.

If at the end you discover a mezcal you particularly love, you can also buy one to take home with you as a souvenir. After all, mezcal is one of the most popular Oaxaca souvenirs visitors take home.

Note: This experience is great for vegetarians and vegans; all the Oaxacan moles are vegetarian, but can be made vegan upon request. English and Spanish tour options are also available.

8. The Zapotec Tour: See the Real Oaxaca Mexico

⏰ Tour Length: 9 hours | ⭐️ Ratings: 4.97 out of 5 Stars | 🎨 Book now

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, book this Oaxaca Zapotec Tour with Yeti and Ale now! The hosts are sisters, locals and certified tour guides in Oaxaca City.

During the experience, you’ll visit five different locations. At each, you’ll learn how to make different handicrafts and Oaxaca arts, and even get to participate in the process yourself. How fun is that?!

Learn how to weave tapetes (Oaxaca wool rugs), make beeswax candles, eat delicious Oaxacan food , see how red pottery is made, and taste artisanal Oaxacan mezcal. That’s right, there’s even a mezcal tasting .

I really can’t say enough great things about this tour… My favorite portion by far was the red pottery… I had the chance to see a different cultural practice in the construction of pottery — and of course there was mezcal! We tried quite a few mezcals and everyone was friends by the end of the tour. —che ( read more reviews )

At each stop, the artisans give great explanations about the history and evolution of their craft. In case you didn’t know, Oaxaca is known as the artisan capital of Mexico, famed for alebrijes and other artesanias (handicrafts).

Guest reviews loved the super storytelling hosts, the chance to meet and chat with locals, and the opportunity to gain insight into the intriguing and colorful world of Oaxacan artists.

This is definitely one of the best artisan tours Oaxaca has to offer, and is a great way to try mezcal without booking one another tour. 🥃 Note: if you really love mezcal, nothing beats these best Oaxaca mezcal tours .

The Zapotec Tour includes drinks, transportation, and an expert guide. It is offered in English and Spanish.

9. Oaxaca Walking Tour with a Photographer

⏰ Tour time: 2 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 📸 Book now

Join Juan Pablo on this Oaxaca Walking Tour with a Local Photographer to see the city and improve your photo skills at the same time. As one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico, this is the best way to capture the memories.

You and Juan Pablo will walk through Downtown Oaxaca City , exploring local streets to create incredible shots of Mexican dancers in typical Oaxaca dress, gorgeous buildings and more.

Juan Pablo is extremely knowledgeable in his craft. I have done a few other street photography workshops and this is one of a kind. He is such a kind and patient teacher… [and] knows the secret locations to get you to the best photos.  —nicole ( read more reviews )

The coolest part of this tour? You’ll take photos of Oaxaca City with your own phone camera, or “real” camera, if you have one. Juan Pablo will show you features and techniques that you can use in all future photos.

The tour concludes at El Volador Café, one of the best Oaxaca City restaurants , located near the beautiful and famous La Cruz de Piedra. If you need more Oaxaca tips, Juan Pablo can offer them here.

Best Oaxaca tours

10. traditional oaxacan cooking class with mimi hernandez.

⏰ Class Length : 5.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 👩‍🍳 Book now

This Traditional Oaxaca Cooking Class is hosted by Noemí López AKA “Mimi.” She became a bit of a celebrity in Oaxaca after taking second place for her pipián de nopales dish in the Meeting of Traditional Cooks in Oaxaca.

Mimi’s love for the kitchen started at a young age, as she often cooked alongside her mother. Her passion grew even further when her mother-in-law gave her recipes that had been in the family for more than four generations.

I’ve been in Mexico traveling for 5 months and have enjoyed many experiences. This one was absolutely the most memorable, enjoyable… and filled with authenticity. Mimi is the greatest… —Betty ( read more reviews )

Once you arrive, Mimi, her son, Charlie, and their dog, Simba, will welcome you into their home. The class starts with Mimi introducing you to the organic ingredients used in your class.

Before you start cooking the main meal, you’ll enjoy some snacks. These include the famous queso Oaxaca cheese that Mimi has been making herself for more than 25 years, chapulines (Oaxaca grasshoppers), and a mezcal toast.

Next, you’ll taste each of the seven Oaxaca moles, and prepare your favorite. Along with moles , you’ll also learn how to make tortillas a mano (by hand) and cook them on a comal , and even try some Oaxacan desserts.

Mimi provides guests with an authentic experience, and hers is one of the best cooking classes in Oaxaca City — with a 5 Star rating . Note: Classes are available in English and Spanish, with vegan and vegetarian options.

11. Hiking in Oaxaca & Rituals in the Mountains

⏰ Tour Length : 4.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | ⛰️ Book now

In the market for hiking tours in Oaxaca Mexico? With a near-perfect rating, the Hiking in the Mountains of Oaxaca experience with Margo is an awesome choice. The hike is 2.5 hours, and of moderate difficulty.

Along the way, you’ll learn about many local plans, animals, and birds. At the top of the mountain, your guide Margo performs a ritual to help you connect to the earth and feel more grounded.

This experience exceeded our expectations… The whole experience was very relaxing and insightful, not to mention the wonderful food and drinks we were provided both throughout and after the hike. Margo is a great host, very easy to talk to and we would highly recommend her! —robbe ( read more reviews )

To round off the tour, you’ll eat a yummy meal prepared by a local family. Besides trying some authentic Oaxaca food, you also get the chance to make your very own tortilla and cook it on the cooking comal (fat-top griddle).

While guests loved the scenery on this tour and the chance to learn about local flora and fauna, being able to eat with a local Oaxaca family is a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience as well.

This tour includes transportation to and from the trailhead, an expert guide, food, drinks, binoculars, and access to a first aid kit. Note: The entire tour lasts 4.5 hours, but the moderately-difficult hike is about two hours.

12. Street Art Bike Tour in Oaxaca City

⏰ Tour Length : 4 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.89 out of 5 Stars | 🚲 Book now

Immerse yourself in a magical and colorful world on this Oaxaca Street Art Bike Tour .

Cycle through three of the best Oaxaca neighborhoods , past women wearing traditional clothing, street food vendors, and historic, charming buildings.

On this Oaxaca street art tour, you’ll learn about the residents’ struggles, the political protests behind the art, and Oaxacan street art renaissance history. Past guests have loved the storyteller host and tour setting.

Out of the 4 tours I did in Oaxaca, this was my favorite. An excellent glimpse into Oaxaca’s unique street art scene… Highly recommended to anyone interested in learning more about what makes Oaxaca special beyond its touristic allure. —terrry ( read more reviews )

This is the most unique bike tour in Oaxaca City to gain insight and appreciation into the world class street art in Oaxaca. The tour includes use of a bike, helmet, bottled water, coffee, tea, and snacks.

Oaxaca City Tours Tip: Take extra water in this reusable water bottle and wear sunscreen . The Oaxaca weather is often very hot during the day all year-long.

13. Oaxaca Pueblos Mancomunados Tour

⏰ Tour Length : 8 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🥾 Book now

Journey into the beautiful highlands north of Oaxaca on one of the best Sierra Norte Oaxaca tours available, this Pueblos Mancomunados Oaxaca tour .

The Pueblos Mancomunados of the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca are eight self-governing, indigenous Zapotec Villages . They are located a few hours from Oaxaca City, and provide immersive Mexico ecotourism experiences.

The eight Pueblos Mancomunados are: Amatlán, Benito Juárez, Cuajimoloyas, La Nevería, Lachatao, Latuvi, Llano Grande and Yavesía. The nature trails here are a network of rural footpaths that span more than 62 miles (100 km).

It is a virtually-untouched natural area, so you will need to go with a local guide like Ivan to help you navigate this rural area in the Oaxaca mountains.

While in Oaxaca I highly recommend joining Ivan for his Sierra Norte Pueblos Mancomunados hike! He is a delightful guide with perfect English who grew up in Oaxaca and knows so much about the region. His love of nature makes him the ideal person to lead these hikes into remote areas in the Sierras.  —Annie ( read more reviews )

During this eight hour experience, you’ll head to one of the highest points in the Oaxaca state — a scenic village 10,500-feet (3,200 m) above sea level. Here, you’ll hike picturesque trails through a cloud forest .

Giant agaves, wildflowers, wild mushrooms, pine trees, and oaks will surround you on all sides. You’ll travel between striking rock walls, cross a suspension bridge, and enjoy marvelous views from a stunning overlook.

After the hike, you’ll eat a traditional meal prepared by a local family, which is included. This tour also includes transportation from your Oaxaca hotel , entry fees, drinking water to refill your water bottle , and one drink.

Note: Wear comfortable hiking shoes or running shoes and a light rain jacket, as temperatures in Oaxaca are cooler in the mountains than in Oaxaca City .

14. Ruta de Artesanias: Oaxaca Art Towns Tour

⏰ Tour Length : 5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | 👩‍🎨 Book now

Explore the world of Oaxaca art with his fabulous Oaxaca Art Town Tour , also known as the Oaxaca Ruta de Artesanías (Artisan Route). During this intriguing tour, you’ll journey to several different towns around Oaxaca City .

You’ll learn about the history and processes behind barro negro (Oaxaca black pottery), see wooden alebrije figurines being made, and explore a colorful textile market to shop for tapetes (Oaxacan rugs).

This tour is flexible, so you can wander around at your leisure in San Bartolo Coyotepec , San Martín Tilcajete and Santo Tomás Jalieza . Here, you can see different artisan shops in town, and buy authentic Oaxaca souvenirs.

The experience with Alberto has been fantastic. It’s taken us to hidden and authentic places we would never have found on our own. He also gave us a lot of details and information about the Oaxaca and Mexico region in general. 100% recommended without a doubt. —David ( read more reviews )

You’ll also enjoy a tasting of Cosha Nuestra mezcal, a brand founded by the tour hosts. The tour includes tasting one mezcal and two curados de mezcal (mezcal creams) at a Oaxaca mezcal distillery.

Besides shopping, guests loved hearing interesting stories from the knowledgeable, passionate guides. You’ll have plenty of time to chat in the SUV driving from town to town in your private, comfortable transportation.

Note: Wear comfortable clothes and footwear, bring your camera, and pack extra cash (pesos) if you want to buy handicrafts and mezcal . The guide, Alberto, speaks English and Spanish.

15. Tour the Central de Abastos Market

⏰ Tour time: 2.5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.91 out of 5 Stars | 🌮 Book now

Located on the outskirts of town, Central de Abastos Oaxaca Market is one of oldest and largest markets in Oaxaca. If you’re looking for anything , you’ll probably find it here, as the market spans more than 800 acres (3.25 km²).

While there’s a lot for sale here, from fresh flowers to Oaxaca Mexico souvenirs, most visitors make a beeline to try the famous Memelas Doña Vale — as seen on Netflix shows like Somebody Feed Phil in the “Oaxaca” episode .

Javier’s trip was perfect. I came to Oaxaca for this, a food tour through the amazing Central Market. Javier guided us like a pro, through what would have been disorienting and bewildering to any newcomer. Highly recommended! —todd ( read more reviews )

While you can visit on your own, it’s much safer to go here with a local guide. It is intimidating if you’ve never been to a very crowded Mexican market, and if you don’t speak Spanish, the experience is much more stressful.

Led by a Oaxaca local, Javiar will take you to sample the Doña Vale memelas and her morita salsa. He’ll also take you to more of the other best places to eat in Oaxaca City — so all you have to do is show up, eat, and enjoy!

16. Oaxaca Walking Tour at Night: Urban Legends & Dinner

⏰ Tour Length: 2.5 hours | ⭐️ Ratings: 4.93 out of 5 Stars | 🥾 Book now

Urban legends, ghost stories, street food, alleys, and old basilicas — all this and more await on this Nocturnal Walk of Urban Legends and Dinner Tour .

Javier (Javi for short), your expert Oaxaca City walking tour guide, will lead you on a walking tour Oaxaca City style. He masterfully weaves together stories, myths, and legends with the architecture around you.

You’ll visit the Oaxaca Alley of Death, learn the creepy stories of La Matlazihua and La Llorona, be introduced to spirit guides, and discover local Zapotec and Mixtec rituals.

An amazing storytelling adventure. I’m not a tour person, but this experience and the [ Central de Abastos Market Tour with Javi ] are fantastic. He is so personable and makes the experience one of a kind and so fun! —che ( read more reviews )

With near-perfect reviews, you can see that past guests loved learning the traditions, history, and lore of Oaxaca during this experience. Javier does an incredible job sharing stories as you walk.

This 2.5-hour Oaxaca street food tour is held in both English and Spanish. It includes a tasty supper from a street food vendor, drinks, and a mythical wooden Oaxaca alebrije figurine to take home as a Oaxaca souvenir.

17. Best Oaxaca Tacos and Secret Bars in the City

⏰ Tour time: 3 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.98 out of 5 Stars | 🌮 Book now

Nighttime culinary backstreets and delicious flavors come alive for you on this Oaxaca Taco Tour with Gerardo — which has a near-perfect Five Star rating.

Join top-rated host, Gerardo, on a Oaxaca food truck tour excursion! It will take you to two of the city’s most fabulous taco stands in the historic center of Jalatlaco , one of the best neighborhoods in Oaxaca City .

Gerardo was super knowledgeable, passionate and a great host. We went to some truly unknown spots and had AMAZING food. Highly, highly recommend!!!! —vishnu ( read more reviews )

Learn about the history of this fun neighborhood, one of the oldest in Oaxaca, as you enjoy the music and mouth-watering aromas. Next, you’ll visit a Oaxaca taquería (taco shop) in the Ex Marquesado neighborhood .

Satisfied, you’ll head back to Centro Historico (Historic Center of downtown Oaxaca City) for local Mexican beers in one of Gerardo’s favorite hidden bars. If you want to discover the best bars in Oaxaca, you need a local!

Past guests say they loved the value of this tour, visiting the Oaxaca hidden gem neighborhoods, and Gerardo’s expertise on authentic Oaxaca foods (especially the tacos ), and learning about the city’s delicious cuisine.

This tour lasts about three hours and is hosted in English or Spanish. It’s a fabulous and safe way to get to know Oaxaca City with a local guide.

18. Biking to El Tule Tree & Lake Tomaltepec

⏰ Tour Length : 5 hours | ⭐️ Rating: 4.96 out of 5 Stars | 🌳 Book now

If you’re interested in Oaxaca mountain bike tours, you’ll love this outing to the region’s famous Tule Tree . Not only is this giant cypress tree 2,000-years-old, it also holds the Guinness World Record for the widest tree in the world.

This fun Tule Tree & Lake Tomaltepec Biking Adventure will take you on dirt roads and paved roads from downtown Oaxaca to Santo Domingo Tomaltepec. It will be an exciting off-road, and off the beaten path Oaxaca day.

Ivan’s tour was absolutely wonderful!! It’s the perfect way to get off the beaten path and experience the small towns outside of downtown Oaxaca (which I think is a must-do)… I would do this again in a heartbeat — highly recommended!! —Allison ( read more reviews )

You’ll spend time at Lake Tomaltepec, then ride a bit further to the town of Santa Maria del Tule, Oaxaca. Here, you’ll see the Arbol del Tule Tree and colorful church next to it, and stop for lunch in the mercado (local market).

After refueling with food and drinks, you’ll bike back to Oaxaca City. In total, you’ll bike 18.5-miles (30 kilometers), so make sure you’re in fair shape before booking.

This tour lasts approximately five hours and includes a mountain bike, helmet, wonderful guide named Ivan who’s a Oaxaca local, access to an on-the-go tool kit and first aid kit (safety first!), and all entrance fees.

19. Oaxaca Botanical Gardens Tour

Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca City Botanical Garden), located in downtown next to Templo de Santo Domingo, is one of the most popular sites in Oaxaca .

This 2.5-acre garden showcases the immense biodiversity in Oaxaca with hundreds of local plants and cacti from all over the state. Due to the fragility of the garden’s ecosystem, you can only enter with a guided tour.

English tours take place Monday to Saturday at 11am, and last about two hours. Oaxaca Botanical Garden tours cost $100 pesos ($5 USD) per person.

20. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour

While it may just look like a beautiful colonial city now, Oaxaca City and Centro de Oaxaca (Downtown Oaxaca), dates back to 1529 when it was originally occupied by the native Oaxaca Zapotec people .

Today, it is a mix of old and new. Out of the hundreds of sites listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, very few entire cities have made the cut, but Oaxaca City does.

You can get to know it on the Oaxaca Free Walking Tour . Though free, tips are customary. Consider tipping at least $100 MX pesos per person ($5 USD).

Oaxaca Travel Guide and FAQ

How do you pronounce Oaxaca?

Wondering about the Oaxaca pronunciation ? It’s a common question, so if you are, you’re not alone! The word Oaxaca is pronounced waa-haa-kah .

Where is Oaxaca located?

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico, surrounded by three other Mexican states : Chiapas, Guerrero and Puebla. The southern edge of the state sits on the Pacific Ocean, where you’ll find the best Oaxaca beaches .

🗺️ Oaxaca Map

🇲🇽 where is oaxaca city located.

Oaxaca City is the state’s capital city, and located in the center of Oaxaca State. Many think Oaxaca is near the beach, but it’s actually about 160 miles (257 km) from the coast.

Oaxaca City is located about six hours south of Mexico City . You can book direct flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca City, or take the ADO bus. I recommend the flight, as it’s much shorter but not much more money.

What is the best time to visit Oaxaca Mexico?

The best time to travel to Oaxaca is during the dry season, October to May . However, the temperate weather in Oaxaca City means it can be a year-round destination.

While it will definitely rain quite a bit during the Oaxaca rainy season, you’ll also get lower prices, as this is the slow season in Oaxaca. BONUS: Most tours in Oaxaca Mexico are also cheaper in low season.

If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca busy season runs from about late-October for Day of the Dead , through mid-January.

Many also visit Oaxaca de Juárez (Oaxaca City) for the Guelaguetza Festival in July. This is the second biggest Oaxaca festival , and a very popular event, so book your Oaxaca hotel well in advance.

🌡️ Oaxaca weather Averages

Oaxaca City has a desert climate, so hot days and cool nights. The temperature in Oaxaca City fluctuates a lot, so be mindful and bring layers when packing for Oaxaca.

If you hate the heat, avoid the hottest months of April to May so you have an enjoyable Oaxaca vacation.

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?

For the vast majority of travelers, Oaxaca is safe to visit. In fact, Oaxaca is one of the safest states in Mexico .

Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe. Now, that doesn’t mean bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca City; they do.

However, if you take the same general travel precautions you would anywhere else — ie. stay aware of yourself, your belongings and your surroundings — you should be safe traveling to Oaxaca City.

⚠️ For a deep dive into this topic and a Oaxaca safety guide, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?

What’s the closest Oaxaca Airport?

Wondering, Is there an airport in Oaxaca City? Yes, there’s Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX), located about 20-30 minutes from downtown Oaxaca.

You might see this airport called Xoxocotlán International Airport, but it is just another name for OAX Airport. ▶︎ Book your Oaxaca flights now!

🚐 Best Oaxaca Airport transportation

Is there uber in oaxaca city.

No — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, no Lyft in Oaxaca and no ride-shares in Oaxaca.

They do have DiDi Taxi through the DiDi Rider app, which lets you call a Oaxaca taxi via the app. It’s basically like using Uber or Lyft, but you will get a regular cab.

• Download DiDi Rider for iPhone
• Download DiDi Rider for Android

How do you get around Oaxaca City?

Oaxaca City is walkable, so if you’re just staying in the city itself, you can walk and use taxis and public transportation as needed.

If you’re doing Oaxaca day trips , a rental car or group tour is your best bet, and I recommend booking Oaxaca tours via Viator and Airbnb Experiences .

ARE TAXIS SAFE IN OAXACA MEXICO?

For the majority of travelers, yes, taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.

I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app, so I have a record of my trip and the price is already set for me, but you can also just hail a cab on the street.

How many days do you need in Oaxaca City?

Within Oaxaca City itself, you can see the highlights in 2-3 full days. For those who want to explore the Oaxaca pueblos magicos , sites and villages outside town, you’ll want 5-6 full days.

The best things to do near Oaxaca include exploring Hierve el Agua in San Lorenzo Albarradas, San Agustín Etla, Teotitlán Del Valle and San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a pueblo magico (magic town).

Planning to visit the best beaches in Oaxaca, including Puerto Escondido , Huatulco and Mazunte ? For a Oaxaca City and Oaxaca beaches trip, you’ll need at least a week or two.

What is Oaxaca known for?

There are five things Oaxaca is known for — art, culture, the Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebration, mezcal and food.

If you’re really wondering, Why is Oaxaca so popular? The answer is likely for the food. In fact, Oaxaca is known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico, so try both the street food in Oaxaca and the restaurants in Oaxaca.

For a deep dive into this topic, check out this What is Oaxaca famous for? article. In it, you’ll learn even more about what makes Oaxaca unique.

Is Oaxaca City worth visiting?

Short answer: YES! In a word, Oaxaca is  magical . It’s the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be with amazing food , fascinating history, colorful colonial architecture and more.

As you’ll usually need to take at least two flights to Oaxaca, Mexico, or a flight and a bus if you’re coming from Mexico City , wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it is a totally valid question.

I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that FU+K YES IT IS!

There’s everything from rich history, colorful festivals , UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made mezcal, beautiful nature, colonial buildings, indigenous artisan communities, and of course, the yummy Oaxacan food .

Final Thoughts: Best Tours in Oaxaca Mexico

As you can see, the best tours in Oaxaca take many forms. If you’re still undecided, our pick for the best Oaxaca tour is this Hierve el Agua Tour & Mezcal Tasting , with a near-perfect Five Star rating ⭐️

There are numerous ways to enjoy the magical region of Oaxaca with its ancient ruins , hopping arts and crafts scene, natural splendor , and delicious gastronomy .

Tours from Oaxaca City let visitors explore the alleys and cathedrals of the city after nightfall to learn its legends, and visit artisans adept at pottery, textiles, wood-carving, and candle-making.

You can shop and eat your way around the colorful markets of Oaxaca , or delve into the ancient world on a Oaxaca Monte Alban tour to see the best ruins on your trip to Oaxaca Mexico.

Whether you choose walking tours in Downtown Oaxaca, a journey into the stunning Sierra Norte mountains for some hiking, or a Oaxaca cooking class , you’ll discover a rich cultural landscape and make amazing memories.

So what are you waiting for? Book one (or several) of the amazing tours in Oaxaca City and its surrounding areas featured in this article ASAP.

Oaxaca Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance for oaxaca.

100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Oaxaca?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico, and helps keep you hydrated while traveling to Oaxaca. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Oaxaca?

Yes — Renting a car in Oaxaca is one of the best ways to see the state. I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Oaxaca companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Oaxaca?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of all Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book places to stay in Oaxaca?

For Oaxaca hotels, Booking.com is the best site . If you’re considering a Oaxaca Airbnb, also check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb. For the best Oaxaca hostels, use HostelWorld .

What do I pack for Oaxaca?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Oaxaca flights?

For finding cheap Oaxaca flights, I recommend booking through Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Oaxaca?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and most European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but you can check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

The vast majority of travelers will receive a a passport stamp, or 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa upon arrival.

If you are a Foodie, You NEED to Add This Mexican City to Your Bucket List

If you love food then you need to visit oaxaca 🤤.

And if you want to know more about Oaxaca, you’re in the right place because this article will shine a light on why you should come to Oaxaca if you are a foodie.

If you want to know What is Oaxaca Known for? — food! But that’s not all.

In this list, I’ll talk about 3 things that make Oaxaca special, including the types of food you should try as well as the markets you need to visit to try some iconic Mexican dishes.

Ready to discover all things Oaxaca food-related? Let’s dive in!

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning when you make a purchase, I earn a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and help keep my content free. It’s a win-win for us both. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy .

1. Traditional Oaxacan Food

Traditional Oaxaca foods are unique and incredibly regional, and Oaxaca City is often called the Foodie Capital of Mexico.

In fact, UNESCO declared all traditional Mexican food an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Mankind in 2010.

Some of the best chefs in Mexico , like Alejandro Ruiz Olmedo of Casa Oaxaca, Enrique Olvera of Criollo Oaxaca, and Cecila Flórian from Las Quince Letras, have Oaxacan restaurants .

Oaxaca also has an exciting street food culture, as seen on Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America (Season 1, Episode 3, “Oaxaca, Mexico”).

In it, you’ll see the Oaxacan tlayuda, and more.

Here are five of the must-try Oaxaca foods and drinks, starting with the best-known Oaxaca foods , the seven moles:

🥣 Oaxaca Mole

What is mole from oaxaca.

Oaxaca mole is unique because it’s a thick marinade paste, and also a sauce, a sauce and a full meal.

Mole is commonly served with rice and chicken or turkey, or used as a sauce, as with enmoladas.

This is a Oaxacan take on enchiladas, which are usually topped with salsa, though mole is used in Oaxaca.

Mole recipes vary, but in general, they consist of these flavors and ingredients: 🌶️spicy chiles, acidic red or green tomatoes, sweet fruits and chocolate, local spices, and thickeners like nuts, seeds and even tortillas.

The ingredients are crushed and worked into a paste, then mixed with water or stock, and slow-simmered for hours, or even days, until thick.

It is often served on a plate with rice and a protein like pork, turkey or chicken.

There are seven types of mole from Oaxaca , including mole negro (black mole), mole colorado (red mole), mole verde (green mole), and mole amarillo (yellow mole).

You’ll find mole in restaurants all over Oaxaca City and Oaxaca state.

In fact, you’ll find it all over Mexico, as mole is the National Dish of Mexico, so be on the lookout in these best Mexico City restaurants , and beyond.

🍽️ Oaxaca tlayudas

When it comes to the question — What is Oaxaca famous for? It’s the food, but there’s more to Oaxaca food than just mole.

Tlayudas (pronounced tuh-lie-you-das) are the most beloved of all Oaxaca street food.

What is a tlayuda?

They’re often referred to as a Mexican pizza, because they do look like a pizza — though there’s no similarities in flavor to Italian pizza.

To make a tlayuda, you start out with a gigantic tortilla; larger than what you’d use for a burrito.

The tortilla is smeared with asiento (unrefined pork lard), and placed to toast over charcoal or a traditional cooking comal .

This large, flat cooking surface is used for many Oaxaca street food dishes.

After toasting the tortilla on the comal for a few minutes, refried beans, tomatoes, onions, shredded lettuce or green cabbage and avocado are placed on top, along with quesillo.

This is the famous Oaxacan string cheese , beloved throughout Mexico and beyond. It is a fresh cheese made by hand and then rolled into a ball.

After cooking for another few minutes, the tlayuda is folded into fourths, and the Oaxaca cheese continues to melt.

( Note: To really get the technique down, consider one of these best Oaxaca cooking classes .)

For those who want to add meat, it is usually just placed on top of the folded tlayuda . Most tlayuda shops offer tasajo, a dried jerky-style steak, and chorizo (sausage).

For the best tlayudas in Oaxaca, head to the local markets .

🫔 Tamales Oaxaqueños (Oaxacan Tamales)

🫔 Tamales are eaten almost everywhere in Mexico, though tamales oaxaqueños (Oaxacan tamales) are made a bit different.

In Mexico, a tamal consists of a masa (corn) mixture , which is often covered in a salsa or sauce, and steamed to cook. This part is the same in Oaxaca.

After preparing the masa , Oaxacan chefs place the mixture in a plantain (banana) leaf , unlike the more commonly-used corn husk.

Throughout Oaxaca, you’ll often see tamales called tamales hojas (leaf tamales), as “hoja” is the Spanish word for leaf.

🍽️ Memelas (Memelitas)

Memelas (pronounced mem-ell-uhs) are the most beloved Oaxaca antojitos. The word antojitos means “little snacks,” or appetizers.

You might also see or hear them called memelitas (little memelas).

Commonly eaten earlier in the day for breakfast and lunch, memelas are basically open face tacos , though they use a thicker tortilla, similar to that of a sope.

They are made on a cooking comal , and topped with all ingredients including Oaxaca cheese , refried beans, your choice of meat and salsa.

Memelas are the perfect grab and go snack, but locals also head to the Oaxaca mercados (markets) to eat them.

🤤 Memelas Doña Vale

You can try memelas in markets all over the city, but there’s one place more popular than the rest — Memelas Doña Vale .

In fact, some say it’s among the best places for memelas in Oaxaca, if not the best.

Memelas Doña Vale in Mercado Central de Abastos is a must-try on any Oaxaca City foodie tour . It was even featured on Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America show.

The chef and owner, Doña Vale (Ms. Vale), is known for her memelas and also her unique salsa morita .

This delicious, hand-made salsa uses chile morita , a smoked jalapeño pepper that’s similar in taste to a smoky chipotle.

🧉 Oaxacan Tejate

Tejate (pronounced tay-ha-tay) is a centuries-old chocolate and corn drink.

While that flavor combo may not sound appetizing, this ancient drink has stood the taste test of time.

In fact, Oaxacans love tejate so much, they often call it the bebida de los dioses (drink of the gods).

Tejate is made by hand in large clay bowls, by liquifying a mixture of fermented cacao (chocolate) beans, toasted maize (corn), toasted pits of mamey (tropical fruit), and flor de cacao (cacao flower).

It is served cold, and very refreshing on a hot Oaxaca day.

Since it has been around since prehispanic times, each region, city and family will have their own unique tejate recipe.

However, even with variations, tejate generally tastes like a more complex chocolate almond milk.

2. Oaxacan Mezcal

Oaxacan mezcal is a distilled spirit that can be made from more than 30 varieties of the maguey (agave) plant. If mezcal sounds like tequila to you — it kind of is.

Much like how champagne is essentially a sparkling wine from the city of Champagne, France, tequila is a kind of mezcal from the city of Tequila, Mexico .

If Tequila, Mexico, is the home of tequila, Oaxaca is the home of mezcal.

To show how much Oaxacans love their mezcal, there’s this common saying :

In Oaxaca, mezcal comes served in a copita (mezcal cup), often with a plate of orange slices and sal de maguey (maguey worm salt).

This is the same worm that’s in a tequila bottle; though never a mezcal bottle.

Note: This beloved drink is meant to be sipped not taken as a shot. When you visit all the best Oaxaca mezcal bars , remember to sip!

In terms of flavor, mezcal tends to be a bit smokier than tequila, as it’s smoked underground in the fermentation process. However, not all mezcal has a smoky flavor.

The best mezcals come from Oaxaca, Mexico — like Ilegal Mezcal , Montelobos and 400 Conejos , Mexico’s best selling mezcal.

🥃 Best Oaxaca Mezcal Tours

One of the best things to do in Oaxaca Mexico is take a Oaxaca mezcal tour at a distillery to see the entire mezcal process.

It starts with harvesting the agave, then smoking it underground, then distilling it, and finally, tasting the final product.

After you taste some, you’ll be able to buy your favorite one(s).

3. Colorful Oaxaca Markets

Oaxaca is known for many things.

It’s one of the most ethnically-diverse states in Mexico, home to some of the best food and mezcal in the country, with stunning natural landscapes and beaches — and the colorful Oaxaca markets .

The mercados in Oaxaca City are ideal for souvenir shopping, but also a place to get an affordable meal and hang out where the locals go.

In short, exploring the local markets is a must on your Oaxaca itinerary .

Here are three of the best Oaxaca markets that you won’t want to miss when traveling to Oaxaca Mexico:

🛍️ Mercado Benito Juarez Market

One of the  best things to do in Oaxaca City  is stroll the city’s mercados.

Of the most-visited, there’s Benito Juarez Market Oaxaca, perfect for shopping and sampling traditional  Oaxacan foods  and drinks, like  aguas casilda .

If you’re looking for a place to buy inexpensive Oaxaca souvenirs, this is it.

Here, you’ll find traditional Oaxacan garments, huarache shoes , floral headbands, artesanias (artisan handicrafts), colorful embroidered purses, leather goods, and much more.

🛍️ Mercado 20 de Noviembre Market

🔥 oaxaca pasillo de humo in 20 de noviembre market.

Located inside the Mercado 20 de Noviembre Market, you’ll find Pasillo de Humo AKA Oaxaca Meat Hall.

In English, pasillo de humo actually means smoke hall or smoke alley — and yes, this is a smokey part of the market.

Here, there are rows of vendors selling meats and veggies a la carte that you can buy and have cooked al carbon (over charcoal).

The smoke imparts a delicious flavor, and the aroma in the air is intoxicating.

🛍️ Tlacolula Sunday Market in Oaxaca

Here’s one of the more fun facts about Oaxaca Mexico: Tlacolula Market is the oldest continuously-run local market in Oaxaca — and it has been around for several centuries.

Nowadays, you can buy everything from fresh produce and prepared foods, to locally-made mezcal and handicrafts at the Tlacolula de Matamoros Market.

Every Sunday, thousands of vendors, tourists and locals head to the Tianguis de Domingo Tlacolula , AKA the famous Sunday Tlacolula Market .

It can be chaotic, but in the best way, as you’re enveloped in the colors and sounds of local Oaxaca life.

If this seems intimidating, book this Old Tlacolula Market Tour with Diego , and let a local show you around.

Looking to Discover More Unique Places in Mexico?

Mexico is a large country — the 14th largest country on Earth by size — and it’s also the 6th most biodiverse diverse country in the world.

Though it’s mostly known for beaches, there’s a lot more to Mexico than that. Check out these Mexico articles to discover parts of the country you never knew existed.

• The 30 Most Beautiful Cities in Mexico (#7 Will Shock You)
• Mexico Off the Beaten Path Places for Your Bucket List
• 20 Hot Springs in Mexico That are Calling Your Name
• Hidden Beaches in Mexico You’ve Never Heard Of
• Best Waterfalls in Huasteca Potosina Mexico
• The Coolest Mayan Ruins in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

⚠️ Before You Go — Get Your FREE Guide !

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