Advice and destination guides for culture & adventure travelers
Oaxaca, Mexico is a state in Southwestern Mexico best known for its indigenous people and rich culture. Its capital, Oaxaca de Juarez (commonly referred to as Oaxaca or Oaxaca City) is becoming a hotspot for arts and culture tourism, in particular its annual Guelaguetza and Day of the Dead celebrations.
Just a 1-hour flight from Mexico City, Oaxaca’s colorful colonial streets, foodie scene, and Pacific-coast beaches are a destination for travelers who want to experience more of Mexico outside the typical tourist spots.
Get there: Fly into Oaxaca International Airport, OAX, 5 miles from the city. It’s about an hour flight from Mexico City, or 4-6 hours by bus. Or, to get to Oaxaca’s beaches, fly into PXM in Puerto Escondido or HUX in Huatulco.
To do: Visit Oaxaca’s museums, art galleries, botanical garden, and cathedrals. Oaxaca is known for its art scene and foodie culture. Take a day trip to Hierve el Agua, to see ruins at Monte Alban or Mitla, or take a cooking class. Afterwards, head to Oaxaca’s beaches: try Zicatela in Puerto Escondido for world-class surfing, Mazunte for sea turtle spotting, or the beaches of Huatulco for luxury resorts on quiet bays.
When to visit: The Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos) festival Oct. 31- November 2 is a huge draw, so book well in advance for travel throughout the region. April-May in Oaxaca City has higher temperatures but less rain. Oaxaca’s beaches are perfect for travel year-round.
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