Oaxaca tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Oaxaca: 1) Zapoteca influence - Archeology and Art Private Tour 2) Oaxaca full day outdoor trip: local villages and their culture 3) Amazing Oaxaca City Walking Half Day Tour 4) Discover Guelaguetza on a Full day Tour from Oaxaca 5) Oaxaca Food Tasting Experience - Half Day Tour

Oaxaca, Mexico, is a culturally rich and vibrant city known for its indigenous traditions, colorful markets, delicious cuisine, and historical sites. Here are some must-do things in Oaxaca: Explore the city's main square, the Zócalo, surrounded by colonial architecture, shops, and restaurants. The Cathedral of Oaxaca and the Government Palace are notable landmarks in this area. Visit the Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán and its adjoining cultural center. The church is an architectural masterpiece, and the cultural center features exhibits on Oaxacan culture and history. Experience the vibrant colors and flavors of Oaxaca at Mercado Benito Juárez. This bustling market offers local crafts, textiles, spices, and traditional Oaxacan foods, including chapulines (grasshoppers). Just outside Oaxaca, Monte Albán is an ancient Zapotec archaeological site. Explore the impressive pyramids, plazas, and observatory, which provide stunning views of the surrounding valley. Visit the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures (Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca): Located in the former monastery of Santo Domingo, this museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts representing the region's diverse indigenous cultures. Oaxaca is famous for its cuisine. Consider taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes like mole, tlayudas, and mezcal-infused cocktails. If you visit in July, don't miss the Guelaguetza, a cultural festival showcasing traditional dance, music, and costumes representing Oaxaca's indigenous communities. Witness the ""petrified waterfalls"" of Hierve el Agua, a natural rock formation that resembles cascading water. The site also offers thermal springs with scenic views. Oaxaca is famous for its mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant. Visit a local mezcaleria for a tasting and to learn about the production process. Oaxaca has a rich tradition of weaving, and you can visit local communities to see the intricate designs and techniques. Some places offer weaving workshops where you can create your own textile. Visit the town of Santa María del Tule to see El Árbol del Tule, a massive Montezuma cypress tree that is considered one of the largest trees in the world. These activities provide a diverse and enriching experience of Oaxaca's cultural and natural heritage. Don't forget to immerse yourself in the local traditions, flavors, and artistry that make Oaxaca a unique destination.

The cost of a private tour in Oaxaca can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Oaxaca typically ranges from around $350 - $1200. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Oaxaca, each highly rated with many 5 star reviews! 1) Monte Alban, Famous Archaeological Site 2) Hierve el Agua, Teotitlan Del Valle Private Tour 3) Hierve el Agua, Mitla and Teotitlan 4) Amazing Monte Alban Exprés 5) Palaces of Mitla and charming Teotitlan del Valle

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Oaxaca from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. A local guide can help bridge the communication gap in areas where English is not widely spoken. If you have limited time in Oaxaca and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Oaxaca. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has several local guides in Oaxaca who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Oaxaca is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and charming towns, making it an ideal base for day trips. Here are some recommended day trip destinations from Oaxaca: Mitla Archaeological Site: About 45 minutes from Oaxaca, Mitla is an important archaeological site with well-preserved Zapotec and Mixtec ruins. The site is known for its intricate geometric patterns on the walls of the buildings. Hierve el Agua: This natural wonder, located about 1.5 to 2 hours from Oaxaca, features petrified waterfalls and natural mineral springs. The views of the surrounding valley are breathtaking, and you can take a dip in the warm spring water. Monte Albán Archaeological Site: Just a short drive from Oaxaca (10-15 minutes), Monte Albán is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. Explore the ancient Zapotec city with its pyramids, plazas, and ball courts. Tule Tree and Teotitlán del Valle: Combine a visit to the massive Tule Tree in Santa María del Tule, one of the largest trees in the world, with a stop in Teotitlán del Valle, known for its traditional Zapotec weaving. Mitla and Tule Tree Combo: Combine visits to the Mitla Archaeological Site and the Tule Tree for a day exploring ancient ruins and natural wonders. Yagul Archaeological Site: Located about 30 minutes from Oaxaca, Yagul is another archaeological site with ancient ruins, a ball court, and petroglyphs. The site offers a quieter and less crowded experience compared to some other archaeological sites. Coyoacán de las Flores: Approximately a 2-hour drive from Oaxaca, this town is known for its vibrant flowers and handicrafts. Enjoy a stroll through the colorful streets and visit the local markets. Cuajimoloyas: If you're interested in ecotourism and hiking, Cuajimoloyas, part of the Sierra Norte mountain range, offers scenic landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities. It's about a 2-hour drive from Oaxaca. El Tule and Tlacolula: Visit the Tule Tree in Santa María del Tule and the nearby Tlacolula Market. Tlacolula is known for its lively Sunday market, offering a variety of local products and traditional foods. San Bartolo Coyotepec: Known for its black pottery, San Bartolo Coyotepec is a short drive from Oaxaca. Visit local workshops to see artisans creating unique pottery pieces. When planning day trips, consider the travel time involved and check for any local events or markets happening in the destination. Whether you're interested in archaeology, natural wonders, or cultural experiences, Oaxaca's surrounding areas offer a diverse range of options for day trips.

The number of days needed to tour Oaxaca depends on various factors, including your interests, the places you want to visit, and the pace at which you prefer to travel. Oaxaca, Mexico, is a region rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. For a basic overview and to cover some of the main highlights, many travelers find that spending around 3 to 5 days in Oaxaca is a good starting point. This allows time to explore the city of Oaxaca itself, visit nearby archaeological sites such as Monte Albán and Mitla, and perhaps venture into some of the surrounding villages known for their crafts, markets, and traditional cuisine. If you have specific interests, such as mezcal tasting, culinary experiences, or a deep dive into indigenous cultures, you may want to extend your stay. Additionally, Oaxaca hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, and timing your visit to coincide with one of these could also influence the duration of your stay. Ultimately, it's a good idea to plan your itinerary based on what aspects of Oaxaca you find most appealing and how much time you'd like to dedicate to each activity.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Oaxaca from the United States can vary widely depending on several factors, including your departure location, travel preferences, accommodation choices, dining habits, and activities planned. Here's a general breakdown of potential expenses: Flights: The cost of round-trip flights can vary significantly based on the departure city, time of booking, and airline. On average, expect to pay a few hundred to over a thousand dollars per person. Accommodation: Accommodation costs vary based on the type of lodging you choose, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. On average, you might spend anywhere from $50 to $200 or more per night. Transportation: Within Oaxaca, transportation costs will depend on whether you use taxis, public transportation, or rental cars. Budget for local transportation, including any day trips or excursions you plan. Food: Dining expenses can also vary widely. Street food and local markets are more budget-friendly, while upscale restaurants can be pricier. On average, plan for around $20-$50 per day for meals. Activities and Sightseeing: Entrance fees to attractions and other activities will add to your overall cost. This can vary based on your preferences but budgeting around $50-$100 per day for activities is a reasonable estimate. Adding up these estimated costs will give you a rough idea, but keep in mind that individual spending habits vary. It's recommended to research specific costs based on your preferences and travel dates. Additionally, consider any potential discounts, promotions, or package deals that may help reduce expenses.

Oaxaca offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. The choice of where to stay depends on your interests, the type of experience you want, and your budget. Here are some popular areas and types of accommodations in Oaxaca: Historic Center (Centro Histórico): Staying in the heart of Oaxaca's historic center puts you close to many attractions, restaurants, and vibrant cultural activities. There are boutique hotels, charming guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels in this area. San Felipe del Agua: This area is slightly outside the city center and offers a more tranquil setting. It's a good choice if you prefer a quieter atmosphere while still having easy access to the main attractions. Zona Rosa: This area is known for its nightlife and is a good choice if you enjoy being close to bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It's a bit livelier in the evenings. Experiencia Oaxaca: If you're interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, consider staying in traditional villages like Teotitlán del Valle or San Bartolo Coyotepec. This provides an opportunity to experience daily life and local artisan traditions. Luxury Resorts: Oaxaca also has some luxury resorts located outside the city center, offering a more secluded and upscale experience. When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to attractions, your preferred atmosphere, and the amenities offered. Reading reviews from other travelers can also provide valuable insights. Whether you opt for a boutique hotel, a charming guesthouse, or a budget-friendly hostel, Oaxaca has a range of options to cater to different preferences.

The best time to visit Oaxaca depends on your preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. Overall, Oaxaca enjoys a temperate climate, but there are variations throughout the year. Here are some considerations for different seasons: Dry Season (November to April): This period is considered the dry season and is generally the most popular time to visit Oaxaca. The weather is pleasant, with warm days and cooler nights. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities, exploring markets, and attending festivals. Day of the Dead (Late October to Early November): Oaxaca is particularly famous for its vibrant celebrations of the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos). While it can be crowded during this time, witnessing the unique cultural festivities and elaborate altars can be a memorable experience. Rainy Season (May to October): The rainy season brings lush green landscapes but also occasional heavy rainfall. While it might not be the ideal time for outdoor activities, the countryside is at its most vibrant during this period. Guelaguetza Festival (July): The Guelaguetza is a major cultural festival in Oaxaca, featuring traditional dance, music, and regional celebrations. If you're interested in experiencing this cultural event, July is the time to visit. Consider your preferences for weather, festivals, and crowd levels when planning your visit. Keep in mind that specific events and festivals may influence the best time for your trip. Always check for any local holidays or celebrations that may align with your interests. Ultimately, Oaxaca offers something special throughout the year, so the best time to visit depends on your personal preferences and priorities.