Oaxaca

Mexico

Oaxaca is the cultural heart of Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage city where indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec traditions blend with Spanish colonial heritage. Known worldwide for its exceptional cuisine, artisan crafts, and mezcal, Oaxaca offers an authentic Mexican experience with ancient ruins, traditional markets, and some of the country's most celebrated festivals.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$45/day
Mid-range$95/day
Luxury$250/day

Known For

oaxacaoaxaca_citymonte_albanmezcalmolezapotecmixtechierve_el_aguamitlatule_treeguelaguetzaday_of_the_deadalebrijesblack_potterytextilestlayudaschapulinesindigenous_culturemexico_food

🇲🇽 Country Information: Mexico

CapitalCiudad de México
CurrencyMexican peso ($)
LanguageSpanish, English (in tourist areas), Indigenous languages
Phone Code+52
Electricity127V (Type A, B)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Restaurants: 10
  • 15% of the bill, especially if service charge is not included
  • Taxis: Tipping is not customary for short rides, but you can round up the fare or tip a small amount for longer rides or good service
  • Bellhops/Porters: 10
  • 20 pesos per bag
  • Tour guides: 10
  • 20% of the tour cost
  • Housekeeping: 20
  • 50 pesos per night

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in cities and tourist areas, but fees may apply
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and larger establishments, but cash is preferred in smaller towns and markets
  • It's advisable to carry a mix of cash for smaller purchases and credit cards
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or small towns
  • Politeness and greetings are highly valued; always say "Hola" and "Gracias"
  • Punctuality is more relaxed than in some Western cultures, especially for social gatherings
  • It's customary to shake hands or give a light kiss on the cheek (between women, or a woman and a man) as a greeting
  • Avoid public displays of affection that are overly passionate
  • When eating, keep hands visible on the table, but don't rest elbows on the table

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. LGBTQ+ rights have advanced significantly in Mexico, with same-sex marriage legal nationwide and broad anti-discrimination laws. However, attitudes may vary by region, and discrimination can still occur.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, even for small amounts of marijuana; possession can lead to severe penalties and imprisonment

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces outside of designated areas
  • Carrying a valid ID (passport or driver's license) is recommended
  • Be aware of potential scams and pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas

Common Phrases

NoNo (NOH)
YesSí (SEE)
HelloHola (OH-lah)
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR)
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs)
Good morningBuenos días (BWEH-nohs DEE-ahs)
Good afternoonBuenas tardes (BWEH-nahs TAR-dehs)
Good evening/nightBuenas noches (BWEH-nahs NOH-chehs)

Climate

Oaxaca has a subtropical highland climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. Located at 1,550m elevation, temperatures are pleasant year-round (65-85°F / 18-29°C). Dry season November-May is ideal. Rainy season June-October brings afternoon showers but rarely all-day rain.

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Mole Negro must_try

The king of Oaxacan moles - a complex sauce with over 30 ingredients including multiple chilies, chocolate, and spices. Black, rich, and deeply flavor

Tlayuda must_try

Large crispy tortilla with black beans, Oaxacan cheese, and meat - Oaxaca's signature street food.

Mezcal must_try

Oaxaca is the heartland of mezcal. Artisanal varieties range from smoky espadín to rare wild agave species.

Chapulines local_favorite

Crunchy grasshoppers toasted with garlic, lime, and chili. An ancient protein source now a beloved snack.

Chocolate Oaxaqueño must_try

Hot chocolate made with hand-ground cacao, almonds, cinnamon, and sugar - traditionally prepared with water.

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Day of the Dead Accommodation Accommodation
Book 6-12 months in advance

October 31 - November 2 is Oaxaca's biggest event. Hotels and Airbnbs book out 6+ months in advance at premium prices.

Guelaguetza Festival Tickets Attraction
Book 2-6 months in advance

The Guelaguetza dance festival (two Mondays after July 16) is Oaxaca's premier cultural event. Stadium seating sells out months ahead.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Cooking Class tour_or_activity
Book 2-8 weeks in advance

Top cooking schools like Casa de los Sabores and Seasons of My Heart have limited class sizes and loyal repeat visitors.

Mezcal Educational Tour tour_or_activity
Book 1-4 weeks in advance

Quality guided mezcal tours to small-batch palenques have limited group sizes.

Fun Facts

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