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Landmarks in Oaxaca

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Oaxaca - Things to do in Oaxaca

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Oaxaca. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: MXN
  • Languages: Spanish, Zapotec, Mixtec
  • Climate: Tropical
  • Timezone: America/Mexico_City
  • Population: Approximately 3.8 million people live in the state of Oaxaca.
  • Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Oaxaca is during the dry season.
  • Visa Requirements Citizens of the US, EU, and UK typically do not need a visa to enter Mexico for tourism or business stays up to 180 days. However, they must obtain an FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) card, which can be obtained upon arrival or online. Visa requirements can vary for other nationalities, so it's advisable to check with the Mexican embassy or consulate for specific requirements.

About Oaxaca

Oaxaca is a treasure trove of rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Located in southern Mexico, it offers a unique blend of indigenous traditions, colonial architecture, and delicious cuisine. Visitors are drawn to its ancient ruins like Monte Albán and Mitla, as well as its vibrant markets filled with colorful textiles and local handicrafts. The state is also renowned for its complex moles, mezcal distilleries, and traditional festivals like the Guelaguetza. Whether exploring the historic city center, hiking through the Sierra Norte mountains, or relaxing on the Pacific coast, Oaxaca provides an unforgettable travel experience.

Top Attractions

1. **Monte Albán**: This ancient Zapotec archaeological site offers stunning views and insights into Oaxaca's rich history. 2. **Hierve el Agua**: A natural mineral water spring with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 3. **Tule Tree**: Known as the "Árbol del Tule," this ancient cypress tree is one of the oldest and largest in the world. 4. **Mitla**: A pre-Columbian Mesoamerican archaeological site famous for its intricate mosaics. 5. **Puerto Escondido**: A lively coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture.

Popular Activities

Oaxaca offers a wide range of activities, from exploring ancient ruins and hiking in the Sierra Norte mountains to learning traditional crafts in local villages. Visitors can also enjoy surfing in Puerto Escondido, take a mezcal tasting tour, or experience the vibrant cultural festivals like the Guelaguetza. For adventure seekers, there are opportunities for mountain biking, horseback riding, and rafting.

Oaxaca Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Mexico
  • Duration Range: Custom Durations
  • Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
  • Recommended For: The best time to visit Oaxaca is during the dry season. Visitors should pack light clothing for warm days and layers for cooler evenings. It's important to respect local customs, especially during festivals. Safety tips include avoiding traveling alone at night and using reputable taxi services. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but cash is preferred in rural settings.

Average Tour Price: $75

Lowest Price Tour: $39

Highest Price Tour: $250

694 Available Tour Excursions in Oaxaca

Free Cancellation
(123 reviews)

This cooking class offers a delicious culinary and cultural experience that explore a variety of Mexican cuisine. Join us on this 3.5-hour tour and live it by yourself!

Price: $110.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(81 reviews)

Wahaca Cooking Classes is the best way to get to know Huatulco with a native chef, you'll learn the history behind the ingredients, traditions and life in rural Mexico. This is more then learning to make a dish, it is a cultural immersion as well. You'll learn to make food to feed souls, by creating food that has been passed for generations.

Price: $130.80

Duration: 3 hours

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(68 reviews)

You get to see part of the sierra madre its really fun we also pass by different villages and get to see the reality of oaxaca were the locals live and most important to swim at the falls

Price: $80.00

Duration: 6-7 hours

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Free Cancellation
(48 reviews)

Hi I’m Betsaida originally from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, I want to invite you to my house in a hands-on cooking class to get to know & discover unique flavors from the Isthmus gastronomy, while you learn about the Tehuanas & our culture. I’ll teach you to cook the most traditional & outstanding dishes that I’ve learnt through generations in my family & the ones that will be easy to make when you come back home. Part of this class is to visit a local Market where you'll know how get the freshest, local & exotic ingredients that we'll cook. It’s no necessary to have cooking skills, but come ready to get fun, cook and eat.

Price: $121.36

Duration: 6 hours

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Free Cancellation
(48 reviews)

In this tour you will be able to live the experience of sharing a day with my family in a Zapotec town in the central valleys of Oaxaca, this tour includes gastronomy, crafts, culture and history. You will learn step by step about the elaboration of traditional chocolate with an ancestral technique, since for us this drink is very significant. We will also visit a couple of artisans of typical clothing and handmade footwear to see the products that they offer us. Mezcal occupies a very important place in Zapotec culture and ritual, so we will also visit an artisan mezcal distillery. Over lunch my mother will prepare fresh and healthy traditional food including tortillas that she makes in her kitchen.

Price: $140.00

Duration: 9 hours

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Free Cancellation
(48 reviews)

Ideal for people who have little time to visit the city of Oaxaca and want to explore the most emblematic places in the surrounding area in terms of nature, gastronomy, culture and natural beauty, since we will visit Hier el agua very early to avoid crowds and tour the only place in the world that has petrified waterfalls, we will try the local cuisine at lunch time in a local market, we will appreciate the effort and value of making wool rugs, one of the most important Oaxacan crafts and finally we will admire natural beauties as is the Tule tree, which is the widest tree in the world; The goal is to show you the beauty of Oaxaca by traveling like a local and that at the end of the tour you can take away a better perspective of the essence of Oaxaca.

Price: $113.68

Duration: 9 hours

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Free Cancellation
(40 reviews)

This class explores Oaxaca's most famous dish- mole. We will also be making handmade tortillas and mezcal margaritas.

Price: $115.00

Duration: 3 hours

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(37 reviews)

A beautiful combination of massage, relaxation and stretching in the water. Experience a sacred journey to the depths of your emotions. Experience the sensation of fluidity whilst being held in full presence Each session is a unique individual experience that is perfectly tailored for you and what you need today. The bodies reach a state of weightlessness in the water that releases the muscles and joints, an incomparable freedom of movement. Aguahara helps us rebalance at different levels, not only physically but emotionally as well. Just close your eyes, relax in the water ... the tensions melt, the blockages are released ... let yourself be taken on a wonderful journey that will help you connect with your inner self and feel a deep peace and harmony. Recommended for all

Price: $85.30

Duration: 1 hours

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(27 reviews)

The top rated itinerary for cruise passengers arriving in Huatulco. Explore viewpoints, taste local cuisine, learn about the culture in the church of the Virgin of Guadalupe and immerse yourself in the crystal clear waters of La Entrega beach. An unforgettable experience for lovers of nature and adventure.

Price: $252.72

Duration: 5 hours

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Free Cancellation
(26 reviews)

Experience the true essence of traditional Oaxacan cuisine with our exclusive Street Food Tour, led by a local expert. This culinary adventure takes you to hidden gems & renowned spots to savor street food that tastes better than in restaurants. You’ll explore: - Two popular markets - A secret, off-the-beaten-path market - A cherished food stand known for its exceptional flavors Indulge in a diverse array of dishes, from savory meats to vegetarian options, tailored to your preferences. Our tour also includes delightful local sweets for dessert, with many specialties reflecting seasonal ingredients & the rich traditions of indigenous communities. As we move between stops, you’ll not only taste the best street food Oaxaca has to offer but also catch glimpses of the city's landmarks. With all food, beverages, & dessert included, plus insightful cultural guiding on Oaxacan food and traditions, this tour promises an unforgettable culinary journey through Oaxaca.

Price: $76.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(25 reviews)

Through the knowledge of a local chef, you will learn about the cuisine of the region and cook three typical dishes of the region, as well as accompany your food with sauces and make your tortillas in a traditional comal. Vegetarian menu available on request.

Price: $73.93

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(25 reviews)

If you visit Oaxaca, you must visit Hierve el Agua. Hierve el Agua is a natural scenery of petrified waterfalls. The first thing we do on the tour is to go directly to Hierve el Agua as our first stop. We stay there for 3 hours to have enough time to enjoy the natural wonders of Hierve el Agua without rushing. There you can go hiking with local guides, or take a dip in to the pool. After visiting this wonderful place, on the way back to the city we visit one of the most popular mezcal distilleries in Oaxaca. There you can do a mezcal tasting completely free of charge, and taste the different flavors of mezcals that exist. The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, and includes entrance fees to Hierve el Agua.

Price: $60.00

Duration: 8 hours

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Free Cancellation
(24 reviews)

With the help of a traditional cook, you will discover the unique flavors of traditional Oaxacan cuisine, while learning about our traditions and culture. In this class you will make delicious memelitas with your own hands, from preparing the dough to making a delicious molcajete sauce to accompany them. I will teach you recipes that you can easily repeat at home. We will cook in a traditional smoke kitchen, with utensils that have been used for generations in my family, you will discover our traditions and I will give you advice that will help you better understand and taste the dishes of Oaxacan cuisine. When we prepare the mole, I will teach you how to select the best ingredients that have given Oaxacan mole worldwide fame and recognition. Please let me know in advance if you have dietary restrictions so I can adjust the menu so you can fully enjoy the experience.

Price: $95.54

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(23 reviews)

The history, the artisanal equipments, the making process of mezcal are just a few of the reasons you’ll never stop admiring about your journey to the mezcal distillery. All our guides are locals, experts and knowledgeable about the mezcal production process. • Learn about both processes artisanal and ancestral. • Taste more than 15 flavors of mezcal. • Learn about the biodiversity, the origin and history. • Learn how to identify the algorithms of flavors and aromas in mezcal tasting. • Learn about the anatomy and the reproduction. • Learn about the cultivation process and more. So embark on this trip and get an unforgettable cultural experience. We have a unique mode of operation, we focus on our custmer's needs and make sure they finish with their experience excited that would make them return to Oaxaca again. So if you want to learn more about this spirit and see our distilleries then it's best to book a Mezcal tour. Do not just guess, Go with the best!

Price: $102.36

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(23 reviews)

Hi! Welcome to Oaxaca! Without a doubt the best way to get to know a new destination is to walk along its streets and learn its history from a local. On this tour we will welcome you to the city to tour together the most emblematic places and one hidden gem!!! Join us to discover the magic of Oaxaca, enjoy its architecture, art, its colors, flavors and the best tips to eat as a local in the best restaurants and of course, street food. In addition to bars, activities and places of interest. This adventure is perfect if you are traveling alone or as a couple looking to connect with people from all over the world and local people.

Price: $20.47

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(23 reviews)

Come with me, an art historian, to explore the Urban Mythology and Colonial Art in Oaxaca’s Historic Center. Guided by a compass that doesn’t point north, but to the past, and a vintage map marked with legends, symbols, and colonial architecture, we’ll begin an exploration through the city’s founding neighborhoods. Along the way, you’ll discover secrets carved into temples and haunted alleyways, following the traces left behind by those who lived in Oaxaca centuries ago. A unique experience for explorers of the invisible. By the end of the tour you will have mapped the city in a historical way, eaten an ice cream and learned some new ways to taste mezcal.

Price: $36.96

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(23 reviews)

Travel comfortably, safely, clean and with a professional driver. We will pick you up at any hotel or Airbnb in the city and take you to the airport in Oaxaca. Remember that Private Transportation will give you more convenience and you won’t have to share it with others you don’t know.

Price: $26.90

Duration: 0 hours

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Free Cancellation
(21 reviews)

Discover the best of Oaxaca in one day! If you have little time in Oaxaca but do not want to miss its two most important archaeological zones, this experience is for you. We are the only ones that take you in a single day to Monte Albán and Mitla, two places full of history and culture. But that's not all. We will also visit: The Tule Tree, the widest tree in the world, an impressive natural treasure. Teotitlán del Valle, where you will know the art of Zapotec fabric and the famous wool mats dyed with natural dyes. Oaxacan cuisine, with unique flavors such as mole, chocolate and mezcal. Travel comfortably, enjoy expert guides and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Oaxaca. Discover Oaxaca like never before!

Price: $284.34

Duration: 5-6 hours

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Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Oaxaca is during the dry season, from October to April, when the weather is more pleasant.

Oaxaca is famous for its mole, mezcal, tlayudas, and chapulines (grasshoppers).

Oaxaca is known for its vibrant cultural events, including the Guelaguetza, a celebration of indigenous traditions and music.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

Oaxacan cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors and traditional dishes. Signature foods include mole negro, tlayudas (crunchy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meats), and chapulines (grasshoppers). Local specialties also include mezcal, a spirit made from the agave plant. Noteworthy restaurants include El Destilado and Los Pacos, which offer a blend of traditional and modern Oaxacan cuisine. Dining customs often involve sharing meals with family and friends, emphasizing community and hospitality.

Getting Around

To get to Oaxaca, visitors can fly into Oaxaca City's international airport or travel by bus from major cities like Mexico City. Local transportation includes taxis, buses, and colectivos (shared vans). Renting a car can be useful for exploring rural areas, but public transport is generally reliable and affordable. The cost of transportation varies, with bus fares being the most economical option.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit Oaxaca is during the dry season. Visitors should pack light clothing for warm days and layers for cooler evenings. It's important to respect local customs, especially during festivals. Safety tips include avoiding traveling alone at night and using reputable taxi services. Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but cash is preferred in rural settings.

Culture & Customs

Oaxacan culture is deeply rooted in indigenous traditions. Social customs emphasize respect for elders and community gatherings. Significant festivals include the Guelaguetza, which celebrates indigenous music and dance. Visitors should be mindful of local etiquette, such as removing shoes when entering homes and using formal titles when addressing older individuals.

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