Oaxaca – Travel Guide
Oaxaca, a vibrant city in southern Mexico, is known for its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, with its beautiful churches like Santo Domingo de Guzman and colorful markets offering local crafts and traditional Oaxacan cuisine. The city is famous for its unique culinary delights, including mole, tlayudas, and mezcal, which can be enjoyed in local restaurants and markets. Nearby, the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban provide a fascinating glimpse into pre-Columbian history. Oaxaca`s lively festivals, such as the Guelaguetza, and its blend of indigenous and colonial culture make it a captivating destination in Mexico.
All about Oaxaca
Getting around Oaxaca
By Taxi
Taxis are generally considered safe to flag down street cabs in Oaxaca, and the fares are fairly inexpensive. The app-based ride-hailing company Didi provides service in Oaxaca under a partnership with a group of yellow taxis, and it’s reasonably priced as well.
Colectivos, shared taxis that run along fixed routes in and around Oaxaca, are cheaper than regular cabs, but you’ll be squeezed into a car with at least three other passengers. The maroon-and-white sedans congregate on the northeast side of Oaxaca’s 2nd-class bus station, and they display their destinations on the windshield.
By Bus
Taking a bus is generally efficient and very inexpensive. They go nearly everywhere in the city, while numerous private lines run to Oaxaca’s outlying towns with frequent service departing from the 2nd-class bus station and several small terminals on the south end of Bustamante street.
From the avenue outside the 1st-class bus station, “Juárez” buses will take you three blocks east of the Zócalo, while the “Tinoco y Palacios” line runs a route three blocks west of the main square. Drivers carry change, and you can hail them from practically any corner.
The new CityBus system operates along multiple routes, one of which cuts through the historic center on Avenida de la Independencia and heads east to the 1st-class bus station.
At Mina 501, Autobuses Turísticos has hourly morning and early afternoon departures to the astonishing Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán.
By Bicycle
Oaxaca is becoming more bicycle-friendly, regularly expanding its network of designated bike lanes, which makes for a safer ride as you bike through a downtown area.
By Car
There is no need to have a car if you are staying within the city center. Driving is very congested in the historical center and there is a lack of street parking. If you do plan to drive in the city, keep in mind that many downtown streets have no stop signs or traffic lights but most motorists in Oaxaca abide by “uno por uno” etiquette, meaning the first vehicle to arrive at an intersection has the right of way.
Having a car is very practical if you plan to get outside the city. There are several small towns south of the city, as well as the wildlife-rich mountain villages of Pueblos Mancomunados that many visitors like to venture out to. There is usually not much traffic outside the city limits, but expect some poorly maintained roads with potholes and unmarked speed bumps. Also, be aware that protesters regularly stage blockades in Oaxaca. If you come across a roadblock, seek an alternative route whenever possible.
Oaxaca FAQ
Where in Mexico is Oaxaca located?
Oaxaca is in southern Mexico. It is bordered by the states of Guerrero to the west, Puebla to the northwest, Veracruz to the north, and Chiapas to the east. To the south, Oaxaca has a significant coastline on the Pacific Ocean.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
You can get to Oaxaca, Mexico, by flying into Oaxaca’s Xoxocotlán International Airport (IATA: OAX) from major Mexican cities like Mexico City, Cancún, or Guadalajara. There are direct flights from the US as well.
Once you arrive in Oaxaca, if you have not pre-booked a private transfer with us, it’s best to take a taxi into the city center (around 25 minutes.). On arrival, once you clear customs, there is a taxi stand inside the airport where you prepay. There are two options: collectivo and private. Collectivo means a group transfer. It’s cheaper but you will have multiple stops.
How do I get around Oaxaca using public transportation?
Oaxaca’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city’s attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.
For longer distances, taxis are a convenient way to get around, especially for reaching destinations outside the city center. You can find taxis at designated stands or hail them on the street. It’s a good idea to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey or make sure the driver uses the meter. You will need cash for almost all taxis.
Is Uber available in Oaxaca?
No, Uber is not available due to legal regulations that prohibit ride-hailing platforms from operating in the state. However, Didi Chuxing, a Chinese ride-hailing platform, has partnered with local taxi drivers to offer a similar service called Didi Taxi. Users can flag down a cab using the orange Didi app.
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Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The local currency is Mexican pesos, which you get on arrival at a local ATM. You will need cash for smaller stores, food stalls, and markets. Credit cards are widely accepted at large institutions.
What is the weather like? When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Oaxaca, is generally during the dry season, which spans from late October to early May. This period offers pleasant weather with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding attractions. However, be aware that Oaxaca can get crowded during major festivals like Dia de los Muertos (late October to early November) and Semana Santa (Holy Week, typically in March or April), so plan your trip accordingly if you want to experience these cultural events.
Is Oaxaca safe for tourists? Are there parts of the city I should avoid?
Although a few regions of Mexico have cartel violence and safety concerns, Oaxac State is mostly free from these threats.
You may, however, encounter issues with the local protests – Oaxaca is famous for the amount of protests and these protesters are usually nonviolent, but they do close down the roads for entire days. The protests ramp up every year around May. Many times, these take place outside of the tourist areas, but occasionally the protest focuses on the city’s center’s zocolo.
In terms of personal safety walking around town, you should have no issues walking the city center after dark, it’s lively and active until midnight; and later on the weekends. Cabs are always nearby too, if you need a quick lift back to your hotel.
Visitors are advised not to wander off into the suburbs outside central Oaxaca. While much of the crime in Oaxaca (and Mexico in general) is confined to cartel on cartel violence, occasional violent robberies do take place.
Is there free wifi in Oaxaca?
Wi-Fi in Oaxaca City is generally fast and reliable, but it can be harder to find outside of the state capital. Some hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Oaxaca?
No, the water is not safe to drink. Stick only to bottled water and reliable sources.
I don`t speak Spanish. Will many people speak English?
The local language is Spanish, and we always suggest you get a good English-Spanish guide book, or app on your phone, and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
Emergency: Dial 911
Ambulance: Dial 911, See also the Hospital with an Emergency Room, below:
Hospital with a 24-hour Emergency Room: (1) Clinica Hospital Carmen, Calle M. Abasolo 215, Col. Centro, Tel. 951 516 0027. (2) Hospital Reforma, Calle Reforma 613, Col. Centro, Tel. 951 516 0989 or 951 516 6100. Both of these hospitals have a 24-hour ambulance.
Top Attractions
Botanic Garden of Oaxaca
It`s a serene escape that highlights that importance of flora in Oaxacan culture.
Church of Santo Domingo de Guzman
Located in downtown Oaxaca, it is a cultural museum and a botanical garden.
Zocalo
Small, bustling public square surrounded by restaurants, vendors and historic buildings.
Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude
It is more commonly referred to as La Soledad and is the home to a statue of the `Virgin of Solitude` who is Oaxaca`s saint.
Unique Experiences
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Gastronomy Experience, Culture Mezcal, Tasting & Textiles: You go to the region of Santiago Matatlan, where you learn about the production process of handmade mezcal and you fall in love with the aromas and flavors of the distillate.
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Art Tour in Oaxaca, private experience through Workshops and studios: This rare opportunity offers you the scoop on the current contemporary art market in Oaxaca. Along the way, they will inspire curiosity, encourage questions, and invite dialogue.
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Authentic Oaxacan Food Cooking Class: Tour a local market to learn about and purchase fresh ingredients. A professional cook will lead your interactive class, sharing information about pre-Columbian cuisine and culinary methods.
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Monte Alban & More… All Included Guided Day Tour from Oaxaca: The timing of our morning visit means you will beat the crowds and the heat, enjoying the spectacular location at the perfect time to appreciate the details and get some great photos.
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The Best of Oaxaca Walking Tour & Mezcal Tasting: See the city`s most important and significant sights including the Church and Convent of Santo Domingo, the Museum of Cultures, Maco Museum, Alameda Park, and Benito Juarez Market.
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What to expect while traveling
