2-Day Solo Adventure: Outdoor Activities & Shopping in Oaxaca
Oaxaca, Mexico
2 days
About Oaxaca, Mexico
Discover the vibrant culture and rich history of Oaxaca, Mexico. Nestled in the heart of Mexico, Oaxaca is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its colonial architecture, archaeological wonders, and indigenous cultures. Explore the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, sample exquisite local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the city's thriving arts scene. The city's markets are a riot of color, offering a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and pottery. Don't miss the chance to witness the Guelaguetza festival, a celebration of indigenous cultures featuring traditional music, dance, and costumes. Oaxaca's surrounding landscapes are equally breathtaking, with opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring the ethereal petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua. Experience the magic of Oaxaca for an unforgettable journey.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Discovering Oaxaca's Rich History and Vibrant Art Scene
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the ancient ruins of Monte Alban. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.
Lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Ethnobotanical Garden. This beautiful garden showcases the region's diverse plant life and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon visiting the many art galleries in Oaxaca. The city is known for its vibrant art scene, and you'll find everything from traditional Mexican art to contemporary pieces.
Dinner
For your final dinner in Oaxaca, try a traditional Oaxacan restaurant. Be sure to try the mezcal, a local spirit made from agave.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local music venue. Oaxaca has a vibrant music scene, with everything from traditional Mexican music to jazz and rock.
Attractions in Itinerary (4)
1Sierra Norte Mountains
A mountain range offering hiking, biking, and bird-watching opportunities, with stunning views of the Oaxacan landscape.
2Zocalo
Zocalo is the main square in the heart of Oaxaca City, surrounded by cafes, shops, and historic buildings.
3Monte Alban
Monte Alban is a large pre-Columbian archaeological site, one of the most important ruins in Mexico.
4Ethnobotanical Garden
The Ethnobotanical Garden showcases the region's rich plant life and its importance to local culture.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Tlayudas
A traditional Oaxacan dish, Tlayudas are large, thin, crunchy, partially fried or toasted tortillas topped with refried beans, lettuce, avocado, meat, Oaxaca cheese, and salsa.
Mole Negro
One of the seven types of mole sauces famous in Oaxaca, Mole Negro is a rich, dark sauce made from chilies, chocolate, and a variety of spices, typically served over chicken or turkey.
Chapulines
Chapulines are grasshoppers that have been toasted with garlic, lime juice, and salt, and are a popular snack in Oaxaca.
Memelas
Memelas are thick tortillas topped with black beans, cheese, and a variety of salsas and meats, a common street food in Oaxaca.
Chiles Rellenos
Chiles Rellenos are large chili peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, battered and fried, and served with salsa, a popular dish in Oaxaca.
Oaxaca Cheese
Oaxaca Cheese, also known as Quesillo, is a white, semi-hard cheese from Mexico, similar to unaged Monterey jack, but with a mozzarella-like string cheese texture.
Tejate
Tejate is a traditional Oaxacan drink made from corn masa, cacao beans, mamey seeds, and flor de cacao, served cold and often enjoyed in the hot Oaxacan climate.
Mezcal
Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from any type of agave plant native to Mexico. Oaxaca is the center of Mezcal production in Mexico.
Tamale Oaxaqueño
Tamale Oaxaqueño is a traditional Oaxacan dish made from masa (corn dough) filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, or chilies, wrapped in a banana leaf, and steamed.
Chorizo Oaxaqueño
Chorizo Oaxaqueño is a type of spicy sausage made from pork, popular in Oaxaca.
Nicuatole
Nicuatole is a traditional Oaxacan dessert made from corn masa, sugar, and cinnamon, and has a jelly-like consistency.
Pulque
Pulque is a traditional Mexican alcoholic drink made from the fermented sap of the maguey (agave) plant, popular in Oaxaca.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Oaxaca, Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During these months, you can expect warm, sunny days perfect for exploring the city's historic sites and beautiful landscapes. The temperatures are comfortable, typically ranging between 70°F and 80°F (21°C - 27°C). Additionally, if you visit in late October to early November, you can experience the famous Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, a vibrant and colorful tradition. However, this is a popular time for tourists, so you may want to book your accommodations well in advance. If you're interested in local culture and festivals, July is another great time to visit as the Guelaguetza festival takes place, showcasing Oaxaca's rich indigenous cultures through dance, music, and food.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 5 | Mon | Constitution Day |
March 18 | Mon | Benito Juárez's Birthday Memorial |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
July 7 | Sun | General Election Day |
September 16 | Mon | Independence Day |
October 1 | Tue | Inauguration day |
November 18 | Mon | Revolution Day Memorial |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Oaxaca. It gives you the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially in the city center, and parking can be challenging. International car rental companies are available at the airport and in the city.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout the city of Oaxaca. They are a convenient way to get around, especially if you're not comfortable with driving in Mexico. It's recommended to negotiate the fare before getting in to avoid any confusion.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Oaxaca. This can be a more convenient and sometimes cheaper alternative to taxis. You can book a ride using the app on your smartphone, and the fare is automatically charged to your credit card.
Public Bus
Public buses are a cheap way to get around Oaxaca. They cover most parts of the city and some surrounding areas. However, they can be crowded, especially during peak hours, and the routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Bicycle
Oaxaca is a bike-friendly city with several bike rental shops. Cycling is a great way to explore the city, especially the historic center, which is relatively flat and compact. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy, and not all streets have bike lanes.
Walking
Walking is perhaps the best way to explore the historic center of Oaxaca, which is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Many of the city's main attractions, including the Santo Domingo Church and the Zocalo, are within walking distance of each other.
Colectivo
Colectivos are shared taxis or minibuses that run fixed routes in Oaxaca. They are a cheap and efficient way to get around, especially for short distances. However, they can be crowded, and you may need to know some Spanish to communicate with the driver and other passengers.
Tour Bus
Several companies offer tour bus services in Oaxaca. This can be a convenient way to see the city's main attractions, especially if you're short on time. Most tour buses offer hop-on hop-off service, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Important information
Currency$ MXN
Time zoneUTC-6
Driving sideRight
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 065; Fire: 068; Police: 060
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about Oaxaca, Mexico as a first time visitor
1
Oaxaca is located in the southeastern part of Mexico and is known for its rich indigenous culture and history.
2
The official language is Spanish, but many indigenous languages are also spoken.
3
The currency used in Oaxaca is the Mexican Peso (MXN). It is recommended to carry some cash as not all places accept credit cards.
4
Oaxaca has a tropical climate with a rainy season from June to September. The average temperature ranges from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C).
5
Oaxaca is in the Central Time Zone (GMT-6). Daylight Saving Time is observed from the first Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October.
6
Tap water is not safe to drink in Oaxaca. It is recommended to drink bottled water.
7
Oaxaca is known for its cuisine, particularly mole sauces and mezcal. Be sure to try local dishes.
8
Public transportation is available but can be crowded. Taxis and rental cars are also options for getting around.
9
Oaxaca is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
10
Oaxaca's markets are a great place to buy local crafts and foods. Bargaining is common and expected in these markets.
11
It's customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants. In other services like taxis or hotels, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
12
Oaxaca has a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries and workshops. It's a great place to buy unique, handmade souvenirs.
13
Oaxaca celebrates many festivals throughout the year. The most famous is the Guelaguetza, a celebration of indigenous culture and traditions.
14
If you're planning to visit rural areas or archaeological sites, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.
15
Oaxaca has a slower pace of life compared to other Mexican cities. Take time to relax and enjoy the local culture.
16
Public restrooms may charge a small fee for use. It's a good idea to keep some small change on hand.
17
Oaxaca has a good healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for any unexpected medical expenses.
18
The voltage in Mexico is 127V and the frequency is 60Hz. If your devices use different voltage or plug type, you'll need a converter or adapter.
19
Oaxaca is located at a high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness in some people. It's recommended to take it easy for the first few days to acclimate.
20
Respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hola | Oh-la | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Adiós | Ah-dee-os | Leaving or saying goodbye to someone |
Please | Por favor | Por fa-vor | When asking for something |
Thank you | Gracias | Grah-see-as | When someone helps you or gives you something |
Yes | Sí | See | When agreeing with someone or something |
No | No | No | When disagreeing with someone or something |
Excuse me | Perdón | Per-don | When trying to get someone's attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Lo siento | Lo see-en-to | When you've done something wrong |
Do you speak English? | ¿Hablas inglés? | Ab-las in-gles | When you need to communicate in English |
I don't understand | No entiendo | No en-tee-en-do | When you don't understand what's being said |
Where is the bathroom? | ¿Dónde está el baño? | Don-de es-ta el ban-yo | When you need to find the bathroom |
How much does it cost? | ¿Cuánto cuesta? | Kwan-to kwes-ta | When you want to know the price of something |
I would like... | Me gustaría... | Me gus-ta-ree-a | When ordering food or asking for something |
Help | Ayuda | A-yu-da | When you need assistance |
Can I have the menu, please? | ¿Puedo tener el menú, por favor? | Pwe-do te-ner el me-nu, por fa-vor | When you want to see the menu at a restaurant |
Water | Agua | Ah-gwa | When you want to order water |
Beer | Cerveza | Ser-ve-za | When you want to order beer |
Cheers | Salud | Sa-lud | When toasting drinks |
Good morning | Buenos días | Bwe-nos dee-as | Greeting someone in the morning |
Good night | Buenas noches | Bwe-nas no-ches | Saying goodbye or goodnight in the evening |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Swimsuit
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
First-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers
Prescription medications
Travel-sized laundry detergent
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Reusable water bottle
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel guide for Oaxaca
Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook
Notebook and pen
Umbrella or rain poncho
Weather Conditions
Oaxaca, Mexico is known for its pleasant climate throughout the year. However, it's important to note that the weather can vary depending on the season. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is typically the best time to visit. During this period, you can expect clear skies and warm temperatures, usually around 80°F (27°C) during the day. Nights can be cooler, dropping to around 50°F (10°C), so it's advisable to pack some light sweaters or jackets. The rainy season begins in May and ends in October. During this time, you can expect afternoon showers, but they usually don't last long. The temperatures remain warm, typically around 70-85°F (21-29°C). It's advisable to carry a raincoat or umbrella during this season. Regardless of when you visit, it's important to remember that Oaxaca is located at a high altitude. This means the sun can be quite strong, even when the temperature isn't very high. Therefore, don't forget to pack and regularly apply a good quality sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Also, due to its geographical location, Oaxaca can occasionally experience tropical storms and hurricanes, especially during the rainy season. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and stay informed about any potential severe weather conditions during your stay. In conclusion, Oaxaca is a beautiful destination to visit year-round. Just remember to pack according to the season and stay aware of the weather conditions during your trip. Enjoy your visit to this vibrant Mexican city!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 28° / 8° | January in Oaxaca is mild and dry, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. |
February | 29° / 9° | February is a bit warmer but still comfortable, with little rainfall and plenty of sunshine. |
March | 31° / 11° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, but the weather remains pleasant for exploring the city and its surroundings. |
April | 33° / 13° | April is one of the hottest months in Oaxaca, but it's still a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat. |
May | 34° / 14° | May continues to be hot, with occasional rain showers, making it a good time for indoor activities and museum visits. |
June | 33° / 14° | June marks the start of the rainy season, but showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine. |
July | 32° / 14° | July is in the middle of the rainy season, but don't let that deter you; the rain usually falls in the afternoon or evening. |
August | 32° / 14° | August is similar to July, with warm temperatures and afternoon showers, perfect for morning sightseeing. |
September | 31° / 14° | September is the last month of the rainy season, with temperatures starting to cool down a bit. |
October | 30° / 12° | October is a great time to visit Oaxaca, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall. |
November | 29° / 10° | November is a comfortable month to visit, with mild temperatures and little rainfall. |
December | 28° / 8° | December is one of the coolest months, but it's still warm enough to enjoy all that Oaxaca has to offer. |
Did you know?
Places near by Oaxaca, Mexico
Monte Alban
One of the most significant archaeological sites in Mexico, Monte Alban was once the ancient capital of the Zapotec civilization.
Mitla
A significant archaeological site in the state of Oaxaca, known for its unique geometric mosaic designs.
Hierve el Agua
A set of natural rock formations that resemble cascades of water. The site is also home to a small number of man-made pools.
Zipolite
A small beach town known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful sunsets. It's also one of Mexico's few nude beaches.
Puerto Escondido
A port town and resort on Mexico's Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca. Known for its beaches, especially Zicatela Beach, which is famous for surfing.
Mazunte
A small beach town known for its sea turtle conservation efforts. The Mexican Turtle Center is a must-visit.
San José del Pacífico
A small town in the mountains of Oaxaca known for its beautiful views and magic mushrooms.
Chacahua Lagoons National Park
A national park consisting of a lagoon system and several beaches. It's a great spot for bird watching.
