Experience Zapotec heritage, Guelaguetza, and indigenous traditions!

Immerse yourself in Oaxaca's rich indigenous culture - where Zapotec traditions thrive! Cultural tours explore indigenous communities, traditional festivals, textile weaving demonstrations, mezcal-making ceremonies, Day of the Dead celebrations, Guelaguetza folk dance festival, and cultural museums. Visit Teotitlán del Valle (weavers using natural dyes), Mitla (Zapotec archaeological site), hierve el agua (petrified waterfalls), and artisan workshops. Learn about indigenous languages still spoken, traditional clothing, pre-Hispanic rituals, and how 16 indigenous groups maintain ancestral traditions. Experience authentic culture beyond tourism - it's living heritage!
Discover our top picks for cultural tours in Oaxaca

This is a project run by Betsaida, Zapotec woman, born & raised in Oaxaca. This project started 6 years ago with the simple desire to share to the world, the beauty & cultural richness of Oaxaca. We’re not only proud of our roots, but also deeply committed to support the local consumption. From farmers, artisans, cooks, market vendors & more in order to promote a sustainable tourism. Therefore, once you join us in our experiences you’ll live and participate to the preservation of our culture, which is our main focus. As consequence, Me Encanta Oaxaca is a phrase that expresses how passionate we are, and we believe that once you live Oaxaca, it’ll cast a spell on you.

● Trying authentic cuisine in the town plaza ● Enjoying the coastline like a local ● Visiting the region’s most important historical areas ● Securing souvenirs for your loved ones ● Capturing amazing photographs of beautiful nature

Discover the culture of Oaxaca and experience why it is considered the best leading city break destination of America and the capital of the gastronomy in Mexico! This experience is perfect for adventurers that love to learn about the food and the origen of the diversity of the culture and History of Oaxaca. We visit markets and historical places of Oaxaca! A perfect time in the morning to enjoy the good weather in an empty city early morning or in a sunset time in the afternoon. We walk around 3 km. Have a bright appreciation the legacy of authentic Mexican families.

● Learn all the secrets of one of the most anticipated evenings of the year: the night of the Day of the Dead. ● Celebrating the Day of the Dead in Mexico is an unforgettable experience. Enjoy this popular holiday with a tour of Huatulco on the most anticipated night of the year ● We think that death is the end of everything ... And it is only the beginning. The "final trip" is experienced in Mexico in a very special way. ● Enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine all day ● Discovering the true meaning of Day of the Dead and become more cultured

Monte Albán is one of the attractions in Oaxaca with more historical and cultural richness, on this tour you can walk through these impressive ruins. After an uplifting walk through the ruins we will visit an alebrijes workshop hidden in the legendary village of San Martín Tilcajete, known for its sculptures of fantastic animals made of wood with hand-painted textures. If you visit Oaxaca, you have to live this experience! This tour does not include a guide in Monte Albán, you can visit this archaeological area at your own pace without the need to have a guide. The second spot is a workshop where you will find the process of the alebrijes, crafts with great cultural value, you can see the evolution of them and see a great variety of these sculptural pieces.

In collaboration with Mezcal Dainzu, we invite you to explore the history and landscapes of Santiago Matatlán, the Capital of Mezcal. On this excursion, traditions come to life through the Santiago Hernández family, who for generations have preserved the craft of agave distillation —since the mid-19th century—, when mezcal was undervalued and nearly forbidden. Doña Octavia and Don Leoncio —fifth and fourth generation mezcal masters— along with their son Carlos, welcome us to their agave fields, with stunning views, to toast with nature and show us the artisanal production process in their rustic distillery. During the tasting, you'll discover the wide range of flavors that wild agaves have to offer. We'll also share some mezcales prepared especially for community celebrations. The journey ends with a meal of moles and local dishes, prepared by Doña Reina, a renowned local cook, at her cozy restaurant located in the town’s historic center.

Discover the heart of Santa María Huatulco through a cultural immersion that showcases local traditions, art, and cuisine. Begin your trip with a comfortable transfer from your accommodation to the town of Santa María Huatulco to visit the main square and the town church. We continue our tour to visit the town of Benito Juárez, where you can interact with local families and learn how to prepare traditional tostadas with nixtamalized corn. Experience the entire coffee process on a local plantation, from harvest to brewing, and enjoy making your own artisanal chocolate with fresh cacao. - Visit the main square and historic church of the town of Santa María Huatulco. - Spending time with local families and demonstrating how to make traditional corn toast. - Enjoy exotic and seasonal fruits.

The Copalita Archaeological Zone, an ancient Zapotec settlement, offers a deep connection with the history between the jungle and the sea. This tour guided by a certified professional of Mani González Adventures will allow you to explore temples, ceremonial squares and understand the Zapotec worldview. An authentic cultural experience that will immerse you in the legacy of Huatulco and its rich biodiversity. - Visit the impressive Copalita Archaeological Zone in Huatulco Certified professional guide for an educational experience - Explore Zapotec temples and ceremonial squares - Connects with nature and the living history of the region

We offer a different experience based on security, comfort and personalized attention. The tours feature reliable transfers in clean, well-equipped units, plus local guides who share Oaxaca’s history, culture and traditions authentically. We work with small groups, allowing close and flexible treatment, adapting to the pace and interests of each traveler. We focus on making every visit clear, organized and unhurried, allowing you to fully enjoy each destination.The commitment is to provide a punctual, friendly and professional service, so that travelers live Oaxaca safely, comfortably and memorably.

● Tasting coffee from one of the best sources on the planet ● Exploring local culture and interact with locals ● Shopping local booths and get one-of-a-kind souvenirs ● Relaxing and soaking in the authentic traditional architecture of the city ● Exploring three major hub cities in one adventure

Explore Monte Albán, Ex-Hacienda Histórico and Atzompa : Cultural Tour with Certified Bilingual Guide. Detailed Itinerary 1.Guided tour of Monte Alban Explore one of the most impressive archaeological areas in Mesoamerica. Together with our certified guide, you will tour this UNESCO World Heritage site, where you will discover pyramids, squares, tombs and astronomical observatories of the ancient Zapotec civilization. 3. Stop at the Ex-Hacienda de San José Hidalgo We will travel to an ex-hacienda with a rich colonial past. 4. Village of Atzompa – Traditional ceramics. We close the day in the picturesque village of Atzompa, renowned for its pottery heritage. We will visit workshops where local artisans will show us traditional ceramic techniques, a practice inherited for generations. Full tour with certified bilingual guide (SECTUR)

If you really want to go beyond the restaurants and really taste Oaxaca, this tour is for you. We leave the city to visit Native towns where indigenous families & traditional cooks still prepare food the old-fasioned way! Grinding corn by hand, cooking over the wood fire and usuing clay pots and comales. You will taste dishes prepared specially for you, learn about Ancestral cooking techniques, hear stories behind each recipe and see how food, identity & daily life are deeply connected in this communities. By choosing this Tour, you also support local markets, indigenous cooks and local families who preserve Oaxaca´s culinary heritage. A genuine Oaxacan Cultural & Gastronomic inmersion - Fully private and all-inclusive

This tour offers a complete and personalized experience that combines the best of Oaxaca’s culture, history, art and nature in one day. Unlike other tours, we give you the freedom to choose your route: you can explore the archaeological and artisanal richness of Monte Albán, San Martín Tilcajete and San Bartolo Coyotepec, or immerse yourself in natural wonders and traditional villages such as Hierve el Agua, Mitla and El Árbol del Tule. You’ll enjoy comfortable air-conditioned transportation, expert local guides who share fascinating stories and tips for taking advantage of each stop, and plenty of time to take pictures, buy authentic crafts and taste traditional flavors. It is the ideal choice for those who want to live Oaxaca authentically and without hurry, connecting with their culture and people in a safe, comfortable and full of memorable moments.

As a personal photographer, I will capture your moments in the most emblematic places in the region, including Matatlan la Tierra del Mezcal, Monte Albán, Mitla, Los Alebrijes de Arrazola in the workshop of the master artisan, Iconic markets of Oaxaca, The neighborhoods and historic center, The best places to taste Oaxacan food or Boerve del Agua. The 8-hour experience includes transportation for groups of up to 5 people, ensuring personalized treatment and a special focus on each photograph. Together, we will create an itinerary that fits your interests and preferences. - 8-hour photo tour of Oaxaca icons - Private transportation for groups of up to 5 people - More than 200 photos delivered one week after the tour - Itinerary customized according to your preferences - Breakfast Oaxaqueño Ancestral food - Attractions such as pallets, artisan workshops, kitchens, etc.
16 indigenous groups maintaining ancestral traditions!
Oaxaca's traditions recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage!
Visit artisan communities practicing traditional crafts!
Guelaguetza, Day of the Dead - spectacular cultural celebrations!
Visit Teotitlán (textiles), Arrazola (alebrijes), San Bartolo (pottery).
Visit Mitla ruins and indigenous communities.
Learn natural dye techniques and weaving in Teotitlán.
Experience cemetery celebrations and traditions (Oct 31-Nov 2).
Village tours: 5-7 hours. Workshops: 3-4 hours. Day of the Dead: 5-6 hours evening.
Watch weavers, potters, and alebrije carvers at work!
Many villagers speak Zapotec - guides translate and explain traditions.
See hand-embroidered clothing still worn daily in communities.
Learn about pre-Hispanic civilization and colonial influence.
Visit homes, workshops, and communities beyond tourist spots.
Teotitlán del Valle best for textiles - natural dyes and traditional weaving.
Arrazola known for colorful alebrijes (carved wooden animals).
Guelaguetza festival (last two Mondays July) massive celebration - book WAY ahead!
Day of the Dead (Oct 31-Nov 2) spectacular in Oaxaca - hotels book year ahead.
Respect indigenous communities - ask before photographing people.
Many artisans speak limited Spanish - guides facilitate communication.
Support artisans by buying directly - fair prices and authentic goods.
Villages require 5-7 hours with transport - plan full day.
A: Guelaguetza is Oaxaca's biggest festival (last two Mondays in July) - indigenous folk dance celebration! Seven regions perform traditional dances in regional dress. Massive stadium event, street parties, cultural events. Tickets $50-200, book months ahead. It's spectacular - Oaxaca's cultural peak!
A: Alebrijes are brightly painted wooden carvings of fantastical creatures! Originated in Mexico City dreams but perfected in Oaxaca. Villages like Arrazola and San Martín specialize. Hand-carved copal wood, painted with intricate designs. Range $10-$10,000+. Amazing souvenirs!
A: Oaxaca has Mexico's best Day of the Dead (Oct 31-Nov 2)! Families decorate graves with marigolds and candles, hold cemetery vigils, make altars with photos/food. Not sad - celebration of life! Visit cemeteries, see altars, experience traditions. Book hotels year ahead. Unforgettable!
A: Yes but challenging! Villages spread out (30-60 minutes drive), limited public transport, language barriers. Tours provide transport, cultural context, artisan connections, and respect protocols. First-timers: Tours highly recommended. Return independently if confident. Both work!
A: Village tours: $50-90 (5-7 hours, transport included). Workshops: $60-100 (3-4 hours). Day of the Dead: $70-120. Guelaguetza tickets: $50-200. Private tours: $200-350. Good value for cultural immersion and artisan access!
A: Many speak indigenous languages (Zapotec, Mixtec) as first language - Spanish second! Older generations may have limited Spanish. Guides translate and facilitate. Respect linguistic diversity - it's living heritage. Smiles and respect transcend language!
A: Textiles from Teotitlán (natural dye rugs $50-500+), alebrijes from Arrazola ($10-500+), black pottery from San Bartolo ($5-100), baskets, embroidered clothing. Buy directly from artisans - fair prices, authentic quality. Bargaining acceptable but respectful.
A: Year-round! Guelaguetza (July): Cultural peak, crowds, expensive. Day of the Dead (Oct 31-Nov 2): Spectacular traditions, book ahead. Regular season: Lower prices, authentic daily life. Sunday Tlacolula market adds cultural layer. Anytime offers rich culture!
UNESCO World Heritage historic center
Ancient Monte Alban archaeological site
World-famous Oaxacan cuisine and mezcal
Vibrant markets and artisan crafts
Rich indigenous culture and traditions
Perfect blend of history and authenticity
Oaxaca enjoys a temperate highland climate with mild temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 60°F (16°C) in winter to 80°F (27°C) in summer.
November to April offers the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
December to April brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
May to October offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with occasional rain.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Meet weavers, potters, and alebrije carvers in traditional workshops!
Taste mole, tlayudas, chapulines, and authentic mezcal!
Explore UNESCO World Heritage colonial architecture and vibrant Zocalo!
Explore vibrant Benito Juárez and 20 de Noviembre markets!
Explore ancient Zapotec ruins with panoramic valley views!
Walking is perfect for exploring the historic center. Public transportation connects to nearby sites, and organized tours include transportation.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
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