Oaxaca
Oaxaca is a STATE in Mexico, North America.
Oaxaca is a sensory feast where ancient traditions thrive against a backdrop of rugged mountains and sun-drenched valleys. The state capital, Oaxaca de Juárez, captivates with colonial churches, vibrant markets, and the aroma of tlayudas cooking on open comals. By day, wander the cobblestone lanes of the Jalatlaco neighborhood or explore Monte Albán's Zapotec ruins under a piercing blue sky. As evening falls, rooftop mezcalerías invite you to sip smoky espadín while watching the Sierra Madre glow at sunset. The culinary scene is legendary—mole negro, chapulines, and rich hot chocolate are staples that define Oaxaca as Mexico's gastronomic heart. Beyond the city, the Pacific coast unfolds with bohemian surf towns like Puerto Escondido, where waves crash onto golden sands, and laid-back Mazunte, where protected sea turtles nest. For a deeper cultural immersion, visit during Día de los Muertos, when streets become elaborate altars, comparsas parade, and the veil between worlds feels thin. Whether you're bargaining for alebrijes in artisan villages or hiking through the petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca's authenticity, vibrant color palette, and warm hospitality leave an indelible mark on every traveler.
Best time to visit Oaxaca
The prime time is during the dry season (November to April), with sunny days and cooler nights ideal for exploring ruins and city life. October offers a unique cultural crescendo with Día de los Muertos celebrations, though accommodations book out months in advance. The rainy season (May–October) brings afternoon downpours that leave the countryside lush and temperatures lower; September sees the heaviest rains, but it’s also the cheapest time to visit. Coastal areas are sizzling hot in April–May; a visit between November and March is most comfortable for beaches.
October
NowRight now
- Condition
- Overcast
- Temperature
- 15°
- Feels like
- 14°
- Humidity
- 77%
- Wind
- 10 km/h
- Precipitation
- 0 mm
Typical for October
- Condition
- Rain
- High
- 25°
- Low
- 17°
- Average
- 20°
- Rain
- 211 mm
Travel notes
- Crowds
- High
- Prices
- Peak
Día de Muertos draws massive crowds; book months ahead.
Weather from Open-Meteo
Know before you go
Getting there
Oaxaca International Airport
International
7 km away
Huatulco International Airport
International
285 km away
Puerto Escondido International Airport
International
260 km away
Bahías de Huatulco International Airport
International
240 km away
Getting around
Stay connected
WiFi speed
25 Mbps
Mobile data
Good
WiFi
Widely available in cafes, hotels, and restaurants in cities; spotty in rural villages and beaches
Local SIM
Local SIM (Telcel/ Movistar) available at Oaxaca airport and downtown shops from $5
Stay safe
Overall
7/10Tourist-oriented scams are moderate; always agree on taxi fares beforehand. Avoid overnight intercity bus journeys. Protests can block roads without warning, but major resorts maintain dedicated security.
Night safety
6/10Tourist-oriented scams are moderate; always agree on taxi fares beforehand. Avoid overnight intercity bus journeys. Protests can block roads without warning, but major resorts maintain dedicated security.
Transport
8/10Scam risk
7/10Entry and health
Health information
Culture
Local customs
Costs and practicals
Cost level
Meals
Hotels
Local transport
Cost notes
Timezone
Local time 05:09
More facts
Population
4,200,000
ISO code
MX-20
Frequently Asked Questions
Also known as: Zimatlan, Zimatlan de Alvarez, Zimatlán, Zimatlán de Álvarez, OAX, Οαχάκα, オアハカ州, Оахака, 瓦哈卡州, MX-OAX, Oax., Oaĥako

