Oaxaca

Mexico, North America

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

Now

Right 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

OAX

Oaxaca International Airport

International

7 km away

HUX

Huatulco International Airport

International

285 km away

PXM

Puerto Escondido International Airport

International

260 km away

ZMT

Bahías de Huatulco International Airport

International

240 km away

Getting around

"In Oaxaca City, most attractions are walkable; for longer trips use Uber or yellow taxis (agree on fare before departure). Colectivos (shared vans/minibuses) are the backbone of regional transport—cheap and frequent to villages like Arrazola or Teotitlán del Valle. First-class ADO buses connect major towns and the coast, offering comfortable travel. Domestic flights from Oaxaca City to Huatulco or Puerto Escondido save time over winding mountain roads. Car rentals are available but best for experienced drivers comfortable with narrow, curving highways and occasional topes (speed bumps). Always fill up in towns; gas stations are sparse in the countryside."

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

7/10

Tourist-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

6/10

Tourist-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

8/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Oaxaca is generally safe for tourists, especially in the city center, the central valleys, and main coastal resorts. Petty theft like pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs in crowded markets and buses, so keep valuables secured. Avoid isolated streets, beaches, or archaeological sites after dark. Protests and road blockades are common in the region and can disrupt travel; monitor local news and avoid large gatherings. On highways, travel only during daylight and use toll roads (cuotas) where possible, as occasional banditry affects rural routes. Earthquake tremors are possible—know your hotel's evacuation plan. Always check current government travel advisories. Overall, visitors who exercise common sense and respect local customs rarely encounter problems."

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should have routine vaccinations up to date, and consider hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines due to food/water exposure. The altitude in Oaxaca City (1,555m) can cause mild symptoms; hydrate well and take it easy on arrival. Tap water is not safe to drink—stick to bottled or filtered water and avoid ice in street stalls. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and chikungunya are present, particularly along the coast; use insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves, and sleep under nets where needed. Pharmacies are well-stocked in towns; for serious medical issues, head to Oaxaca City’s private hospitals or the Hospital de la Niñez Oaxaqueña (public). Travel medical insurance is strongly recommended as quality care can be expensive. Sun protection and hydration are essential year-round."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect for indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec traditions is essential. Always ask permission before photographing people, and note that some communities prohibit photography entirely. Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural villages—cover shoulders and knees. Mealtimes are social; lunch (la comida) is the big meal around 2–3 p.m., and it’s polite to greet others with ‘buen provecho’ when entering a restaurant. Bargaining in markets is normal but done with a smile, not aggression. Mezcal is sipped, not shot, and always accompanied by sal de gusano or orange slices. Punctuality is relaxed except for official business; expect shops to close during siesta (roughly 2–4 p.m.). At fiestas and calendas, join in dancing—locals appreciate participation."
Spanish (official)NahuatlMayaMixtecZapotecEnglishSpanish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3–5 | a cheap local meal like tlayudas or tacos costs around $3–5

Hotels

$25–80 | budget hotels and guesthouses range $25–80/night, mid-range $80–150

Local transport

$0.50 | local bus ride ~$0.50; colectivo short hops from $1

Cost notes

Street food and markets keep costs incredibly low; sit-down restaurant meals are $5–12. Great value for backpackers and mid-range travelers.

Timezone

America/Mexico_City
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

Major HubBeachHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyHikingCulturalCulinaryArchaeologicalIndigenous