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Santo Tomás Quieri - Travel destination image
Santo Tomás Quieri - Travel destination image

Santo Tomás Quieri

CityOaxaca, Mexico

Santo Tomás Quieri is a CITY in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Santo Tomás Quieri is a serene Zapotec village nestled in the rugged Sierra Norte of Oaxaca, offering an authentic escape into indigenous culture and cloud-forest landscapes. Travelers come for tranquil hiking trails through misty mountains, coffee plantations, and ancient terraced fields. The village center features a simple church and a small plaza where locals gather. Visitors can experience traditional weaving, taste locally grown coffee, and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. This off-the-beaten-path destination is ideal for those seeking cultural immersion, nature walks, and a peaceful retreat from tourist crowds. The community is welcoming but not accustomed to mass tourism, so respectful interaction is key.

Best time to visit Santo Tomás Quieri

The best time is November to April (dry season), when skies are clear and trails are passable. May to October brings rain, but the landscape is lush and crowds are minimal. December to February are coolest (10-25°C), perfect for hiking. Avoid July-August if you dislike heavy downpours.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Rainy 16-26°C, decreasing rain

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Transition to dry

Know before you go

Getting there

OAX

Xoxocotlán International Airport

International

75 km away

Getting around

"Getting to Santo Tomás Quieri requires a taxi or colectivo from Tlacolula (45 min) or Oaxaca City (1.5 hrs). Within the village, walking is the main mode. For nearby attractions, hire a local guide with a 4x4. No public buses run directly; arrange transport through your accommodation. Roads are unpaved and bumpy."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

5 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Limited to some lodgings; no public hotspots

Local SIM

Buy a Telcel SIM in Oaxaca City for ~$5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Road conditions and limited lighting at night lower scores.

Night safety

6/10

Road conditions and limited lighting at night lower scores.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Santo Tomás Quieri is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, roads can be treacherous, especially in rain (June-Oct). Avoid hiking alone after dark. Keep valuables out of sight. The community is tight-knit; any issues can be reported to local authorities. Scams are rare, but always agree on taxi fares beforehand."
Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines (hepatitis A, typhoid) are recommended. The nearest hospital is in Tlacolula (45 min drive). Bring a basic first-aid kit, insect repellent for mosquitoes, and altitude sickness medication if sensitive (village is ~2,000m). Tap water is not safe; drink bottled or purified water. Pharmacies are limited; stock up in Oaxaca City."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially when visiting the church (cover shoulders and knees). Greet locals with a friendly 'Buenos días' and ask permission before taking photos. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for guides. Respect community rules, such as no littering and quiet hours after 9 PM. Participate in local festivals if invited."
Spanish (official)NahuatlMayaMixtecZapotecEnglishSpanish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a local meal costs ~$3-5

Hotels

$20-40 | basic guesthouses range $20-40/night

Local transport

$10-15 | taxi from Tlacolula ~$10-15

Cost notes

Cash only; no luxury options.

Timezone

America/Mexico_City
Local time 11:06

More facts

Population

686

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Ovieri, Quieri, Santo Tomas Quieri, Santo Tomás Quieri, Santo Tomás Quierí

CityHikingCulturalOff-the-Beaten-PathNatureIndigenous