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Journey to a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oaxaca, Mexico, and dive into the deep history and culture that can be found nowhere else on Earth. Enjoy the local flavors at an array of restaurants, explore the archeological sites and crafts surrounding the city, and immerse yourself in the mezcal traditions by touring and tasting in the small village distilleries. With free time embedded in your trip to explore at your leisure, you’ll have it all on this 5-day excursion.
Hola and Bienvenidos! Welcome to Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca’s bustling capital. Deemed one of the most culturally rich places in Mexico, you’ll enjoy the historic vibes and laid-back atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Known for its deep cultural roots, Oaxaca is home to 16 officially recognized indigenous groups, reflecting the traditional history, food, art, and music you’ll see throughout your trip. After a quick transfer from the airport, you’ll come home to Selina Oaxaca, 1.1 km from downtown Oaxaca de Juárez. Get settled in Selina’s traditional architecture immersed in vibrant colors and natural textiles. Freshen up and take some selfies in the cactus courtyard and on the rooftop terrace or take a quick nap in the hammock area to adjust from your day of traveling.
Tonight, come together with the group and enjoy a stellar meal at Teocintle in Oaxaca. Share your travel adventures, your hopes for the trip ahead, and make lasting friends as you enjoy the Mixtec cuisine you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Learn about the history of the Mixtec people through each bite and let your palate welcome the Oaxacan flavors that make this place so special.
Immerse yourself in culture as you spend the day touring various sites throughout Oaxaca. Grab breakfast on your own, then head to the famous archaeological site of Monte Alban. Located on the top of a hill, right in the center of the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, gaze into the cradle of the Zapotec civilization as you walk through these pre-Colombian ruins. Next, journey to the community of Arrazola, known for its painting workshops and alebrijes, and the former convent of Santiago Cuilapam. The odyssey ends in Coyotepec at Dona Rosa’s black clay workshop where you’ll learn how her pieces are made and the history behind her craft. After an incredible day of culture, hit the town with the group, walk the majestic streets of the city, and see where the night takes you.
Wake up on your own time, start your day with a great meal, and hit the streets of Oaxaca, as today is a free day to explore as you please. Take a stroll through the Verde Antequera, a UNESCO world heritage site, eat some of the best food in the city at the Santo Domingo Cultural Center or the central market, and explore the latest contemporary and indigenous art at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo (MACO). From incredible local cuisine to seasonal festivals and live music, Oaxaca will fill your heart with each step you take. Head back to the hotel at your own pace and get ready for a night on the town. Grab a great meal downtown, have a cold drink, and dance the night away at one of the many clubs Oaxaca has to offer.
The day starts with a trip to the small town of Matatlán, deemed the world capital of mezcal. From traditional techniques of harvesting the agave in the fields to the complex distillation process, you’ll see it all with stories of ancient history woven into the tour. Learn about the creation of the traditional mezcal cantaritos and enjoy various samples during your trip as you chat with the locals about their craft. From here, travel to Chichicapam, where you’ll dine in the home of a local family and partake in a traditional Oaxacan meal. Lastly, travel to Ocotlan and visit one of the last places where the tradition of putting fruit in the mescal bottles still occurs. Try this cured mezcal and soak in this unique experience where culture and cocktails meet. With so many incredible memories to reflect on, this last meal will be one for the books. Get together with the group one more time and toast your favorite mezcal drink to your time in Oaxaca.
It’s time to head home from this enriching adventure. Say your goodbyes, take a few last photos of the city, and hop in your private transfer to the airport. No matter your next destination, we hope it’s a good one!
Selina Oaxaca is a traveller’s dream, located in Oaxaca City, 1.1 km from downtown Oaxaca de Juárez. You can’t miss the pink exterior and the traditional charm of this vibrant building! The hotel features a rooftop terrace, chic cactus courtyard, bar/restaurant, air-conditioned rooms, live music, and free Wi-Fi. This dorm-style accommodation begs for guests to make new friends and share new experiences together in the common kitchen and coworking spaces. In your free time, chill in the hammock area or take a quick walk downtown and soak in the laid-back vibes. Room type: 10-bed dorm.
4 nights at Selina Oaxaca (or similar)
Shared occupancy in accommodation
Cultural tour of the surroundings of Oaxaca (includes pick-up)
Mezcal route tour; try, learn and live the traditional drink of Oaxaca (includes pick-up, alcohol, snacks, and water)
Welcome dinner at Teocintle
Private transfer Airport - Oaxaca - Airport
24/7 guest support
Flights
Optional add-ons
All food not mentioned in inclusions
Personal expenses
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for balance payment
Your place is guaranteed at the time of full payment. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to offer any refunds for the amount paid.
For those looking for a little more privacy, upgrade to the Hotel Las Mariposas and enjoy a double room with a private bath. These spacious rooms feature modern standing fans and natural airflow. Located 10 minutes from Selina, you’ll be in the heart of the city with historic buildings all around. *Room type: Double room. Price per person: 70 USD *min 3 people upgrade *
In the Valley of Oaxaca, you’ll head to a Zapotec community to the home of a local family. Here, you will learn the secrets from a “comidera”, a woman who prepares the banquets/feasts for the community. Within a 4-hour timeframe, you will prepare 3 traditional dishes in this rural atmosphere, while learning about the history of the harvested crops and family traditions.
Put on your walking shoes and charge that phone battery for a tour that will give you a new perspective on life. This 3-hour journey offers insight into the historical, cultural, and gastronomic depth of Oaxaca that will make you want to stay. Explore the aqueduct, Garcia Vigil Street, and the Seminary of the Holy Cross to learn about the legacies of historic presidents Benito Juarez and Porfirio Diaz. From here, you’ll explore the temple of Our Lady Carmen, the temple of Santo Domingo, and the treasures of the seventh tomb of Monte Alban. With so much to see, snap those photos and soak in the bold colors of the city, the baroque design, and the markets bustling with the sights and smells of Oaxaca.
This experience is all about the preservation of culture using amaranth, a nutritious, gluten-free grain that has a deep history in Oaxaca. You’ll have the pleasure of meeting Margarita Barrita who is a member of the “Alegria de la vida,” a group of women who aim to mix joy with culture. During this 3-hour talk, you’ll learn about the plant, the grain, and all its uses, along with making your own tzoalli, a dessert that is said to be the food of the ancient gods.
For the art lovers and active explorers, take a 5 km ride through 3 neighborhoods of Oaxaca de Juarez and experience various galleries, graphic workshops, and street art of all kinds. As you cycle the streets, you’ll see the diverse Oaxacan art in the form of murals, stencils, posters, and so much more. This city is an open-air museum that will take your breath away at every turn. Get your camera ready on this 4-hour adventure and enjoy a delicious snack with your group at end of your excursion.
