22 Day itinerary toOaxaca
Local travel distance per day in km.Pan drag left and right to see all data.
Day 1
Oaxaca CityâžžOaxaca City
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning

- Visit the stunning Templo de Santo Domingo, a baroque ecclesiastical building set amidst a beautiful square.
- Explore the adjoining Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, which offers insight into the region’s history and culture.
- Stroll through the nearby Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden to discover unique native plant species.
Afternoon

- Wander through the vibrant Mercado Benito Juárez and sample local delicacies.
- Enjoy an art tour visiting contemporary galleries such as GalerĂa Quetzalli and Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca.
- Visit the Textile Museum to explore Oaxaca's rich textile traditions.
- Relax with refreshments at a local café like Café Brújula, savoring Oaxacan coffee.
Evening

- Dine at a traditional Oaxacan restaurant like Los Danzantes to taste mole.
- Attend a cultural dance performance at Teatro Macedonio Alcalá.
Accomodation

- Stay at a budget-friendly hotel such as Hotel Aitana, centrally located in Oaxaca City.
Day 2
Oaxaca CityâžžOaxaca City
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning

- Start your day at Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec archaeological site.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of Monte Albán.
- Enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop, offering vistas of the surrounding valleys.
Afternoon

- Visit the bustling Mercado 20 de Noviembre for a food tour.
- Explore traditional crafts at the nearby Mercado de ArtesanĂas.
- Delve into the world of contemporary art at Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (MACO).
- Enjoy a midday meal at La Olla, known for regional dishes.
Evening

- Enjoy a relaxed evening walk through the Andador TurĂstico, a pedestrian walkway lined with shops and cafes.
- Have dinner at El Zandunga, famous for its Isthmus-style cuisine.
Accomodation

- Continue stay at Hotel Aitana.
Day 3
Oaxaca CityâžžSan MartĂn Tilcajete
Travel time: 0.5 hr| Travel distance: 28 km
Morning

- Drive to San MartĂn Tilcajete, known for its colorful alebrijes, intricate wood carvings.
- Visit several artisan workshops to see the creation process of alebrijes.
- Participate in a hands-on workshop to create your own alebrije.
Afternoon

- Explore the small, charming town of Ocotlán de Morelos, known for its Friday market.
- Visit the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a beautiful 16th-century church.
- Tour the Centro Cultural de Oaxaca, a museum with local art exhibits.
- Stop by the pottery workshops in nearby San Bartolo Coyotepec.
Evening

- Return to Oaxaca City and enjoy dinner at La Biznaga, offering eclectic Mexican cuisine.
- Catch a live music performance at a local venue in downtown Oaxaca.
Accomodation

- Stay overnight back at Hotel Aitana, Oaxaca City.
Day 4
Oaxaca CityâžžHierve el Agua
Travel time: 1.5 hr| Travel distance: 85 km
Morning

- Take a scenic drive to Hierve el Agua, a natural mineral spring formation creating petrified waterfalls.
- Hike the trails around Hierve el Agua for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
- Swim in the mineral-rich pools at Hierve el Agua for a refreshing experience.
Afternoon

- Visit the historic village of Mitla, famous for its ancient Zapotec ruins and intricate mosaics.
- Shop for artisan weavings in Tlacolula de Matamoros, known for its textiles.
- Lunch at a local eatery in Tlacolula, enjoying traditional Oaxacan tlayudas.
- Visit Yagul, another archaeological site with scenic countryside views.
Evening

- Return to Oaxaca City, dine at Origen, known for its modern take on Oaxacan dishes.
- Explore the lively nightlife in Oaxaca City, perhaps at Bar El Mano.
Accomodation

- Spend the night back at Hotel Aitana in Oaxaca City.
Day 5
Oaxaca CityâžžPuebla
Travel time: 4 hr| Travel distance: 340 km
Morning

- Depart early for Puebla, a city known for its colonial architecture and culinary importance.
- Visit the historic center and marvel at the Catedral de Puebla, an impressive baroque cathedral.
- Explore the Biblioteca Palafoxiana, one of the oldest libraries in the Americas.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at El Mural de los Poblanos, trying local dishes like mole poblano.
- Visit the Amparo Museum to see an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic, colonial, modern, and contemporary Mexican art.
- Explore the traditional Barrio del Artista, home to several artists' studios and galleries.
- Shop at El Parian for local crafts and souvenirs.
Evening

- Dine at Casareyna, famous for its traditional Pueblan cuisine.
- Take a nighttime stroll around the ZĂłcalo, Puebla's central square, illuminated beautifully after dark.
Accomodation

- Stay overnight at Hotel Colonial de Puebla, offering charming colonial-style accommodation.
Day 6
PueblaâžžPuebla
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning

- Visit the Museo Internacional del Barroco, showcasing baroque art from around the world.
- Explore the Church of Santo Domingo, famed for its stunning Chapel of the Rosary, considered a masterpiece of Mexican Baroque.
- Take a short drive to Cholula to see the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the largest pyramid by volume in the world.
Afternoon

- Visit Tonantzintla, a church known for its elaborate syncretic baroque interior.
- Have lunch at a local market in Cholula, sampling authentic regional food.
- Visit the Museo Regional de Cholula to learn about the area's history and culture.
- Shop for talavera pottery, a signature craft of Puebla.
Evening

- Return to Puebla City and dine at La Noria, offering contemporary takes on Pueblan cuisine.
- Attend a performance at the Teatro Principal de Puebla if available.
Accomodation

- Stay over again at Hotel Colonial de Puebla.
Day 7
Puebla➞Tehuacán
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 180 km
Morning

- Depart for Tehuacán early to explore the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for cactus-studded landscapes.
- Take a guided nature hike to learn about the diverse flora and fauna.
- Explore the impressive Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve.
Afternoon

- Visit the historic city center of Tehuacán, including the beautiful 16th-century Cathedral de la Inmaculada Concepción.
- Have a traditional lunch at a local restaurant like Mitla.
- Tour the Museo de MineralogĂa, featuring an extensive collection of mineral specimens.
- Relax at the JardĂn Botánico Helia Bravo, a reserve of endemic cacti.
Evening

- Enjoy an evening meal at a local café, enjoying Tehuacán's seltzer water, a specialty of the area.
- Experience a local cultural event if available.
Accomodation

- Stay at Hotel Giardino, a budget-friendly option in Tehuacán.
Day 8
Tehuacán➞Oaxaca City
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 170 km
Morning

- Enjoy a morning visit to the San Diego Waterfall, a scenic natural sight near Tehuacán.
- Depart back to Oaxaca City, arriving by noon for further exploration.
- Stroll along the Andador TurĂstico to view its colonial mansions and browse local artisan shops.
Afternoon

- Visit the Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art, showcasing Tamayo's collection of pre-Columbian art.
- Explore Casa de Benito Juárez, the former home of the iconic president.
- Shop at the Mercado de la Ciudad de Oaxaca for unique textiles and crafts.
- Refresh with a traditional tejate drink at a local vendor.
Evening

- Dine at Casa Oaxaca, a fusion of traditional and modern Oaxacan cuisine.
- Attend a local event or performance if available.
Accomodation

- Return to Hotel Aitana in Oaxaca City for accommodation.
Day 9
Oaxaca City➞San José del Pacifico
Travel time: 3 hr| Travel distance: 150 km
Morning

- Travel early to San José del Pacifico, a mountain village renowned for its stunning vistas.
- Check in at a rustic cabin accommodation to immerse yourself in nature.
- Embark on a guided morning hike to explore the cloud forest surrounding the village.
Afternoon

- Relax with a traditional temazcal, a type of sweat lodge bath for a cleansing experience.
- Explore the local town shops for handicrafts and incense.
- Participate in a yoga or meditation session in the tranquil setting.
- Directly experience the views from the Mirador de San JosĂ© del PacĂfico.
Evening

- Enjoy a simple, hearty meal at a local eatery, experiencing the village's authentic cuisine.
- Relax by the fire at your cabin, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Accomodation

- Stay overnight at a rustic lodge like Refugio Terraza de Nube, situated in the natural surroundings of San José del Pacifico.
Day 10
San José del Pacifico➞Mazunte
Travel time: 2 hr| Travel distance: 120 km
Morning

- Depart for Mazunte, a small coastal town known for its natural beauty and laid-back vibe.
- Visit Punta Cometa for a morning walk, the southernmost point in Mexico, for spectacular views.
- Relax on Playa Mazunte, a pristine beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at El Pelicano, famously located on the shoreline, offering freshly caught seafood.
- Explore the Mexican Turtle Center, dedicated to conserving and rehabilitating sea turtles.
- Visit the Coop el Alquimista for natural skincare products made locally.
- Walk to the far end of Playa Mermejita to witness its untouched natural beauty.
Evening

- Dine at Sahuaro, a cozy restaurant known for its vegetarian options and relaxed atmosphere.
- Attend a beach yoga session at sunset hosted by a local instructor.
Accomodation

- Stay overnight at Casa Pan de Miel, a boutique hotel overlooking the ocean with an infinity pool.
Day 11
MazunteâžžPuerto Escondido
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 64 km
Morning

- Leave early for Puerto Escondido, a vibrant surf town.
- Start the day with a surfing lesson at Playa Zicatela, renowned for its competition-level waves.
- Visit Playa Carrizalillo for a more calm beach where you can relax or swim.
Afternoon

- Enjoy fresh seafood at El Cafecito, a popular spot among locals and tourists.
- Visit the chic boutiques at Market Ven Beachwear for local fashion and accessories.
- Take a boat tour through Manialtepec Lagoon to experience its rich biodiversity.
- Relax at Playa Principal, watching the day's catch being brought in by fishermen.
Evening

- Witness a stunning sunset at Playa Coral, a quiet hidden beach near Puerto Escondido.
- Have dinner at EspadĂn, which offers ocean views and Mexican specialities.
Accomodation

- Stay at Selina Puerto Escondido, a budget-friendly hostel offering private rooms and vibrant community spaces.
Day 12
Puerto EscondidoâžžPuerto Escondido
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning

- Relax at a morning yoga session on Playa Zicatela to refresh and rejuvenate.
- Visit the Playa Bacocho, known for its wide sandy beach and calm waters.
- Participate in a turtle release program at Playa Bacocho if scheduled.
Afternoon

- Have an authentic Oaxacan meal at Almoraduz.
- Visit the popular open-air market Mercado Benito Juárez to explore local crafts.
- Explore the bustling Adoquin area, a pedestrian street with shops and cafés.
- Spend time at Playa Coral, ideal for snorkeling and watching marine life.
Evening

- Enjoy a relaxed meal at Pascale, known for its range of international dishes.
- Experience the local nightlife at Kabbalah Beach Club, a famous local spot by night.
Accomodation

- Continue stay at Selina Puerto Escondido.
Day 13
Puerto EscondidoâžžOaxaca City
Travel time: 7 hr| Travel distance: 290 km
Morning

- Embark early for a road trip back to Oaxaca City, with scenic views along the way.
- Have breakfast at a local café before departure and enjoy some fresh Oaxacan coffee.
- Visit small local stops along the route for any interesting crafts or unique finds.
Afternoon

- Arrive in Oaxaca City and check back into your hotel.
- Refresh and head out to visit the Museo Textil de Oaxaca, showcasing traditional textiles.
- Visit more local galleries to discover up-and-coming Oaxacan artists.
- Have a snack in the Jalatlaco neighborhood, known for its charm and colonial architecture.
Evening

- Dine at Pitiona, known for its creative take on regional dishes.
- Enjoy a nightcap at Mezcaleria Los Amantes, experiencing a tasting of traditional mezcal.
Accomodation

- Return to Hotel Aitana in Oaxaca City for accommodation.
Day 14
Oaxaca CityâžžOaxaca City
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning

- Take a tour of the Centro de las Artes de San AgustĂn, Mexico's first ecological arts center.
- Walk around the charming streets of the town of Etla, known for its scenic beauty.
- Visit the community workshops to see artisans creating paper and crafts.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at a local eatery in the area of San AgustĂn Etla.
- Explore the small museums or galleries showcasing local art and culture.
- Visit Hacienda Santa Marta for traditional artisanal products.
- Enjoy a guided tour of local cheese factories in Etla, sampling as you go.
Evening

- Return to Oaxaca City for dinner at Boulenc, known for fresh artisan bread and creative dishes.
- Walk through the ZĂłcalo, soaking in the city's vibrant evening atmosphere.
Accomodation

- Remain at Hotel Aitana, Oaxaca City.
Day 15
Oaxaca CityâžžPuerto Angel
Travel time: 5 hr| Travel distance: 250 km
Morning

- Travel from Oaxaca City to Puerto Angel, an attractive coastal village on the Pacific coast.
- Enjoy a beach morning at Playa PanteĂłn, known for its calm waves suitable for swimming.
- Mingle with locals and enjoy the relaxed fishing village vibe of Puerto Angel.
Afternoon

- Have lunch overlooking the beach at a local restaurant like Restaurante Cordel's.
- Walk along the beaches to Playa Zipolite, famous for its bohemian vibes.
- Explore the local shops and markets for handicrafts and items unique to the area.
- Relax with a beverage at a beachside bar, enjoying the stunning sunset.
Evening

- Dine at Casa Chahue, offering both seafood and vegetarian options in a charming setting.
- Participate in a bonfire on the beach if available.
Accomodation

- Stay at Posada Buena Vida, a charming hotel offering ocean views and beach access.
Day 16
Puerto AngelâžžHuatulco
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 60 km
Morning

- Depart for Huatulco, known for its stunning bays and eco-friendly resorts.
- Explore BahĂa de Cacaluta, one of the protected bays and a pristine spot for a swim.
- Join a guided boat tour of the bays to spot dolphins and sea turtles.
Afternoon

- Have lunch at the popular restaurant Terra-Cotta, known for its diverse menu.
- Visit the local town square, Parque Guelaguetza for souvenirs and cultural products.
- Experience the El Creciente Waterfall with a short drive and enjoy a refreshing swim.
- Explore the local arts and crafts markets in La Crucecita.
Evening

- Have dinner at Ve El Mar, recognized for its views and seafood dishes.
- Attend a cultural performance or live music event if available.
Accomodation

- Stay at Binniguenda Huatulco & Beach Club, an eco-friendly resort in Huatulco.
Day 17
Huatulco➞Teotitlán del Valle
Travel time: 6 hr| Travel distance: 270 km
Morning

- Begin the journey from Huatulco to Teotitlán del Valle in the early morning hours.
- Arrive in Teotitlán, a village renowned for its exquisite woven rugs and textiles.
- Visit the central plaza and see traditional weaving demonstrations.
Afternoon

- Enjoy lunch at Tlamanalli, serving homemade Zapotec dishes.
- Explore the village's handicraft shops known for fine rugs and other textiles.
- Visit the Church of the Precious Blood, known for its frescoes and Architecture.
- Partake in a weaving workshop to learn traditional methods from local artisans.
Evening

- Dine at Restaurante Tierra Antigua, known for authentic Oaxacan cuisine.
- Engage with local weavers and learn about their trade and culture.
Accomodation

- Stay overnight at Casa Sagrada, a quaint guesthouse offering homely tranquility in Teotitlán del Valle.
Day 18
Teotitlán del Valle➞Oaxaca City
Travel time: 0.5 hr| Travel distance: 25 km
Morning

- Depart back to Oaxaca City, exploring more of Teotitlán del Valle before leaving.
- Visit the cliffs at Hierve el Agua if previously missed for an immersive morning outing.
- Stop at the Tule Tree, the world's largest tree by trunk diameter, en route back.
Afternoon

- Lunch at a local cafĂ© in Santa MarĂa del Tule.
- Back in Oaxaca City, visit more intimate art galleries showcasing contemporary and indigenous art.
- Explore the La Soledad Church, renowned for its architecture and religious significance.
- Enjoy a traditional ice cream at one of Oaxaca's renowned nieves stands.
Evening

- Dine at La Casa de la Abuela, offering a rich selection of traditional Oaxacan dishes.
- Finish with a performance at a local cultural center if available.
Accomodation

- Return for accommodation at Hotel Aitana in Oaxaca City.
Day 19
Oaxaca CityâžžSanta Catarina Juquila
Travel time: 4 hr| Travel distance: 180 km
Morning

- Set out early for Santa Catarina Juquila, an important pilgrimage site in Oaxaca.
- Visit the majestic Santuario de Juquila, noted for its captivating architecture and spiritual significance.
- Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and bright-blue skies.
Afternoon

- Lunch at a local food stall, sampling regional dishes unique to the area.
- Stroll through the town's traditional market, observing local life.
- Visit nearby waterfalls or natural pools, offering serenity and a refreshing sight.
- Explore more of the natural solitude in the area's peripheral locations.
Evening

- Return back to Oaxaca City for dinner and wrap up at MesĂłn del Olivo, known for its local specialties.
- Relax and unwind with an evening walk in the city.
Accomodation

- Return for overnight stay at Hotel Aitana in Oaxaca City.
Day 20
Oaxaca City➞Monte Albán
Travel time: 0.5 hr| Travel distance: 15 km
Morning

- Head back to Monte Albán for a deeper exploration of the archaeological site.
- Join a guided tour to learn about current excavations and historical insights.
- Take plenty of time to absorb the serene views and less-explored corners of the sites.
Afternoon

- Visit the vibrant San Antonino embroidery complex to see master artisans working.
- Lunch at a local gem, such as La Teca, renowned for Istmeño cuisine.
- Purchase unique embroidered craft items as distinct Oaxacan souvenirs.
- Take a nature tour around Monte Albán's surrounding landscapes.
Evening

- Dinner at Casa Crespo, offering a fusion of traditional and innovative Oaxacan dishes.
- Attend a folk music performance at nearby local venues.
Accomodation

- Stay overnight at the familiar Hotel Aitana in Oaxaca City.
Day 21
Oaxaca CityâžžMitla
Travel time: 1 hr| Travel distance: 45 km
Morning

- Travel to Mitla, known for its archaeological site and unique geometric patterns.
- Take a guided tour to gain historical understanding of the ruins.
- Visit the town’s fabric markets for renowned local textiles.
Afternoon

- Experience the dramatic beauty of El Tule and its famed giant tree.
- Lunch at a restaurant known for traditional soups and tlayudas.
- Visit the mezcal distilleries in Matatlán for tasting and education on mezcal production.
- Explore the peaceful pueblito and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
Evening

- Return to Oaxaca City, dining at La Popular, known for casual yet authentic Mexican food.
- Enjoy an additional mezcal tasting event at a local Oaxaca bar.
Accomodation

- Remain at Hotel Aitana in Oaxaca City.
Day 22
Oaxaca CityâžžOaxaca City
Travel time: 0 hr| Travel distance: 0 km
Morning

- Start your final day by revisiting Mercado Benito Juárez, grabbing last-minute souvenirs and gifts.
- Try a traditional Oaxacan breakfast at a local mercado stand.
- Visit the Alexander Von Humboldt House for a deeper historical exploration of Oaxaca.
Afternoon

- Have a leisurely lunch at a local café renowned for traditional hot chocolates and pastries.
- Visit the Instituto de Artes Plásticas to see more work from Oaxaca’s vibrant art community.
- Stroll through the historic Old City, appreciating the architecture one last time.
- Relax at a plaza, recalling highlights of the trip and experiences shared.
Evening

- Have a farewell dinner at a local favorite such as Los Pacos, famed for its mole degustation.
- Spend the evening taking a leisurely walk through the illuminated cityscape.
Accomodation

- End your stay with comfort back at Hotel Aitana, ideally located in the heart of Oaxaca City.
The climate in Oaxaca in January is pleasantly warm during the day with cool evenings, perfect for outdoor activities and touring.
January is a part of the peak tourist season in Oaxaca due to pleasant weather and the post-holiday travel period. However, it's less crowded than during the Day of the Dead celebrations.
- Pack layers for cooler evening weather in the highlands.
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking on cobbled streets and hiking.
- Respect cultural traditions and local customs, especially in indigenous communities.
- Be prepared for potential short-notice changes with local events and activities.
- Consider picking up a local SIM card for better coverage when traveling through rural areas.
Showing forecasted weather for the upcoming 16 days in Oaxaca.