Oaxaca, the cultural heart of Mexico, is an enticing destination for travel enthusiasts seeking rich traditions, vibrant festivals, and delectable cuisine. While its allure is undeniable, being well-prepared for your visit can make your experience more enjoyable. Here are 12 essential things to know before you set foot in this captivating and truly unique region of Mexico.
Before you touch down in Oaxaca, it’s important to know that Uber and other rideshare services are not allowed in the city. Instead, visitors rely on taxis or local transportation. Taxis are abundant and can be hailed directly from the street or booked through taxi stands located throughout the city. If you're staying at a hotel with a concierge, consider having them hail the taxi for you to save any miscommunication.
While Mexico is often seen as a budget-friendly destination, travelers might find Oaxaca a bit pricier compared to other Mexican towns. Its booming popularity, especially among international tourists, has influenced prices in areas such as accommodation, dining, and tours. However, with a little planning, you can still enjoy Oaxaca’s wonders without breaking the bank. Opt for local eateries instead of touristy spots, and consider staying in guesthouses or boutique hotels outside the city center.
Okay, maybe it's my lack of Spanish skills that makes me want to pronounce "Oaxaca" just about every way besides how it's actually pronounced. But if you're like me struggling to get this one right, let me help you out...
The correct pronunciation of "Oaxaca" is "wah-HAH-kah." The initial 'Oa' sounds like "wah," and the middle 'x' is pronounced like the English "h." The accent is placed on the second syllable, making it "wah-HAH-kah."
If you’re envisioning lazy beach days, remember that Oaxaca de Juárez, the state capital, is inland and about a five-hour drive from the nearest beaches like Puerto Escondido or Huatulco. If both city exploration and beach relaxation are on your itinerary, plan accordingly by allocating extra travel time. If you plan to visit the capital city and the beaches of Oaxaca, we'd recommend taking the Ado bus between the two.
Oaxaca is renowned as Mexico’s cultural capital due to its rich indigenous heritage, vibrant artisan crafts, and age-old traditions. The city is home to numerous festivals, such as the Guelaguetza, which showcases traditional dances, music, and costumes. Visitors can also explore ancient ruins, including Monte Albán—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and indulge in the local art scene, which thrives with galleries and workshops.
If you're like us and live at sea level, you'll quickly feel the altitude change in Oaxaca de Juárez. While the city doesn't sit as high up Mexico City, it's still thin enough that you'll feel a bit more winded if you go hiking or out for a run. The altitude in Oaxaca (the city) is about 5,100 feet. Keep in mind that are you venture to the coast or up further into the mountains you can easily reach 7,000+ feet and down at the coast you'll (obviously) be at sea level.
Navigating Oaxaca can be challenging, as the city is notorious for its heavy traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. The narrow streets and large number of buses contribute to frequent delays, so it's wise to allow extra time for travel. Despite the traffic woes, Oaxaca's compact nature allows for exploration on foot in the historic center area, letting you soak in the vibrant atmosphere and charming architecture at a leisurely pace.
Oaxaca is often regarded as the ultimate culinary destination in Mexico, renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. The region's food is a harmonious blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, resulting in dishes that are not just delicious but truly unique to Mexico. From the legendary mole, with its 30+ ingredients including spices and chocolate, to the unique tlayudas, often referred to as "Oaxacan pizza," the offerings are both plentiful and varied.
Oaxaca operates on Central Standard Time (CST), aligning with the central time zone in the United States. Mexico does not observe Daylight Saving Time with the exception of a few cities along the USA border. Visitors should be aware of these changes, especially when coordinating travel plans or communicating with others across different regions.
Oaxaca enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, but it can get chilly at night, especially in the winter months. Pack layers to adjust and stay comfortable throughout the day. While summers are hotter and humid, Oaxaca is situated in a high altitude, so it rarely gets unbearably hot. Just make sure to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong UV rays. Also keep in mind that Oaxaca (like much of Mexico) has a rainy season from June - October. During the rainy season Oaxaca experiences regular rain showers and thunderstorms every afternoon so pack water safe shoes and a jacket!
While Spanish is widely spoken, many locals also speak indigenous languages still. A few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way in enhancing your interactions. In Oaxaca more than many other places in Mexico, you should expect that the locals not to speak English with the exception of the most affluent locals and those in the tourism industry (tour guides, hotel concierges, etc.).
Although modern establishments in Oaxaca increasingly accept credit cards, cash continues to hold a vital role in daily transactions. Visitors are advised to carry enough Mexican Pesos for tips, as well as purchases from street vendors and traditional markets, where cash remains the preferred (and often only) option of payment.
Oaxaca offers a unique blend of culture, tradition, and modern conveniences, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. From its rich cultural heritage and delicious foods, to its pleasant climate and vibrant city life, Oaxaca invites exploration and provides a distinct experience that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're eating your way through the city or immersing yourself in the city's historical and artistic offerings, Oaxaca is sure to charm and inspire.
