More commonly known as Oaxaca, the official name of the city is Oaxaca de Juarez, and it’s the capital of the Oaxaca state in Mexico. This is a major city that has tons and tons of history everywhere you look, not to mention some spectacular natural beauty. The place was once home to the Aztecs who lived in the valley and built tons of structures that still remain today and have become popular tourist destinations. On top of ancient monuments, the colonial Spanish architecture around the city also adds to its charm, and most of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For accommodation, there are stunning boutique hotels that will cater to all your needs. For a homier experience, you can consider an Airbnb vacation rental. In the meantime, if you’re in Oaxaca and are looking to explore, browse below for some of the top day trips from Oaxaca, Mexico.
1. Mitla
The sites around Mitla are widely regarded as some of the most important archaeological sites in the country, especially since the area is important to the Zapotec culture. While nearby Monté Alban was once the political center, Mitla was known as the spiritual center. Even the name “Mitla” is an Aztec name for the underworld. The sites around this place are some of the most unique in the country, as the tombs and walls feature a mosaic design made out of finely polished stone that cannot be found anywhere else in Mexico.
2. Hierve el Agua (from USD 70.0)
The ruins of ancient civilization are everywhere in the Oaxaca Valley, and Hierve el Agua is one of the most amazing spots to visit here. Experience the beauty of this area by checking out a 2000-year-old cypress tree that also happens to be the world’s thickest tree. Plan to see the Zapotec Ruins in the area around Mitla, where you can see firsthand these fascinating archaeological sites.
Hierve el Agua, Teotitlán del Valle, mezcal, el tule, desde Oaxaca
Duration: 11 hours
3. Santiago Matatlan
If it isn’t obvious by now, the area around Juarez and Oaxaca is absolutely filled with important historical features, but if you’re looking to take a little break from all of that, why not stop for a glass of one of Mexico’s favorite drinks: mezcal. Santiago Matatlan is known as the “World Capital of Mezcal”, and this drink is quite similar to the more popular tequila. Here in this town near Oaxaca, you’ll learn about the distillation process, how it is made and produced, and, of course, get a little taste.
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4. San Bartolo Coyotepe
The charming town of San Bartolo Coyotepec is one of the popular day tours around Oaxaca for visitors to the region. It is located just 10 miles (16.09 kilometers) from the Mexican city of Oaxaca. The town is famous for its traditional pottery, which is made using techniques that have been passed down for generations.
A visit to San Bartolo Coyotepec provides an opportunity to witness the pottery-making process and to purchase unique and authentic souvenirs. The town is also home to a beautiful 16th-century church, the Templo de San Bartolo, which is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and beautiful artwork.
5. San Antonio Arrazola
Your itinerary of Oaxaca is not complete until you visit San Antonio Arrazola. It is a small town located just a short distance from Oaxaca, Mexico. One of the village’s main attractions is the local wood carving industry which has been practiced for generations. Visitors can tour local workshops and see the artisans at work, creating intricate and beautiful wooden figurines known as “alebrijes.” These colorful sculptures are made from copal wood and painted with detailed designs, making them a unique and fascinating art form.
In addition to its alebrijes, San Antonio Arrazola is home to a beautiful colonial-era church, which dates back to the 16th century and features stunning baroque architecture. Visitors can also explore the town’s cobblestone streets and admire the colorful houses and buildings.
6. Santa Maria del Tule
Santa Maria del Tule is a small and colorful little town that, much like many other places around here, has a claim to history. The town was once located on a marsh surrounded by cypress trees until it was irrigated for farms and the water dried up. The biggest attraction here is the 2000-year-old cypress tree that is both the oldest and thickest tree in the world. The trunks and branches are so large and twisted that some of them even have their own names like “the elephant”.
7. Teotitlan del Valle
Teotitlan del Valle is located in the Sierra Juarez mountain range and is a perfect place for visitors to come and experience some authentic Zapotec culture. Many of the locals here are descendants of the Zapotecs, and they keep their tradition alive through textile manufacturing in elaborate Zapotec designs. Perhaps the reason why this town shows the culture so strongly is because it was one of the first villages founded by Zapotec people.
8. Monte Alban (from USD 39.0)
Monte Alban is another important archaeological site in Mexico. Take a tour through some of the ruins and explore the political center of the ancient Zapotec civilization and learn about the people, their history, and their culture that still thrives today. The urban center of Monte Alban is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so make sure to bring your camera with you as there are tons of unparalleled, picture-worthy views here.
Monte Alban, Atzompa, Yagul and Mitla Archaeological Site Trip
Duration: 3 hours
9. Santo Tomas Jalietza
If you’re tired of touristy places and you’re looking to experience life in an authentic Mexican town or village, Santo Tomas Jalietza is worth the visit. This place is small, with a population of about 3000, and most of the residents still speak an indigenous language. Like many other small towns around here, native culture still plays a large part in the lives of the locals, with many Zapotec-inspired patterns and styles embroidered on goods like bags and leather belts.
10. Yagul
Yagul is one of the most important monuments in the country and was named a National Monument in 1998. The site is known as the “Old Pueblo” and was one of the biggest city-states in early Zapotec civilization. Yagul is said to have been established in 500 to 100 BC and was still occupied when Spain conquered it. The site is absolutely massive, with several different areas for governing and living, plus ceremonial spaces that can still be seen in the structures and designs.
11. Huatulco (from USD 80.0)
Huatulco is part of a very hilly and mountainous area where local culture still thrives, and now you can enjoy it too. The town is 4,400 feet (1,341 meters) above sea level, so make sure to bring a camera because you’ll catch some amazing views on the journey. Local life is centered around farming, especially coffee, so have a cup of some of the best coffee in Mexico.
3 Levels of Huatulco Reloaded (Vanilla Experience)
Duration: 6 hours
Explore Oaxaca
For those looking to explore beauty and history that is unlike anything else, then Oaxaca is one of the places you must visit in Mexico. The state is massive and is home to so many sites that are important for understanding the culture and country as a whole. From beautiful mountains to ancient monuments, Oaxaca will amaze you with its sheer beauty
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Oaxaca
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