Day Trips from Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City has plenty to enthrall visitors, and venturing out beyond the busy city offers a taste of old Oaxaca, with ancient traditions coming alive at rustic mezcal distilleries, spirited artisan workshops, and indigenous mountain communities that time forgot.
Here are some noteworthy getaways to explore the alluring environs of Oaxaca, all just an easy day trip away from the big city.
Embrace Zapotec Village Life at Pueblos Mancomunados
A cluster of eight remote communities tucked away in the Sierra Norte mountains, the Pueblos Mancomunados (Commonwealth of Villages) provide the ideal setting for wilderness adventures on bike, foot, or horseback amid magnificent canyons, caves, and waterfalls.
- Home to 400 bird species and thousands of plant varieties
- About 60 miles of trails connect the welcoming Zapotec towns
- Private cabins and roadside cantinas offer hearty comfort food
Getting there: Driving is the most convenient way. The closest villages, Cuajimoloyas and Benito Juárez, are approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes northeast of Oaxaca City. Alternatively, shared vans from Oaxaca City can take you to most towns and provide guided hikes.
See Masters Making Their Crafts at San Martín Tilcajete and San Bartolo Coyotepec
While there are numerous shops in downtown Oaxaca City selling barro negro (polished black pottery) and alebrijes (colorful wood-carved animal figures), experiencing these crafts in the artisans’ studios is unrivaled.
In San Martín Tilcajete, workshops focus on producing alebrijes, with some larger sculptures taking up to 4 years to complete. Many creations are inspired by sacred animals from Zapotec mythology.
On your way back, stop by Alfarería Doña Rosa in San Bartolo Coyotepec for a fascinating demonstration of how black pottery is burnished with quartz stones to achieve its unique luster.
Getting there: Both towns are located south of the city along Highway 175, with multiple bus departures available.
Escape to a Dramatically Situated Mixtec Village at Santiago Apoala
If you’re looking to unwind and unplug, visit the majestic mountains of Santiago Apoala. Expect minimal Wi-Fi—ideal for those eager to hike to a stunning 200-foot waterfall amid deep canyons with ancient rock carvings.
Although a day trip is feasible, the natural beauty and tranquility suggest an overnight getaway. Local tour operators offer riverside cabin rentals and guided hiking outings.
Getting there: Santiago Apoala is about 2.5 hours northwest of Oaxaca City. The journey is most convenient by car or local transport from Nochixtlán.
Explore Mezcal Country and Singular Ruins in San Pablo Villa de Mitla and Santiago Matatlán
After enjoying panoramic views of Monte Albán, head to the ancient Zapotec ruins of Mitla. Following your exploration, indulge in exquisite mole before venturing to Santiago Matatlán, known as Oaxaca’s capital of mezcal.
For a deeper understanding, visit local distilleries where you can sample and purchase complex mezcals made from wild agaves.
If time allows, consider visiting Hierve el Agua to enjoy cliffside mineral springs with stunning views.
Getting there: A car is recommended for this trip, taking Highway 190 east to reach Mitla and Santiago Matatlán.
Immerse Yourself in a Famous Weaving Village at Teotitlán del Valle
Villagers in the renowned Teotitlán del Valle have been weaving colorful rugs and blankets since pre-Hispanic times. Along the way, stop in El Tule to see the ancient Montezuma cypress tree, said to have the world’s widest trunk.
In Teotitlán, a community center houses a museum celebrating the craft of weaving. Visitors can engage in traditional workshops or enjoy local cuisine.
Getting there: To reach El Tule and Teotitlán del Valle, take Highway 190 east by car or use local bus services.
