Travel to Oaxaca- Itinerary from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido

Day 1-2: Oaxaca City

Welcome to OaxacaIn just two days, explore the cultural richness and natural wonders of this region: stroll along the Zócalo, discover the archaeological site of Monte Albán, and refresh yourself at Hierve el Agua. Prepare to be amazed and get this itinerary off to a great start! 🌟

Day 1: Cultural exploration and historical site

• Morning: Zócalo and Oaxaca Cathedral 🏛️
  • Address: Av. de la Independencia, Centro.
  • Advice : Enjoy a coffee on the Zócalo terrace to observe, understand and immerse yourself in local life.

• Lunch: Benito Juárez Market 🛍️
  • Try tlayudas and mole, two local culinary specialties.

• Afternoon: Monte Albán 🏺
  • What is it? One of Mexico's most important archaeological sites. It was the Zapotec capital from 500 BC to 800 AD, offering panoramic views over the Oaxaca valley.
  • How to get there : By car (20 minutes from Oaxaca) or bus (shuttles from downtown: 45 minutes, approx. 60 MXN).
  • Opening hours : 10am-4pm, daily.
  • Admission 85 MXN.

• Evening: Calle Macedonio Alcalá 🌆: Stroll around to discover art galleries and charming cafés, then pose cocktail in hand in one of the many rooftops.

Day 2: History and natural wonders

• Morning: Museum of the Cultures of Oaxaca 🖼️
  • Address: Calle Macedonio Alcalá s/n, Centro.
  • Opening hours : 10am-6pm, closed Mondays.

• Afternoon: Hierve el Agua 💧
  • What is it? A unique natural site in Oaxaca, famous for its petrified waterfalls and natural pools formed by mineral deposits.
  • How to get there : Rental car or bus + collectivo. Bus from Oaxaca to Mitla (1h15, 25 MXN) then collectivo from Mitla to Hierve el Agua (45 min, 40 MXN).
  • Advice : Bring a swimsuit to enjoy the natural pools and spectacular views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Opening hours 7am-6pm.
  • Admission 50 MXN.

Where to eat in Oaxaca City

• Casa Oaxaca El Restaurante 🍽️
  • Specialities : Modern Oaxacan cuisine.
  • Advice : Book in advance, especially for evening events.
  • Average price : 250-450 MXN.

• Los Danzantes Oaxaca 🍴
  • Specialities : Mexican fusion with local and organic ingredients.
  • Average price : 200-400 MXN.

• Tlayudas Doña Luchita 🌮
  • Specialities : Grilled tlayudas with chorizo and marinated pork, served with traditional condiments.
  • Average price : 50-100 MXN.

• Boulenc Bakery 🍞
  • Specialities : Breads, pastries and European-style brunch in a pleasant courtyard.
  • Average price : 100-200 MXN.

• Tacos del Carmen 🌮
  • Specialities : Tacos, quesadillas and empanadas prepared on a traditional comal.
  • Average price : 50 MXN.

Where to stay in Oaxaca?

• Azul Cielo Hostel 🏨
  • Price : From EUR 30 per night.
  • Features : Friendly atmosphere and breakfast included.

• Hotel Casona Oaxaca 🏨
  • Price Approx. 70-90 EUR per night.
  • Features Located in a 19th-century colonial building, central, with air-conditioned rooms and buffet breakfast included.

• Quinta Real Oaxaca 🌟
  • Price : From 250 EUR per night.
  • Features : Luxury hotel with swimming pool and colonial architecture.

Practical tips and information

• How to get to Oaxaca :
  • Oaxaca is well served by its international airport, with direct flights from Mexico City and other major cities.
  • You can also arrive by bus from various Mexican destinations.

• Climate :
  • Oaxaca enjoys a temperate climate all year round. Temperatures generally range from 20°C to 28°C, making it a pleasant destination in all seasons.

• Events not to be missed :
  • Guelaguetza A festival in July celebrating Oaxacan culture with dance, music and gift exchange.
  • Día de los Muertos A vibrant celebration with altars, parades and feasts in early November.

• Fun Facts :
  • El Tule Tule tree: Home to the Tule tree, one of the world's largest trees, over 2,000 years old.
  • Noche de Rábanos A unique festival in December where radishes are sculpted into various artistic forms.

Day 3-4: Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a must for beach, surf and outdoor adventure lovers. Here's a selection of the best things to do in this dynamic, sunny city:

Best things to do in Puerto Escondido

1. Surfing at Playa Zicatela 🏄‍♂️

• Description : Playa Zicatela is famous for its impressive waves, attracting surfers from all over the world.
• Advice : If you're a beginner, take a surfing course to make the most of the waves.

2. Dolphin and whale watching 🐬

• Description : Join a boat trip to see dolphins and, in season, whales in their natural habitat. These outings often offer the chance to see sea turtles and seabirds.
• Price : Approx. 800 MXN per person.
• Advice : The best months for whale watching are November to March.

3. Turtle release at Playa Bacocho 🐢

• Description : Take part in a baby sea turtle release program on the beach. An enriching and educational activity, ideal for families.
• Price : About 100 MXN per person.
• Advice : Arrive before sunset for the best chance of participating.

4. Snorkeling at Playa Carrizalillo 🌊

• Description : Playa Carrizalillo is ideal for swimming and snorkeling thanks to its calm, clear waters. You can observe a variety of fish and, with a little luck, turtles.
• Advice : Bring your own snorkeling equipment or rent some on site.

5. Visit to the Laguna de Manialtepec 💧

• Description : Explore this lagoon by kayak, famous for its bioluminescence phenomena. Night tours offer a magical experience with glistening waters.
• Price : Approx. 400 MXN per person.
• Advice : Join a guided tour to learn more about the local wildlife and maximize your experience.

6. Exploring the Lagunas de Chacahua National Park 🌿

• Description : This national park is a haven for nature lovers, offering pristine beaches, lagoons and the chance to see crocodiles and rare birds.
• How to get there : By car or cab to Zapotalito, then by boat to Chacahua.

7. Benito Juárez Market 🛍️

• Description : This market is the ideal place to buy fresh fruit, souvenirs and sample the local cuisine. Don't miss the chapulines (grilled grasshoppers) for a unique culinary experience.
• Advice : Visit the market in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Where to eat in Puerto Escondido

• AMOKI JR. La Casa Del BIG Burrito Punta Zicatela 🌯
  • Specialities : Giant burritos and Mexican cuisine.
  • Average price : 100-200 MXN.

• Chicama 🐟
  • Specialities : Peruvian cuisine, mainly seafood.
  • Average price : 200-400 MXN.
  • Advice : Don't miss the ceviche, considered one of the best in town.

• Lychee Thai Food 🍲
  • Specialities : Authentic Thai cuisine.
  • Average price : 150-300 MXN.
  • Advice : In our opinion, curries and pad thai are the best dishes.

• Cafe Ole ☕
  • Specialities : Hearty brunches
  • Average price : 100-200 MXN.
  • Advice : Try fresh juices and smoothies for an energizing start to the day.

Where to stay in Puerto Escondido?

• Casa Losodeli & Coworking 🛌
  • Price : From EUR 30 per night.
  • Features : Inn with friendly atmosphere, swimming pool and coworking space.

• Selina Puerto Escondido 🌟
  • Price : Around 50 EUR per night.
  • Features : Budget hotel with pool, yoga and community activities.

• Casa de Olas Boutique Hotel 🌴
  • Price Approx. EUR 80 per night.
  • Features Boutique hotel offering surf lessons, tennis lessons, a yoga terrace, free bikes, and a rooftop palapa with panoramic views of the Pacific coast.

• Hotel Santa Fe 🌴
  • Price : Approx. EUR 100 per night.
  • Features : Beachfront hotel with two swimming pools and restaurant.

Where to party in Puerto Escondido?

• Savanna 🌅
  • Atmosphere Beachside bar and restaurant with breathtaking sunset views.
  • Features 2 for 1 cocktails from 6pm to 8pm.

• Xcaanda 🔊
  • Atmosphere Reggaeton club with tropical ambience.
  • Features Admission 100 MXN with one drink included.

• Cactus Bar 🌵
  • Atmosphere Lively club with electronic music, open until 5am.
  • Features Free entry before midnight, 100 MXN afterwards.

• Mar & Wana 🌟
  • Atmosphere Club with local and international DJs, open until 5am.
  • Features Admission 150-200 MXN, techno evenings.

• Sunday at Punta Vida 🍖
  • Atmosphere Beach barbecue with music and volleyball.
  • Features 150 MXN for a plate of BBQ and a beer.
  • Advice Arrive in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset and BBQ.

Our Nightlife Articles in Puerto Escondido ➡️ Where to party in Puerto Escondido?

Days 5-7: Mazunte and Zipolite

Once you've explored Puerto Escondido, it's time to discover the hidden gems on Mexico's Pacific coast Mazunte and Zipolite. These neighboring villages are perfect for those seeking nature, the beach and a little relaxation. Here are a few must-do activities:

Best things to do in Mazunte and Zipolite

1. Sunset at Punta Cometa 🌅

• Description : Punta Cometa is one of the best places to watch the sunset on the Pacific coast. It's a popular hiking spot with panoramic ocean views.
• Advice : Bring water and hiking boots for the rocky trail.

2. Turtle release in Playa La Ventanilla 🐢

• Description : Take part in the release of baby sea turtles on this protected beach. It's a rewarding activity that supports local conservation efforts.
• Price : About 100 MXN per person.
• Advice : Arrive in the late afternoon to take part in the turtle liberation at sunset.

3. Mermejita beach 🌊

• Description : A quiet, less crowded beach, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
• Advice : Bring everything you need, as there are no amenities on this beach.

4. San Agustinillo beach 🏖️

• Description : Just a short walk from Mazunte, this beach is ideal for swimming and relaxing. There are several restaurants and bars nearby for refreshment.
• Advice : Perfect for a relaxing half-day after exploring Mazunte.

5. Yoga at Hridaya Yoga 🧘‍♀️

• Description : Hridaya Yoga offers yoga retreats, daily meditations and workshops. Situated on a hillside with breathtaking ocean views, it's an ideal place for relaxation and yoga practice.
• Advice : Book in advance for retreats and workshops.

6. Zipolite beach 🌞

• Description : Known as Mexico's only legal nudist beach, Zipolite is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and welcoming LGBTQ+ community.
• Advice : Explore Playa del Amor, a small cove popular with LGBTQ+ travelers.

• By bus : Several bus companies, such as Primera Plus and ETN, offer regular services between Guadalajara and Lagos de Moreno. Departures are frequent throughout the day, with prices around 200-300 MXN per trip.

Where to eat in Mazunte and Zipolite?

• Orale Café ☕
  • Specialities : Hearty brunches and quality coffee.
  • Average price : 100-150 MXN.

• Cenzontle 🍔
  • Specialities : Artisanal burgers with meat, fish and vegetarian options, served with rosemary home fries.
  • Average price : 100-200 MXN.

• Maralto Cocina Artesanal 🌮
  • Specialities : Mexican, international and Mediterranean cuisine with dishes such as chilaquiles, fresh fish and pizzas.
  • Average price : 150-300 MXN.

Where to stay in Mazunte and Zipolite?

• Hotel Bendita Luna 🌙
  • Price : Around 45 EUR per night.
  • Features : Recently renovated hotel with modern decor, spacious rooms and a small swimming pool. Located 10 minutes' walk from Mazunte beach.

• Cabañas Telayú 🛌
  • Price : From 50 EUR per night.
  • Features : Cabanas with ocean views, pool and direct beach access.

• Hotel El Alquimista 🌟
  • Price : Approx. 140 EUR per night.
  • Features : Beachfront bungalows with restaurant and spa