13 awesome things to do in Oaxaca that supports the local communities

Looking for the best things to do in Oaxaca? I visit three times a year and this list is according to my local contacts. I love visiting Oaxaca and through the years, I have collected the most unique things to do.

Hi Trisha! I followed your Instagram stories in Oaxaca. I loved it and you made me want to go! I am planning my trip now but somehow didn’t see any things to do in Oaxaca article on your blog? I am a solo traveler so I would also love for you to connect me with people to meet. I read in your other post that you can introduce me to your local friends. That would be very much appreciated! Thank you for all the work that you do. Your articles about Mexico have served as my guide. They are so complete so thank you again for your service!

Hazel Hayman, Tulsa, OK

Dear Hazel,

Thank you so much for being here! Oaxaca is one of my favorite destinations in Mexico. I surely spend day of the dead here all the time and visit it with Puerto Escondido during the summer.

I love this so much and I still haven’t figured out if I want to move here! My dogs love the beach so living in Cabo suits us better at the moment. If you ever come to Baja California, feel free to send me a message and I will show you around!

Anyway, here are the best local things to do in Oaxaca. I update this regularly so make sure to save it for your trip. Good luck! I am in Oaxaca every October for day of the dead. Join my trip if you like!

Xx,
Trisha

1. Explore the Ethnobotanical Garden: one of the most unique things to do in Oaxaca

The Ethnobotanical Garden showcases an astounding collection of meticulously preserved and maintained plants native to the region. It offers a unique peek into local ecology.

The garden is not just about flora; it’s a living tapestry of the region’s ethnobotanical history, revealing the intimate relationships between people and plants.

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You can only visit the Ethnobotanical Garden through a guided tour, and reservations are not required. However, you need to be in line as early as 7:00 AM to get a slot.

Below is the schedule for the Ethnobotanical Garden tours in each language:

• Tuesday – Saturday: Spanish (10 AM, 11 AM, and 12 PM)
• Tuesdays and Thursdays: English (11 AM)
• Saturdays: French (11 AM)

If you are in a hurry or your schedule doesn’t work with the English tours, you can fall in line in the other languages. You can just read their English travel guides, which are available in the garden.

1 hour is enough to visit Oaxaca’s Ethnobotanical Garden. You can also combine this with the Templo Santo Domingo as they are in the same compound.

The best time to visit the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden is in the morning for pleasant weather and soft lighting for photos. Wear comfortable shoes and a hat – it’s not a shaded place!

Taking photos is allowed, but you must have a special permit to use tripods, drones, or professional photography.

Enjoy your visit, and don’t forget to take in the breathtaking views of the Santo Domingo complex from the garden grounds!

How to get to Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden

• By Foot: Just a short walk from the Zócalo along Calle Macedonio Alcalá. The garden’s entrance is through the Cultural Center at Templo de Santo Domingo.
• By Taxi: Costs around 50–100 MXN (€2 – €5) from most areas in Oaxaca City.
• By Public Transport: Use local buses that stop near Santo Domingo or the Zócalo, then walk to the entrance.

👉🏼 See also: Fear or fact: Is Oaxaca safe or a no-go zone for travelers?

2. Visit the majestic Templo Santo Domingo

After visiting the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden, you can hop next door to the Templo Santo Domingo.

The Santo Domingo Church in Oaxaca City is an architectural masterpiece right in the heart of centro. Its stunning façade and ornate interior, adorned with gilded sculptures and vivid frescoes, are a sight to behold.

Overview of Templo de Santo Domingo Oaxaca

• 📍 Location: C. Macedonio Alcalá s/n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro [open on Google Maps]
• ⏰ Hours: Generally open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Times may vary on religious holidays.
• 🎟️ Entry Fee: FREE
• 🌟 Highlights: The gilded interior, the Capilla del Rosario, and the adjacent botanical garden.
• 🥳 Best Experience: Oaxaca City Walking Tour
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Oaxaca Zócalo and the Museo Textil de Oaxaca
• 🌮  Nearby Restaurants: Boulenc, Origen, Casa Oaxaca

Outside the Templo Santo Domingo, you can admire the baroque façade adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing the artistry of 16th-century Spanish colonial architecture.

There is also a courtyard bustling with local events and open-air markets. The courtyard has agave plants, perfect for a photo backdrop!

Inside, you must see the ceiling of the Santo Domingo Church, a masterpiece of gilded stucco work, depicting religious figures and scenes.

There is also a small chapel called Capilla del Rosario, a chapel filled with intricate decorations and spiritual significance.

Lastly, you can visit the Museum of Cultures, the former monastery attached to the church, this museum houses an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts, colonial art, and ethnographic exhibits.

Here, you will see the treasures from Tomb 7 of Monte Albán, a Zapotec archaeological site. The entrance fee is about 85 pesos (€4).

The church is central to many Oaxacan festivals, including Guelaguetza (July) and Day of the Dead (November). Check local calendars for processions or special masses.

How to get to Templo Santo Domingo

• By Foot: Located in the heart of Oaxaca City, it’s an easy walk from the Zócalo (city square), about 10–15 minutes along Calle Macedonio Alcalá, a pedestrian street lined with shops and galleries.
• By Taxi: If you’re staying further out, a taxi ride from most areas in Oaxaca City costs around 50–100 MXN.
• By Public Transport: Local buses stop near the Zócalo; from there, it’s a short walk.

💫 Tip: You can visit Templo Santo Domingo on your own but if you want a guide who will explain history, you can join a walking tour.

3. Stroll down Andador Turístico, Oaxaca’s iconic walkway

Andador Turistico is Oaxaca’s pedestrian-friendly promenade. Lined with colorful colonial buildings, it’s a bustling hub of restaurants, cafes, and artisan shops selling traditional crafts.

Here, you will find local street vendors or upscale eateries or try a traditional Mezcal at one of the many bars.

You can also see impromptu street performances or peruse the bustling markets for indigenous textiles and ceramics.

Overview of Andador Turistico Oaxaca

• 📍 Location: Reforma Sur n, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro [open on Google Maps]
• ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all day, though shops and restaurants typically operate between 9 AM and 10 PM.
• 🎟️ Entry Fee: FREE (it's a public street)
• 🌟 Highlights: Art galleries, local shops, historic buildings, and street performers.
• 🥳 Best Experience: Oaxaca City Walking Tour
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Oaxaca Zocalo, Templo Santo Domingo, Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Oaxaca (MACO)
• 🌮 Nearby Restaurants: Los Danzantes, Mezcalogia, Cafe Brujula

Some souvenirs to look out for include:

• Textiles: Handwoven rugs, shawls, and embroidered garments.
• Alebrijes: Vibrantly painted wooden figures.
• Mezcal: Buy directly from local producers for authentic flavors.

The Andador is central to many Oaxacan festivals, including the Guelaguetza, Day of the Dead, and Night of the Radishes. The street is filled with parades, altars, and decorations during these times.

Look out for pop-up weekly art markets featuring local artists and craftspeople showcasing Oaxacan art.

Andador Turistico is one of the scenic walks and a must when visiting Oaxaca! This is the perfect spot for capturing Oaxaca’s vibrant colors, especially at sunset.

Evenings are especially lively, with street performers and a festive atmosphere. Mornings are quieter and ideal for exploring galleries and shops.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven. Many smaller shops and vendors do not accept credit cards, so bring cash.

💫 Tip: If you are here in the evening, you can have mezcal cocktails at Los Amantes Mezcaleria.

4. Celebrate Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is one of the most magical places to experience the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos).

Celebrated from October 31 to November 2, this deeply rooted tradition honors deceased loved ones with colorful altars, lively parades, and vibrant cultural displays.

Families create elaborate altars at home, cemeteries, and public spaces, adorned with marigolds (cempasúchil), a symbolic flowers that guide spirits, photos, and mementos honoring loved ones who have passed, and food and drinks like Pan de muerto (sweet bread), mole, and mezcal.

Head to cemeteries in Xoxocotlán or Atzompa to witness families decorating graves with candles, marigolds, and offerings. Some cemeteries are somber, while others have a festive atmosphere with music and food.

You can also join or watch costumed parades that weave through the city streets. Notable comparsas include the ones in Jalatlaco and Xochimilco neighborhoods.

Expect lively music, Catrina face-painting, and traditional dancing!

Every year, I host a group of 16 travelers on my Oaxaca Day of the Dead tour. If you got this information from this blog, use the code PSIMONMYWAY100 to get a €100 discount!

5. Get a 6-course meal at Criollo

Criollo is a standout destination for those seeking a contemporary take on traditional Oaxacan cuisine. Co-founded by internationally acclaimed chef Enrique Olvera, this restaurant combines innovative techniques with local ingredients to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.

The restaurant is set in a rustic yet elegant colonial house with an open courtyard. Its minimalist, earthy design reflects Oaxaca’s natural beauty. There are even live chickens and hens roaming around!

Overview of Criollo Oaxaca

• 👨‍🍳 Cuisine: Contemporary Oaxacan, tasting menu
• 📍 Location: Francisco I. Madero 129, Santa María del Marquesado [open on Google Maps]
• ⏰ Hours: Open daily, 1 PM – 10 PM (reservations recommended).
• 💶 Price Range: €€€ - Expect to spend 1,500–2,500 pesos (€74 - €122) per person
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Jardín Etnobotánico, Museo de las Culturas, Andador Turístico

Criollo is known for its seasonal tasting menu, which features 6–8 courses. The menu changes each time, and I’ve done this tasting three times!

Signature dishes include mole, heirloom corn tortillas, and fresh ceviches. Ingredients are locally sourced, celebrating Oaxaca’s biodiversity.

There are 2 tasting menus to choose from, but the drink pairing is the difference. I recommend the drinks pairing as it showcases many liquors and alcoholic beverages from all regions of Mexico!

Their house mezcal is worth trying, as it is exclusively made for Criollo. The dishes are definitely Oaxacan, but since this is their unique creation, you won’t find it elsewhere. The staff offers detailed explanations of the ingredients and preparation.

Criollo is a reservation-only restaurant. Tables fill up quickly, especially for dinner, so don’t forget to reserve them beforehand.

You may also inform the restaurant in advance of dietary accommodations. Criollo’s dress code is smart casual.

How to get to Criollo Oaxaca

• By Taxi: A 10-minute ride from the Zócalo costs approximately 50–70 pesos (€2 – €4)
• By Foot: A 15-minute walk from Oaxaca’s city center
• Parking: Limited street parking is available nearby

👉🏼 You might also like: 3-5 days Oaxaca itinerary: guide, budget, and local tips

6. Discover the art of loom weaving with the artisans of Oaxaca

Teotitlán del Valle, a charming Zapotec village near Oaxaca City, is renowned for its loom-woven textiles crafted using traditional methods passed down for generations.

Visiting this community provides a deep dive into the artistry of handmade rugs and tapestries, often dyed with natural pigments. I have been visiting one family in this town for four years, and I always bring people who join my trips to Oaxaca.

Overview of the loom weavers of Oaxaca

• 📍 Location: Teotitlán del Valle [open on Google Maps]
• 🌟 Famous For: Handwoven rugs and textiles made with natural dyes.
• ⏰ Hours: Morning to early afternoon, as workshops often close by 5 PM.
• 🎟️ Entry Fee: Private tours from 1,999 pesos ($97)

Here, you will watch artisans create intricate designs on pedal looms, a skill honed over generations. You will also learn about the use of natural dyes like cochineal (red), indigo (blue), and marigold (yellow).

This is also the cheapest place to go shopping in Oaxaca, not in terms of prices but quality. Here, you will find handwoven rugs, tapestries, and table runners featuring traditional Zapotec motifs.

Prices vary by size and complexity, with small pieces starting at around 500 pesos (€23) and larger rugs costing several thousand pesos. Many artisans offer custom orders and they can send it to your home.

This is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca as it provides insights into Zapotec culture and the symbolism in their designs.

Many textile-making tours only give you 20 minutes to explore loom weaving, but the experience I had lasted for 4 hours, and I made my coaster!

How to get to the loom weavers of Oaxaca

• By Car: A 40-minute drive from Oaxaca City via Carretera Federal 190.
• By Bus: Take a colectivo or bus from the second-class terminal in Oaxaca heading toward Tlacolula and get off at Teotitlán.
• By Tour: Many organized tours include visits to workshops in the village [CHECK PRICES HERE]

7. Dine at Levadura de Olla, a Michelin-star restaurant in Oaxaca

Levadura de Olla is a culinary gem in Oaxaca, known for its dedication to showcasing traditional Oaxacan recipes with a focus on indigenous cooking techniques and ingredients.

Chef Thalia Barrios Garcia brings her touch to every dish, creating a warm and authentic dining experience.

Levadura de Olla is a love letter to Oaxacan culinary traditions. With its focus on authentic recipes, indigenous techniques, and seasonal ingredients, every dish feels like a celebration of Oaxaca’s rich heritage.

Overview of Levadura de Olla Oaxaca

• 👨‍🍳 Cuisine: Traditional Oaxacan, à la carte menu
• 📍 Location: Calle Tinoco y Palacios 103, Centro [open on Google Maps]
• ⏰ Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8:30 AM – 10 PM; Sunday, 8:30 AM – 5 PM
• 💶 Price Range: €€ - Average 400-800 pesos (€19 - €37) per person
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Templo de Santo Domingo, Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MACO), Andador Turístico

The restaurant is a cozy, intimate space with a mix of rustic and contemporary decor, featuring an open kitchen, allowing you to see the chefs at work.

The food and menu highlights Oaxacan staples such as mole, tamales, and dishes prepared with heirloom corn. There are also seasonal specials that celebrate local and indigenous ingredients.

Don’t miss the Caldo de Piedra (Stone Soup), a pre-Hispanic dish prepared with heated river stones.

Their drinks are a curated selection of mezcal, aguas frescas, and traditional hot chocolate. Try their house-infused mezcals for unique flavors!

The staff offered me warm and welcoming service, focusing on storytelling about the origins of each dish. This restaurant is perfect for small groups, couples, or solo diners, and a reservation is required.

How to get to Levadura de Olla

• By Taxi: A short ride from anywhere in the city center, costing 40–60 MXN.
• By Foot: Located just 5 minutes from the Santo Domingo Church.
• Parking: Limited street parking is available.

8. Swim in the mineral pools of Hierve el Agua

Hierve El Agua is a compelling blend of geological marvel and breathtaking beauty. These “petrified” waterfalls, formed by mineral-rich spring water, create an ethereal landscape that captivates every visitor.

The petrified waterfalls formed over thousands of years by mineral-rich water flowing down the cliffs. There are two main falls: Cascada Grande (large) and Cascada Chica (small).

In addition to the stunning views, you can spend an afternoon dipping in the mineral pools, with views of the vast valley stretching below. Nearby, you can explore ancient Zapotec irrigation systems.

Overview of Hierve El Agua Oaxaca

• 📍 Location: 70 km (43 miles) east of Oaxaca City [open on Google Maps]
• 🌟 Famous For: Natural mineral springs and calcified waterfalls.
• ⏰ Opening Hours: Open daily, 8 AM – 6 PM
• 🎟️ Entry Fee: 50 pesos ($2)
• 🥳 Best Experience: Hierve El Agua Tour (Private)
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Mitla, Teotitlan, and Mezcal Distilleries

If you are not hiking to the waterfalls, you can relax in shallow spring-fed pools, which offer stunning views of the valley. The pools’ turquoise color and mineral-rich water are said to have healing properties.

A loop trail takes you to the base of the waterfalls for a closer look. It’s an easy hike, you won’t get lost! Wear sturdy shoes and bring water for the ~1-hour hike.

Most tour companies only visit Hierve El Agua for 90 minutes. If you are on a private tour, you can stay as long as you like without pressure (and herding from tour groups).

On-site vendors sell snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. There are basic restrooms that you will pay for 10 pesos, and changing areas are available.

Bring your swimwear and towel, sunscreen (it is not a shaded area!), a hat, and sturdy hiking shoes. Early morning is the best time to visit, as crowds from tour groups arrive at 10:30 AM.

How to get to Hierve El Agua

• By Car: A 1.5-hour drive from Oaxaca City via Carretera 179.
• By Bus and Taxi: Take a bus to Mitla (~20 MXN), then a colectivo (~50 MXN) to Hierve el Agua.
• By Tour: Many day tours include Hierve el Agua, often paired with Mitla or mezcal distilleries.

9. Savor traditional dishes at Pasillo de Humo

Pasillo de Humo, or “Hallway of Smoke,” is one of the best things to do in Oaxaca, especially for those who want a deeper food adventure.

Here, you can try a wide variety of traditional dishes cooked over open flames, echoing the time-honored cooking techniques of Oaxaca. Options for food include barbacoa, succulent grilled meats, and flavorful mole sauces.

Overview of Pasillo de Humo

• 📍 Location: Inside 20 de Noviembre Market Oaxaca [open on Google Maps]
• 🌟 Famous For: Grilled meats (tasajo, cecina, chorizo) and market-style dining
• ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Lunchtime (12 PM – 3 PM) for the freshest and liveliest experience
• 💵 Price Range: ~150–300 pesos ($7-$17) per person for a meal
• 🥳 Best Experience: Oaxaca Markets Tour
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Mitla, Teotitlan, and Mezcal Distilleries

Expect a grilling experience where you choose your cuts of meat (tasajo, cecina enchilada, chorizo, etc.) directly from the vendors.

Vendors will grill your selection over open flames while you watch. Next, add your sides like tortillas, guacamole, roasted onions, salsas, and nopales (cactus).

A complete meal is served at your table in the bustling market area. Note that it can be smoky inside as it is an indoor BBQ place, so expect to smell like BBQ after the meal! It’s part of the experience!

💫 Tip: The portions of meat served here are by the kilo, so make sure to visit with a group and bring all your friends!

How to get to Pasillo de Humo:

• Walking: A short walk from the Zócalo or anywhere in Oaxaca City’s historic center.
• By Taxi: Tell the driver “Mercado 20 de Noviembre.”
• By Tour: Some food tours include a stop at Pasillo de Humo

10. Try pan de yema, an iconic Oaxacan bread

Pan de yema, a soft, slightly sweet bread made with egg yolks, is a beloved treat in Oaxaca. Often enjoyed with hot chocolate, this traditional bread symbolizes celebration and hospitality, and tasting it is an essential part of any visit to the region.

You can try pan de yema in local bakeries. Panadería Yalalag is known for its fresh and authentic pan de yema while Boulenc offers a modern twist on traditional Oaxacan bread.

If you want to try it in markets, visit Mercado de la Merced, a great spot to buy fresh pan de yema. Mercado Benito Juárez combine bread tasting with exploring Oaxacan crafts and ingredients.

For cafes in Oaxaca that serve pan de yema, I recommend Café Brujula where you can enjoy the bread with a side of their rich hot chocolate. Café Los Cuiles also offers a relaxing ambiance to savor this treat.

To enjoy pan de yema, warm it up. Ask to have it toasted or warmed for the best flavor. It is also best paired with hot chocolate. Oaxaca’s chocolate is traditionally prepared with water or milk and whipped until frothy.

In Oaxaca, pan de yema is typically eaten in the morning or midday as a breakfast or a mid-morning snack. It’s most commonly prepared and sold during festivals, especially around Day of the Dead and other celebrations.

Some restaurants and markets in Oaxaca serve pan de yema alongside mole or other Oaxacan dishes.

11. Visit Monte Alban Archaeological Site

Monte Albán is one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This ancient Zapotec city, perched on a mountaintop overlooking Oaxaca’s valleys, offers a fascinating glimpse into pre-Hispanic history and breathtaking panoramic views.

Monte Albán is a journey into the ancient heart of Oaxaca. Its impressive ruins, historical significance, and stunning location make it a must-see for history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike.

Overview of Monte Alban Oaxaca

• 📍 Location: 10 km (6 miles) west of Oaxaca City [open on Google Maps]
• 🏺 Established: Around 500 BCE by the Zapotec civilization
• 🌟 Famous For: Ancient plazas, temples, ball courts, and carved stelae
• ⏰ Hours: Open daily, 8 AM – 5 PM.
• 🎟️ Entry Fee: 90 pesos ($4)
• 🥳 Best Experience: Half-Day Monte Alban Tour
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: San Antonio Arrazola, Cuilapam de Guerrero, Xoxocotlán Cemetery

The main plaza is the heart of the city, surrounded by ceremonial structures.

Here, you will see the ball court (once used for ritual games), the Los Danzantes (carvings depicting dancers, believed to be ceremonial or war-related), and the observatory (thought to have been used for tracking celestial events).

There is also an on-site museum where you can explore artifacts unearthed during excavations, including ceramics and jewelry.

The site is large, and the terrain is uneven, so wear comfortable walking shoes! There is also no shade there, so bring sunscreen and water. In the mornings (8 AM tour), it is cooler, and the crowds are smaller.

How to get to Monte Alban

• By Car: A 20-minute drive via Carretera Monte Albán. Parking is available.
• By Shuttle: Departures from the Oaxaca Zócalo every hour, costing ~100 MXN ($5) round-trip.
• By Tour: Many operators offer guided tours, often including stops at other attractions.

12. Shop at Mercado Abasto for authentic (and cheap) finds

Mercado de Abasto (Central de Abastos) is Oaxaca City’s largest and most bustling market, offering a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.

This sprawling marketplace is the go-to spot for locals and travelers seeking fresh produce, traditional foods, artisanal crafts, and textiles.

Mercado de Abasto is a vibrant microcosm of Oaxacan life, offering an authentic look into the region’s culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship.

Here, you can sample and buy fresh mole pastes in varieties like mole negro, rojo, and coloradito in the many mole stalls. You can also try chapulines, crunchy grasshoppers flavored with lime, salt, and chile—perfect for snacking.

Overview of Mercado de Abastos Oaxaca

• 📍 Location: Periferico Sur, Oaxaca City, approximately 2 km southwest of the Zócalo [open on Google Maps]
• 🌟 Famous For: Its vast array of goods, including Oaxacan staples like mole, chapulines (grasshoppers), and handmade textiles
• ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon (8 AM – 2 PM) for the freshest produce and liveliest atmosphere.
• 💵 Price Range: Bargaining is common, and you’ll find items to fit any budget.
• 🥳 Best Experience: Oaxaca Markets Tour
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Mercado 20 de Noviembre, Mayordomo Chocolate House, Zócalo

Mountains of fresh fruits and vegetables, including exotic local varieties can be found in Mercado de Abasto. You will also find Oaxaca’s famous string cheese (quesillo) and regional meats like cecina.

Apart from food, Mercado de Abasto is also the best place for textiles and crafts. Browse handwoven rugs, embroidered garments, and leather goods.

If you are a chef or someone who loves to cook, this is a great place for kitchenware and tools! Here, you can buy traditional Oaxacan pottery, wooden molinillos (for frothing hot chocolate), and handmade utensils.

Lastly, there are many food stalls here. Grab a bite at one of the market’s comedores (food stands), serving tlayudas, memelas, tamales, and more! They’re all lined in one area of the market.

Bring cash. Most vendors do not accept cards. Also, remember to stay alert! The market can get crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings.

It’s common to negotiate prices for goods. The market is large and requires a lot of walking so wear comfortable shoes.

Lastly, plan your visit on market day! Fridays are particularly lively, with vendors from all over Oaxaca gathering to sell their wares.

How to get to Mercado de Abasto:

• By Taxi: A short ride from the city center, costing ~50–70 MXN.
• By Bus: Take a local bus labeled “Abastos” from various points in the city for a budget-friendly option.
• By Walking: About a 20-minute walk from the Zócalo, though be cautious of the heat and traffic.

13. Visit a palenque in Oaxaca and witness ancestral mezcal-making

Oaxaca is the birthplace of mezcal, so naturally, a tour of the local Palenques (mezcal distilleries) should be of your top things to do in Oaxaca.

These small, family-run establishments follow traditional methods, roasting, fermenting, and distilling agave hearts in a process that can take decades to master.

Santa Catarina Minas is a must-visit destination for mezcal enthusiasts. Known for its ancestral mezcal production, this small village is home to traditional palenques (mezcal distilleries) that use ancient techniques to craft some of the finest mezcal in Oaxaca.

Overview of Mezcal Distilleries

• 📍 Location: 50 km (31 miles) south of Oaxaca City [open on Google Maps]
• 🌟 Famous For: Ancestral mezcal made using clay pot distillation.
• ⏰ Best Time to Visit: Late morning to early afternoon (palenques often operate during daylight hours).
• 🥳 Best Experience: Ancestral Oaxaca Mezcal Experience
• 🗺️ Nearby Attractions: Ocotlán Market, San Bartolo Coyotepec, Ejutla de Crespo

A Palenque tour lets you witness this age-old process first-hand, from agave harvesting to tasting the final product. You’ll learn about the various types of agave and how their distinct flavors shape each mezcal.

Sure, you can visit mezcal bars in Oaxaca City but visiting a palenque is a more profound experience, especially if it’s ancestral mezcal.

You can learn about clay pot distillation, a unique and labor-intensive technique that imparts a distinct flavor. You will also see every step of the mezcal-making process, from harvesting agave to fermentation and distillation.

Sample small-batch mezcals crafted from various agave species, including Tobalá, Espadín, and Tepextate. These mezcales have distinctive flavors: Expect earthy, smoky, and mineral-rich profiles.

Tours of palenques are often by appointment only so book ahead! Also remember to bring cash. Most palenques don’t accept credit cards.

Pace yourself! Mezcal is potent, so drink plenty of water between tastings and make sure to eat breakfast before the tour!

Visiting a palenque supports local producers, and purchasing directly supports small-scale, artisanal distillers. If you choose to do an Oaxaca Mezcal Tour in a palenque, you’ll help our ancestral mezcaleros community a lot.

How to get to a palenque (Mezcal Distillery):

• By Car: A 1-hour drive from Oaxaca City via Highway 175.
• By Colectivo: Shared taxis run between Oaxaca City and Ocotlán de Morelos; from there, take a local taxi to Santa Catarina Minas.
• By Tour: Mezcal tours often include stops at Santa Catarina Minas.