Oaxaca Travel Guide: Year-Round Exploration

Every fall, Oaxaca bursts to life with vibrant colors, rich traditions, and heartfelt remembrance during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Parades lined with marigolds, candlelit altars, and music spilling into the night create a celebration that draws visitors from around the world. But here’s the insider secret—Oaxaca’s magic lasts all year, far beyond those iconic few days.

If planning a Día de los Muertos trip for 2025 feels to challenging to tackle at this point, don’t worry. This vibrant city and its surrounding valleys offer amazing experiences year-round. Whether you’re savoring rich mole in bustling markets, meeting master artisans in ancient villages, or wandering timeless ruins, Oaxaca welcomes you with open arms and unforgettable adventures.

Where to Stay: Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca

Located right in Oaxaca’s historic city center, the Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca perfectly blends modern luxury with authentic local charm. Spacious rooms, a rooftop pool with sweeping city views, and a full-service spa offering traditional Mexican healing therapies make it a dream for families, couples, and culture seekers alike.

The hotel’s concierge helps tailor your stay, while its prime location means you’re just steps from Oaxaca’s must-see sights. If you want a seamless mix of comfort, culture, and convenience, this is an ideal home base for your journey.

Must-Do Activity: Monte Albán Archaeological Site

Step back in time at Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched high above the Oaxaca Valley. More than just ruins, Monte Albán tells the rich story of Zapotec civilization spanning over 2,500 years. We recommend booking a private archaeological guide to bring these ancient stones to life with fascinating insights and stories.

Arrive early to enjoy peaceful exploration bathed in beautiful morning light—perfect for photos and avoiding midday crowds.

Where to Eat: Origen

Origen is a must-visit restaurant for food lovers eager to experience elevated Oaxacan flavors. Chef Rodolfo Castellanos, a celebrated local culinary star, serves dishes that honor traditional ingredients with a contemporary flair.

The menu features locally foraged herbs, heirloom corn, and beautifully artistic plating. The elegant yet relaxed atmosphere makes Origen ideal for an immersive and sophisticated dining adventure.

Where to Drink: Mezcaloteca

For those eager to dive into Oaxaca’s famed spirit, Mezcaloteca is the ultimate mezcal bar. This cozy spot offers an expertly curated selection of small-batch, artisanal mezcals from across Oaxaca’s diverse regions.

Knowledgeable staff guide tastings that reveal unique flavor profiles and production stories—perfect for mezcal novices and aficionados alike. It’s a warm, intimate space that invites connection and cultural exchange.

More To Do: Textile Workshop in Teotitlán del Valle

Take your Oaxaca journey deeper with a private weaving workshop in nearby Teotitlán del Valle. Meet multi-generational artisan families preserving pre-colonial traditions with natural dyeing techniques using cochineal insects, the source of vibrant reds and purples famed in Oaxacan textiles.

Try your hand at weaving your own piece, creating a lasting, personal memory of Oaxaca’s living cultural heritage.

Why Oaxaca?

• UNESCO World Heritage treasures
• World-renowned culinary delights
• Rich indigenous arts and crafts
• Stunning landscapes spanning mountains and valleys

Travel Insider Tips

• Book accommodations 3–6 months ahead to secure your preferred stay
• Visit during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and pleasant weather
• Pack comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets and ruins
• Learn a few basic Spanish phrases—locals appreciate the effort!

Your Oaxaca Adventure Awaits

I’ve shared my inside look at Oaxaca’s charms beyond Día de los Muertos. Now I want to hear from you! What’s the first thing you’d want to see, taste, or experience in this incredible city? Comment below and let the conversation begin.

If you’re ready for a personalized itinerary that captures Oaxaca’s rich culture, flavors, and history—without any hassle—Scout & Bimble is here to make your Oaxacan dreams a seamless reality.