Oaxaca 5 Day Itinerary

Title: 5-Day Itinerary for Exploring Oaxaca

Day 1: Arrival & City Center

  • Morning: Arrive at Oaxaca de Juárez International Airport. Take a taxi or pre-arrange a pickup to your hotel. Check-in and get settled.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Zocalo (Main Square), visit Santo Domingo de Guzman church, and the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca. Don’t miss the Talavera Pottery Workshops nearby.
  • Evening: Dine at Casa Oaxaca Restaurant for traditional Oaxacan cuisine. Stroll around the Zocalo at night.
  • Things to Know: The city center is compact and safe, and it’s best to explore on foot. Spanish is widely spoken.

Day 2: Historic Center & Market Visit

  • Morning: Visit La Merced church and market, Mercado Benito Juarez for local food, textiles, and crafts.
  • Afternoon: Head to the Rufino Tamayo Museum and San Agustin Etnobotanical Garden.
  • Evening: Dine at Pitiona Restaurant for modern Oaxacan cuisine.

Day 3: Monte Alban & Teotitlán del Valle

  • Morning: Take a tour to the ancient Zapotec city of Monte Albán (approx. 1 hour drive). Explore the ruins and learn about its history.
  • Afternoon: Visit nearby Teotitlán del Valé for Zapotec rug weaving demonstrations.
  • Evening: Return to Oaxaca city and enjoy a quiet evening at your leisure.
  • Things to Know: It’s best to hire a tour guide or use organized tours for Monte Alban and Teotitlán del Valle.

Day 4: Puerto Escondido

  • Morning: Take a bus or rent a car to Puerto Escondido (approx. 3 hours drive). Check-in at your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach, try surfing or snorkeling. Visit Zicatela Beach for the waves and Playa Carrizalillo for a more secluded spot.
  • Evening: Dine at El Rincón de la Familia or La Lupita for seafood.

Day 5: Hierve el Agua & Departure

  • Morning: Visit the natural mineral water pools of Hierve el Agua (approx. 1 hour drive from Puerto Escondido). Enjoy the breathtaking views and take a dip.
  • Afternoon: Return to Oaxaca city, do some last-minute shopping, or relax at your hotel before departing.
  • Evening: Depart for Oaxaca de Juárez International Airport.
  • Things to Know: It’s recommended to rent a car or join an organized tour for Hierve el Agua and the surrounding areas.