Oaxaca City is an historic and cultural city located in the southern region of Mexico. With a rich history and a strong indigenous influence, visitors can explore ancient ruins and immerse themselves in traditional crafts. The city is known for its vibrant markets, colorful festivals, and delicious mole sauce. Oaxaca City is also home to many museums and galleries, showcasing both traditional and contemporary art. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll in the city center to admire its colonial architecture or hike up to the nearby mountains for some spectacular views.
Xoxocotlán International Airport is the closest international airport to Oaxaca City. It is located about 7 km south of downtown. Taxis and shuttle buses are available at the airport for transportation to the city center. Alternatively, visitors can fly into Mexico City and take a domestic flight or bus to Oaxaca City.
The best time to visit Oaxaca City is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is mild and sunny, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The rainy season runs from May to October, with heavy rainfall and occasional flooding.
Oaxaca City has a warm and subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The average temperature ranges from 16°C in the winter to 28°C in the summer. The dry season is sunny and pleasant, while the rainy season is humid and prone to heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Accommodation options in Oaxaca City range from budget hostels to luxury hotels. A typical budget hostel costs around $10-$15 per night, while a mid-range hotel costs around $50-$80 per night. Luxury hotels can range from $120 to $300 per night.
Oaxaca City is famous for its delicious food, with local specialties like mole sauce, chapulines (grasshoppers), and tlayudas (Mexican pizza). A typical meal at a budget restaurant costs around $5-$10, while a mid-range restaurant costs around $15-$30 per meal.
Oaxaca City is generally considered safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing and muggings can occur in tourist areas. Women travelers can face verbal harassment and assault, so it's best to dress conservatively and travel in groups. LGBTQ travelers may face discrimination and should exercise caution.
Oaxaca City has a population of approximately 265,000 people, with a mix of indigenous and Spanish colonial heritage. The official language is Spanish, but many indigenous languages are spoken as well. The population is predominantly Catholic, but there is also a significant indigenous population with their own religious beliefs and practices.
Popular activities for tourists in Oaxaca City include visiting archaeological sites like Monte Albán and Mitla, exploring the historic city center, trying the local cuisine, and witnessing colorful festivals and celebrations like the Guelaguetza and Dia de los Muertos. Visitors can also take part in traditional crafts like weaving and pottery-making.