Travel Guide Oaxaca
It is at the intersection of three large valleys that we find the beautiful Oaxaca, also called Oaxaca de Juárez (named after one of the most popular historical figures in Mexico, Benito Juárez), capital of the state of Oaxaca, in the southern part of the country. At the top of the mountains that surround the city, at an altitude of more than 2,000 meters, the buildings that were once erected by pre-Hispanic civilizations stand out. The city center, which is particularly well suited for strolling - from picturesque pedestrian streets to shaded parks that only the sound of a trickling fountain animates -, as well as the site of Monte Alban, have been classified by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. The Oaxaca tour guide will lead you to an exceptionally rich heritage, an ancient culture proudly and joyfully shared by a very hospitable population. The atmosphere of Oaxaca, so particular, so soft, it owes it undoubtedly to the dense student population, the universities which encircle the city being legion. Once in the city, we strongly recommend that you rent a vehicle to explore the surrounding villages and sites. Oaxaca lends itself to this type of itinerant tourism. Thanks to the yu'u (cheap and pleasant guest houses) you will find accommodation in unusual places! Bienvenidos!
What to visit Oaxaca?
Suggested addresses Oaxaca
When to go to Oaxaca?
When to go to Oaxaca? Being located in the southern part of Mexico, the capital of the state of Oaxaca is quite pleasant to visit all year round. In order to know when to go to Oaxaca, one should keep in mind that the tourist year in Mexico as a whole is divided into three periods: the off-peak period, which is ideal for taking advantage of preferential rates and not having to run into all of one's office colleagues, is from April to June and from September to November. These are certainly the best times to go to Oaxaca! The intermediate period is due to the school vacations in July and August. The tourist "boom" period extends from December to March or April, depending on the dates of Holy Week. The boom means higher prices and reservations, but also a wider range of activities for tourists. The Festival of the Dead (Dia de Muertos, October 31 to November 2) is also a very busy time and a great time to see the city!
Weather at the moment
Oaxaca's weather is dependent on a warm humid subtropical climate. During the months of June through September, there are approximately 10 days of rain per month. The average annual temperature in Oaxaca is around 20°C, with peaks of 30°C and even 35°C, and lows of 8°C in December and January.
Mexico's currency is the peso, represented by the $ symbol. Although much more expensive than Guatemala and Honduras, Mexico remains a relatively cheap country despite inflation. Food and lodging are cheap in Oaxaca, and even cheaper when you move away from the city center, although it is quite possible to treat yourself to luxurious addresses. It all depends on the lifestyle you choose to lead!
All French travellers to Oaxaca and Mexico in general must be in possession of a valid passport, not a visa, at least six months from the date of entry into the country. Otherwise, the Mexican authorities may refuse entry. Each adult entering Mexico will be issued a tourist card from the Mexican State (Forma Migratoria de Turista - FMT); it is a document to be kept and required when leaving the country. It allows you to stay for a maximum of 180 days in Mexico, but migration agents often automatically enter a shorter period of stay on the card (usually 90 days); if you wish to stay between 90 and 180 days, do not hesitate to request it from the migration agent.
While no vaccine is required to travel to Oaxaca and Mexico, it is recommended to be vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis and hepatitis A. Those planning a more adventurous and remote stay will also plan to protect themselves against hepatitis B, typhoid and rabies as a preventive measure. Vaccination against yellow fever is not mandatory, except for travellers coming from an exposed area in Africa or Latin America. Water is not always drinkable in Oaxaca, so if you want to avoid diarrhoea, you should prefer to drink bottled water as a source of hydration!
Practical information
- When to travel?
- Weather forecast
- Budget
- Formalities
- Health
- How to travel by yourself?
- How to get organized?
- Getting around
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How to go to Oaxaca? Our advice & tips
Going to Oaxaca as part of an organized trip is quite feasible. There are many French-speaking tour operators covering southern Mexico, and they often offer tours that include a visit to Oaxaca. If you wish to limit your trip to this city only, you will certainly find "packaged" offers including airfare, lodging and activities.
Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destinationThe average price of a round trip flight to Mexico from France (about 12 hours) is around 1,000 to 1,300 € in high season, and 650 to 1,100 € in low season. The easiest way is to fly to Mexico City and then return to Oaxaca either by air or by land.
It should be noted that the price variation depends on the airline used and, above all, on the reservation period. In order to get the best rates, it is essential to book well in advance. Remember to buy your tickets six months before departure!
To get around the city, you can choose between the municipal bus network, which is becoming more extensive and efficient every year, and cabs. As for short distances in the city center, they can easily be covered on foot. You can also rent a car for more autonomy.
