Best Gastronomic & Cultural Tour in Oaxaca

Oaxaca City , Mexico

Best Gastronomic & Cultural Tour in Oaxaca

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(12 reviews)

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About this experience

If you want to try authentic Oaxacan food, you are in the right place!
Let´s go out of the city and explore the native towns, where we can try the most delicious and genuine food of Oaxaca. The food in the city is good, but imagine eating some food made fresh in a traditional way.
This tour was designed to eat like a local by visiting native markets, indigenous families, and traditional cooks, and also to support the local economy by working in community with all of them. We accept groups of 8 people in order to have better attention from all the participants, but you can contact us if you want a private tour. This excursion is the perfect combination of gastronomy, culture, tradition, and art.

Available options

Full-Day Gastronomic & Cultural Tour in Oaxaca

Pickup included

OPTION FOR 4 PEOPLE

SUV VEHICLE FOR 4 PEOPLE<br/>Pickup included

OPTION FOR 3 PEOPLE

OPTION FOR 3 PEOPLE<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

We include the Mezcal tasting at the distillery

Air-conditioned vehicle

We include the Barbacoa Tacos stop, chocolate workshop, Tamales and the Mezcal tasting. We do not include the food in the first stop (Teotitlan Market)

Detailed itinerary

STARTING TIME 9:00 AM
We will do 45 min approximately from Oaxaca city to the fisrt stop.

Stop 2

We will start this delicious and cultural experience in a small native Market to have breakfast and try the next options: Memelitas, Empanadas of Mole amarillo with chicken, oaxacan cheese or squash blossom flower, traditional tamales and Atole!

Stop 3

We will move to the next spot in the same community, visiting an indigenous Family and see how they work with the weaving process making beautiful rugs! They still keep the old traditions which is been passed generation by generatios using natural dyes from diferent elements sunch as the cochinilla insect, some flowers, roots, seeds, and more for all the colors they work with.

Stop 4

We love Tacos!
One of the special things in this market are the Barbacoa Tacos. They are soo delicious and we will try some tacos of Goat and sheep with a good salsa and fresh water.
(Food is included in this stop)

Two activities with a Traditional Oaxacan Cook!
We will visit the house of a native family and eat with them but before... We will work out all the food we have ate.
The first activity is a chocolate workshop, we will toast the cacao seeds on the comal and grind them in the Metate stone to prepare tradicional oaxacan chocolateand enjoy it with a piace of bread, we also will learn about the cosmovision of the Cacao in the zapotec culture.
After that we will try three different types of Oaxacan Tamales, fresh made by this family.
(Both activities are included on the price)

Dessert for the end!
We will visit a traditional Paleque (distillery) to see the whole process of the mezcal since how the cook the plant, the fermentation process, destilation and more. Finally you will have a Mezcal tasting which is included on the price.
We save the mezcal at the end because this place has a beautiful view of the sunset and agave fields. Salud!

BACK TO YOUR HOTEL
We would do 1 hour approximately from the Mezcal spot to Oaxaca city.

What's not included

Food in the first stop (Teotitlan del Valle market) is not included. Don´t worry food here is cheap and $120 MXN are enough for a good breakfast

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We can meet you right at the corner, infront of the Botanical Garden gate.

About Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City, the capital of the Mexican state of Oaxaca, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colonial architecture, vibrant indigenous cultures, and rich culinary traditions. It offers a unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination in Mexico.

Top Attractions

Zócalo

The main square of Oaxaca City, surrounded by colonial buildings, cafes, and shops. It's a hub of activity and a great place to people-watch.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán

A stunning 16th-century Baroque church and former monastery, now home to the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures.

Historical 1-2 hours MXN 60 (museum entry)

Monte Albán

An ancient Zapotec archaeological site with impressive ruins, temples, and pyramids. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Historical Half day MXN 80

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

A bustling market offering a variety of local foods, crafts, and souvenirs. It's a great place to experience Oaxacan culture and cuisine.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for food and souvenirs

Ethnobotanical Garden

A beautiful garden showcasing the diverse flora of Oaxaca, with a focus on medicinal and culinary plants. It's a peaceful retreat in the city.

Nature 1-2 hours MXN 30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mole

A complex and flavorful sauce made with chilies, chocolate, and spices. Oaxaca is famous for its seven traditional moles.

Sauce (served with meat or chicken) Contains chocolate and various spices, may contain meat.

Tlayudas

A large, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, meat, and salsa. It's often referred to as 'Oaxacan pizza.'

Street food Vegetarian options available, but typically contains meat.

Chapulines

Toasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime, garlic, and chili. A popular and protein-rich snack in Oaxaca.

Snack Contains insects, not suitable for those with entomophobia.

Mezcal

A traditional Mexican spirit made from the agave plant. Oaxaca is the heart of mezcal production, offering a wide variety of flavors and brands.

Drink Alcoholic beverage, not suitable for those avoiding alcohol.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Sierra Norte Zip-lining in San José del Pacífico Exploring Monte Albán Soaking in Hierve el Agua Enjoying mezcal tastings Strolling through the Ethnobotanical Garden Visiting local markets Attending cultural festivals

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This period offers the best weather with sunny days and cool nights. It's ideal for exploring the city and attending major festivals like Day of the Dead (early November).

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Mexican Peso (MXN)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)

Electricity

127VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Oaxaca City is generally safe for tourists, but common sense and precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Xoxocotlán International Airport • 10 km from city center

By bus

ADO Oaxaca Central de Autobuses

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most areas. Buses are color-coded based on their routes. Taxis are also widely available and relatively inexpensive.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Didi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Histórico (Historic Center) Jalatlaco Reforma

Day trips

Hierve el Agua

35 km from Oaxaca City • Half day

A stunning natural site featuring petrified waterfalls, mineral pools, and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. It's a popular spot for swimming and hiking.

Teotitlán del Valle

30 km from Oaxaca City • Half day

A traditional Zapotec village known for its vibrant textiles, weaving workshops, and cultural heritage. It's a great place to learn about Oaxacan craft traditions.

San José del Pacífico

60 km from Oaxaca City • Full day

A mountain village surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for hiking, zip-lining, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Festivals

Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) • Early November (October 31 to November 2) Guelaguetza Festival • Last two Mondays of July Noche de Rábanos (Night of the Radishes) • December 23

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local language and culture
Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and support local artisans
Try local street food for a unique and affordable culinary experience
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the city's history and culture
Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere