Tour of the Oaxaca Food Market
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Yes! We're the tours you saw on TV!
We have been eating delicious food in the market for more than 7 years with travelers who always take the best gastronomic and human experience in the market.
You'll eat: Tamales, chapulines, ants, stones (yes!, stones!) quesadillas with pumpkin blossom, horchata water, seasonal fruits, barbecue tacos, jams, mezcal tasting, shingle and much more! Discover the heart of Oaxaca through our gastronomic tour at the Central de Abastos. We have guided more than 700 groups, all with 5-star ratings on another platform and have appeared on television for our conscious and authentic approach. Travel is also eating with sense. Join the tour that transforms the way you see Oaxacan food!
You can always see more amazing photos and videos from our tour in Lembranza Mexico on Instagram.
Give us a chance to show you because we have been the best for many years but we are new here at Viator.
Available options
Spanish Food/Shopping Tour
Only in Spanish: This Tour does not include food or drinks, which gives you the possibility of spending less and having an incredible tour.
Tour of the Oaxaca Food Market
Gastronomic tour: You will have everything from huitlacoche tacos, barbecue, empanadas, memelas with DOÑA VALE!, cafe de roca, chocolate, etc. Mezcal tasting<br/>English: The English option is incredible because of the mezcal tasting, the abundant food in more than 3 places and everything to try
SLOW SUNDAY
10:30 AM
What's included
Fruit juice, pumpkin flower quesadilla, yellow empanada, egg with holy leaf, barbecue taco, consommé, memelas, hot chocolate, tejate.
We will have an incredible Mezcal tasting. The mezcal is from Matatlan and it is one of the few places that is attended and processed by women.
Detailed itinerary
1
We will meet at the basilica where you can take some photos as we wait for the group to arrive, it is a very beautiful church from the 16th century
2
We will visit the famous memelas place in the market, we will have an incredible meal trying the flavors that Netflix and the whole world fell in love with
3
We will walk to the Central de Abastos de Oaxaca, from the meeting point to the market it will take us about 10 minutes and we will be able to see a lot of what the city changes between the neighborhoods.
Being in the Central Food Market we will start with a natural juice to prepare the stomach and then continue to the superstitions area, we will continue the tour passing through the grasshoppers area where we can try them and buy some for our meal.
We will continue to reach the first place where we will eat pumpkin flower quesadillas, yellow mole empanada, egg with holy leaf and fresh water.
We will continue to walk through the dried chili area and reach the second place where we will eat barbecue.
After continuing through the flower aisle of the market we will arrive with Doña Vale, famous for many food documentaries and we will sit down to enjoy her food, here you will have hot chocolate, memelas and many new flavors.
We will end up walking between the aisles to leave the market and return
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
In the Socrates Garden, which is next to the Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude, is where we will be waiting to go all together, it is a small space so don't worry because you will surely see us there at the fountain in the middle of the park.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
