Oaxaca Traditional Cooking Class with UNESCO Chef
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Journey into the heart of Oaxacan culture with a traditional cook, a UNESCO-recognized guardian of Mexican heritage. This tour empowers local families and honors the women preserving Mexico’s culinary legacy. Begin at the vibrant market in Teotitlán del Valle, selecting ingredients that bring ancestral recipes to life, before heading to our host’s home for a warm welcome with Oaxaca’s traditional bread and chocolate. Learn to prepare tamales and moles (green, red, black) using time-honored techniques on the metate and comal.
After enjoying your creations with an artisanal mezcal tasting, visit a family-owned textile workshop where handmade rugs and modern products, like hats and bags, blend tradition with innovation. End this unique journey with a stop at the legendary Tule Tree, a living symbol of Oaxaca’s heritage.
Available options
Full day - Pick up in Oaxaca
Tule tree and Textiles<br/>Cooking class and Market <br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Car from Oaxaca city<br/>Pickup included
Cooking class and Market
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Tamales, Mole, Mezcal.<br/>Meeting point in Teotitlan
What's included
Textiles, and Dyes Atelier
English Speaking Guide (if choosen)
Ground Transfer from Oaxacata city to Teotitlan del Valle (If Chosen)
Visit Tule tree
Cooking Class with Lunch and Mezcal
Market Visit
What's not included
Tips
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Meeting point
We meet in front of the entrance of the church where is the market exit
About Oaxaca
Oaxaca is a vibrant city in southern Mexico known for its rich indigenous cultures, colonial architecture, and incredible cuisine. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with a unique blend of pre-Hispanic and Spanish influences.
Top Attractions
Zócalo
The main square of Oaxaca, 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
Monte Albán
Ancient Zapotec ruins with impressive pyramids and ball courts. It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico.
Historical
2-3 hours
80 MXN
Santo Domingo Church and Convent
A stunning example of Baroque architecture with a rich history. The complex includes a church, convent, and museum.
Historical
1-2 hours
85 MXN
Ethnobotanical Garden
A beautiful garden showcasing the diverse plant life of Oaxaca. It's a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Nature
1-2 hours
20 MXN
Textile Museum of Oaxaca
A museum dedicated to the rich textile traditions of Oaxaca. It's a great place to learn about the region's indigenous cultures.
Cultural
1-2 hours
50 MXN
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mole Negro
A complex and rich sauce made with chocolate, chilies, and spices, typically served over chicken.
Main Dish
Contains nuts and chocolate
Tlayudas
A large, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, meat, and salsa, similar to a pizza.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Chapulines
Fried grasshoppers seasoned with garlic, lime, and chili, a popular local delicacy.
Snack
Contains insects, gluten-free
Mezcal
A traditional Mexican spirit made from agave, similar to tequila but with a wider variety of flavors.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking in Sierra Norte
Canyoning in Hierve el Agua
Mezcal tasting tours
Spa treatments with local ingredients
Visiting the Ethnobotanical Garden
Enjoying a mezcal tasting
Visiting Monte Albán
Exploring Santo Domingo Church
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season with warm days and cool nights. It's the best time for outdoor activities and cultural festivals.
18-28°C
64-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
CST (GMT-6)
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Oaxaca is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use official taxis or app-based services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Xoxocotlán International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
ADO Terminal Oaxaca
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are cheap and cover most of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Histórico
Jalatlaco
Reforma
Day trips
Hierve el Agua
50 km • Full day
A stunning natural site with petrified waterfalls and mineral springs. It's a great place for hiking and swimming.
Mitla
45 km • Half day
Ancient Zapotec ruins with intricate stone carvings and a rich history. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Teotitlán del Valle
30 km • Half day
A traditional Zapotec village known for its beautiful textiles and weaving traditions.
Festivals
Guelaguetza Festival • Last two Mondays of July
Day of the Dead • November 1-2
Noche de Rábanos • December 23
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Try local street food, it's a big part of the culture and often very delicious
- Visit local markets for authentic crafts and souvenirs, and don't be afraid to bargain
- Hire local guides for a deeper understanding of the culture and history
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious and cultural events
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
