Discover Authentic Mexican Flavor on Our Private Oaxaca Food Tour

Oaxaca City , Mexico

Discover Authentic Mexican Flavor on Our Private Oaxaca Food Tour

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About this experience

On our Food Tour, you'll enjoy a variety of local foods. Journey through all facets of Mexican cuisine, from abuelitas recipes, keeping alive traditional recipes, to Tlayudays freshly made by artisans, and the taste of the famous black Mole. Our tour starts next to the popular Mercado 20 de Noviembre for your first bites, where we'll try 2 moles to kick off our culinary adventure. We'll also pass by the other popular market, mercado Juarez, before walking towards the Zocalo, a charming square brimming with history, stunning architecture and culture. Oaxaca old town is the perfect area to experience the colorful atmosphere and discover the vibrant flavors and variety of authentic Mexican cuisine.

As a private tour, everything works around you! Our start times are much more easy going, dates can open up. It's a much more intimate and cozy experience. No need to shout over other tourists, you will have every question answered, and leave feeling like a native yourself!

Available options

Discover Authentic Mexican Flavor on Our Private Oaxaca Food Tour

What's included

Pre-Hispanic Cacao Brew with sweet Pan de Yema

Water

SHeritage sweet Cookie

Fried Chile relleno

Oaxacan Black Mole and Mole Rojo Tasting

Our delicious Secret Dish

Chapulines - Crickets for the brave

Pre-Hispanic Cocoa brew

English in person guide

Oaxacan Traditional Earthy Olla coffee

Mexican Pizza: Hand-made Crispy Tlayuda with meat

Traditional Oaxaca quesillo cheese

Genuine chocolate bite from Oaxaca's heart

Detailed itinerary

Welcome to the starting point of our journey! Here, our experienced guide will warmly welcome you and introduce themselves, setting the tone for an exciting experience. They will provide an engaging introduction, describing the highlights of the culinary tour ahead, sharing insights into the rich food culture you are about to explore, and answering any questions you may have.

Start a delectable journey as we savor our first bites and learn more about markets in Oaxaca! Our food journey begins with two amazing bites at the famous Mercado 20 de Noviembre in Oaxaca: one savory and one sweet. We'll indulge in a classic Mexican dish renowned for its rich history and unique to this city: our special Mole Negro, to be enjoyed alongside another distinct Mole from Oaxaca; then Chili relleno and more!

Afterward, we'll take a leisurely walk through Mercado Juarez, a vibrant market filled with local flavors and aromas. Here, we'll indulge in another round of delicious treats, including a savory quesillo and a delightful sweet snack unique to the region, offering a true taste of the local cuisine!

Discover the historic Zocalo, where we’ll make sure everyone gets to savor Tejate, a traditional pre-Hispanic drink known for its rich cultural significance and refreshing taste. To complement this unique beverage, we’ll also indulge in some sweet, freshly baked Pan de Yema, all enjoyed right in the heart of this iconic location!

We'll explore one of the bustling shopping areas in the historic center, discovering the spots where locals love to spend their time. And right here we'll visit a lovely terrace and get more food! After a short walk on another street, we'll then end up here again, entering our Secret Destination for foodies!

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can.

This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations’ availability, weather, and other circumstances.

Meeting point

We'll meet close to the Mercado 20 de Noviembre on C. de Ignacio Aldama 217 - right in front of the Saint John of God Parish, C. de Ignacio Aldama 217, OAX_RE_BENITO JUAREZ, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax.

Important notes

• We kindly ask our guests to be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the departure time to check-in with their guide.
• Our Secret Food Tours Guide will have an orange umbrella at the meeting point for easy recognition.

• Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can. [oaxaca@secrettours.com]
• This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
• We regret that we are unable to accommodate guests with wheelchairs or any impairments requiring special assistance.
• Gratuities to guides providing excellent service are appreciated.

• The legal minimum age for drinking alcohol is 18 years old.
• Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.

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