travel from mexico city to oaxaca

How to Travel From Mexico City to Oaxaca by Plane, Bus, and Car

The capital of the state of Oaxaca is the city of Oaxaca de Juarez —usually referred to as simply "Oaxaca"—and it's about 287 miles (462 kilometers) southeast of Mexico City , the capital of Mexico. This UNESCO World Heritage City is well-loved for its traditional colonial architecture as well as the rich indigenous history that informs the region's culture through art and cuisine. Despite being far from the beach, Oaxaca is one of the most popular destinations for travelers who want to learn more about Mexican culture, and from Mexico City, it's easy to reach by car or bus , but the fastest way to get there is to fly.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

One-way bus tickets to Oaxaca may cost anywhere between $17 and $40, depending on the class of bus and the time of year. The bus ride could take anywhere between six and eight hours, depending on the number of stops and the state of traffic. You can take a bus from Mexico City's main station, the Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (TAPO) and usually, there is no need to reserve your ticket in advance—unless you're traveling during a busy holiday season like Day of the Dead , Christmas , or Easter.

Bus companies that service the Mexico City to Oaxaca route include Autobuses Unidos (AU) and Autobuses de Oriente (ADO). ADO offers the most frequent service and their buses are quite comfortable with on-board restrooms and basic service. The AU bus company also has several buses per day to Oaxaca at a cheaper price, but without toilets or movies on the bus.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

You can fly from Mexico City to Oaxaca in as little as one hour, 10 minutes with a non-stop ticket. Airlines that offer direct flights include Volaris , VivaAeroBus , and Aeromexico . With so many airlines offering daily nonstop service, you'll have no problem finding a flight to fit your schedule and one-way tickets can be quite affordable as well. On a good day, one-way tickets can be found for as little as $54 and rarely exceed $150. Oaxaca's airport is international, so it's also possible to fly directly from the U.S. or another a country.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

Without traffic, the drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca should only take about five hours, 30 minutes—though it could take longer depending on how many stops you make along the way. You'll need to drive southeast of Mexico City and will pass by the city of Puebla and the great pyramid of Cholula , which happens to be the world's largest pyramid by volume. After Puebla, you can follow the signs the rest of the way to Oaxaca. Driving will give you the most flexibility to plan an exciting road trip through Mexico with many stops, but you should also factor the mounting costs of the car rental, gas, tolls, and parking into your budget. If you've never driven in Mexico before, make sure you take time to read up on the rules of the road .

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Oaxaca?

With cooler weather, smaller crowds, and Day of the Dead celebrations, fall is the best season to plan a trip to Oaxaca. During shoulder season, there are fewer crowds and even though temperatures are considered moderate when compared to the summer highs, fall in Oaxaca can still be pretty hot with average highs of 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). However, humidity does start to go down in October and November and rain is less likely during these months than in the summer.  

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

There are no public bus routes that run between the airport and downtown, so the best way to travel from the airport is to take a taxi. The Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) is about six miles (10 kilometers) away from the city center, so the cab ride will only take about 20 minutes. You can also check with your hotel beforehand to see if they offer complimentary airport transfers.

What Is There to Do in Oaxaca?

In addition to visiting landmarks and attractions like the baroque Santo Domingo Church and the Rufino Tamayo Museum , the best thing you can do in Oaxaca is eat. As one of Mexico's premier destinations for food , many of the region's specialties date back to the pre-Hispanic era. As you explore Oaxaca, make sure you try the dishes unique to this region like tlayudas , which are like oversized tortillas covered with cheese and vegetables and caldo de piedra, which is a savory soup made with hot stones. If you're feeling daring, you can even try the chapulines, which are spicy grasshoppers that can be eaten alone or used to add some texture to the guacamole. For non-food adventures, there are also many day trips you could take from Oaxaca, such as visiting the Mitla and Monte Albán archeological sites or going on a hiking adventure to see Hierve el Agua , a petrified waterfall.

History Today. "The Largest Pyramid in the World." August 8, 2016

How to Travel From Rome to Naples by Train, Plane, Bus, or Car

How to Travel From London to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Get From Malaga to Tangier by Bus, Plane, Car, and Ferry

How to Travel from Venice to Athens by Plane, Ferry, and Cruise

How to Travel From Montreal to Quebec City by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From San José to Bocas del Toro by Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From Florence to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From Madrid to Jaen by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Lisbon to Porto by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From London to Manchester by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From Minneapolis to Chicago by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Madrid to A Coruña by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

How to Travel From Austin to Houston by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel from Houston to New Orleans by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel from Madrid to Pamplona by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

How to Travel From Barcelona to Paris by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

Mexico City To Oaxaca: 6 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that I may get a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Wondering how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

There are a lot of different possibilities here, and there are lots of things to consider like price, travel-time and safety.

The last thing you want to do is book a terrible transfer and have an awful time or have to spend lots of money to sort something out last-minute.

To make sure that doesn’t happen, I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca cheaply, simply and safely.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

Why should you visit mexico city.

Mexico City is the capital city of Mexico and the country’s largest city. It is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity and should be a must-see destination on your Mexico bucket-list.

The list of things to do in Mexico City is enormous. You can go to the Zócalo and see the imposing Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, which houses Diego Rivera’s iconic murals. You can also see world class art at the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Belles Artes.

The ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán is within the city limits at the Templo Mayor archaeological site and the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán are an easy day trip from the city.

And of course there is the amazing Mexican cuisine that you can enjoy from street vendors or from the many high end restaurants in the city. All in all, having a great time is pretty much a foregone conclusion.

Being the biggest city in Mexico and also being geographically quite centrally-located, it’s also easy to reach from other amazing destinations within Mexico like Zipolite.

Before we jump into getting from Mexico City to Oaxaca, let’s look at why you should consider visiting Oaxaca in the first place.

How to Get From MExico City to Oaxaca

Why should you visit oaxaca.

Oaxaca is worth visiting for so many reasons!

It is known for its rich cultural heritage, its beautiful colors everywhere, and its wonderfully friendly people. There are also breathtaking landscapes that will captivate you, and you’ll fall in love with its mouthwatering cuisine.

There is a vibrant artistic scene, wonderful markets and brilliant artisans of all kinds. Each year it holds unique traditional festivals such as Day of the Dead , La Guelaguetza , and Noche de Rábanos .

It has beautiful buildings that are centuries old and breathtaking ruins that are thousands of years old. And if that isn’t enough, real wonders of the world like Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree are just a short drive away from Oaxaca City.

You’ll struggle to find a region as richly diverse as Oaxaca. There are just so many things for you to do that you will wish you could stay longer!

So let’s look at how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca and the different options available to you.

1. Fly to Oaxaca

If you think even briefly about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca, it won’t surprise you that flying is the quickest and most convenient option.

This is the case even when you add the time it takes to get to the airport before you fly.

For those same reasons, it’s also one of the more expensive options.

Fast Facts: Flying From Mexico City To Oaxaca

• Around US$50 one way
• Flight time is 1 hour 10 minutes direct
• Multiple flights per day
• Departs from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX)
• Arrives at Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX)

Where Do I Book A Flight To Oaxaca?

I recommend that you use Expedia.com to book your flights. They will be able to show you the best deals available on different dates and flying with different airlines.

You can check flights using the Expedia search box below:

How Do I Get From Mexico City To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Mexico City Airport (MEX) from Mexico City.

I’ve set these out in detail below for you.

1. Rental Car

If you have a rental car already, you can usually drop it off at Mexico City Airport before you fly.

All reputable providers have kiosks at the airport, and you’ll just need to make sure that you return it to the designated parking area for rental cars.

Tip: If you didn’t book the car at the airport, you’ll need to check with your provider that you can drop it off at the airport and you may need to pay an additional one-way fee.

2. Private Transfer

Your hotel should be able to arrange a private transfer to Mexico City Airport for you. If you want to arrange it yourself, I recommend using Viator , which has over 100 different options.

Private transfers will start at around US$30 and will take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on where your hotel is located and the time of day that you need to travel.

Tip: Check whether the transfer is shared with other passengers. If the driver needs to collect other passengers, the trip will be longer and you’ll need to allow more time.

Taxis are easy to find in Mexico City, especially if you’re staying at a large hotel. I recommend that you ask the front desk to book you a taxi before you check out, and it will be waiting for you as soon as you’ve settled up.

There’s nothing to stop you hailing your own taxi, although I think letting the hotel arrange it is better so that you focus on getting packed and ready to travel.

If you do hail a taxi on the street, you’ll need to agree the fare with the driver before you go, but you can expect it to be around US$15 to US$20, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

Uber is available in Mexico City and it’s perfectly safe to use. If you don’t already have the Uber app installed on your phone, you’ll need to install it before you can call a driver using Uber.

The app works the same as it does in the US, so you’ll pay up front using a credit card and the driver will then pick you up. The app will send you the details of the driver and the vehicle picking you up ahead of its arrival.

An Uber from Mexico City to the airport should cost you around US$15 to US$20, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

Tip: Uber drivers aren’t allowed to accept tips in Mexico City, so don’t be surprised if they decline if you offer them any extra money!

5. Public Transport

According to Statista , Mexico City had a population of 9.3 million at the end of 2022, so it’s not surprising that the city has a sophisticated public transport network to help you move around.

Traveling on the Metro or on a Metrobús is simple enough, although you’ll need to buy a rechargeable travel card (Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada), which you can get in a Metro station, many Metrobús stations, or in newstands around the city.

Once you have the card, you use it to tap in when you board a train or a bus, and you can use it to pay for others too if you’re traveling as a group. When you run low on credit, you can recharge the card at machines available at the Metro or Metrobús stations.

Metro line 5 (the yellow line) stops at Terminal Aérea, which services both of the terminals at Mexico City Airport. If you’re traveling with the Metrobús, you can take line 4 right to the terminal 1 and terminal 2 buildings. You can find a map of the CDMX Metro and Metrobús lines here .

Both the Metro and the Metrobús lines operate from early in the morning until late in the evening. You can expect to pay between US$1 – US$2 per trip per person.

Tip: Make sure that you have your Mexican pesos handy when you are buying your recharge card or when you’re topping it up.

What’s Great About Flying?

Flying has a bunch of obvious advantages.

1. Faster Trip Time

Flight time from Mexico City to Oaxaca is very quick at around 70 minutes, which is a huge time saving compared with the up to 8 hour long bus trip.

If you’re short on time, every hour you lose travelling is time that you could spend exploring Oaxaca City.

2. Great Views From The Plane

Even after years of flying, I still like to stare out the window of a plane at the city as we’re taking off and getting ready to land.

Flying will also give you the chance to see the mountains and sprawling valleys of Oaxaca from above as you head south away from Mexico City.

3. safest Way To Travel

Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel in the world, and this holds true in Mexico.

Since 1919, Mexico has only had 158 air travel deaths in total, an average of about 1.5 people per year. By comparison, there were around 107 million air passengers in Mexico in 2022 alone.

That puts your chances of dying on a flight to Oaxaca at about 1 in 71 million. By comparison, the World Health Organisation suggests based on 2019 data on Mexican road deaths that the odds of dying per year were 1 in 7,813.

That means that you are more than 9,000 times safer flying than taking the bus!

How to Get From Mexico City To Oaxaca

Faqs: flying to oaxaca.

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca City by air.

But if I haven’t answered your question yet, take a look at the FAQs and their responses below.

How Much Is A Commercial Flight To Oaxaca?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season, but are typically around US$50 from Mexico City. Check out Expedia.com for the best deals available.

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Mexico City?

Volaris, Aeroméxico, and Viva Aerobus all fly from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight is around 70 minutes, depending on the flight that you take.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 290 miles (around 450 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll fly out of Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to depart and you’ll use Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca de Juárez when you arrive.

How Far Is It From Oaxaca Airport To The City Center?

Oaxaca Airport is 5.8 miles (10km) south of the Oaxaca de Juárez city center.

How Can I Get From Oaxaca Airport To The City Center?

You can get a taxi, a private shuttle, the colectivo or the public bus to the city.

A taxi will cost around US$25 (MX$400), a private shuttle around US$50 (MX$800), the colectivo will cost around US$5 (MX$100), and the bus will cost around US$1 (MX$10).

Check our my related article on Oaxaca Airport if you want more detail on this.

Can I Rent A Car At Oaxaca Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

2. Private Jet to Oaxaca

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

And yes, it is monstrously expensive, but can’t be beaten for comfort and convenience.

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Mexico City to Oaxaca

• Starts at around US$5,000
• Flight time is around 40 minutes direct

Where Can I Book A Private Jet To Oaxaca?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend taking a look at AlbaJet , which sets out various options for the Mexico City to Oaxaca route.

The options and prices are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above ).

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially apply to flying privately as well.

I’ve added a few specific ones that are unique to flying with a private jet below.

It’s hard to think of a more stylish or glamorous way to arrive in Oaxaca than in a private jet.

If you want to feel like a rockstar when you arrive, there’s no better way to do it.

2. Convenience

If you need to travel urgently on short notice, flying on a private jet is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Special Occasions

If you’re travelling as a group for a wedding or for a stag or hens night, a private jet is a great way to ensure that everyone arrives at the same time.

With a large group, the prices per person aren’t quite so eye-watering, although your wallet will still take a good beating.

How to Get From Mexico City to OaxacA

Faqs: flying from mexico city to oaxaca by private jet.

If you still have questions about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca by private jet, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Private Jet To Oaxaca?

If you want to fly privately to Oaxaca, you’re looking at around US$5,000 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$20,000 for a larger jet seating up to 16 people.

Extremely glamorous and wonderfully convenient, but not for those of us with weak wallets.

Flight time is on a private jet is around 40 minutes.

You’ll also get through security faster and will be able to board and get off more quickly than on a commercial flight.

The flight distance is approximately 290 miles (450 km) to Oaxaca Airport (OAX) from Mexico City Airport (MEX).

My related article on Oaxaca Airport has more detail on this.

3. Bus To Oaxaca

If you want a more scenic experience while getting from Mexico City to Oaxaca, the bus is a great option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca

• Starting at around US$35
• Travel time is 6 – 8 hours, depending on the trip
• Multiple trips per day
• TAPO, Mexico City
• Either Terminal ADO or Terminal AU in Oaxaca

Where Can I Book A Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The two biggest providers of standard bus routes from Mexico City to Oaxaca are ADO (Autobuses de Oriente) and AU (Autobuses Unidos).

I recommend using Busbud to find the best deal.

Tip: there’s no WiFi in the bus, so download anything you need at the hotel. You might also want to bring a neck pillow to help you sleep and Benadryl or Dramamine if you get carsick.

What’s Great About Taking The Bus?

Okay, so it’s not a private jet and never will be. Still, there are some positives to taking the bus.

1. The Bus Is Cheaper

Taking the bus will usually work out a little cheaper than flying.

That’s especially the case if you are planning to take a taxi to and from the airport each time.

2. Buses Take Their Time

It might seem like a strange thing to say, but buses are a bit like slow-food.

As you wind through the approximately 290 miles (450km) from Mexico City to Oaxaca, you’ll get to soak in the natural beauty of Mexico’s southern countryside.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off In The City Center

If you take the bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca, you’ll be dropped off in Oaxaca City rather than outside the city at an airport.

Depending on the terminal at which you’re dropped off in Oaxaca, you’ll arrive not far from the Templo de Santo Domingo if you arrive at Terminal ADO or not far from Mercado 20 de Noviembre if you arrive at Terminal AU.

When get off the bus, if you’re staying in the historic center, you can walk the few blocks to your hotel or take a short taxi ride.

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca by bus.

How Much Is The Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

Prices start at around US$35 for an overnight journey and around US$50 for a daytime trip.

Which Buses Run From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

ADO and AU are the two largest operators.

I recommend using Busbud to check availability for your dates and to find the best deal.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the time of day you’re travelling and the provider you use.

What is the Distance From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The bus route is approximately 290 miles (450km) long.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Mexico City, the pick-up point is TAPO (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente) for almost all ADO and AU services.

When you arrive in Oaxaca, you’ll use the ADO Terminal in Barrio Jalatlaco, which is a few blocks north-east of Parque El Llano or the AU terminal just a few blocks to the west of Mercado 20 de Noviembre .

Are The Buses Comfortable?

The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and the seats are comfortable semi-recliners.

There is no WiFi, though, so download everything you need before you leave the hotel.

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basis precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

4. Rental Car To Oaxaca

A road trip from Mexico City to Oaxaca is a great option that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.

There’s nothing quite like the open road.

Fast Facts: Rental Car From Mexico City to Oaxaca

• Starts at about US$300 plus gas (if driving one-way)
• Travel time is about 5 – 6 hours
• Various locations in Mexico City
• Downtown Oaxaca or Oaxaca Airport (if driving one-way)

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 5 or 6 gallons to get to Oaxaca.

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. Assuming you’re driving one way and dropping off your car in Oaxaca when you arrive, you can expect to pay around US$300 plus gas.

If you’re planning on driving the car back to Mexico City, then you’ll pay around US$30 per day plus gas.

Tip: If you’re driving one-way, you’ll have to drop the car off at Oaxaca Airport, as the downtown branches don’t accept one-way drop-offs.

What Is The Best Route From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The route from Mexico City to Oaxaca sets off east on highway 1500 and passes through Puebla to the south-east.

From there you’ll head further east toward Córdoba, turning south on highway 1350 toward Tehuacán after about 50 miles.

After you reach Tehuacán, you continue heading south on highway 1350. Around 10 miles outside of Oaxaca, highway 1350 turns onto highway 190, which takes you the last few miles south-east into Oaxaca.

What’s Great About Renting A Car?

There are some great advantages to renting a car and driving.

Of all of the options, driving literally and figuratively puts you in the driver’s seat.

You get to choose every aspect of your journey, from departure time to the speed you travel to how often and where you stop.

One of the best things about driving is that you don’t have to share your journey unless you want to.

If you’re travelling as a family, driving also means that you can have your familial privacy whilst you travel.

3. Convenience

Driving is the ultimate convenience. All you’ll need to do is book the car and pick it up whenever you’re ready to go.

This is particularly helpful if you have a family and it might take a little longer than expected to get everyone ready.

FAQs: Rental Car From Mexico City to Oaxaca

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca by rental car.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

A rental car that you pick up in Mexico City and drop off the next day in Oaxaca will cost around US$300. The price is high because it includes a one-way fee. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Mexico City, then the rate is much cheaper (around US$30 per day) and you’ll just pay the daily rate and the gas.

Most providers don’t charge you per mile travelled, but make sure you check before you sign on the dotted line.

What is the Route From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The route from Mexico City to Oaxaca starts off heading east on highway 1500 before turning south on highway 1350 after about 130 miles.

After that, you follow highway 1350 south until about 10 miles outside of Oaxaca, where it becomes highway 190 and takes you the rest of the way there.

You’ll be driving for around 5 to 6 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are some great places to stop along the way, including Puebla, where you can stop for a few hours and buy some amazing local food.

The total distance is approximately 290 miles (465km) from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Mexico City?

There are lots of places in Mexico City where you can rent a car, including Benito Juárez International Airport and on Avenida Paseo de la Reforma in the Juárez district of Mexico City.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

The short answer is yes, you will be able to rent a comfortable modern vehicle in Mexico City. However, the level of luxury that you enjoy depends very much on your budget.

The car rental providers in Mexico City have a range of vehicles that you can choose from, ranging from compacts up to luxury limousines.

Is It Safe To Travel By Car?

Yes, it is safe to travel by car provided you take basis precautions such as wearing your seatbelts, travelling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

5. Private Transfer To Oaxaca

If you’re keen on a road trip from Mexico City to Oaxaca but aren’t so keen to do the driving, you can arrange a private transfer.

It’s a lot more expensive than renting a car and driving yourself, but it lets you relax and enjoy the scenery or even catch up on some sleep.

Fast Facts: Private Transfer From Mexico City to Oaxaca

• Starts at around US$375 per person
• Travel time is around 6 – 7 hours
• Hotel pick-up
• Hotel drop-off

Where Can You Book A Private Transfer From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Viator or Wayak .

There are different options available and you can add in stops along the way in interesting places like Puebla, and you can visit archaelogical sites near Teotihuacán or Cacaxtla.

What’s Great About A Private Transfer?

Although it is more expensive than a rental car, there are some benefits of getting a private driver rather than driving yourself.

1. No Need To Focus On The Road

The best thing about being chauffeured is that you don’t need to worry about driving.

Watching the road for six hours or more is exhausting and means that you won’t be able to completely relax until you reach Oaxaca.

2. Great For Groups

A private transfer is great if you’re travelling as a group.

You get to share the cost and just focus on having fun and let the driver bring you to Oaxaca.

3. Capped risk

The other big benefit of having a private driver is that you don’t bear the risk of having an accident and damaging the car.

Your insurance would likely cover any damage, but having a driver just avoids the risk altogether.

FAQs: Private Transfer From Mexico City to Oaxaca

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca by private transfer.

A private transfer starts at around US$375 per trip for one person. If you book with a larger group, the price per person will usually go down.

Most services cap the number of passengers, so make sure you check this before you book.

The route from Mexico City to Oaxaca by private transfer will follow the same route as you would take if you rented a car.

You’ll be driving for at least 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

The private transfer will usually plan for one stop to eat, unless you need to stop more often to use the bathroom or you plan stopovers in different towns.

Are The Private transfer Cars Comfortable?

Yes, the private transfer services offered on Viator and Wayak use comfortable modern vehicles.

Is It Safe To Travel By Private Transfer?

If you travel with a reputable provider such as those arranged via Viator and Wayak , you will be perfectly safe travelling by private transfer.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca City

6. taxi to oaxaca.

The last land option to mention is the good old taxi.

However, unless you have an emergency, I wouldn’t recommend it. There are just better options available.

Fast Facts: Taxi From Mexico City to Oaxaca

• Negotiable, but likely around US$500

Tip: Make sure that you agree the price with the driver before setting off so that there are no misunderstandings.

Where Can You Book A Taxi From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

If you want to book a taxi, you will need to try to find a reliable driver. The best way to do that is to get a recommendation from your hotel.

You may find that your hotel recommends that you instead book a private transfer, and I would also recommend this.

City taxis aren’t made for long distance trips the same way as a bus is. You won’t get air conditioning, reclining seats or a bathroom.

You also won’t be able to get up to stretch your legs, and your driver may not want to stop as often as you do.

I also don’t recommend just hiring a taxi from the street to take you from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

You should only travel with a reputable driver, and you won’t be able to confirm that from hailing a taxi on the street.

FAQs: Taxi From Mexico City to Oaxaca

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca by taxi.

You’ll need to negotiate your fare, and you should always do this upfront.

You can expect to pay anywhere from US$500 – US$700, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

The route from Mexico City to Oaxaca should be the same as you would take if you rented a car or booked a private transfer.

However, you should confirm the route with the driver before you set off.

You’ll be driving for around 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

Are The Taxis Comfortable?

Taxis aren’t made for long distance passenger travel like a bus or a plane.

If you’re going to travel by taxi, you should ask driver to stop for a few minutes every hour so that you can stretch.

Is It Safe To Travel By Taxi?

In all likelihood, you will be safe enough travelling by taxi from Mexico City to Oaxaca. This is particularly the case if you are travelling in a group.

However, one of the reasons that I don’t recommend travelling by taxi is that you just won’t be able to vet the driver at all unless he is recommended to you.

That increases your risk, and you don’t need to do it, because there are other options available to you.

What Are The Best Things To Do In Oaxaca?

Oaxaca City is loaded with brilliant things to do. Your problem won’t be finding things to occupy your time. Your problem will be fitting them all into your trip!

There are beautiful churches such as the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad and Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán . These buildings both date back to the 17th century, whilst Oaxaca and Mexico more generally were under the rule of the Spanish.

Oaxaca is also famous for its amazing food. You can try tlayudas, memelas and other fantastic street foods at places like the Zócalo or local markets such as the Mercado Benito Juárez , Mercado de Artesanias or Mercado 20 de Noviembre .

Mezcal lovers will be in heaven. There are amazing mezcalerías on almost every corner selling the best mezcal in the world produced locally using traditional artisanal production methods.

And that’s just the city itself. Once you leave the city limits, the rest of the state has tons to offer you, including the ancient ruins, incredible magic towns , and beautiful beaches.

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Oaxaca?

When you make it to Oaxaca, the next obvious question will be where do you stay? Well, you’re in luck because Oaxaca has an amazing array of places to stay for you to choose from. Whatever your heart desires, you’ll find it in Oaxaca.

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, start by looking at Quinta Real , Casa Santo Origen and the Grand Fiesta Americana .

If a boutique hotel is more your thing, then check out NaNa Vida Hotel Boutique , Casa Antonieta Oaxaca and Hotel Parador de Alcalá Oaxaca .

There are also some great hostels like the well-known Selina Oaxaca .

If you want to look at longer lists of curated options, take a look at my article on the best hotels in Oaxaca .

You can also check prices and availability at Booking.com or Expedia.com .

When is the Best Time to Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca has a subtropical high-altitude climate, meaning that it typically has warms day and then cools off in the evenings.

There is also a dry season and a rainy season , with the rainy season lasting from June through to September.

The best time to visit Oaxaca therefore depends a little or your personal preference, but in my opinion, late October is the best time to visit Oaxaca. The days are warm, the nights are cool, and the city is lively. You’ll also be able to see the Día de los Muertos festival, which is arguably better in Oaxaca that anywhere else in Mexico.

The downside, though, is that prices are expensive and the city is full of tourists doing exactly the same thing as you!

If you’re interested in finding out more about your options here, check out my related article on the best time to visit Oaxaca .

What Should I Pack To Go To Oaxaca?

Oaxaca has warm days all year, with cool nights that become cold in the winter months of December through to February.

The temperature fluctuates during the day from around 49°F (10°C) to 85°F (30°C). Local Oaxacans deal with this by wearing layers.

You put your sweater or jacket on in the morning and then take it off a few hours later when the sun has warmed everything up.

If you travel during the rainy season from June to September, you can also expect to have very humid days. After a heavy rain, it isn’t uncommon for the humidity to reach over 80%.

So, what should you pack? Whenever you travel, you should bring (or buy shortly after you arrive) a comfortable pair of walking shoes, a sun-hat, lot of light clothes for the day, and a light jacket or cardigan for the evenings.

If you travel in the winter months, you probably want to add a scarf to that list and opt for the slightly warmer jacket.

If you’re going to travel in the rainy season (which can be a great way to spare your wallet!) you should include a few extra articles of clothing (because you can expect to get a bit sweaty) and a fold-up umbrella.

Where Are The Best Oaxaca Beaches?

If you decide to visit Oaxaca’s Pacific coast, Oaxaca has no shortage of amazing beaches.

Playa Mazunte and Playa Zipolite are laid-back beach towns and Playa Zipolite even has a clothing optional area if that is your thing!

Playa La Entrega in Huatulco is known for its clear waters and coral reefs, making it a great spot for snorkeling and swimming.

If you’re looking for a place to surf, Playa Zicatela in Puerto Escondido is known for big sets, but if you’re looking for something in Puerto Escondido that is more relaxed, you can visit the sheltered cove of Playa Carrizalillo .

You can get a direct flight to Puerto Escondido or Huatulco from Oaxaca International Airport. Daily direct flights are available.

Check out my related article on Oaxaca’s best beaches if you’re interested in finding out more.

Final Thoughts

Travelling from Mexico City to Oaxaca is a great experience. You’ll get to see the beautiful Mexican countryside, especially once you hit the mountain ranges closer to Oaxaca.

Your options to get there are many, and all of them are great. Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Oaxaca !

Similar Posts

Mexico City to Cancún: 5 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

Wondering how to get from Mexico City to Cancún? A commercial flight is just one of many options that you have. Find out more here.

Mexico City to Uruapan: 5 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

Wondering how to get from Mexico City to Uruapan? Renting a car is just one of many options that you have. Find out more here.

Cancún to Morelia: 5 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

Wondering how to get from Cancún to Morelia? A commercial flight is just one of many options that you have. Find out more here.

Cancún to Huatulco: 5 Best Ways to Travel [2024]

Wondering how to get from Cancún to Huatulco? A commercial flight is just one of many options that you have. Find out more here.

Mazunte to Huatulco: 5 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

If you plan to explore Oaxaca’s beaches, you should know how to get from Mazunte to Huatulco before you arrive in Mexico. Find out here.

Tule Tree Oaxaca: The Ultimate Guide [2024]

The Tule Tree is an absolutely enormous tree with the world’s widest tree-trunk. Find out why it is a must-see on your next trip to Oaxaca, Mexico.

How to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• North America
• getting-around
• mexico-city-to-oaxaca
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

We bought the tour from Italy a few days before departure, the information was detailed and precise. Excellent organization from arrival until the end of t...

Travelling from Mexico City to Oaxaca takes you from the bustling heart of the country's capital to the charming southern state of Oaxaca, known for its indigenous traditions, culinary delights and natural beauty. In this article, we've put together ways of how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

How far is Oaxaca from Mexico City?

• What's the quickest way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

By rental car

Is oaxaca worth a visit, tailor-made travel itineraries for mexico, created by local experts.

17 days  / from 1590 USD

The Magic of the Yucatan and Mexico City

Explore the magic of the Yucatan Peninsula: from colonial towns like Merida to Archaeological sites like Uxmal and Calakmul, close to the Guatemala border, to beaches in Bacalar and Tulum, this itinerary shows you the real Yucatan before heading out to explore Mexico City.

15 days  / from 1430 USD

Mexico City, Oaxaca & the Yucatan

Explore Central Mexico with its ever-busy capital Mexico City, visiting Teotihuacan and the famous museums in the city. Further on to Oaxaca City, the gateway to the Archaeological Site Monte Alban. Afterwards, continue to the white beaches of the Yucatan: Cancun and Isla Holbox await.

18 days  / from 1735 USD

Fascinating Mexico: From Guanajuato to the Yucatan

Discover Mexico from fascinating San Miguel de Allende over busy Mexico City all the way to the Yucatan Peninsula. This itinerary combines public transportation with domestic flights to ensure you can make the most of discovering fascinating Mexico within two weeks.

Travelling from Mexico City to Oaxaca allows you to experience the rich cultural and natural diversity of Mexico . There are 3 ways to make this journey:

• By plane: The fastest option is to take a domestic flight from Mexico City to Oaxaca's Xoxocotlán International Airport.
• By bus: Long-distance buses, including ADO, offer comfortable and economical journeys on a variety of schedules.
• By car: Renting a car provides flexibility and the opportunity to explore the scenic route at your own pace.

Going to Mexico City or Oaxaca? Contact our Mexico travel experts to save yourself the trouble of mapping out an itinerary and planning.

Sunrise over rural mountain town in Oaxaca Mexico ©  OverlandTheAmericas/Shutterstock

Mexico City is quite far from Oaxaca and the distance between the cities is approximately 462 kilometres (287 miles). Typically, the journey is southbound from Mexico City to Oaxaca, crossing several states along the way.

The most common route takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Mexican states of Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca. The journey usually takes about 6 hours, depending on the traffic factors.

If you're planning a trip to Mexico we've got you covered. Our Mexico itineraries are specially designed to provide you with a carefree trip full of unforgettable experiences.

What's the quickest way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The quickest way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca is to travel by plane. Flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca are direct and take just over an hour.

As for travelling by car or bus, both of these options will take considerably longer, making travelling by plane the clear favourite for speed.

Short on time? Check our 7-day Mexico churros and chiapas tour .

Duration: around 1 hour | Cost: from $45

Travelling from Mexico City to Oaxaca by plane is the fastest and most convenient way to cover the distance between these two fascinating destinations.

With direct flights from Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX) to Xocotlán International Airport (OAX), travelling between the two cities is seamless.

The flight duration is approximately 1-1.5 hours, making it the most efficient way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

Duration: 6.5 hours | Cost: from $20

Travelling by bus is not a quick option to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca, which however offers a deeper immersion into Mexican culture along the way. This option is suitable for travellers who appreciate affordable prices and the opportunity to admire the picturesque scenery while travelling.

First, head to one of Mexico City's major bus terminals, such as Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente (TAPO) or Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de la Ciudad de México (Taxqueña). Here you will be able to purchase your ticket, including ADO bus company, the most popular bus service in Mexico.

Buses are usually equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, comfortable seats and toilets to ensure a comfortable journey. Many travellers appreciate the opportunity to relax, read or even chat with fellow travellers during the journey.

When you arrive in Oaxaca, you'll be in the heart of the city centre, allowing you to easily get to your accommodation or go exploring straight away.  

Monte Alban in Oaxaca © Shutterstock

Duration: 6 hours | Cost: from $30 per day

A road trip from Mexico City to Oaxaca will appeal to travellers who prefer to travel on their own terms and at a comfortable pace. This option offers the opportunity to drive through the heart of Mexico, making stops along the way and getting to know the rich culture and geography of the country.

Numerous car hire agencies in Mexico City offer a wide range of vehicles to suit every need and at a reasonable price. It should be noted, however, that if you are planning a one-way trip, then renting a car will cost you considerably more.

The most common route passes through the Mexican states of Mexico City, Puebla and Oaxaca. The journey usually takes about 6 hours or more if you plan to make stops along the way.

Into independent travel ? Read up on  getting around Mexico .

Oaxaca, a city with a deep cultural and historical heritage, certainly deserves a place on your travel itinerary. This city attracts tourists with its rich indigenous traditions, artistic heritage and culinary arts.

Oaxaca's charm is also evident in its well-preserved colonial architecture. This is exemplified by the stunning Santo Domingo Church and the ancient archaeological complex of Monte Alban.

In addition, a calendar packed with cultural festivals makes this city appealing to all. Whether enjoying the complex flavours of mole, exploring ancient ruins or observing indigenous rituals, Oaxaca promises a rich and memorable journey into the heart of Mexico's cultural soul.

For more inspiration for your trip to Mexico, see The Rough Guide to Mexico . Browse our customisable Mexico itineraries or talk to our local Mexico travel experts .

The Rough Guides to Mexico and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Mexico

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mexico

• Visa and entry requirements Mexico
• Crime and personal safety tips Mexico
• Eating and drinking in Mexico
• How to get to Mexico
• Getting around Mexico: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Mexico for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Mexico

Find even more inspiration here

• Mexico City

written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 20.10.2023

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

Ready to travel and discover Mexico?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

Traveling to Oaxaca City: Your Ultimate Travel Guide [2024]

Planning to visit Oaxaca City, Mexico?

Well then, you’re a wise traveler! I’ve had some of my best Mexico experiences while traveling to Oaxaca, and you will too. (💁‍♀️ In case you were wondering, the correct Oaxaca pronunciation is waa-HA-kah.)

You’ve landed on the right blog for Oaxaca travel info, and with the right blogger, as I live in Oaxaca part time. It is my favorite state in Mexico, and I have a whole website dedicated to it called Travel To Oaxaca .

Living in Oaxaca, I split my time between Oaxaca City , and the beaches of Oaxaca Mexico , from Puerto Escondido to Huatulco to Mazunte . I’ve also attended several two Día de Muertos celebrations.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about visiting Oaxaca City . If this will be your first Oaxaca trip, you’re going to feel like a Mexico travel pro in no time — so let’s get to it!

TRAVELING TO OAXACA City Mexico

Where is oaxaca mexico located.

Oaxaca state is located in Southern Mexico. It borders several states, with Chiapas state to the east, and Puebla state to the north.

📍 Oaxaca Map

The best beaches in Oaxaca, Mex., including Puerto Escondido , Hautulco , Zipolite , Mazunte , Chacahua and San Agustinillo are located about 165-200 miles (260-320 km) south of the city on the Pacific Coast.

Where is Oaxaca City located?

Oaxaca City is in the center of the state. It is the Oaxaca state capital, as well as the cultural, historic, artistic and agricultural hub of Oaxaca.

You may hear Oaxaca City referred to by a few names. Officially, it’s Oaxaca de Juarez , though most people will just say “Oaxaca.” Oaxaca de Juarez is the capital city of Oaxaca state .

As Oaxaca is both the name of the city and the state, you’ll want to clarify when someone says “Oaxaca,” to find out if they mean the city or the state. Usually, it’s Oaxaca City , but not always.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca City

B est Oaxaca City Hotels

Need recommendations and info about the best Oaxaca hotels?

Head to 17 Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City for a complete list of the best hotels in Oaxaca Mexico. There are also a few places listed below.

B est Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City

When traveling to Oaxaca City, you’ll want to stay in or around the Zocalo or Centro Historico .

This is the historic city center, and the main area of the city, but there’s also the nearby neighborhoods of Jalatlaco or Xochimilco .

These three Oaxaca City best neighborhoods are right next to one another so it’s easy to get around.

Oaxaca City itself is walkable, and you probably don’t need a Oaxaca car rental if you’re just staying in Oaxaca City.

While there’s no Uber in Oaxaca , there is limited public transportation, and there’s also cabs for when you need to go longer distances.

Best Hotels in Oaxaca City, Mexico

• Quinta Real Oaxaca ($$$$) An authentic Mexican hacienda that’s been turned into one of the best luxury hotels in Oaxaca City
• Pug Seal Oaxaca ($$$$) Best boutique hotel in Oaxaca, with stylish decor and impeccable service
• Casa de las Bugambilias B&B ($$$) The best Oaxaca best and breakfast, run by a local family
• Hotel Casona Oaxaca ($$) One of the best cheap hotels in Oaxaca, with harming ambiance and great value for the cost
• Selina Hostel ($) Known as the best hostel in Oaxaca City, but Yabanhi Hotstel Oaxaca is also a contender for this title of best Oaxaca hostel

As with most downtown areas, Oaxaca’s Centro Historico neighborhood is equipped to host visitors — with accommodations for every budget.

It has the best boutique hotels in Oaxaca , best cheap hotels and best hostels.

If you prefer a quieter neighborhood, away from the main tourist center, check out these two Oaxaca neighborhoods, Jalatlaco and Xochimilco .

Best Neighborhoods in Oaxaca City

Oaxaca centro historico (downtown).

Downtown Oaxaca City isn’t very big — think 40 square blocks. For first time visitors, you’ll find staying in Centro (Downtown), as close to the  Zocalo (main square) as possible, very convenient.

This area gives you the convenience of walkability. There’s no Oaxaca Uber service, though you can always hail a cab. The city has public buses, though Oaxaca public transportation isn’t great overall.

🚙 Need a rental car in Oaxaca City? I recommend and use Discover Cars for all my Mexico car rentals.

Jalatlaco Oaxaca City

The hippest neighborhood in Oaxaca City! Colorful Jalatlaco (pronounced ha-lat-lack-oh) is just outside of Centro.

It is safe, with amazing restaurants and cafes, unique street art, colonial buildings and some of the best Oaxaca hotels — like City Centro Hotel Oaxaca and Hotel Cazomalli Oaxaca .

Xochimilco Oaxaca City

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-mill-co) is the oldest and most historic Oaxaca City neighborhood, and located just north of Centro Historico.

One of the coolest things in this  barrio  (neighborhood) is an 18th Century aqueduct that runs along Callejon Rufino Tamayo street.

You’ll still get the old school colonial city feel and look in the Xochimilco neighborhood, but you’ll be further away from the crowds.

Being slightly on the outskirts of Centro Historico means great value at Oaxaca boutique hotels — like El Callejón Hotel and Casa de Arte .

Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico

1. monte alban oaxaca.

Located about 30 minutes outside of the Oaxaca City Center, the Monte Alban is the most-visited of all archeological sites and ancient ruins in Oaxaca Mexico .

You can visit on your own, but these Monte Alban tours mean having a guide explain all the ways this site is so important — and there are many.

If you’re visiting on your own, arrive early to beat the crowds. Monte Albán opens at 8am, and arriving when they open also means avoiding the blazing afternoon sun.

When visiting, remember to wear a hat, eco-friendly sunscreen , sunglasses and comfortable shoes. Don’t forget your Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and keeps you hydrated.

🏛️ Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Sites

There are not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Oaxaca! As some of the most popular Oaxaca tours and best things to do in Oaxaca City , all three belong on your What to Do in Oaxaca list.

• Historic Downtown Oaxaca City
• Monte Alban Ruins
• Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and town of Mitla, one of the best Oaxaca pueblos magicos .

2. Centro Historico Oaxaca City

While it may just look like a beautiful colonial city now, Oaxaca City and Centro de Oaxaca (Downtown Oaxaca), dates back to 1529. It was originally occupied by Oaxaca’s native Zapotec people .

Today, it is a mix of old and new — and many of the best Oaxaca tours in the city take place right here.

Out of the hundreds of sites listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list, very few entire cities have made the cut, but Oaxaca City does.

You can get to know it on the Oaxaca Free Walking Tour (⚠️ Note: Tips are customary). It is among the best Oaxaca tours , and a great way to explore the city with a local guide.

Top 10 Best things to do in Oaxaca Centro Historico

1. Zocalo Oaxaca, Plaza de la Constitucion & Oaxaca Catedral:  The Zocalo in Oaxaca is the main “Town Square,” where you’ll find historic Constitution Plaza, and the Oaxaca Cathedral.

2. Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman:  Saint Domingo’s Temple is a 16th century Spanish Baroque-style church, and one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca .

3. Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca:  Oaxaca Culture Museum, located inside the Templo de Santo Domingo.

4. Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca:  Oaxaca Botanical Garden, located at the Templo de Santo Domingo complex and one of the top Oaxaca sites. Note: You must visit with a tour.

5. Mercado de Artesanias de Oaxaca:  Oaxacan Artisan Market, traditional Oaxacan market (mercado) with textiles, clothing, handcrafted art and more. This is one of the best markets in Oaxaca .

6. Rufino Tamayo Museum:  Museum with pre-Hispanic artifacts. Its namesake Rufino Tamayo, is one of the most famous people from Oaxaca .

7. Mercado 20 de Noviembre:   November 20th Market, traditional market with plenty of Oaxaca Mexican food to sample, shops and more.

8. Calle de Macedonia Alcala:  Macedonia Alcala Street, a lively, pedestrian-only street with galleries, shops, cafes, some of the best mezcalerias in Oaxaca City (mezcal bars), and more.

9. Mercado Benito Juárez: Benito Juarez Market, traditional Mexican/ Oaxacan market with food, shops and more.

10. Museo Textil de Oaxaca:  Oaxaca Textile Museum, showcasing the state’s famous textiles. This is one of the best museums in Oaxaca City.

3. Mitla Pueblo Magico

After Monte Alban, the second most important archeological site in Oaxaca is  Mitla pueblo magico (magic town).

It is one of the six Oaxaca pueblos magicos , and the closest one to Oaxaca City.

Mitla is a Oaxaca Mexico UNESCO World Heritage site, along with Prehistoric Caves of Yagul .

As Mitla is easy to access, and the caves are not, most tours and visitors will only go to Mitla, Oaxaca.

🗿 What is Milta Ruins?

Rather than a group of pyramids , like many Mexico ruins and archeological sites, Mitla is a collection of buildings with elaborate and intricate carved stone and geometric designs.

It is one of the most beautiful and fascinating places to visit in Oaxaca Mexico .

Mitla is one of the holiest sites for the native Zapotec people and Mixtec people, used in centuries past as a holy burial site.

In fact, the word  mitla  comes from the Aztec word  mictlán , which means “underworld” or “place of the dead.”

TRAVELING TO OAXACA City MexAico

4. hierve el agua oaxaca.

Located about 45 miles (72 km) from Oaxaca City, is perhaps Oaxaca’s most famous natural wonder —  Hierve el Agua . Its name means “boiling water.”

While the natural mineral pools are the most photographed places here, you should also check out the amazing “cascadas” (waterfalls). The word cascadas is in quotes here for a reason.

There are two cliff faces at Hierve el Agua that look like waterfalls because they are covered in calcified mineral deposits — however, they are not waterfalls.

They do look like waterfalls with flowing and falling water, which is why many call this site the Hierve el Agua waterfalls . You can see the “waterfalls” from afar at the hot springs and pools, or you can hike down for a closer look.

best HIERVE EL AGUA TOURS in Oaxaca

The easiest way to experience Hierve el Agua? On a tour, of course!

Check out the great and varied tours of Hierve el Agua listed below, ranging from half- and full-day trips to one of the best Oaxaca places to visit.

• Ultimate Hierve el Agua Hike & Mezcal Tasting
• Hierve el Agua Tour
• Hierve el Agua Experience

5. Oaxaca El Tule Tree

Located a few miles from Oaxaca City in the pueblo (small town) of Santa Maria del Tule, Oaxaca Mexico, this makes for a great and quick day trips from Oaxaca .

El Arbol del Tule, or simply El Tule (The Tree of Enlightenment) is a giant Montezuma cypress tree on the grounds of a the gorgeous Templo Santa María de la Asunción church.

At 46-feet around (14 m), it holds the world’s record for biggest trunk diameter on Earth. For reference, it takes at least 30 people with clasped hands to wrap around the El Tule tree.

Scientists date this tree at about 2,000-years-old. However, Oaxaca’s native Zapotec people say it was planted about 1,400 years ago by Ehécatl , the god of the wind.

It is a must see Oaxaca vacation site!

7. Oaxaca Botanical Garden

To see more of Oaxaca’s famous plants, head to the Jardin Etnobotanico de Oaxaca (Oaxaca Botanical Gardens). It is located in downtown, adjacent to the Templo de Santo Domingo.

This 2.5-acre (1 hectare) garden showcases Oaxaca’s immense biodiversity, with hundreds of local plant and cactus species.

🌵 Oaxaca Travel Tips : how to Visit the Botanical Garden

Due to the fragility of the garden’s ecosystem, you can only enter with a guided tour.

English tours take place several times per week, for $100 pesos ($5 USD) per person, and last two hours. Though inexpensive, this is one of the best tours in Oaxaca City .

Oaxaca Food & Drink Guide

In 2010, UNESCO declared Mexican food as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Mankind. 🤔 Just what does that mean!?

In plain English, the United Nations declared traditional Mexican food , including Oaxaca food, as one of mankind’s cultural treasures.

This honor is shared with only one other country, France, also popular for foodie travel .

High atop the list of best Mexico foodie destinations, sits Oaxaca. It is actually known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico.

So just what does one eat in this food paradise?

For starters, there’s these 30 Best Oaxaca Foods and Drinks You Need to Try , including the 7 moles of Oaxaca , tlayudas, memelas , garnachas, chapulines, and more.

There’s also amazing Oaxaca street food and all the incredible, authentic cheap eats in Oaxaca mercados (markets).

You’ll also want to imbibe the amazing Mexico drinks in Oaxaca, like mezcal , tejate, atole and the famous aguas casildas in Benito Juarez Market.

Traditional Oaxacan cuisine , like most Mexican food, is regional. It is unlike other foods in Mexico because Oaxaca has numerous indigenous groups that all add their unique flavors and styles.

Besides that, Oaxaca has an incredible variety of produce year-round because of its many microclimates and growing seasons.

From mercados (like these best Oaxaca markets ) to street food stands, and traditional Oaxacan family-style restaurants to fine dining — Oaxaca has it all when it comes to amazing food .

But first, let’s explore all the unique foods and beverages you’ll want to try while traveling to Oaxaca. These are listed below.

Following the foods list, there’s a list of the best Oaxaca restaurants , like Criollo, Origen, Casa Oaxaca and Alfonsina Oaxaca .

👩‍🍳 Check out these best Oaxaca food tours to discover even more about this regional Mexican cuisine.

Must Try Oaxaca Foods & Drinks

Below are just some of the most popular Oaxacan cuisine staples that you must try when traveling to Oaxaca City Mexico.

For a complete guide, head to this article, 30 Best Oaxaca Foods and Drinks You Need to Try .

✔️ Memelas (mem-mel-las)

Often eaten as a snack, memelas are kind of open-face tacos.

They are cooked on a  comal  (circular, flat cooking surface) and served on a thick corn tortilla and topped with beans, melted quesillo ( Oaxaca cheese ) and sometimes meat.

✔️ Chapulines (chap-pull-lean-es)

Chapulines are Mexico’s infamous grasshoppers. You’ll find vendors selling them on the streets and in the mercados (markets in Oaxaca City).

Chapulines are very common in Oaxaca, and eaten like popcorn.

✔️ Tlayudas (tuh-lie-you-das)

Tlayudas are sometimes called a Mexican pizza, and they do look like a pizza — but that’s the only similarity.

Tlayudas are assembled on large tortillas, and topped with beans, lettuce, tomatoes, onion and queso Oaxaca cheese .

They are cooked on a comal or over carbon (charcoal), which imparts a smoky flavor.

✔️ Tamales  oaxaqueños

Tamales are an ancient pre-hispanic food made of masa (corn dough), then steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf.

Tamales are served throughout Mexico, though tamales oaxaqueños  (Oaxacan tamales) are cooked in a banana leaf.

They’re sometimes called tamales hojas, meaning “leaf tamales,” and considered among the country’s tastiest.

✔️ Mole (mole-lay)

Mole is both a marinade and a sauce. There are  seven types of mole , all with different combinations of spices, fruits, nuts and more.

The most popular type of Oaxaca mole negro (black mole), which gets its color from chocolate and charred chili peppers.

✔️ Tejate (tay-ha-tay) : One of the Best Oaxacan Drinks

Tejate is a pre-hispanic chocolate and corn drink, which may sound weird, but this ancient drink has stood the test of time.

In fact, it is known as the bebida de los dioses , or “drink of the gods.”

Tejate is served cold, so it’s super refreshing on a hot Oaxaca City day. It tastes like a chocolate almond milk, but much richer and more complex.

✔️ Aguas Casilda

For a uniquely Oaxacan culinary experience, you must try an aguas casilda . Since you’re probably wondering What is aguas casilda? — Let me explain…

Fruit flavored-waters called aguas frescas are a Mexican drink favorite that you can enjoy all over the country. In Oaxaca, there’s a famous agua fresca stand which is a standout among locals and visitors alike.

The famed Casilda Aguas Regionales stand in Mercado de Benito Juarez Market, one of the best markets in Oaxaca City , dates back to 1890.

Started by the late Casilda Flores Morales, it quickly grew in popularity.

There are several flavors of aguas frescas at Casilda Aguas Oaxaca, but make sure to try the chilacayota . This is a melon-type fruit from Oaxaca Mexico that has a cinnamon taste.

Best Oaxaca Cooking Classes

Want to dive even deeper and learn how to cook some Oaxacan meals?

These Oaxaca cooking classes give you a new perspective on Oaxacan food and drinks.

You can also go to the source, and visit a local Zapotec community market for a traditional lunch.

Best Restaurants in Oaxaca City Mexico

It’s hard to eat a bad meal in Oaxaca City!

However, there are standouts like Casa Oaxaca Restaurant (located at Casa Oaxaca Hotel ), Lechoncito de Oro, which has the best tacos in Oaxaca (IMO), and Itanoni, one of my favorite places to eat in Oaxaca.

Below, you’ll find a more complete list of the best restaurants in Oaxaca City , and an overview of the best Oaxaca City mercados (markets).

The mercados offer a fun, authentic Oaxaca Mexico experience. In each one, there are plenty of street food stalls to eat all of the famous Oaxaca foods.

One particular food stall, Memelas de Doña Vale in Mercado Central de Abastos, was even featured in an episode of Netflix’s  Street Food: Latin America  show.

Best Bars & Restaurants in Oaxaca Map

Here are 33 places in Oaxaca to get your fix of mole, Oaxaca mezcal and more.

The map includes all the best Oaxaca City restaurants , as well as the best street food in Oaxaca, the best mercados (markets), fine dining options and all the top mezcalerías (mezcal bars).

Oaxaca RESTAURANTS & Casual Eateries

1. Itanoni:  Order tetelas, de ese, tamales, memelas and wash it all down with tascalate or agua fresca (fruit water).

2. Lechoncito de Oro:  A must try Oaxaca taqueria! This late-night street taco stand only serves chicharron (fried pork skin) and pierna (pork leg), so try one of each.

3. Tlayudas Libres:  Order a tlayuda and top it with cecina, tasajo or chorizo, if you eat meat. If not, order yours sencillo , or plain.

4. Las Quince Letras:  Owned and run by Oaxaca culinary legend, Celia Florián. Order the trilogía de moles (trilogy of moles) to sample three types of mole in one meal.

5. La Olla:  The menu changes seasonally, so try the menu del dia (menu of the day).

6. Boulenc:  Order shakshuka for breakfast, a brick-oven pizza for lunch, and a pastry at what’s possibly the best bakery in Oaxaca. 

Oaxaca fine DINING for foodies

✔️ Casa Oaxaca

Alejandro Ruiz’s is one of the most famous Mexican chefs , and this is his famed Oaxacan eatery. Order a bottle of Mexican wine, the crispy duck tacos, any of their  moles , and do not skip dessert.

🍷 Oaxaca Travel Tips: Make a reservation for a rooftop table at sunset. From here, you’ll have gorgeous views of Downtown Oaxaca City.

✔️ El Destilado

Splurge and do the 12-course chef’s tasting menu with drink pairing, for an amazing Oaxaca meal.

The seven-course tasting menu at Criollo Oaxaca changes daily, but you can expect an elevated spin on classic Oaxacan foods.

It is owned and run by Chef Enrique Olvera of Pujol, one of the best restaurants in Mexico City , and Chef Luis Arellano.

Oaxaca City Markets (Mercados)

✔️ Mercado Benito Juarez

Located in downton, this is a traditional Oaxacan Mexican   mercado  (market).

Here, you’ll find vendors selling a mix of fresh produce and Oaxacan cheeses , mezcal, prepared foods, clothing, locally-made artisanal items (some that come directly from the art towns in Oaxaca ), and more.

✔️ Central de Abastos

The largest market in Oaxacao, and most tourists visit for one reason only: the memlas.

Las Memelas Doña Vale was featured in the Oaxaca episode of Netflix’s Street Food: Latin America, and has become a local celeb in the market. If you go, make sure you order the memelas with morita salsa.

✔️ Mercado 20 de Noviembre

More of a food hall than traditional mercado, meaning this is a great place to sample many different and authentic cheap eats.

👀 Looking for unusual things to do in Oaxaca ?

Venture off the beaten path to the Pasillo de Humo (Smoke Alley) in Mercado 20 de Noviembre for some cecina, tasajo and carne asada in Oaxaca.

Best Mezcal in Oaxaca City

What is mezcal?

Mezcal is a distilled spirit that can be made from more than 30 varieties of the maguey ( agave ) plant. If mezcal sounds like tequila to you — it kind of is.

Much like how champagne is essentially a sparkling wine from the city of Champagne, France, tequila is a kind of mezcal from the city of Tequila, Mexico (and a few other nearby places).

If Tequila, Mexico, is the home of tequila, then Oaxaca is the home of mezcal.

Para todo mal, mezcal. Para todo bien, también. (Meaning, For everything good, mezcal. For everything bad, mezcal also.) well-known Mexico Quote

If you love this Mexican spirit, you must take one of these best Oaxaca mezcal tours when you visit Oaxaca City.

If you don’t want to do a full tour, head to these 15 Best Oaxaca Mezcalerias (mezcal bars).

Best Oaxaca Mezcal Bars (Mezcalerias)

For a more casual, locals vibe head to In Sitú , La Mezcalerita  and Los Amantes Mezcaleria . These places will have some cocktails, but they are more about sipping on a straight mezcal.

🤕 Planning to drink a lot of mezcal? Don’t forget these anti-hangover meds .

If you’re looking for places to enjoy some mezcal mixology, head to  Los Danzantes  and  Sabina Sabe . Two of the best Oaxaca mezcal bars , both places are famous for their mezcal cocktails.

At Sabina Sabe try the Guayabo Verde, and at Los Danzantes Oaxaca, the Danzantes 43 reigns supreme. Note: Their menus change often, so these may or may not be available.

Best Oaxaca Mezcal Tours

✔️ The Mezcal Journey

Join Alvin, a Oaxaca local to learn about mezcal in Santiago Matatlan, Oaxaca , considered the “Mexican mezcal capital,” and other top mezcal towns in Oaxaca.

Enjoy a tour of the picturesque Oaxaca agave fields and head to a distillery to see the whole process, step by step, before drinking some mezcal.

✔️ Mole Tasting & Pre-Hispanic Mezcal

Tour host, Daniel, is a master mezcalier and mezcal sommelier.

He will take you through a sensory journey to see, smell, touch, and finally, have a Oaxaca mezcal tasting paired with the moles of Oaxaca Mexico .

✔️ Mezcaloteca Oaxaca

Mezcaloteca is part mezcal school and part tasting room. It is located in downtown Oaxaca Mexico , in the heart of all the action.

After your experience here, you’ll have a great understanding of mezcal, and can take your knowledge to all other  mezcalerias  in Oaxaca City you visit.

🥃 Note:  Reservations are required for tastings. If the bar isn’t crowded, walk-ins are welcome to ask for a tasting, but it’s best to make a reservation.

What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca?

The best time to travel to Oaxaca Mexico is during the dry season, October to May .

However, the temperate weather in Oaxaca City means it can be a year-round destination.

🌡️ OAXACA weather Temperatures

While it will rain during the Oaxaca rainy season from June-September, you’ll also get lower prices, as this is the off-season.

If you want to avoid the crowds, the Oaxaca City busy season runs from about late-October for Day of the Dead , through March.

Many also visit Oaxaca City for the Guelaguetza , Oaxaca’s second biggest annual festival, held in July.

Guelaguetza Festival Oaxaca

The Guelaguetza (pronounced geh-la-get-zah) is among the most famous and best festivals in Oaxaca City, Mexico . In fact, it has been called the largest folkloric festival on the Americas continent.

This annual event takes place on two Mondays in mid-July. Its dates vary from year to year, but the festival will be held the two Mondays following July 16.

The Guelaguetza festival brings together people from the eight regions of Oaxaca to share their food, textiles and culture through dances, presentations and gift exchanges.

In fact, Guelaguetza comes from the Zapotec word,  guendalezaa , meaning “an offering” or “a gift.”

Though overshadowed by the fame of Oaxaca Dia de los Muertos  (one of the best Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico ), the Guelaguetza is one of the most exciting and beautiful Oaxaca festivals in Mexico.

Day of the Dead Oaxaca City

Dia de los Muertos, which is Day of the Dead in Mexico , is one of the biggest festivals in Oaxaca, and all of Mexico. I have been a few times, and can’t recommend it enough.

For a complete guide to the festival, as well as the history and symbolism of Dia de Muertos, check out Day of the Dead in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know .

When is Day of the Dead?

The holiday takes place November 1st and November 2nd . It officially begins at midnight on November 1st, so you might hear some say it starts October 31st.

Oaxaca City begins prepping for the holiday about 7-10 days before the actual festival. If you’re planing to attend, try to arrive by October 28th.

The festival takes over the whole town, and it’s one of the best places to attend Day of the Dead in Mexico .

What is Day of the Dead?

Each year, for a few days in late-Oct. and early-Nov., many Mexican people believe the veil to the spirit world is lifted and our departed family members return Earthside to visit us.⁠

While in many cultures, this would be a somber event, in Mexico, it’s a giant party, and the biggest festival in Oaxaca.

Different Mexican states, with their ties to different indigenous peoples, will celebrate it differently. Oaxaca, and its native Zapotec peoples , are known as having the country’s most festive, colorful, and fun celebration.

Traveling to Oaxaca: Beyond Oaxaca City

Best Beaches in Oaxaca

The two most visited places in Oaxaca are Oaxaca City, and the best beaches in Oaxaca , all located on the Oaxacan Coast.

These include Puerto Escondido , Zipolite , Huatulco , San Agustinillo , Mazunte (where I did a 10-day  silent meditation retreat ), Puerto Angel and Lagunas de Chacahua National Park , among a few others.

Oaxaca, while not a huge state, is quite spread out. If you have four or less days, stick to one area; either Oaxaca City or the beaches.

For travelers with five or more available days, you can divide your time up between Oaxaca City and the Oaxaca coast.

🏝️ Traveling from Oaxaca City to the beaches? Check out these guides — Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido , Oaxaca to Huatulco , and Oaxaca to Mazunte .

To drive, take the Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido Highway. This newly-built roadway connects Oaxaca City to the Coast of Oaxaca in just a few hours.

Inter-state travel from the city tot he beach can take 3-4 hours by rental car , colectivo (small, shared van), and ADO bus .

There is a short flight from Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido and a flight from Oaxaca City to Huatulco , though it’s the most expensive option.

Oaxaca Pueblos Mancomunados

For a unique, off the beaten path Oaxaca experience, head into the Sierra Norte mountains on a trekking adventure to the  Pueblos Mancomunados .

These eight self-governing indigenous Zapotec villages , located only a few hours from Oaxaca City, provide immersive Mexico ecotourism experiences.

San Jose del Pacifico (Oaxaca Mushroom Town)

As an off the beaten path Oaxaca destination, San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca has been gaining in popularity in recent years.

This town is located between Oaxaca City and the Oaxacan beaches , so many stop in this pueblo (small town) to enjoy nature and magic mushrooms.

You can visit on your own by car or colectivo (shared van), or you can book this best San Jose del Pacifico tours .

🍄 How to take mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico

Though technically illegal, mushrooms have been used as plant medicine in San Jose del Pacifico for centuries.

The government is fully aware of what’s going on with them, but they look the other way. Visitors can buy medicinal mushrooms in shops all over town.

If you’re looking to partake, the best months for fresh mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico is from June to August, during the Oaxaca rainy season.

As with all medicines, make sure you’re taking the correct dose in the correct way, so you don’t harm or endanger yourself.

Prices vary, but one dose of mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico costs about $200-250 pesos ($10-15 USD).

Flights to Oaxaca City Mexico

When traveling to Oaxaca City, use Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX). It has flights from several United States cities, including Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, LA and Chicago.

If you’re already in Mexico, you can fly here from major cities including Mexico City , Guadalajara , Tijuana and Monterrey .

The Oaxaca airport is just 20-30 minutes from downtown, and you can take a cab, colectivo (small, shared van) or private transportation service to your accommodation in Oaxaca.

🚕 Oaxaca Travel Tips: There’s no Uber in Oaxaca Mexico , but there are plenty of taxis.

If you’re planning to take a lot of day trips, or just need a car rental in Oaxaca , the airport is the best place to get one.

Mexico City to Oaxaca City Travel

Mexico City to Oaxaca Drive

For those who love a good road trip, pick up your rental car in Mexico City, and hit the road.

The drive from Mexico City to Oaxaca City will take about 6-8 hours; while Mexico City to Puerto Escondido , Huatulco and the other Oaxaca beaches will take closer to 11-12 hours.

You can do the Mexico City to Oaxaca drive in a day, but if you’re heading to the beaches, consider a hotel for one night as many say it’s not safe to drive at night.

Is it safe to drive in Mexico?

As a general rule, yes , Mexico road trips are safe — though you’ll obviously be driving in another country, which might be intimidating.

To be as confident and safe as possible, familiarize yourself with Mexico driving laws and customs before you hit the road.

You can always ask the agent at your Mexico car rental for advice, and check out the 10 Mexico driving tips in article, Renting A Car in Mexico: Everything You Need to Know .

If you’re driving across the border into to Mexico, check out this Driving to Mexico Guide for more info.

Mexico City to Oaxaca Bus

Mexico’s largest bus company,  ADO , has comfortable buses for the eight hour trip to Oaxaca City, and the 12-14 hour drive to Puerto Escondido.

⚠️ Note: The ADO website is not easy to use and doesn’t take United Staes credit cards, so book your tickets here for the Mexico Oaxaca bus.

Make sure to opt for their luxury class bus option on longer rides like this one. In this class, you’ll enjoy the comfy, large, recliner-style seats and outlets at each seat for your gadgets.

The ADO bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca has overnight trip options, which some travelers prefer. No matter your time choice, know that bus transport in Mexico is safe, inexpensive and convenient.

Mexico City to Oaxaca Flights

With numerous low cost Mexico carriers, the best way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca is by plane. Though costs fluctuate, this 90-minute flight is relatively inexpensive when compared to the bus.

On average, the Mexico City to Oaxaca bus costs about $35 USD, and takes 8+ hours; whereas you can find plane tickets for as little as $55 USD, and flights are only 1.5 hours.

Traveling to Oaxaca FAQs

Is oaxaca safe for travel.

Short answer: Yes , for the vast majority of travelers, it is.

Longer answer: Aside from big surf waves, mosquitoes and not drinking too much mezcal , you’re in little danger in Oaxaca City or Oaxaca state.

In fact, Oaxaca is considered one of the safest states in Mexico for visitors.

Oaxaca City is the country’s 67th largest city, with a population of about 275,000, but retains a humble, pueblo vibe.

SOLO TRAVEL OAXACA : Head to Mexico Solo Travel: 20 Amazing Destinations for Female Travelers , to read Rebecca’s traveling to Oaxaca solo story.

As no place on Earth is 100% safe, you’ll want to follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below — you know, the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere.

You should also register for the STEP Program and put your mind at ease with Mexico travel insurance .

Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

As you likely need to take two flights to Oaxaca Mexico, or a flight and a bus, you might be wondering if traveling to Oaxaca is worth it. I hope this guide to Oaxaca made it clear that YES, it is!

Why visit Oaxaca Mexico?

One of the best things to do in Oaxaca is attend the festivals . If possible, visit during Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead) , the most fun, festive and best time of year to visit Oaxaca City.

As one of the most bucket list Mexico festivals, you’ll want to book your travel plans for this as early as possible — even as early as January — though the festival is November 1 to November 2.

Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?

Here’s one of the best Oaxaca travel tips: There’s no Uber in Oaxaca Mexico and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

However, there’s plenty of taxis if you’re not renting a car in Oaxaca . There’s Oaxaca public transportation, but even in the state capital, it’s not great.

For those doing some Oaxaca day trips , a rental car comes in handy as there’s a lot to see just outside of the city.

For those who want to rent a car, I recommend and use Discover Cars for all my Mexico car rentals. They compare local Mexican companies and international companies, so you get the best rates.

Another options are booking some of these best Oaxaca tours , and skip the rental car entirely.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

No — U.S., Canadian and most European passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico.

This is just one reason Mexico is one of the best international travel destinations for Americans and others.

🎫 Passport Stamp and FMM Visa

When you arrive in Mexico and go through Customs and Immigration, you’ll receive either a passport stamp or a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card .

This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to an Immigration officer when you leave the country — so don’t lose your FMM!

Of course, if you get the stamp in your passport instead, there’s no need to worry about losing it. At time goes, on the paper FMM is being phased out completely.

What do I pack for Oaxaca Mexico?

For the most part, Oaxaca is hot all year-long with 80-90°F days (26-32°C). At night, temperatures drop to about 50-60°F (10-16°C) in Oaxaca City , but remain warm on the beaches.

As far as how to dress, Oaxacans are modest dressers, so pants/jeans with long sleeve tops are the norm. Need some inspo? Check out these best Mexico outfits to get a visual.

☀️ Get more Oaxaca, Mexico weather info here, and head here to check out the Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download .

However, sundresses, flowy, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing works; bonus points for anything that doesn’t show sweat. At night, you’ll want a jacket and boots in Oaxaca City.

With Oaxaca’s sunny, hot (and often humid 😥) days, definitely pack this Water-To-Go Bottle to stay hydrated, and eco-friendly sunscreen to avoid sunburns and practice responsible tourism in Mexico.

If you plan on drinking a lot of mezcal , don’t forget your anti-hangover meds .

🧳 FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Wondering exactly what to pack for Oaxaca, and all of Mexico? Download your FREE printable packing list for Mexico here .

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Oaxaca City, Mexico

Oaxaca, in a word, is  magical . Oaxaca is the Mexico people imagine Mexico to be. I sincerely hope this Oaxaca City Travel Guide showcased that.

This state has it all: rich history, gorgeous beaches , colorful festivals , UNESCO World Heritage Sites, locally-made mezcal , beautiful nature , colonial architecture and artisan communities .

There’s also the traditional Oaxacan food 🤤 The Oaxaca food scene rivals many of the top foodie destinations in the world like New York City, Paris and Bangkok.

If you need more info about traveling to Oaxaca Mexico, check out all the Oaxaca travel guides on my dedicated Oaxaca website — TravelToOaxaca.com .

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

Flight search

• Adults Remove adult 1 Add adult
• Children Aged 2-11 Aged 2 to 11 Remove child 0 Add child
• Infants In seat Remove infant in seat 0 Add infant in seat
• Infants On lap Remove infant on lap 0 Add infant on lap
• Premium economy

Cheap flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca

Good to know, when is the cheapest time to fly, popular airports near mexico city.

• Mexico City International Airport (MEX) Mexico City 21 min 6 km
• Lic. Adolfo López Mateos International Airport (TLC) Mexico City 1 hr 8 min 46 km
• Felipe Ángeles International Airport (NLU) Mexico City 57 min 37 km
• Querétaro International Airport (QRO) Santiago de Querétaro 2 hr 40 min 171 km

Popular airports near Oaxaca

• Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) Oaxaca 29 min 8 km
• Mexico City International Airport (MEX) Mexico City 5 hr 34 min 360 km
• Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) Puerto Escondido 3 hr 4 min 138 km

Frequently asked questions about flying from Mexico City to Oaxaca

Search more flights, popular trips from mexico city.

These suggestions are based on the cheapest fares to popular destinations in the next six months.

Prices include required taxes + fees for 1 adult. Optional charges and bag fees may apply.

• Cancún Sep 6 — Sep 8
• Las Vegas Oct 12 — Oct 14
• Madrid RUB 65,795 Oct 31 — Nov 3 1 stop 13 hr 15 min Aeromexico
• Paris RUB 71,639 Jun 13 — Jun 16 1 stop 16 hr 10 min Air Canada

Find flights from Mexico City to anywhere

More places to fly.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

$34 cheap flights from mexico city (mex) to oaxaca intl. (oax).

Bundle Your Flight + Hotel & Save!

Add a place to stay

Direct flights only

Featured airlines

• trending down icon Be in the know Get alerts if flight prices drop or rise*
• bex rewards loyalty icon Book smarter Save up to 30% on select hotels after you book a flight*
• one key icon Earn twice Earn your airline miles on top of our OneKeyCash Learn about One Key

Cheap Flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca Intl. (MEX-OAX)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $34 for one-way flights and $98 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Mexico City to Oaxaca Intl. Flights

Whether you’re looking for a grand adventure or just want to get away for a last-minute break, flights from Mexico City to Oaxaca Intl. offer the perfect respite. Not only does exploring Oaxaca Intl. provide the chance to make some magical memories, dip into delectable dishes, and tour the local landmarks, but the cheap airfare means you won’t bust your budget. So no matter whether your ideal itinerary involves flying one way, non-stop, or round trip, you’re bound to find flights that match your schedule on Expedia, and at prices that won’t shock your wallet.

Bagging a cheap flight from Mexico City to Oaxaca Intl. may mean more dollars to spend on for one-of-a-kind souvenirs when you arrive, but it doesn’t mean you have to skimp on your travel experience, as Expedia offers a sizzling selection of cheap airlines that’ll put you in your happy place on their planes, whether that’s getting lost in a hair-raising airport thriller, dreaming on the passing landscape over a glass of bubbly, or jotting down your vacation bucket list at 38,000 feet. There’s also bound to be plenty of opportunities to snap a few photos of the high life that will make your friends green with envy. After all, enjoying the journey is part of the fun.

With so many affordable flights and so many wonderful adventures awaiting you, there’s no reason to put off booking a fantastic flight from MEX to OAX today. So don’t leave it to the last minute to make your dream trip a reality: pack your bags with your go-to travel accessories, put together your list of must-see attractions and can’t-miss activities, and get ready to broaden your horizons – with Expedia, the wonders of Oaxaca Intl. are only a plane trip away. Book your travel arrangements with us today!

If you would like to book flights to Oaxaca Intl. more flexibly many prefer to purchase one-way tickets with options to take different airlines. A one way ticket to Oaxaca Intl. is $34 now!

Frequently asked questions

• Trending Routes
• Trending Flights
• Top Flights Destinations

More Popular Airlines

Nearby airports.

• Flights From Other Airports
• Expedia's Latest Trends

Top Routes from Mexico City

• Mexico City to Chicago (MEX - ORD)
• Mexico City to Newark (MEX - EWR)
• Mexico City to Los Angeles (MEX - LAX)
• Mexico City to Miami (MEX - MIA)
• Mexico City to San Antonio (MEX - SAT)
• Mexico City to Merida (MEX - MID)
• Mexico City to San José del Cabo (MEX - SJD)
• Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta (MEX - PVR)
• Mexico City to New York (MEX - JFK)
• Mexico City to Guadalajara (MEX - GDL)
• Mexico City to Madrid (MEX - MAD)
• Mexico City to Houston (MEX - IAH)

Top Routes to Oaxaca Intl.

• Chicago to Oaxaca Intl. (ORD - OAX)
• Newark to Oaxaca Intl. (EWR - OAX)
• Phoenix to Oaxaca Intl. (PHX - OAX)
• Los Angeles to Oaxaca Intl. (LAX - OAX)
• Miami to Oaxaca Intl. (MIA - OAX)
• Portland to Oaxaca Intl. (PDX - OAX)
• San Antonio to Oaxaca Intl. (SAT - OAX)
• Denver to Oaxaca Intl. (DEN - OAX)
• San Jose to Oaxaca Intl. (SJC - OAX)
• New York to Oaxaca Intl. (JFK - OAX)
• Seattle to Oaxaca Intl. (SEA - OAX)
• Houston to Oaxaca Intl. (IAH - OAX)
• Aeromexico Mexico City to Los Angeles
• Aeromexico Mexico City to Miami
• Volaris Mexico City to San Antonio
• Aeromexico Mexico City to San José del Cabo
• Aeromexico Mexico City to Puerto Vallarta
• Aeromexico Mexico City to New York
• Aeromexico Mexico City to Guadalajara
• Iberia Mexico City to Madrid
• Volaris Mexico City to Tijuana
• Aeromexico Chicago to Oaxaca Intl.
• Aeromexico Newark to Oaxaca Intl.
• Volaris Los Angeles to Oaxaca Intl.
• Aeromexico Portland to Oaxaca Intl.
• Aeromexico Ciudad Juarez to Oaxaca Intl.
• Aeromexico Washington to Oaxaca Intl.
• Aeromexico Seattle to Oaxaca Intl.
• Aeromexico Houston to Oaxaca Intl.
• Volaris Tijuana to Oaxaca Intl.

Top Flight Destinations

• Flights to Cancun
• Flights to Playa del Carmen
• Flights to Cabo San Lucas
• Flights to Puerto Vallarta
• Flights to Mexico City
• Flights to Mazatlán
• Flights to Tulum
• Flights to Guadalajara
• Flights to San José del Cabo
• Flights to Nuevo Vallarta
• Flights to Monterrey
• Flights to Puerto Peñasco
• Flights to Isla Mujeres
• Flights to Tijuana
• Flights to Puerto Morelos
• Flights to Cozumel
• Flights to Mérida
• Flights to Acapulco
• Flights to Veracruz
• Flights to Santa María Huatulco
• Viva Aerobus
• American Airlines
• Turkish Airlines
• British Airways
• LATAM Airlines Group
• Virgin Atlantic

Santa Lucía

• Felipe Ángeles Intl. Airport (NLU)
• Toluca Intl. Airport (TLC)
• Hermanos Serdan Intl. Airport (PBC)
• Querétaro Intl. Airport (QRO)
• General Francisco Mujica Intl. Airport (MLM)
• El Tajin National Airport (PAZ)
• El Lencero Airport (JAL)
• Tamuin National Airport (TSL)
• Del Bajío Airport (BJX)
• General Juan N. Alvarez Intl. Airport (ACA)

Mexico to Oaxaca tours

Get your fill of  Mexico  with our tasty tours from the capital city, through Puebla, down to the food hub of Oaxaca. Stock up on mole, mezcal, pasitas, tacos and maybe chili and lime grasshoppers as you explore ancient ruins, catch some Lucha Libre wrestling and hang out with the locals on our tours that take you straight to the best of Mexico.

Mexico to Oaxaca trips

Filter by rating

Get inspired on The Good Times

Costa Rica or Mexico: Which country to check off next?

Machu Picchu or Chichen Itza? Which historical site should you visit?

Bueno, Bonito & Barato: What I learned on Intrepid’s Mexico food tour

10 awesome places to go for your 21st birthday

9 ways to make meaningful cultural connections through food in 2023

Finding Mexico’s hidden gems on a Tailor-Made tour with Fat Girls Traveling

15 photos that prove Mexico is the most colourful country on earth

The top 7 destinations for travel in February 2024

Justin Foulkes

Oaxaca City

A cultural colossus fit to rival anywhere in Latin America for history, gastronomy and colorful manifestations of indigenous culture, Oaxaca is a complex but intensely attractive city whose majestic churches and refined plazas have deservedly earned it a Unesco World Heritage badge. Lovers of culture come here to indulge in the Mexico of Zapotec and colonial legend. Flowing through handsome yet tranquil streets, life pulsates with an unadulterated regional flavor. See it in the color palate of historic boutique hotels, a meet-the-producer artisan store or an intentionally grungy mezcalería (plying locally manufactured alcoholic beverages). But what makes Oaxaca especially interesting are its undercurrents. While largely safe and attractive by Mexican standards, snippets of political protest in recent years have lent the city a grittier edge. It bubbles up in satirical street art, bohemian bars and been-around-forever street markets. Trust us: there’s far more to this city than just pretty churches.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Oaxaca City. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Got two hours? You'll need it for the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, housed in the beautiful monastery buildings adjoining the Templo de Santo Domingo. This…

Templo de Santo Domingo

Gorgeous Santo Domingo is the most splendid of Oaxaca’s churches, with a finely carved baroque facade and nearly every square centimeter inside decorated…

Traffic-free, shaded by tall trees and surrounded by elegant portales (arcades), the Zócalo is the perfect place to start soaking up the Oaxaca atmosphere…

Museo Rufino Tamayo

A top-class museum, even by Oaxaca's high standards, showing off a wondrous collection of pre-Hispanic art donated by the city's most famous artist,…

Andador Turístico

Historic, romantic, dignified and safe, wonderful Calle Alcalá (traffic-free since the 1980s) is what Oaxaca is all about. It runs north from the…

Espacio Zapata

In a city of provocative graphic art, this workshop and gallery is a key agitator. Founded by the art collective Asaro (Asamblea de Artistas…

At the center of this gallery's workshop is an exceedingly rare 8-ton J Voirin lithography press, which prints both acrylics and woodcuts. Works on…

Jardín Etnobotánico

In former monastic grounds behind the Templo de Santo Domingo, this garden features plants from around Oaxaca state, including a staggering variety of…

Top picks from our travel experts

Top things to do in the culturally rich oaxaca city.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

Looking for cheap street food? Look no further. Dozens of good, clean comedores (food stalls) fill this large market where wait staff will thrust menus to…

Experience Agave

Knowledgeable English-speaking guides take you to at least two artisinal mezcal distilleries and they explain the production process. The tour includes…

Bicicletas Pedro Martínez

This friendly team headed by Mexican Olympic cyclist Pedro Martínez offers mostly off-road rides (and some great day walks) amid some of Oaxaca state’s…

Auditorio Guelaguetza

The July Guelaguetza celebrations take place in this rather spectacular semi-open-air auditorium on the Cerro del Fortín.

This pleasant cafe offers a small lunch menu to pair with a wide selection of single-origin coffee, prepared in a variety of ways, depending on batch and…

Fonda Florecita

A popular local haunt for more than 50 years, this is the classic Oaxaca market-food experience. There's no printed menu, so you might try the salsa de…

Tamales de San Agustín Yatareni

Find out why oaxaqueños queue up to buy these large tamales filled with ingredients such as squash blossom, chicken in salsa verde, mole and chapulines …

Mundo Ceiba

Oaxaca’s bike hub inhabits a large garage with an on-site cafe and is instrumental in organizing the Paseos Nocturnos en Bicicleta, a free communal bike…

Boulenc Pan Artesano

Oaxaca’s best bakery comes with a trendy cafe next door where the most popular dish is – guess what? – avocado toast. Guys with beards or girls in Doc…

Casa Oaxaca

It’s not easy living up to the mantle of Oaxaca's best restaurant, but this place consistently achieves. A glamorous rooftop terrace, theatrical tableside…

Mezcaloteca

This swanky tasting room is by far the best place in the city to visit if you want to learn about mezcal. Not only can the staff here teach you about how…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Oaxaca is one of the most intriguing destinations in Mexico. Here's what you should know before you go.

Best Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods of Oaxaca make this city one of Mexico’s most alluring destinations. Here’s our guide to the best areas in town.

With these day trips from Oaxaca City, you can discover hikes through cloud forests, traditional artisans at work, mezcal distilleries and much more.

Money and Costs

Tips for saving dinero on your next trip.

Transportation

Here's the lowdown on how to get around in fast-growing Oaxaca.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mexico

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Oaxaca City

Destination Practicalities

Jan 24, 2024 • 6 min read

May 1, 2022 • 7 min read

Apr 23, 2022 • 5 min read

Apr 16, 2022 • 5 min read

Apr 14, 2022 • 5 min read

Mar 30, 2022 • 6 min read

Mar 10, 2022 • 8 min read

Feb 25, 2022 • 5 min read

Aug 29, 2019 • 7 min read

Feb 22, 2018 • 4 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Oaxaca City

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Oaxaca City with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Find cheap flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City from $49

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from oaxaca to mexico city departing on 6/4. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to mexico city.

Save 21% or more Compare multiple travel sites with one search.

Track prices Not ready to book? Create a price alert for when prices drop.

Filter your deals Choose cabin class, free Wi-Fi and more.

Bundle and save Save money when you bundle your flight + hotel.

Cheap flight deals from Oaxaca to Mexico City (OAX-MEX)

Flights from oaxaca to mexico city - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends into flights from oaxaca to mexico city to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what’s the cheapest day of the week to fly from oaxaca to mexico city, if your flying dates are flexible, you should consider flying to mexico city on a friday, as we generally find the cheapest rates on that day for this route. on the other hand, saturday is the most expensive day to fly from oaxaca to mexico city. for your return ticket, we recommend flying on a monday and avoiding thursdays for the best deals., what is the cheapest month to fly from oaxaca to mexico city, the cheapest month for flights from oaxaca to mexico city is october, where tickets cost $81 on average. on the other hand, the most expensive months are april and july, where the average cost of tickets is $122 and $122 respectively., how far in advance should i book a flight from oaxaca to mexico city, to get a below average price on the flight from oaxaca to mexico city, you should book around 5 days before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 78 days before departure., which airlines provide the cheapest flights from oaxaca to mexico city, in the past 3 days, the cheapest one-way tickets to mexico city from oaxaca were found on volaris ($49) and vivaaerobus ($61), and the lowest round-trip tickets were found on aeromexico ($103) and vivaaerobus ($115)., which airlines fly most frequently between oaxaca and mexico city, aeromexico connects oaxaca to mexico city with up to 6 flights per day. vivaaerobus also offers 1 flight per day, while volaris follows with 1 flight per day., which airlines fly non-stop between oaxaca and mexico city, there are 3 airlines that fly nonstop from oaxaca to mexico city. they are: aeromexico, vivaaerobus and volaris. the cheapest price of all airlines flying this route was found with volaris at $62 for a one-way flight. on average, the best prices for this route can be found at volaris., how many flights are there between oaxaca and mexico city per day, each day, there are between 8 and 10 nonstop flights that take off from oaxaca and land in mexico city, with an average flight time of 1h 23m. the most common departure time is 8:00 am and most flights take off in the morning. each week, there are 62 flights. the most frequent day of departure is saturday, when 16% of all weekly flights depart. the fewest flights depart on a friday., which cabin class options are there for flights between oaxaca and mexico city, there are 3 cabin class options for the route. these are business, economy and prem economy. perform a search on kayak to find the latest prices and availability for all cabin fares, which differ across airlines., how long does a flight from oaxaca to mexico city take, the duration of a nonstop flight to mexico city from oaxaca is typically 1h 15m. the journey crosses a distance of 228 miles., what’s the earliest departure time from oaxaca to mexico city, early birds can take the earliest flight from oaxaca at 5:59 am and will be landing in mexico city at 7:15 am., what’s the latest departure time from oaxaca to mexico city, if you prefer to fly at night, the latest flight from oaxaca to mexico city jets off at 9:50 pm and lands at 11:10 pm., good to know, when to book flights from oaxaca to mexico city, faqs for booking flights from oaxaca to mexico city, can i pre-select seats on volaris for flights from oaxaca to mexico.

Yes, you can pre-select seats on Volaris for flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City. Volaris allows passengers to choose their preferred seats during the booking process or after purchasing their tickets. The seat selection option is available online through the Volaris website or mobile app. By pre-selecting seats, you can ensure that you and your travel companions are seated together or choose seats with specific features, such as extra legroom, window seats, or aisle seats, based on availability.

How can passengers get to the city center after their flight from Oaxaca to Mexico?

After their flight from Oaxaca to Mexico City, passengers have several options to reach the city center. They can take a taxi or rideshare service, use the airport shuttle service, or opt for public transportation such as buses or the metro. These transportation options provide convenient and reliable ways for passengers to reach their desired destinations in Mexico City.

Does Volaris allow pets on board for flights from Oaxaca to Mexico?

Yes, Volaris allows pets on board for flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City. However, there are specific guidelines and restrictions regarding the weight of the pets. Volaris permits small pets, including dogs and cats, with a maximum weight of 22 lbs including the carrier.

Which in-flight entertainment options does VivaAerobus offer on flights?

VivaAerobus provides a range of in-flight entertainment options to enhance passengers' travel experience. These offerings may include seatback screens or overhead screens, where passengers can enjoy a selection of movies, TV shows, and documentaries. Additionally, VivaAerobus may offer in-flight magazines for reading material, as well as audio channels with music and news. Passengers can take advantage of these entertainment options to make their flight more enjoyable and pass the time while traveling with VivaAerobus.

What is the cheapest flight from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

In the last 3 days, the lowest price for a flight from Oaxaca to Mexico City was $49 for a one-way ticket and $103 for a round-trip.

Do I need a passport to fly between Oaxaca and Mexico City?

Even though you are not required to have a passport, keep in mind that an official ID is needed to board the airplane.

Which airlines offer Wi-Fi service onboard planes from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

Only British Airways offers inflight Wi-Fi service on the Oaxaca to Mexico City flight route.

Which aircraft models fly most regularly from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

The Airbus A321-100/200 is the aircraft model that flies most regularly on the Oaxaca to Mexico City flight route.

Which airline alliances offer flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

SkyTeam, and oneworld are the airline alliances operating flights between Oaxaca and Mexico City, with SkyTeam being the most commonly used for this route.

On which days can I fly direct from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

There are nonstop flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City on a daily basis.

Which is the best airline for flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City, Aeromexico or VivaAerobus?

The two airlines most popular with KAYAK users for flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City are Aeromexico and VivaAerobus. With an average price for the route of $130 and an overall rating of 7.6, Aeromexico is the most popular choice. VivaAerobus is also a great choice for the route, with an average price of $123 and an overall rating of 6.9.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Mexico City from Oaxaca is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Mexico City with an airline and back to Oaxaca with another airline. Booking your flights between Oaxaca and MEX can sometimes prove cheaper using this method.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Mexico City from Oaxaca up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding a cheap flight from OAX to Mexico City

• Looking for a cheap flight? 25% of our users found flights on this route for $143 or less one-way and $212 or less round-trip.
• Aeroméxico offers several kid-friendly amenities on their flights from Oaxaca (OAX) to Mexico City (MEX). These amenities include in-flight entertainment with a selection of movies and cartoons, special meals for children, and activity kits with coloring books and games. Additionally, Aeroméxico assists families traveling with young children, such as priority boarding and dedicated staff to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for kids and their parents.
• A common layover for Aeroméxico flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City is a stopover in Mexico City itself. Passengers may have a layover of a few hours before their connecting flight to another destination. However, there are also nonstop flights available without any layovers.
• Aeroméxico assists passengers with disabilities on flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City. Examples of their support include wheelchair accessibility, priority boarding, and trained staff to assist passengers with mobility challenges. They also offer assistance with stowing and retrieving personal items, as well as providing accessible lavatories.
• Volaris does offer special meals on flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City. Passengers can choose from a variety of options to cater to their dietary preferences or restrictions. Examples of special meals that may be available include vegetarian meals, gluten-free meals, diabetic-friendly meals, and children's meals. These special meal options provide passengers with a more personalized dining experience during their flight with Volaris.
• Volaris has taken steps to promote sustainability in travel. The airline has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. For instance, Volaris has invested in modern and fuel-efficient aircraft, which help to minimize carbon emissions. The company also promotes responsible consumption by reducing waste and implementing recycling programs. Additionally, Volaris emphasizes digital processes and electronic ticketing to reduce paper usage.

Prefer to fly non-stop from Oaxaca to Mexico City?

Find which airlines fly direct from Xoxocotlan to Benito Juarez, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

Oaxaca Xoxocotlan to Mexico City Benito Juarez

Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air France, +7 more

Aeromexico, Air Europa, +8 more

Nonstop returns

Mexico City Benito Juarez to Oaxaca Xoxocotlan

Aeromexico, Air Europa, Air France, +8 more

Aeromexico, Air Europa, +9 more

Top 3 airlines serving from Oaxaca to Mexico City

The plane was so outdated, that it made it uncomfortable. The temperature was hot during the whole flight

Happy attentive flight crew. All in all good flight the night flight works well. Getting into Mexico City early so you don't get caught up it all the immigration and custom ques, additionally, this helps when exiting the airport and crossing the city to your final destination. All works very well and would do it again

All the pessengers should be wait in a line útil the creo and piloto are arrived.

Planes seat could be bigger very uncomfortable for tall humans.

Atraso de dos horas y media con vuelos sobre vendidos

We were sitting on the plane for half an hour before we arrived at the gate after landing. We had to wait half an hour to collect our luggage.

Made payment for extra baggage online. When I got to check-in, they made me pay again. Lesson learned - Dont buy extra luggage allowence online, only pay at check-in.

Delayed 6 hours! finally able to board, then had to wait 45 minutes for the plane to fill up. Mid flight when food service started, they had nothing to offer with the exception of chips and cookies. Worst flight ever!

The priority seat are great especially the first row! Crew was very cordial and helpful, airplane efficient, the departure and arrival was on time.

I had a flight before this one and I was able to get to the plane, the doors were open and they didn’t let me in. It was still 15 min before departure and the plane was there with the doors open and the hall as well and I went all the way there and they didn’t let me in. Then they tried selling me another flight 4 times more expensive than what the original cost and with a 7 hour layover in a different state when my flight was direct and cheaper. Very disappointed, specially with their 0 flexibility when it comes to travelers with multiple connections.

They not allowed to bord flight, arguing that was cancelled the flight reservation. No chance to find and explain answers, very bad treated by Airline staff… At the end we buying a flight ticket with Aeromexico. Is a low Price Flight Company (cheap), as it is cheap treatment for customers… seme with Kiwi .com app. With we did our reservation. with KAYAK.com never get this kind of treatment.

Buen servicio y muy puntual El problema ENORME es pagar por la página de Viva Aerobús lo cual es imposible aún con fondos suficientes en la tarjeta. Eso te obliga a acudir al callcenter de la aerolínea, en donde para que te atiendan transcurren 45 minutos, y ya que se tiene la suerte de comenzar la llamada, te toma otros 60 minutos terminar el proceso de pago de los tickets o de la maleta extra que deseas comprar.

It is ridiculous that electronic checkin for under age kids can be done and need to be done over the counter. Having said so, we were requested to do the single line for this as if we never did any checkin or made services for this to happen fast. Just ridiculous. Flight delayed as it is the regular business for this airline.

an absolute joke. couldn’t even board because they sold our tickets out from underneath us. we had tickets in hand with assigned seats and they still denied boarding at the gate. i’m sure you guys won’t follow up or do anything so merry christmas.

Flight was on time Flight attendants should be kind and empathetic

Viva continues to strive for the worst airline experience ever.

Very disorganized way of get off the plane. The staff didn’t direct passengers get get up in an organized matter. Passenger were pushing each other trying to get out.

Overall good flight. The flight attendants were annoying and unfriendly. They would ask me to grab someone else’s trash can just waiting until the person woke up or after the flight is done. It’s not my job to pick up someone else’s trash. Especially when it’s not easily reachable.

The WiFi tv wasn’t working. The flight was over sold and moved several times. The gate assignment appeared on the screens right as we were supposed to board. Because of the flight being over sold we were almost stuck in Cancun for a couple of a days. The flight attendants were unfriendly and would wake you up to pick up other people’s trash.

The reason we chose Volaris to fly from LAX to Mazatlan, Mexico was because of the DATES and TIMES for the NON-STOP flights. When those flights got Totally Changed that was UNACCEPTABLE ! ! ! Also, when my husband Died unexpectedly, the Only statement that Customer Service kept repeating was "they would only offer Credit on a future flight". REALLY?! Volaris was only going to offer CREDIT on another flight to a DEAD PERSON ! ! !

Service of the person who gave us the boarding pass

Overall good but we had a minor scare when a wind shear caused the plane to re take off on the first landing attempt. The crew handled it well and we landed safely on the second attempt

It was unfortunate that I paid more than $120 one way to carry on my luggage to only have to have them checked baggage. We board the flight and there’s a lot of overhead space. They checked our bags in Group 2 but Group 3 was able to board with their luggage. I would not fly Volaris again. The flight attendance on the plane was very nice but the employees at the gate prior to boarding was very rude.

For the price, you pretty much can't beat this airlines. As far as comfort, you could do a lot better, but it'll cost you. Over all cheapest way to get from point A to point B.

To many extra fees, poor customer service and very uncomfortable flight. No leg room and seat wont recline.

I am disabled and was unable to get any assistance from Volaris. I had to wait in line at front desk for 45 minutes, I am by myself, and unable to stand. When I got to front desk check in, they had no assistance for me. I did however, have wheelchair assistance when I arrived in Mexico City. Thank God for that!

It was horrible, our flight back was overbooked and had to take a flight 12hours later in the day but to LAX. Volaris is horrible.

Book cheap flights from Oaxaca to Mexico City

Recent one-way flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, last minute flights from oaxaca to mexico city, last minute flight, train and bus deals, oaxaca - mexico city flights.

Oaxaca (undefined) Mexico

Destination:

Mexico City (MEX) Mexico

Return flight deals:

Mexico City - Oaxaca

Cabin classes:

Browse origins:.

• Flights  » 

Browse destinations:

• Worldwide  » 
• Mexico City

Compare transportation modes for Oaxaca to Mexico City

Everything I Learned on Mexico's New Highway Connecting Oaxaca City to the Coast

“San Pablo Coatlán,” she said, gesturing to continue down the hill.

The Barranca Larga-Ventanilla Highway had opened mere days earlier, connecting Oaxaca City to the coastal hub of Puerto Escondido, and it’s already poised to transform the region and how people visit it. Not only does it slash the previous drive time between city and coast from some eight hours of notoriously nausea-inspiring curves to a scenic (and relatively easy-going) two-and-a-half, but it opens up access to previously hard-to-reach towns and villages through the state’s interior. From a visitor’s perspective, the upshot to the new highway seems clear. Some local community members , however, have concerns.

“This brings people from the coast closer to the city, giving them the possibility of having access to better hospitals and other resources that are more limited on the coast,” says Andrea Esquerra, founder of the community action group SOS Puerto . But she and others in Puerto Escondido also worry that the town lacks the infrastructure to handle tourism flowing the other direction, noting the already strained garbage and water treatment facilities.

As we drove into San Pablo Coatlán and parked our dusty rental by the mural-covered central plaza, small groups of locals looked on with curiosity. We’d flown into Oaxaca from Mexico City earlier that day. At just shy of a mile high, Oaxaca sits on a flat stretch atop the sierra, the highway outside the city passing through an expanse of rolling dust plains and scrub brush punctuated by the odd dome-hill protrusion. As we made our way south along the previously existing highway that terminated further down the coast, the towns, comedors, and mezcalerias became fewer and farther between, and then we broke southwest onto the fresh asphalt of the new highway. For a good long while the road served as the only sign of civilization.

At some point the Pacific emerged into view, and I suddenly realized that I knew where we were. We’d spent two years living in Puerto Escondido, and back in 2020 when the highway became a pet project of the presidential administration , I would drive my motorbike up to follow its progress. And now here it was, more or less finished. After a series of delays, the looming election had accelerated construction—now it was at least most of a highway. The toll station was still going up and a few elements were rough around the edges here and there; at least one bridge seemed like it already had sunk several inches. Still, for all practical purposes it gets you from point ‘A’ to point ‘B’ better than any previous path.

I was appropriately afflicted with la cruda —hangover—the following morning, but a cure awaited in San Pablo Coatlán.

The village is about 90 minutes up the road and is, as far as we could tell, the largest along the new highway with a population of roughly 4,000. Its compact centro area was decorated by colorful flags and murals and had a welcoming atmosphere, but besides the school, corner store, sprawl of residences, and gorgeous ruin of a colonial-era cathedral, there didn’t appear to be much in the way of food offerings, which my rickety condition necessitated.

A passerby grinned at us and we asked if there was a restaurant in town. He considered for a moment then told us there was a comedor that might still feed us even though the hour was off, and directed us through a door that led to a narrow, winding alleyway.

As we ate, Jimenez told us that while the town had seen a trickle of visitors over the years—noting that she had more than once accommodated cyclists passing through the mountains—she was vaguely uneasy over how the introduction of new, unfamiliar values could alter the local culture. Overall, however, her outlook was optimistic; an influx would be good for both her business and the prospects of younger residents.

In any case, after a decidedly pleasant meal from this pleasantly loquacious woman, we ended up leaving with a plastic water bottle of the ocher-colored liquor, which would prove a handy recuperative come another rough morning in Oaxaca a few days hence.

And then we were back on the road, blasting back up the sierra. Soon the jungle was behind us and as we drove back through the high mountain plains the sky erupted with a bubblegum-hued sunset. We pulled off to pass through a number of towns along the way, but the return hour for our rental was impending and we wanted to avoid late fees, so these were cursory explorations. Besides—I was eager to see the city. For all the time I’d spent in Puerto Escondido, this was in fact my first visit to Oaxaca itself due to the previous lack of highway.

Overall, the new road presents obvious opportunities, but it’s also not difficult to see why many who live along its route express apprehension. As Esquerra explains, while there are theoretical benefits to the rise in tourism the highway will bring, a certain kind of tourist can do more harm than good. She urges visitors to do their part to offset potential detriment by reducing their waste, helping to keep trash off the beach, using reef-safe sunscreen, and booking environmentally conscious and responsible accommodations.

“And always respect the environment and the local people,” she pressed.

For Oaxaca, the times are a-changin'. Will the new highway be a boon to the residents of the state’s costa chica or will Puerto Escondido be ravaged by slash-and-burn tourism like Tulum? That, according to locals, will be decided to a large degree by the attitudes and actions of those who make the trip. Want more Thrillist? Follow us on  Instagram ,  TikTok ,  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube .

Nick Hilden is a contributor for Thrillist. He also writes for the Washington Post, Esquire, Al Jazeera, Afar, National Geographic, and more. You can follow his travels on  Instagram  or  Twitter .

The Best Places to Travel This July, From Key West to Montenegro

By Caitlin Morton

School’s out, the sun is shining, and it’s officially time to plan a proper summer vacation . The best places to travel in July are all about making those OOO days really count, even if it means venturing a bit off the radar—think diving tours off the coast of Bonaire, multi-day hiking trips through central Iceland, and Olympic Games viewing parties some 9,700 miles outside of Paris (more on that later). And if you’d rather fill your trip with more relaxing and less adventuring, fear not: We have plenty of destinations for you as well.

We know you’re probably itching for a spectacular holiday as much as we are, so we’ve gathered up a list of places that cover the geographical gamut. Whether you want to make an easy trip to one of the coolest cities in the US (we reveal that answer below) or take multiple flights to reach your final once-in-a-lifetime destination, here are 11 of the best places to travel in July.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is one of the best places to travel in July for one major reason: wildflowers . While you might consider spring to be the best time to see colorful flowers, the park’s northern location in Montana means the blooms reach their peak in July and August. Hike along the Garden Wall Trail to see fields of white beargrass, pink fireweed, and yellow glacier lilies as far as the eye can see.

When you’ve had your fill of hiking (and your phone is full of photos), head back to The Resort at Paws Up , a sprawling, 37,000-acre working cattle ranch in western Montana. Their safari-style canvas tents will make you feel like you’re in the Wild West, while locally sourced meals and spa treatments are worthy of a five-star hotel.

It’s not easy to find an uncrowded beach in Europe during the summer months, but the country of Montenegro is one of your best bets. It takes up less space than Connecticut and has a lower population than Stockholm , but the tiny Balkan nation should not be overlooked—especially since it’s quieter and more untouched than neighboring Croatia and Greece. Beyond the beaches, you can take advantage of the country’s historic Old Towns, UNESCO-protected parks, and lakes begging for a swim.

The country also happens to be home to Mamula Island Hotel , a former 19th-century fortress that was reimagined and unveiled in April 2023. Situated on its eponymous island in Boka Bay, this knockout property features sea-facing rooms, three dining venues, and a beautiful glass-covered internal courtyard. Try to book one of the contemporary panoramic suites in the crown of the main tower, complete with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and terraces equipped with telescopes for stargazing.

The Pantanal

Stretching across parts of southeastern Brazil , Paraguay, and Bolivia , the Pantanal is the world’s largest floodplain and boasts the highest concentration of wildlife on the entire South American continent (yes, even more than the Amazon). Here you can spot ultra-rare jaguars, crocodiles, monkeys, anacondas, and some 650 species of birds; and the dry season from July to October boasts the best visibility.

Note that reaching the Pantanal takes a bit of work: You must first fly to São Paulo (a great excuse to stay overnight at the São Paulo Rosewood ), then fly to the Campo Grande Airport in Mato Grosso, then either drive or take a chartered flight to your lodge. And that lodge should definitely be the upscale Caiman Ecological Reserve , a 204-square-mile refuge known for its luxury villas and local conservation efforts. Between visiting jaguar sanctuaries and horseback riding through the jungle, rest up at the reserve’s hammock garden, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy the starry sky from your private balcony.

Only 50 miles from Venezuela, Bonaire is the farthest east of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao). Since it sits outside the Hurricane Belt—and since its relatively remote location means its never as crowded as other Caribbean islands—there’s not really a bad time to visit; but July is one of the best months to spot animals both above and below sea level. The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary on the southern end of the island is home to more than 10,000 flamingos (July marks the tail end of breeding season), which you can spot from the road or nearby Pink Beach. 

But the most beautiful parts of Bonaire can be found just below the surrounding waters. The entire coral reef around the island is a national park (Bonaire National Marine Park), with brightly colored coral and wildlife ranging from nurse sharks and seahorses to friendly green turtles. There are 85 dive sites within the park and dozens of tour operators on the island, so there’s really no excuse to stay exclusively on dry land. 

Oaxaca, Mexico

Far from the coastal spring break hot spots of Cancún and Cabo San Lucas, Oaxaca , in south-central Mexico, is one of the most important cultural hubs in the Americas. Explore the region’s craft revolution led by female entrepreneurs, secure a table at Alejandro Ruiz’s Casa Oaxaca for traditional dishes and cocktails, then head to the streets for delicious tlayudas and tacos served from food trucks (our favorites for each: Tlayudas La Chinita, and Lechoncito de Oro, respectively).

An extra special reason to visit in July is the vibrant Guelaguetza Festival, which takes place on the last two Mondays of the month. The festival celebrates the 16 different ethnolinguistic groups of Oaxaca with folk dancing, traditional clothing, mezcal fairs, and concerts.

We named Mongolia one of the best places to travel in 2024 for several reasons, chief among them being the country’s relatively recent accessibility. Last year, Mongolia opened up visa-free travel for an additional 34 nationalities—bringing the total up to 61—in an effort to become a more popular tourist destination. (The campaign is set to run until 2025.) There are also talks of a direct US–Mongolia flight launching later this year.

July is an especially exciting time to visit Mongolia. This time every year, the country throws its annual Naadam Festival (July 11-13), an ancient-style version of the Olympics with horse racing, wrestling, and archery. The event appears on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list for its intrinsic connection to “the nomadic civilization of the Mongols,” and the competitions truly are a sight to behold. You can watch the opening ceremony in Ulaanbaatar’s National Sports Stadium then stick around for the archery and wrestling games; you’ll have to head to the Khui Doloon Khudag field outside of town to watch the horse races.

While people around the world are flocking to Paris this July for the 2024 Olympic Games, we suggest heading to Tahiti for a more tropical—but still sports-oriented—summer vacation. The southern coastal village of Teahupo’o will host the Olympic’s 10-day surf competition this year starting on July 27, and visitors can watch the event on giant screens set up in parks, beaches, and marinas across the island. This leg of the games is particularly exciting this year: It’s only the second time surfing has appeared on the Olympic program (it debuted in Tokyo in 2020), and Teahupo’o’s famous break is often dubbed one of “the deadliest waves in the world.” Surf’s up, indeed.

After all those secondhand adrenaline rushes, you’ll probably want to rest up in an impossibly luxurious resort—something Tahiti has in spades. The InterContinental Tahiti Resort & Spa has all the makings of a classic French Polynesian property, from thatched-roof overwater bungalows to holistic spa treatments. But if you have some extra time, consider hopping on a 20-minute flight north to Tetiaroa, home to The Brando . This ultra-remote, ultra-polished resort plops guests down on a private atoll surrounded by white sand and shallow, turquoise water. It’s just you and nature—with a spa, multi-course dining experience, and villa with a private plunge pool thrown in.

If you’ve spent any time in Chicago , you probably aren’t surprised that our readers consistently vote it the best large city in the United States . And if you haven’t spent time here? We suggest booking a trip to the Windy City stat. There are tons of summer activities for both first-time and seasoned travelers, including visiting the beaches along Lake Michigan, taking Chicago River boat tours, watching the fireworks at Navy Pier, and attending festivals like the Southport Art Fest (July 6 to 7) and Pitchfork Music Festival (July 19 to 21).

There’s no shortage of great hotels in the city , but do yourself a favor and book a few nights at The Peninsula Chicago , consistently voted one of the best properties in town by both our readers and editors. There are many reasons why this decades-old hotel has continued to impress, from that iconic 19th-floor spa to those epic marble bathrooms. We also have our eyes on citizenM Chicago Downtown —the hotel opened in late 2022, and its high-tech features and colorful, offbeat decor still feel delightfully fresh.

There really is no wrong time to visit Iceland, but we’re particularly fond of chasing the midnight sun during July—the more daylight hours for exploring, the better. The summer months also make certain parts of the country accessible that might not be in the winter, including the 34-mile Laugavegurinn hiking trail in the Central Highlands. The mountain huts and campsites along the trail are only open between late June and early September, giving you a small time window to experience the hot springs, black lava fields, and multicolored mountains along the path.

If the term “mountain hut” makes you cringe a little, fear not: Iceland has some luxury stays that might be more up your alley. The Reykjavik Edition opened in the nation’s capital a couple of years ago, featuring custom furniture, local treats in the minibars, and incredible city and harbor views. Making a splash further off the grid is Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll , a remote property with tons of accommodation options (hotel rooms, A-frame huts, campsites) and summer activities ranging from guided hikes to hot spring soaks.

Ernest Hemingway lived in Key West for the entirety of the 1930s, and the tiny island has been honoring him ever since—most notably with the Hemingway Days celebration held every July (this year’s dates are July 16-21). This annual event is piling on extra festivities this year, which marks the author’s 125th birthday anniversary. You can expect prose and poetry readings, a three-day marlin fishing tournament, and special museum exhibits, as well as the festival’s showstopping Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Because what’s better than one Ernest Hemingway? Answer: 140 Ernest Hemingways.

Even if your trip doesn’t overlap with the exact Hemingway Days dates, you can still glimpse a piece of the author’s life at the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Take guided tours of the house where For Whom the Bell Tolls was penned, then stroll through the surrounding gardens and try to spot the famous six-toe cats who roam the property. In terms of accommodations, you have many excellent hotels to choose from (our readers love The Marker )—or opt for something a little cheekier and book a room at the adults-only, clothing-optional Island House Key West Resort .

June–August marks the dry winter season in Botswana , which many consider to be the perfect time to visit. Not only are weather conditions at their best (no rain, lower risk of malaria), but these months offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities as animals tend to stick around watering holes. The country also happens to be one of our favorite safari spots in Africa. While you’re sure to spot wildlife in Kenya’s Maasai Mara or in South Africa’s Kruger, you’ll also be in the company of a couple dozen other jeeps filled with tourists; in Botswana, it feels like it’s only you and nature.

This year is a particularly exciting time to visit, because you’ll get the chance to be one of the earliest guests at North Island Okavango . This intimate micro-camp (and 2024 Hot List winner) occupies its own floating patch of land in the Okavango Delta, which means you have 24/7 lagoon views of hippos, elephants, and other wildlife. Suites with wraparound decks and walkways leading directly out onto the water let you get even closer to the action.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.