Oaxaca Oaxaca State, Mexico Travel Guide
Oaxaca captivates visitors with its flavors, artistry, and welcoming spirit. Oaxaca welcomes a journey into the heart of Mexican culture, providing experiences found nowhere else. Here, every corner is a story, and every meal creates a memory.
Oaxaca City's historical background spans over 2,500 years, tracing back to the Zapotec civilization. The nearby archaeological site of Monte Albán has a major pre-Columbian urban center, showing sophisticated architectural and astronomical achievements.
Spanish conquistadors arrived in 1521, and Spanish settlers officially established the city in 1529. King Charles V of Spain granted it the title of "Royal City" in 1532. Its historic center, along with the archaeological site of Monte Albán, earned designation as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The city's layered history appears in its buildings, art, and the daily lives of its people, offering a profound experience for those who visit.
Oaxaca City, officially Oaxaca de Juárez, serves as the capital and largest city within the Mexican state of Oaxaca. It sits in the Central Valleys region (Valles Centrales) of the state, located approximately 460 kilometers (285 miles) south-southeast of Mexico City. The city rests at an elevation of about 1,555 meters (5,102 feet) above sea level.
Oaxaca City nestles within the Sierra Madre del Sur mountain range, in a valley formed by the joining of three wide valleys: Etla, Tlacolula, and Zimatlán. The Atoyac River flows near the city. This high-altitude valley position shapes Oaxaca's climate and its surrounding landscapes, influencing agricultural practices and the local way of life. The surrounding mountains offer scenic beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities, while the valley has fertile ground for the region's diverse crops.
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Central Standard Time (CST) / Central Daylight Time (CDT) (UTC-6 / UTC-5)
Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán (designated 1987)
Tourism, mezcal production, traditional crafts (textiles, pottery, alebrijes), agriculture.
The city's warmth and authenticity welcomes visitors.
Oaxaca City, officially Oaxaca de Juárez, serves as the capital and largest city within the Mexican state of Oaxaca. It sits in the Central Valleys region (Valles Centrales) of the state. The city rests at an elevation of about 1,555 meters (5,102 feet) above sea level, nestled within the Sierra Madre del Sur mountain range.
Oaxaca offers a journey into the heart of Mexican culture, providing experiences found nowhere else. Every corner is a story, and every meal creates a memory, making it an unique destination.
The Historic Centre of Oaxaca and the Archaeological Site of Monte Albán are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a testament to the region's profound historical and cultural background.
Oaxaca City provides a welcoming atmosphere and authenticity for its visitors.
The city's walkability adds to its charm, making it easy to explore on foot.
Oaxaca's charm comes from its walkability. Most attractions are close by.
The city has a semi-arid, temperate climate with distinct seasons.
Oaxaca offers options for various budgets, from frugal travel to luxury.
The Historic Centre of Oaxaca and the Archaeological Site of Monte Albán are UNESCO World Heritage Sites (designated 1987). This recognition underscores the city's unique cultural and historical value.
