Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca, Mexico Overview

Imagine strolling down a street lined with jewel-hued houses, an eclectic mix of Colonial buildings, Mexican vitality, and ancient cultures set against a brilliant blue sky and the turquoise green Pacific. This is Oaxaca, a state in southern Mexico rich in culture and tradition, a place whose culinary expertise is world-renowned, and a home to some of the friendliest people in the world. Beyond being a welcoming community, the artisans of Oaxaca are internationally-renowned for their black pottery, wool rugs, and sculpture.

Descendants of the Zapotec, Mixtex, and Olmec - ancient peoples who have left remarkable visions of their highly advanced civilizations - meld with Spanish influence to create a particularly distinguished, vibrant community. Baroque churches stand alongside mysterious ruins, Colonial architecture mingles with regional artistry, and cosmopolitan nightlife set in a locale deemed part of "Humanity's Cultural Patrimony" are but a few examples of an interesting juxtaposition of ancient and modern. Encircled by the Sierra Madre del Sur mountain range, this busy state retains a purity that is refreshing. Charming ambience and a tranquil pace make Oaxaca a marvelous place to soothe your soul and expand your horizons.

Reasons to visit Oaxaca, Mexico

History tells its tale with uncommon vigor at Oaxaca, and the state's modern achievements in art and culinary distinction rival past accomplishments. Eco-touring reaches new heights here, and you can snorkel, swim, surf, or idle on remote beaches without even a hint of a world where crowds exist. Regardless of the month, you will find lots of fiestas in this particularly festive state.