Oaxaca, capital of Oaxaca state, was founded in 1521 on an earlier native site. The ‘City of Jade’ seamlessly blends its native and colonial past in fine stone buildings, set around the impressive Zócalo (main square), colourful markets and delicious regional cuisine.
The Zapotec sites of Monte Albán and Mitla are nearby. Monte Alban was the capital of the ancient Mixtec-Zapotec empire. Mitla, originally meaning "place of the dead" in Zapotec, is known for its unique ancient tile work. Monte Alban is impressive for its huge plaza and northern and southern platforms from which you can see much of the countryside. The Zapotec people (also known as "rock people") built this site atop some of the highest mountains in the area. Unlike Chichen Itza, you can climb most of Monte Alban, but you cannot enter any tombs.
A real gem in bustling Oaxaca, the Casa Oaxaca was originally an 18th century colonial house. The owners have created a statement in contemporary style which is very welcoming – the interior has been completely re-modelled to create a minimalist and peaceful atmosphere allowing the maximum amount of space and light. The house has a distinctly Mediterranean feel about it. More…
Camino Real Oaxaca is located in the historic centre of town, just four blocks from the main square (zocalo). The hotel is housed in the former convent of Santa Catalina and there are 91 rooms spread over two floors. The convent was built in 1576 and has been meticulously restored to its former state. Spanish Baroque architecture and authentic colonial touches give you an idea of how Oaxaca would have looked in the sixteenth century. More...
Hacienda Los Laureles is located in a quiet residential area of Oaxaca about fifteen minutes drive north of Oaxaca. This 18th century hacienda reopened its doors in 2000 following extensive renovation work. With just 23 guestrooms, has the look and feel of a private hacienda. More…
Extra Info: The Santo Domingo Temple, the Government Palace, the Macedonio Alcala Theatre, the Rufino Tamayo Museum of Prehispanic Art and the House of Cortés are all well worth seeing too.
The Guelaguetza festival which is celebrated in July every year is a time when Oaxaca's cultural roots are particularly highlighted. If you are lucky enough to be in town at this time of year, then you will see great displays of music and dance performed by groups from Oaxaca and its surrounding areas.
Its food market is also famous because of its diversity including lots of pre-Colombian type meals as ants, grasshoppers and snakes. Why don’t you try?!
