Oaxaca, Mexico, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination known for its indigenous heritage, colonial architecture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. Here are some places to visit in Oaxaca as a tourist:
1. Oaxaca City: Explore the charming colonial city of Oaxaca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful streets, historic buildings, and lively markets.
2. Zócalo (Main Plaza): Visit the heart of Oaxaca City, where you can admire the grand Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and relax in the shade of the surrounding trees.
3. Monte Albán: Explore the ancient Zapotec archaeological site of Monte Albán, located just outside of Oaxaca City. Marvel at the pyramids, temples, and ball courts built atop a mountain plateau.
4. Mitla: Discover the archaeological site of Mitla, known for its intricate stone mosaics and well-preserved Zapotec ruins. Don't miss the striking geometric designs found throughout the site.
5. Hierve el Agua: Visit this unique natural attraction, where mineral-rich springs have created petrified waterfalls and natural rock formations resembling cascading water.
6. Tule Tree (El Árbol del Tule): See one of the world's widest trees, the ancient Montezuma cypress known as El Árbol del Tule, located in the town of Santa María del Tule near Oaxaca City.
7. Mezcal Distilleries: Take a tour of a mezcal distillery to learn about the production process of this traditional Mexican spirit, made from agave plants. Sample different varieties and flavors of mezcal.
8. Ethnobotanical Garden (Jardín Etnobotánico): Wander through this beautiful garden located behind the Santo Domingo Church, showcasing the diverse flora of the Oaxacan region and its cultural significance.
9. Alebrijes Workshop: Visit a workshop in Oaxaca City to see artisans crafting colorful alebrijes, whimsical wooden sculptures depicting fantastical creatures.
10. Oaxacan Markets: Explore the bustling markets of Oaxaca City, such as Mercado Benito Juárez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre, where you can shop for local crafts, textiles, spices, and traditional foods.
11. San Bartolo Coyotepec: Visit this artisan town known for its black pottery, crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
12. Teotitlán del Valle: Discover the village of Teotitlán del Valle, famous for its handwoven textiles made using natural dyes and traditional Zapotec designs.
13. Guelaguetza: Experience the vibrant cultural festival of Guelaguetza, held annually in July, featuring colorful dance performances, music, and traditional costumes celebrating Oaxacan culture.
14. Pluma Hidalgo: Take a coffee tour in the picturesque mountain town of Pluma Hidalgo, known for its coffee plantations and stunning views of the Sierra Madre del Sur mountains.
15. San José del Pacífico: Escape to the mountain town of San José del Pacífico, located in the cloud forest, known for its stunning vistas, cool climate, and opportunities for mushroom foraging.
16. Cascadas de Hierve el Agua: Visit the Hierve el Agua waterfalls, where mineral-rich springs have created natural rock formations resembling cascading water, offering stunning views of the surrounding valley.
17. Cuilapam de Guerrero: Explore the historic town of Cuilapam de Guerrero, home to the impressive Cuilapam Convent, a former Dominican monastery dating back to the 16th century.
18. Yagul Archaeological Site: Discover the ancient ruins of Yagul, an important archaeological site featuring pre-Columbian Zapotec buildings, ball courts, and a ceremonial center.
19. San Pablo Villa de Mitla: Visit the picturesque village of San Pablo Villa de Mitla, known for its traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery, and mezcal production.
20. Eco-tourism Adventures: Explore the diverse natural landscapes of Oaxaca through activities such as hiking, birdwatching, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the Sierra Norte region.
21. Pueblos Mancomunados: Discover the Pueblos Mancomunados (Commonwealth Villages), a network of indigenous communities in the Sierra Norte mountains offering ecotourism experiences, hiking trails, and rustic cabins for overnight stays.
22. San Agustín Etla: Visit the cultural center of Casa, located in the former textile factory of San Agustín Etla, showcasing contemporary art exhibitions, workshops, and artist residencies.
23. Cerro del Fortín: Enjoy panoramic views of Oaxaca City from Cerro del Fortín, a hilltop park with walking trails, a botanical garden, and the iconic Auditorio Guelaguetza.
24. El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro: Explore a segment of the historic El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro (Royal Road of the Interior Land), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which passed through Oaxaca on its route from Mexico City to Santa Fe, New Mexico.
25. San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula: Visit the colonial town of Teposcolula, home to the impressive San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula Church, known for its ornate Baroque facade and interior.
26. Cerro de la Campana: Hike to the summit of Cerro de la Campana, located just outside of Oaxaca City, for panoramic views of the city and surrounding valleys.
27. Santa María del Tule: Visit the town of Santa María del Tule to see the ancient Montezuma cypress known as El Árbol del Tule, one of the world's widest trees.
28. Tlacolula Market: Explore the bustling Tlacolula Market, one of the largest outdoor markets in Oaxaca, known for its colorful stalls selling fruits, vegetables, textiles, and handicrafts.
29. San Sebastián Abasolo: Discover the charming village of San Sebastián Abasolo, known for its traditional adobe houses, cobblestone streets, and Baroque church.
30. Coastal Towns: Take a day trip to the Pacific coast to visit charming towns such as Puerto Escondido and Mazunte, known for their beautiful beaches, surfing, and laid-back atmosphere.
These are just a few of the many places to visit and things to do in Oaxaca, Mexico, offering a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and authentic experiences for tourists to enjoy.