Oaxaca
Trip to

Oaxaca

31 picks

Opulent family immersion in Oaxaca's culture, cuisine, and canyons

WeekfamilyColonial charmIndigenous soulGastronomic haven

Highlights

Discover Zapotec pyramids and tombs atop a sacred hill with private archaeologist-guided tours.

Marvel at petrified waterfalls and natural infinity pools in a surreal cliffside oasis.

Savor innovative tasting menus blending ancient moles with modern techniques at elite restaurants.

Tour family-owned agave estates with exclusive tastings and blending sessions for all ages.

Relax on golden sands with private cabanas, beginner surf lessons, and bioluminescent lagoon cruises.

Glide through dramatic cliffs and wildlife spotting on a luxury private vessel adventure.

Where to Stay

3 picks

Quinta Real Oaxaca
STAY

Quinta Real Oaxaca

Historic convent-turned-5-star palace with lush courtyards, family suites, spa, and pool overlooking the city.

Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca
STAY

Grand Fiesta Americana Oaxaca

Elegant 5-star retreat blending exclusivity with cozy family vibes, rooftop pool, and gourmet breakfasts.

NaNa Vida Hotel Boutique Oaxaca
STAY

NaNa Vida Hotel Boutique Oaxaca

Intimate 5-star boutique with stunning rooms, spa, and delicious breakfasts in a prime historic spot.

Where to Eat

10 picks

Casa Oaxaca
EAT

Casa Oaxaca

Rooftop fine dining with Oaxacan fusion; order mole negro tasting menu and chapulines tacos.

Criollo – Oaxaca
EAT

Criollo – Oaxaca

Michelin-recommended molecular Oaxacan cuisine; family tasting menu with deconstructed tamales.

EAT

Pitiona

Modern Oaxacan spot; try tlayudas and hierbasanto-infused dishes.

Los Danzantes Oaxaca
EAT

Los Danzantes Oaxaca

Gourmet moles and mezcals; family shares platters of duck and seafood.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre
EAT

Mercado 20 de Noviembre

VIP sector with chef-guided tasters of memelas, tacos, and hot chocolate.

EAT

Tierra del Sol

Organic farm-to-table; farm views with grass-fed meats and heirloom corn.

EAT

Alef Antoni

Creative tasting menus; adventurous flavors like corn truffle.

La Nueva Casona
EAT

La Nueva Casona

Classic Oaxacan; family-style clay pot moles and chapulines.

El Patio Mexican Cuisine
EAT

El Patio Mexican Cuisine

Courtyard elegance; fresh ceviches and grilled octopus.

El Adoquin Puerto Escondido
EAT

El Adoquin Puerto Escondido

Seaside seafood; lobster and ceviche platters.

What to Do

11 picks

DO

Monte Albán Archaeological Zone

Private tour of Zapotec pyramids, observatory, and tombs with archaeologist.

Zócalo de Oaxaca
DO

Zócalo de Oaxaca

VIP plaza people-watching with live mariachi and artisan pop-ups.

DO

Taller de Cocina Jauja Cooking Class

Private family class making moles, tortillas, and chocolate.

Mezcalería El Cortijo Private Tasting
DO

Mezcalería El Cortijo Private Tasting

Exclusive distillery tour with agave walk and custom blends.

Hierve el Agua
DO

Hierve el Agua

Private transport to petrified cascades and cliff pools for swimming.

Mitla Archaeological Zone
DO

Mitla Archaeological Zone

Private guide to intricate stone mosaics and Zapotec tombs.

DO

Private family weaving demo and custom dye session.

Cultural craft experience with take-home treasures.

Sumidero Canyon National Park
DO

Sumidero Canyon National Park

Luxury private boat through towering cliffs with croc spotting.

DO

Chiapa de Corzo Cobblestone Streets

Private stroll with chocolate tasting and fountain views.

DO

Puerto Escondido Playa Zicatela

Private cabana day with surf lessons and boogie boards.

Laguna de Manialtepec Biolum Tour
DO

Laguna de Manialtepec Biolum Tour

Private night kayak in glowing waters with birdwatching.

Good to Know

7 picks

KNOW

Hire Private Guides Daily

Engage English-speaking local experts for all outings, customizing pace for kids and providing insider access.

KNOW

Pack Layers for Weather

Oaxaca's highlands are cool evenings, warm days; bring light jackets and sun protection for all ages.

KNOW

Learn Basic Zapotec Phrases

Practice 'Güey' (hello) and 'Xquenda' (thank you) to connect with locals.

KNOW

Prioritize Altitude Acclimation

Rest Day 1, drink coca tea; avoid overexertion initially.

KNOW

Secure Travel Insurance

Cover medical, activities like canyoneering; include evacuation.

KNOW

Book Mezcal Non-Alcoholic Tours

Family distilleries offer agave harvesting and mocktail blending for children.

KNOW

Use Private Transfers Only

Pre-arrange luxury vans from airport to beaches and sites.

Map

Map unavailable

Best For

Families craving cultural depthFoodie households with kidsLuxury travelers seeking authenticityMultigenerational bonding groupsAdventure-loving parents

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