0208 843 4444
One of the most vibrant and culturally rich regions of Mexico, Oaxaca might not have been popular among tourists but the state is home to a lot to attract travellers with. From beaches, mountains and a fine blend of indigenous traditions to colonial architecture, new age artisans and a vast gastronomically scene in its capital city, there is everything in Oaxaca offering many terrific experiences.
Read on to learn about the best things to explore here:
Monte Alban
Situated in Mesoamerica, Monte Alban is the most prominent archaeological site enjoying a beautiful location on a hilltop overlooking a valley. It is a large archaeological site lying near the city of Oaxaca and is one of the Ten Oaxaca City sights you should not miss. You can learn about Zapotec civilization at its peak between 200 and 600 A.D. A 360 degree view of the site and the valley climbing up to the highest point, a pyramid on the north platform is one major draw of Monte Alban.
The Zocalo
One of the most happening places in Oaxaca, the Zocalo is the main square in the central Mexico City always crowded with the tourists. It was formally known as Plaza de la Constitucion and is lined by several restaurants and cafes on its three sides and a government building, Palacio de Gobierno to the south. Dating back to the time of Aztecs, it draws the attention with its rich historical and cultural vibe. During your visit, you can also discover Oaxaca’s cathedral and another shady plaza, the Alameda de Leon.
Handicraft Villages
Oaxaca City is surrounded by several towns and villages that are all known for their particular type of craft. Be it fanciful woodcarvings, colourful weavings or pottery, the villages produce all kinds of handicrafts and folk art. Visitors can spend a great time here purchasing art pieces made by skilled Oaxacan hands directly from the people who created them. San Bartolo is one great place here to find some amazing black pottery, Arrazola or San Martin Tilcajeten to purchase some amazing wood carvings, and Teotitlan del Valle to grab fine woollen rugs and tapestries.
The Tule Tree
Lying in the church grounds in the scenic town of Santa Maria del Tule, the Tule Tree is the widest tree in the world. With a trunk measuring around 120 feet, it has been declared to be the tree with the greatest girth in the world by Guinness. The tree was also positioned on a UNESCO tentative list of World Heritage Sites in 2010. There are many gardens and a small Mexican village close to the city making for an ideal place to relax, stroll around and spend an ideal picnic time.
Mitla Archaeological Site
Located at an elevation of 4,855 ft on the eastern edge of a cold and high valley surrounded by the mountains of the Sierra Madre del Sur, Mitla Archaeological Site is one of the best known ruins in Mexico. The geometrical patterns here designed into the walls in a mosaic are a wonderful sight to behold. Lying at a 40-minute drive east of Oaxaca City, it is established as a sacred burial site long before the Christian era. It is one popular mysterious archaeological site to discover during a visit to Mexico.