oaxaca mexico travel restrictions

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Heading to Mexico? These Are the COVID Restrictions in Place

Considering a getaway south of the border? As we all inch back out there, Mexico certainly has appeal, thanks to its proximity to the United States and familiarity for American travelers—especially at a time when traveling abroad is still nebulous.

In fact, with most of Europe and many other destinations off the table as of late, some parts of Mexico saw an increase in American arrivals late last year when compared to the same time in 2019. According to the Washington Post , the state of Quintana Roo, which is home to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, saw a 23 percent rise in U.S. visitors. (The proof is in most of our Instagram feeds, as well.)

The government of Mexico is asking visitors to come, too. The country declared its tourism sector reopened on June 1, 2020. “Mexico has maintained its borders open through air travel to North American visitors with no need to quarantine,” according to the Mexican Embassy in the United States . “It is encouraged that people continue respecting social distancing measures, washing their hands, and coughing or sneezing in the inner part of the elbow to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

But there are some minor entry requirements in place for visitors, and a system for COVID-19 health restrictions on the ground that could greatly impact what you are able to enjoy on your trip. We've spelled them out below so you know what to expect. Remember, wherever you're headed, make sure to also do your homework on the wider situation on the ground—local case counts and hospital capacities, the sentiment towards visitors during the ongoing pandemic, if particular restaurants or site you want to visit are open—before you book a flight. 

Read on for our full list of Mexico COVID travel restrictions, by state. 

Mexico COVID travel: Entry and exit restrictions

Since March 21, 2020, Mexico’s northern border with the United States has been closed to all nonessential land crossings—and the closure has been renewed every month since. This means you cannot drive across the border to Mexico as a traveler; you will have to fly. Although air travel to tourism-dependent Mexico remains open to leisure travelers, who are permitted to visit without quarantining or testing negative for COVID-19, health checks have been implemented at Mexican airports. As always, Americans do not need a visa for stays of under 180 days. Air travelers are required to submit a mobile health questionnaire before they arrive in Mexico, and once it is completed travelers receive a QR code to be scanned by officials at their arrival airport for entry. Health measures at the airport may also include temperature checks. Public transportation in Mexico and public spaces where crowds may gather, including hotels and restaurants, require masks and social distancing (except when eating).

All travelers must test negative for COVID-19 to re-enter the United States. The U.S. Mission Mexico offers a list of private testing providers travelers can utilize if their hotel or resort does not offer on-site testing.

It’s also worth noting that the U.S. Department of State updated the travel advisory for Mexico to its highest, “Do Not Travel,” level on April 20 due to COVID-19. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also advises Americans to avoid international travel to Mexico due to COVID-19 levels. Data from the World Health Organization shows that the country has seen over 2.3 million confirmed coronavirus cases and more than 219,000 deaths, and about 20 million vaccine doses have been distributed in Mexico as of May 7.

What's open?

Varying levels of health restrictions, which are dependent on COVID-19 case rates in a given state, have been in place to varying degrees throughout Mexico since the beginning of the pandemic. The nation has implemented a stoplight-style alert system for its 32 states, assigning color-coded epidemiological statuses of green, yellow, orange, and red—with red carrying the highest restrictions. As of mid-May the most tourist-frequented states are yellow or orange, with less-visited areas in the green, or least-restrictive phase. The governor of the state of Quintana Roo, however, is warning that the area, which is home to Cancun, Tulum, Cozumel, and Playa del Carmen, is in danger of returning to red status, which implements stay-at-home orders and strict capacity limits on hotels and tourism sites. You can check the color assigned to each state on this interactive map , and read more about the country’s sanitary measures for reopening tourism here .

Here’s what each phase generally mandates:

Green: States in the green phase are largely open, with only social distancing and mask requirements in place for public places and at businesses.

Yellow: States designated as yellow have some reduced capacity requirements in place for public spaces that may become crowded: Hotel lobbies, restaurants, beaches, theaters, shops, and tourist attractions must operate at about 70 percent capacity or less (exact limits depend on the state case count), and bars and clubs are closed.

Orange: States categorized as orange have a tighter capacity limits. Hotel lobbies, restaurants, and tourist attractions are limited to 50 percent capacity, while beaches, theaters, and stores are limited to 30 to 40 percent or less , depending on the case count.

Red: States in red alert status are subject to stay-at-home orders and curfews, and public beaches and parks are closed. Hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions operate at 20 percent capacity or less, while shops, theaters, gyms, bars, and clubs are closed.

Stop-light colors are assessed on a weekly basis and can change at any time. Here are the current colors assigned to some of the most tourist-frequented areas in Mexico, and where to find updates on their restrictions.

Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cozumel: Quintana Roo is currently in the second-highest orange phase and implementing 50 percent capacity limits on hotel spaces, restaurants, and tourist sites. Beaches, theaters, shops, and casinos are limited to 30 percent capacity. Updates can be found here .

Mexico City and Puebla’s Magic Towns: The states of Mexico City and Puebla are currently designated as yellow, with 70 percent capacity limits widely in place. Mexico City plans to return to allowing theater and other indoor events at 30 percent capacity starting on May 17. Updates can be found here for Mexico City and here for Puebla .

Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, and the Los Cabos Corridor: The states of Baja California & Baja California Sur are also yellow-designated states, with 70 percent capacity limits widely in place.  More health information on Los Cabos can be found here .

Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita: Jalisco and Nayarit states are among Mexico’s green-designated areas, with most businesses operating at socially distanced capacities and with masks required. Online updates for Riviera Nayarit can be found here , and Puerto Vallarta updates can be found here .

Merida, Chichen Itza, and Valladolid: The state of Yucatan, home to the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza and the bustling city of Merida, is in the yellow phase and enforcing capacity limits of about 70 percent. More information can be found here . Chichen Itza briefly closed due to bad tourist behavior in April, but has since reopened with masking, social distancing, and health checks required.

Oaxaca City and Puerto Escondido: The state of Oaxaca and its resort towns are currently in the green phase, with most businesses open but social distancing and masking requirements still in place. More information can be found here .

Central Mexico and San Miguel de Allende: The states of Guanajuato and Querétaro are currently yellow with 70 percent capacity limits widely in place. Updates can be found here for Guanajuato , which is home to historic San Miguel de Allende, and here for Queretaro .

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Oaxaca Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

From the moment I arrived, I knew Oaxaca was a special place. The city’s energy and mine just synched. We were a pair. My eyes constantly shifted to every shade of color, every movement, as if I had an insatiable hunger to take in everything.

That love has only grown deeper with each subsequent visit (and there have been many).

Oaxaca is a city of colorful buildings, scenic rooftop restaurants and bars, street art, historic Spanish colonial churches, cobblestone streets, and picturesque parks. It’s also one of the gastronomic centers of Mexico and a hub for making mezcal in the country.

Located in a valley surrounded by craggy mountains in southwestern Mexico , Oaxaca and its surrounds have been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. Today, Oaxaca is a center for heritage tourism, owing to the many historical attractions (including Monte Albán, a UNESCO Heritage Site; and Mitla, a Zapotec archeological site) in the city and surrounding area.

With mouth-watering food, the best mezcal in the world, and tons of history, it’s no surprise I fell in love with Oaxaca. I’ve never met anyone who didn’t love it. All the hype you hear about it is true.

This travel guide to Oaxaca will help you see all the sites, save money, and fall in love with it too.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Oaxaca

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Oaxaca

1. Wander the historic downtown

The entire downtown of Oaxaca was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. There are over 1,200 historic buildings here, most of which are hundreds of years old. Historical downtown Oaxaca is the perfect place to explore iconic landmarks like the Zocalo courtyard (the courtyard in front of the National Palace), the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, and the Santa Domingo Cultural Center. Spend some time wandering to take in their vibrant colors and historic architecture, and stop in for a Mezcal cocktail at any of the lively downtown bars.

2. Explore Mercado 20 de Noviembre

This covered market is home to all kinds of delicious street food as well as fresh, local produce. Construction on the market began in 1862 but wasn’t finalized until 1882, and was later named after the start date of the Mexican Revolution in 1910. It has remained one of Oaxaca’s culinary and cultural hubs for over a hundred years. Be sure to try some of the amazing grilled meats as they are a local favorite! Definitely eat here at least once. It’s open daily from 7am-9pm.

3. See Monte Albán

This pre-Columbian archeological site is located just 15 minutes outside the city. Founded in the 6th century BCE, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of ancient Zapotec pyramids, terraces, and canals that span several miles. Admission is 70 MXN while full-day tours (that include other stops) are 724 MXN.

4. Explore Mitla

This pre-Columbian UNESCO site was built in 850 CE and was mostly destroyed by the Spanish when they arrived in the mid-16th century. However, some buildings were left intact, which you can get up close and explore (some of which date as far back as 400 CE). Mitla was one of the main religious and spiritual hubs for the indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec people, and was used as a sacred burial site. Admission is 75 MXN while skip-the-line tickets are 160 MXN.

5. Try a street-stall hamberguesa

Other things to see and do in oaxaca, 1. learn about mezcal.

I love mezcal (which is one of the reasons why I love Oaxaca). This is the birthplace of mezcal, a spirit distilled from agave. Unlike tequila, which is also made from agave, when making mezcal, the heart of the plant is cooked in a pit in the ground before it is crushed. Then water is added, and it’s allowed to ferment. Since the plant is cooked, mezcal has a much smokier flavor than tequila.

If you want to learn more about this popular (and delicious) spirit, Rambling Spirits runs the best mezcal tours in Oaxaca. Go with them if you want to learn more. Their guides have incredible knowledge and can take you to places the bigger tours can’t. I learned a ton on this tour and highly recommend it! Most tours leave after lunch so it’s a perfect way to spend the remainder of your day.

2. Take a free walking tour

One of the first things I do when I visit a new city is take a free walking tour. They’re the best way to see the main sights, get introduced to the city and culture, and connect with a local guide who can answer all your questions. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers free daily tours that show you the hidden gems of the city and what life is like for the locals who live here. Just make sure to tip your guide at the end!

3. See the Templo de Santo Domingo

This Baroque Roman Catholic church was started in 1572, though it wasn’t completed until 1731. It was originally used as a Dominican church and monastery. During Mexico’s revolutionary war (1910-1920), the church was annexed and used as a barracks and military building. It was transformed into a museum in the 1970s and is now home to all kinds of religious and pre-Columbian artifacts. The interior is incredibly ornate, with intricate carvings on the walls. Admission is free. Be sure to dress respectfully.

4. Wander the Botanical Garden

These gardens span over two acres and are located near the Church of Santo Domingo. The gardens feature different plants from across the state (Oaxaca is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the country). In addition to the flowers, trees, and cacti that dot the garden, there are also sculptures and works of art too. Self-guided tours are not allowed so you’ll need to go with a guide. One-hour tours are offered Monday through Saturday. There is only one English tour available per day, however. Admission (including the tour) is 50 MXN for Spanish tours and 100 MXN for tours in English.

5. Visit Puerto Escondido

Located on the Pacific Coast 6 hours away by car, Puerto Escondido is famous for its stunning beaches and rambunctious nightlife. If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Oaxaca, head here to lounge away the days and party all night. Playa Manzanillo and Puerto Angelito are the best beaches for swimming and lounging while Playa Zicatela is great for surfing. Avoid staying in the middle of Zicatela as it’s boring. If you’re backpacking, stay at the very south where all the hostels are. It’s a lively area.

6. Take a food tour

If you’re a foodie like me, one of the best ways to get a sense of the local food scene is to take a guided food tour. I highly recommend doing one here since Oaxaca is such a center for gastronomy. Oaxaca has some of the most diverse selections of dishes in Mexico. Oaxaca Eats runs several tours, most of which last around 4 hours. You’ll get to sample 20+ dishes. Tour prices vary but expect to spend 2,000 MXN.

7. Wander the Sunday market

Mercado Tlacolula is one of the most popular markets in the region. It’s essentially been in operation for centuries and is a good place to buy local crafts, produce, food, and everything in between. It’s located 45-minutes outside the city so you’ll need to drive there or take the bus, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. There are thousands of people here and tons of amazing food to try. Don’t miss barbacoa (stewed meat) and chicharrón (fried pork rinds).

8. Try a cooking class

If you want to learn how to make some of the amazing dishes you’ve eaten here, take a cooking class . Most classes take you to the market so you can buy fresh ingredients before you start cooking. Classes last around 5 hours and are hands-on and fully immersive. Usually, you’ll make one appetizer, some salsa, a main mole dish (mole is a specific sauce and one of the region’s specialties), and a dessert. Expect to spend around 1,900 MXN for a class.

9. Go hiking in Sierra Norte

Sierra Norte offers visitors over 100 kilometers (62 miles) of hiking trails spanning over 40 different trails. Located just two hours by car from Oaxaca, you’ll also see a handful of Zapotec villages (Pueblos Mancomunados) along the way that offer village-to-village treks and homestays. At Sierra Nore, keep in mind that trails are not well-marked so you’ll need to hire a guide (going solo is possible but not recommended). Guides are incredibly knowledgeable and can point out wildlife (there are pumas, bobcats, armadillos, and more here), identify plants, and ensure you don’t get lost (plus, hiring a guide helps support the local economy). Multi-day tours (which trek from village to village) cost around 3,600 MXN per person for a 3-day tour.

10. Experience a Temazcal

Temazcal (meaning “house of heat”) is a traditional Zapotec sweat lodge. You’ll sit in a small domed hut that becomes increasingly warmer. You’ll rub everything from clay to fresh fruit juices and peels on your skin as you heat up, cooling down by dunking yourself in cold water. It’s a very meditative, spiritual experience with numerous health benefits. Visits usually last an hour and cost around 600 MXN.

11. Celebrate Day of the Dead

The Day of the Dead (Día de Los Muertos) is one of the biggest celebrations/festivals in all of Mexico. It occurs between October 31st and November 2nd and is a time meant for remembering loved ones who have passed. Locals paint their faces, visit cemeteries, and give offerings. There are all kinds of celebrations and parades too. Oaxaca hosts one of the biggest festivals in all of Mexico. It’s one of the best (and busiest) times to visit Oaxaca. Be sure to book your accommodation early as hotels and hostels sell out months in advance. If you want a local guide during the Day of the Dead , expect to pay around 1,250 MXN.

  If you’re visiting other cities in Mexico, check out these guides:

• Cancun Travel Guide
• Mexico City Travel Guide

Oaxaca Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in dorm costs between 250-450 MXN per night regardless of how big the dorm is. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast. Most have self-catering facilities too. Private rooms cost 600-1,500 MXN per night.

For those traveling with a tent, a basic plot for two people without electricity can be found outside the city for around 200 MXN per night. The campgrounds are 20 minutes outside the city by car.

Budget hotels – Budget two-star hotels with ensuite bathrooms start at 700 MXN per night. These include basic amenities like TV, AC, and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is also available here, with private rooms starting at 200 MXN per night (though they average closer to 950 MXN). Entire homes/apartments cost at least 400 MXN (but average double or even triple that price). Be sure to book early for the best deals.

Food – Oaxaca is a gastronomical hub in Mexico and is known for unique dishes such as tlayudas (a tortilla filled with beans, lettuce, cheese, and your protein of choice, grilled to be crispy on the outside), memelas, and mole (a sauce with lots of ingredients, sometimes including chocolate, and served with rice and tortillas).

Street stalls and markets are your best choice for authentic and inexpensive food. Tacos, quesadillas, sopas, tortas, and other street foods are generally 15-45 MXN. Sometimes, you’ll find tacos for as cheap as 10 MXN. In Oaxaca, street food is the best — and most affordable — option.

Be sure to hit the markets here too. At the Mercado Sanchez Pascua, there is a tamale lady in the back who has some of the most delicious tamales in Oaxaca (try the salsa verde!). She is so popular that she’s often sold out by 10am. In the most famous market, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, there is a section full of BBQ stalls where you can order a plate full of meat and some veggies on the side, cooked right in front of you. Don’t miss out.

Surprisingly, there are not as many taco stands around the city center but if you make your way up to the ADO bus station and look across the street, there is a long line of taco stalls set up. Most of them have the exact same fare — tacos al pastor, for 10 MXN each. At the far end, you will see one with pots full of bubbling stews of meat — tacos casuales — and they go for 15 MXN each.

A meal at a local Mexican restaurant serving traditional cuisine costs around 80-200 MXN. Look for the ones filled with locals as that is generally a sign that the food is really good. For comparison, a combo meal at McDonald’s costs around 110 MXN.

A national beer is around 30 MXN while a latte/cappuccino is 45 MXN. Bottled water is 10 MXN. A glass of mezcal will cost between 80-240 MXN depending on what kind you get.

Tap water is not safe to drink in Mexico. Bring a portable water purifier ( LifeStraw makes a good one) to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic bottles.

If you plan to cook your meals, expect to pay between 500-575 MXN per week for basic staples like rice, beans, veggies, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants are Boulenc, Los Danzantes, La Mezcaloteca, Tlayudas El Negro, Cactus Loncheria, Lechoncito de Oro, Santo Sabor Restaurante, Tastavins, Casa Taviche, Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante, and Praga Coffee Bar.

Backpacking Oaxaca Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Oaxaca, expect to spend 800 MXN per day. This budget gets you a hostel dorm, street food and self-cooked meals, public transportation, and a few cheap attractions, such as a visit to Monte Albán and a free walking tour. If you plan on eating out more or drinking lots of mezcal, add another 60-150 MXN per day.

On a mid-range budget of 1,750 MXN per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat at restaurants serving cheap traditional cuisine for every meal, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like cooking classes or museum visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,400 MXN or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals anywhere you want, have plenty of drinks, take taxis everywhere or rent a car, and do some guided food or mezcal tours. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MXN.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Like the rest of Mexico, Oaxaca is super affordable. However, with so many tempting eateries and mezcalerias, it’s easy to go overboard and spend too much (that’s what happened to me and my entire group of friends). Lucky, there’s plenty of ways to cut your costs. Here are some tips to help you save money in Oaxaca:

• Shop at the markets for food – Oaxaca’s markets are a great place to eat inexpensively and stock up on food for day trips. Binge on fresh fruit, tacos, and grilled meat — it’s all super cheap!
• Eat street food – Street food is the best food in the city — and the cheapest. Stick to street stalls to save money and enjoy the country’s best eats. Most meals won’t be more than 30 MXN.
• Take a free walking tour – A free walking tour is the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide. Oaxaca Free Walking Tour offers daily tours that give you a solid intro to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – Use Couchsurfing to connect with locals and find free accommodation. If you send your request in advance, you can likely find a host who can share their insider tips and knowledge with you.
• Drink less – Alcohol is cheap in Mexico, but it’s definitely more expensive at bars and clubs. Try to buy your alcohol from a local store instead of drinking at the bar if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Oaxaca is easy to explore on foot and the bus goes pretty much everywhere you need it. Skip the taxis!
• Being a water filter – Since the tap water here isn’t safe to drink and single-use plastic is bad for the environment, bring a water filter. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca

Oaxaca has plenty of affordable hostels. Here are some suggested places to stay if you’re on a budget:

• Hostel Central
• El Cielo Oaxaca
• Iguana Hostel Oaxaca
• Azul Cielo Oaxaca

How to Get Around Oaxaca

On foot – Oaxaca is super pedestrian-friendly. Unless you’re heading out to the nearby ruins, you can just walk everywhere in the downtown area.

Bus – Collectivos (shared taxis that drive set routes) are available around the city and usually cost around 15 MXN.

Taxi – Taxis start at 55 MXN and go up by region traveled. For example, anywhere in the historic center costs 55 MXN, even if you only travel 1 block or 10. If you want to go to the neighboring region of La Reforma from the historic center, it costs 70 MXN, and so on. A taxi to the airport should be about 150-200 MXN, depending on which region you’re staying in (and what time of day/night it is, with nighttime being a bit higher). While affordable, they add up quickly so skip the taxis if you can.

Though Uber is not in Oaxaca, you can use a similar app called Didi. International credit cards don’t seem to work with the app, so make sure you have close to the right amount of change as the suggested fare cost (taxi drivers don’t usually have a lot of change). Rides with this app exclusively use taxis.

Bicycle – Bike rentals can be found for around 100 MXN for a half-day rental. For a guided mountain bike trip, expect to spend around 1,300 MXN for a half-day excursion.

Car rental – Car rentals cost around 650 MXN per day. Unless you’re going to do some day trips (or multi-day trips) outside the city (such as a trip to Puerto Escondido) then you likely don’t need a car. Renters must be 21 years of age and have had their license for at least two years.

Some companies require renters to be over 25. Deposits on car rentals can also be quite steep, with some companies asking for $1,000 USD as a deposit

When to Go to Oaxaca

Oaxaca’s elevation offers a relatively pleasant climate year-round. The most popular time to visit is December-January when many Canadian and American tourists flock south to avoid the winter. This is when the city is busiest and prices are highest. Daily highs are comfortable and not too hot, hovering around 25°C (77°F).

Expect crowds around the Day of the Dead (late October/early November). If you’re visiting then, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance.

The summer sees more rain, though the weather is still warm and sunny. Expect daily averages around 26°C (79°F).

How to Stay Safe in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is generally one of the safest cities in Mexico. You don’t find the kind of drug or tourist-related violence and thefts you find elsewhere. That being said, it is still always best to practice personal safety and never stop being aware of your surroundings.

Be sure to take a taxi home after a night out just to be safe. Also, don’t carry all your valuables with you everywhere you go (unless it’s to or from the airport). Leave your passport at your accommodation and only take enough money with you for what you feel you need to do.

When possible, it’s always best to walk with a friend or a small group. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry and waving around lots of money or high-end electronics (both during the day and at night). There’s been a rise in late-night petty theft since COVID so it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if you are coming around major festivals.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, even walking alone. However, the standard precautions always apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs about the city.

If you rent a vehicle, never leave any valuables in it overnight.

If an emergency occurs, dial 911. If that doesn’t work (since 911 isn’t available everywhere), dial 066. Overall, dangerous crimes against tourists are very uncommon here. The people who do tend to be involved in incidents are usually doing drugs or taking part in sex tourism. Avoid all of that and you’ll greatly reduce your risks here. I never feel unsafe here and neither do my friends that live here, even the women.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Oaxaca Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Oaxaca Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Mexico and continue planning your trip:

The 5 Best Hotels in Mexico City

The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

The 5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca

Where to Stay in Oaxaca: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

How to Spend 5 Days in Oaxaca

The 15 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca

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This guide explains what you need to know about entry requirements when you are visiting Mexico for leisure, for business, or to take up residency here.

Mexico entry requirements for tourists and short term visitors

Mexico visitors permit, fmm.

Passport holders from countries on Mexico’s no visa required list do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. They may, instead, use a visitor’s permit, known as a FMM ( Forma Migratoria Multiple ).

For the countries that don’t need a visa , a Mexico Visitor’s Permit (FMM) is issued in place of a visa. Learn more about Mexico’s visitor permit, the FMM .

How long is your Mexico visitor permit valid?

When you enter Mexico as tourist or business visitor, the immigration official at the port of entry will grant you a number of days stay in Mexico and write this on your visitor permit. This will be a maximum of 180 days; but it may be less than 180 days.

Check to see how many days you are granted to determine your exit date.

Learn more about the number of days being granted  to people arriving in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit, FMM.

Visitor permits cannot be extended or renewed

The Visitor Permit (FMM) will always expire after the number of days written on the permit: it cannot be extended beyond the number of days the immigration official grants when you arrive in Mexico, even if this is less than the maximum allowance of 180 days; and cannot be renewed.  You must leave the country before it expires.

Your Mexico Visitor Permit, FMM

Do I Need A Visa to Visit Mexico

Entry to Mexico: Essential Information for All Travelers

Regardless of whether you come to Mexico for leisure, for business or to take up residency here, take note of the following:

Required documentation

For a summary of the documentation required to enter Mexico, see Documents required for travel and entry to Mexico

Minors traveling to Mexico alone

Minors traveling to Mexico alone, or unaccompanied by at least one parent or their legal guardian: Read Traveling with Minors to Mexico .

Passport validity

The maximum period of time that a visitor/tourist may stay in Mexico under the auspice of a visitor permit (FMM, see above) is six months.

Therefore we recommend that your passport, regardless of country of origin, should be valid for a minimum period of six months, however long you intend to stay to avoid any potential problems at the port of entry.

Immigration authorities at the port of entry may allow or deny entry of any person into Mexico. If you have a passport that is valid for less than six months and you intend to stay in Mexico for a short period of time —perhaps a vacation— the Immigration Officer might allow you entry, especially if you can show a return air ticket.

Notwithstanding this, we recommend that you and your family members hold passports valid for at least six months from the date you intend to enter Mexico.

For holders of U.S. Passport Cards

U.S. passport cards are less expensive than passport books and can be used by U.S. citizens who cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea. These look like a driver’s license, and are more robust and less bulky than a passport book. You can learn more about Passport Cards on this page of the US State Department web site. If you are a holder of a U.S. Passport Card, please note that this is NOT valid for air travel to Mexico . Passport Cards can only be used to cross the border between the United States and Mexico by land or sea ports. A passport is required for air travel to and from the the United States.

Traveling to Mexico via the United States:

In January 2009 the United States government introduced new rules for travelers entering the country using the Visa Waiver Program (US State Dept). See Also: Travel to Mexico via the USA

Arriving to Mexico by cruise ship

If you are traveling on a cruise ship that visits Mexico, you will be asked to complete a Visitors Permit/FMM (see information above) at your first Mexican port-of-call.  This permit will be valid for a maximum of 21 days.  Ask your cruise company for details.

Traveling in transit through Mexico

As of February 2004 foreigners passing through one of Mexico’s international airports to a third country no longer require a visa or any migratory documentation, provided that they remain at the airport and depart Mexico within 24 hours of arrival. See Also: Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

Entry requirements for business visits to Mexico

Mexico welcomes business visitors and makes the immigration procedure for short visits straightforward by means of a special section on the Visitor’s Permit described above.

Business visits to Mexico

If you are traveling on business, or representing a company to conduct business in Mexico, and you hold a passport from a country on Mexico’s “ no visa required list ” you do not need to apply for a formal visa to visit Mexico. You can, instead, use a visitor’s permit —the same entry permit and procedures used by tourists to enter Mexico (see section above for full details).

If the country you hold a passport for does not appear on the no-visa list , you should check with your nearest local Mexican Consulate  for details of visa requirements before you travel to Mexico.

Longer-term business visits to Mexico

If you plan to work or live in Mexico longer periods ( more than 180 days ), you will need to apply for a business visit visa.

This visa enables the visitor to live, work and do business in Mexico, provided that certain criteria are satisfied. You can get more detailed information about long-term living and working permits on Mexperience by connecting to the Immigration Page that contains lots of information and advice about living and working in Mexico. See also: Working in Mexico

Entry requirements for residency in Mexico

People wishing to travel to Mexico to live, work, or retire must meet certain criteria to do so. Mexperience has comprehensive sections of information dedicated to these topics of interest:

Residency visas and immigration

Our guide to Mexico Visas and Immigration page gives an overview of the requirements for temporary and permanent residency in Mexico. Also see the regularly-updated  Mexico Immigration FAQs page for the most-commonly asked questions about immigration to Mexico.

Entry Procedure at Mexican Ports

The entry procedure will vary depending on where you arrive in Mexico and whether you arrive as a visitor or as resident. See also: Procedures for Entering and Leaving Mexico

Mexican Customs procedures and allowances

Like all countries, Mexico has policies on what can be brought in to the country without paying duties or taxes.

Your customs allowances when entering Mexico

Allowances are subject to change without notice, but listed below are the principal items followed by some tips about entry to Mexico.

• Personal Luggage: including new and used goods for personal use to include clothes, footwear, personal hygiene and beauty items which, according to the form: ‘reasonably respond to the duration of the trip and that due to its quantities may not be used for commercial purposes’;
• Two photographic or video cameras and twelve rolls of film or videotapes;
• Two mobile phones or pagers;
• One used or new laptop; one used or new printer; one projector;
• Two used or new items of sports gear;
• One CD player or portable music player; one DVD player;
• One musical instrument;
• Three surfboards; four fishing rods; a pair of skis;
• Ten packs of cigarettes (200 cigarettes total), twenty-five cigars OR 200 grams of tobacco (over 18s only);
• Vaping imports banned: The commercial import of vaping products was banned in February 2020; however, small quantities  for personal use by visitors to the country should not be confiscated (vaping itself is not illegal in Mexico); bringing an ‘excess’ deemed reasonable for personal use may cause your entire supply to be confiscated.
• Three liters of liquor AND six liters of wine (if the person is aged over 18 years);
• There is a US$300 tax exemption on items you import (in addition to those already listed above) when you enter the country by means or air or maritime transport; the exemption is reduced to US$50 if you travel in by land, except at Easter, Summer Holidays and Christmas time, when the land exemption limit is increased to US$300.

Please Note:  Refer to the Mexican Customs web site for full details about customs allowances as these limits are subject to change with little or no notice .

MEXICAN CUSTOMS: TIPS & ADVICE FOR TRAVELERS

Bringing prescription drugs to Mexico:  You are allowed to bring prescription drugs into Mexico provided that you have the accompanying documentation which proves a medical need. If you or a member of your family are taking prescription drugs, be sure to take the prescription/doctor’s note with you, which includes the patient’s name and the name of the medication(s) to prove medical need of the drugs you are carrying in case your luggage gets inspected.

Don’t bring firearms or ammunition!   A foreign firearms license is not valid in Mexico ; if you own a gun, don’t take it to Mexico with you and don’t bring any ammunition with you either. The only exception is a firearm and ammunition used for hunting purposes; but you will need to apply for a special permit – contact your local Mexican Consulate . Being in possession of lethal knives, firearms of all types, and even a single round of ammunition is a Federal crime in Mexico: caught in possession of a firearm can land you in very serious trouble—even if you have a license for it that was issued in your home country. See Also: Mexico’s Strict Gun Laws

Type and quantity of items : Don’t bring anything that obviously looks like you’re planning to resell goods; for example, several laptop computers. These items will get heavily taxed or confiscated. Items for personal use will be allowed, new or used, but only in quantities that are commensurate with the definition of ‘personal use.’ If you are carrying large quantities of anything, or if the Customs Inspector believes you are trying to commercialize any of the goods you are carrying, then you may be interviewed further.

Drug smuggling: Every year, foreign nationals are arrested and convicted for drug smuggling in Mexico.  Don’t attempt to smuggle any narcotics – not even small amounts of ‘soft’ drugs, e.g. cannabis/marijuana. You may be required to present documentary evidence for any powerful prescription drugs you need to carry on your person (i.e. doctor’s prescription, see note above about prescription drugs.) Narcotic offenses (use of, import, export, dealing) are likely to land you in a Mexican prison for many years. Don’t expect your consulate to bail you out because it won’t be able to. 20-25 year prison sentences for drug and serious firearm-related offenses are not uncommon in Mexico.

What you may take home from Mexico

Customs allowances into your home country will depend on where you live.

If you are planning to do a lot of shopping in Mexico, you should check at the information desk at (air)port of departure in your home country for the latest duty-free allowances.

Most goods classed as art and craft work are free of import taxes and you can bring as many home as many as you like, provided the quantities would be considered ‘for personal enjoyment’. Check with your local port/customs authorities for details.

The following items are are typical of duty-free allowances in many countries:

• 200 Cigarettes;
• 50 Cigars or 250g of Tobacco;
• 2 liters of wine;
• 1 or 2 liters of liquor (depending on country);
• 60cl of perfume;
• In addition to the above: a US dollar or euro amount of goods, ranging from about US$300-$500, depending upon the country. If you go over the monetary limit, duty and tax is usually payable on the whole amount not just the sum above the limit;
• Exact rates and amounts vary by country/trading block. Check with the information desk at your home country’s port of departure for the latest details on allowances

Leaving Mexico and Consular Contacts

Leaving mexico.

There are some procedures to follow when you depart Mexico, whether you are a visitor, or resident here:

If you are in Mexico as a tourist/visitor: When you leave Mexico, you will need to show your visitor permit you were issued with when you arrived. See also: Your Mexico Visitors Permit, FMM

If you are resident in Mexico be sure to the immigration desk at the airport or land border to show your residency card and get passport stamped before you leave the country . See also: Procedures for entering and leaving Mexico

Foreign Embassies and Consulates

Foreign nationals may be able to get assistance from their country’s consulate.  Read our article about seeking consular assistance in Mexico for further details.

Directory of Mexican Consulates Abroad

Directory of Foreign Consulates in Mexico

Mexico in your inbox

Our free newsletter about Mexico brings you a monthly round-up of recently published stories and opportunities, as well as gems from our archives.

Visa for Mexico

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Mexico?

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Time Limits on Mexico Visitor Visas and Residency Permits

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Obtaining Assistance from Your Country’s Consulate in Mexico

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Mexican Consulates

Directory and details of Mexican Consulates situated around the world

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Mexico Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Mexico. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Dengue August 14, 2024 Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Destination List: Afghanistan, and Austral Islands (Tubuai and Rurutu), and Bora-Bora), Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, El Salvador, French Guiana (France), French Polynesia, including the island groups of Society Islands (Tahiti, Ghana, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Iran, Laos, Mali, Marquesas Islands (Hiva Oa and Ua Huka), Mauritius, Mexico, Moorea, Panama, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Uruguay
• Salmonella Newport in Mexico May 30, 2024 Some travelers who have spent time in Mexico have been infected with multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella Newport.
• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Mexico March 12, 2024 There have been reports of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in people traveling to the United States from Tecate, in the state of Baja California, Mexico.

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil
• Avoid floodwater

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites, chagas disease (american trypanosomiasis).

• Accidentally rub feces (poop) of the triatomine bug into the bug bite, other breaks in the skin, your eyes, or mouth
• From pregnant woman to her baby, contaminated blood products (transfusions), or contaminated food or drink.
• Avoid Bug Bites

Chagas disease

• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• An infected pregnant woman can spread it to her unborn baby

Airborne & droplet

Avian/bird flu.

• Being around, touching, or working with infected poultry, such as visiting poultry farms or live-animal markets
• Avoid domestic and wild poultry
• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Mexico, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Mexico. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Mexico—such as dengue, Zika, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Mexico include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Leptospirosis, a bacterial infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Mexico. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Mexico’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in some parts of Mexico. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Mexico may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Mexico, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Mexico, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Mexico .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Mexico, dial 066, 060, or 080. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Mexico before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Mexico from the US Department of State.

Americans in Mexico have been arrested for purchasing souvenirs that were, or looked like, antiques and that local customs authorities believed were national treasures. Familiarize yourself with any local regulations for antiques and follow these tips:

• When you are considering purchasing an authentic antique or a reproduction, ask if you are allowed to export these items before you purchase them.
• If you buy a reproduction, document on the customs form that it is a reproduction.
• If you buy an authentic antique, obtain the necessary export permit (often from the national museum).

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Mexico for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• Destinations

How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Oaxaca, Mexico

Here's our ultimate travel guide to Oaxaca de Juárez, one of Mexico's most underrated cities.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do.

• Best Places to Shop
• Best Restaurants
• Best Times to Visit

How to Get There

How to get around.

Stephanie Pollak / Travel + Leisure

Boasting an endless supply of mezcal and mole, Oaxaca de Juárez is undoubtedly one of the best food and drink destinations on the planet. So much so, that it was named the best city in the world in Travel + Leisure's 2023 World's Best Awards . (The city is commonly referred to as Oaxaca, but shouldn't be confused with the eponymous state it's in.) 

This dynamic city in southwestern Mexico is where you'll find vibrant culture, beautiful weather, and some of the country's most iconic architecture. "The most remarkable thing about Oaxaca is the deep presence of this pre-Colombian culture in all aspects of contemporary life — the mingling and mixing of Indigenous, Spanish, and contemporary Mexican influences are unique and unforgettable," says Zachary Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico , a luxury travel agency that specializes in trips to Mexico.

You could spend several weeks here and not even scratch the surface — if you weren't planning correctly, that is. "Oaxaca is a quintessential and magical destination that combines culture, nature, and adventure, with a year-round spring-like climate due to its idyllic location nestled into a fertile valley of the Sierra Madre Sur Mountains," Rabinor says. "It offers a charming, pedestrian-friendly UNESCO World Heritage Site city center with impressive architecture, museums, markets, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, while the surrounding valleys harbor incredible Indigenous villages that conserve century-old artisan traditions, dress, language, culture, and lifestyles."

To that end, here's our ultimate travel guide to Oaxaca, with the best things to do, see, and sip while exploring this exciting city.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Modern luxury meets 16th-century charm at Quinta Real Oaxaca, a former convent that's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a boutique hotel.
• Sample Oaxaca’s famed agave spirit and learn more about the distilling process during a mezcal experience.
• Visit the artisan communities just outside Oaxaca’s downtown to find locally made pottery, textiles, and other specialty works of art.
• Sip craft cocktails that perfectly blend Mexican spirits and local ingredients at Selva.
• Leave room for an after-hours bite at El Lechoncito de Oro, the best place in the city to find mouthwatering, freshly made tacos.

Courtesy of Casa Silencio

Oaxaca offers all manner of lodging options, from unassuming bed-and-breakfasts and historic converted convents to opulent and palatial accommodations that embody modern luxury.

Casa Santo Origen

If you're not afraid to dole out a few hundred dollars per night, you can enjoy the modern boutique beauty of Casa Santo Origen . Just 15 minutes from the city center, each of the eight suites in this small hotel is named after a unique region of the state of Oaxaca — and decorated with local art.

Quinta Real Oaxaca

If you're seeking something a little more old-fashioned, check into Quinta Real Oaxaca , a former 16th-century convent and UNESCO World Heritage Site that retains a strong sense of antique charm without sacrificing modern amenities. The property boasts views of the courtyards and streets of Oaxaca and has an idyllic garden pool for guests to enjoy.

Casa Silencio

If you'd prefer to stay in the heart of mezcal country, book your stay at the stunning Casa Silencio , pictured above and located about an hour outside Oaxaca. This upscale shrine to agave features multilevel guest rooms and Michelin-caliber cuisine — and, oh yes, a working distillery pumping out the native liquid.

Downtown Oaxaca

Within Oaxaca, Rabinor says taking a day to leisurely explore the city center is the way to go. "Take your time strolling through the market and be sure to try  pan de yema con chocolate ," says Rabinor. "Find a spot in one of the many plazas and enjoy people-watching, as it's not uncommon to witness a colorful calenda (street procession) happening at any time of the week. These processions are part of the numerous festivals that celebrate various personal and communal events in the lives of the local community."

The city is also home to two popular museums. Learn about the area's Indigenous heritage at The Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca , which was founded in 1831. Here, you'll find 14 permanent exhibits covering everything from ancient arrowheads dating back thousands of years to what life is like for today's local communities. Nearby, the Oaxaca Textile Museum is housed in a restored 18th-century mansion and features a variety of colorful displays that are worth a look.

Hierve el Agua

Susmita Baral / Travel + Leisure

When it's time for sightseeing beyond the city, one of the best natural wonders to explore nearby is Hierve el Agua . These calcareous rock formations in San Lorenzo Albarradas look as if a waterfall has been frozen to the side of a cliff. Established hiking paths bring you right up to the cascade's edge. If you're looking to take a dip in the human-made pools, aim to get there early to avoid the crowds.

Monte Albán

Perched atop a 1,300-foot tall plateau, Monte Albán is the second-largest ceremonial site in Central America, home to a well-preserved terraced pyramid and other pre-Columbian cultural artifacts. Much of what you'll see here was built by the Zapotecs, an Indigenous community thought to have settled in the region as early as 500 B.C.E. "Monte Albán is not only a treasure of ancient history, but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds significant importance in understanding the cultural heritage of Oaxaca and the surrounding region," Rabinor says.

Mezcal Experiences

The distilled agave spirit, mezcal, is traditional to the Oaxacan region and has been made here for centuries using techniques that have largely resisted the prying hands of modern machination. Whether or not you choose to drink it, a mezcal experience is enriching. Rabinor notes that these types of activities support local communities that rely on the industry, help people "understand the hard work and history that goes behind producing [mezcal], and let travelers 'learn and appreciate one of the world’s most complex spirits.'" Listing out the many palenques, or farm distilleries, where it is made and the enchanting sipping parlors where it is served would require an entirely separate article. But assuming you're starting your liquid journey in the city of Oaxaca, there are a few tasting opportunities you should not skip: Mezcalería In Situ for its broad collection of bottles and emphasis on education; El Distilado to see how well mezcal pairs with the local cuisine; and Selva to see how it mixes into artisanal cocktails (more on that below). For a sip with a view, take your thirst to the rooftop of Puro Burro , a hip watering hole founded by native agave impresario Asis Cortes, the man behind Mezcal Dixeebe .

Oaxacan Beaches

The state of Oaxaca is home to more than 300 road-trip-worthy miles of coastline , so there are plenty of beaches to explore on a weekend getaway. Puerto Escondido , for example, is especially popular among beachgoers — and a flight from Oaxaca (OAX) to Puerto Escondido (PXM) is only about 45 minutes.

There's also Mazunte, with its cerulean surf crashing into the jagged shore. Check out the Mexican Turtle Center in town, dedicated to the preservation of everyone's favorite slow-moving reptile. Or, if you want to speed things up a bit, head several miles east to the surf town of Zipolite . Relax along the water, watch the surfers do their thing, snorkel in the protected coral reefs of neighboring Huatulco National Park , or enjoy the sunset over the surrounding cliffs — you really can't go wrong.

Best Shopping

Oaxaca is filled with small boutique shops selling handmade goods (think sandals, bags, homeware, and other trinkets) for every budget. Rabinor recommends not skipping the artisan communities outside of town, such as San Martín Tilcajete, San Bartolo Coyotepec, and Teotitlán del Valle. "[This is] where skilled communities create exquisite works of art, including colorful alebrijes (wooden figurines), intricate black pottery, and vibrant textiles," he says.

For food, consider stopping by Mercado de Abastos. You can book a tour of the market with Omar Alonso , a well-known local guide. "This is where locals go to buy everything," Alonso tells T+L. "During holidays, it's particularly packed as we gather the ingredients we'll need to offer to our guests that come during the festivities."

Bar La Giralda

"Every time I'm [in Oaxaca], I must stop into Bar La Giralda for my favorite michelada on the planet," says the co-author of "Oaxaca: Home Cooking From The Heart Of Mexico," Javier Cabral. "They use pasilla chiles in the base. The more you drink, the more  botanas  [snacks] arrive."

Selva is the place to go to appreciate the satisfying blend of Mexican spirits and seasonal, local ingredients. The overall theme here is exploration, with cocktails inspired by the adventures of Alexander Von Humboldt, who marveled at the interconnectedness of the world as he traveled around Mexico and South America in the late 18th century.

Sabina Sabe

End a long day of sightseeing with some spicy, sweet, or sour craft cocktails at Sabina Sabe . Drinks are made with mezcal, or in some cases, tequila or charanda, another popular Mexican spirit. Named after a legendary Mazatec healer, the bar is walk-in only, and worth checking out on any trip to Oaxaca.

Best Restaurants in Oaxaca

Mercado 20 de noviembre.

Cesar Rodriguez / Bloomberg / Getty Images

Oaxaca's bustling market scene is a great place to absorb a bit of everything. Mercado 20 de Noviembre is famous for its variety of food stalls featuring everything from baked goods and pastries to an entire street of roasted proteins, El Pasillo de las Carnes Asadas. Here, you can order trays of meat that get cooked freshly in front of you. For something smaller and more vegetarian-friendly, try the Mercado Organico La Cosecha (La Cosecha Organic Market).

Casa Oaxaca

If you're craving more of a sit-down experience, make a reservation at Casa Oaxaca , from chef Alejandro Ruiz. Order the tableside guacamole and explore Oaxacan cuisine with dishes like mole negro , and coloradito .

One of the top-rated restaurants in the city is Origen , helmed by 2016  Top Chef  winner Rodolfo Castellanos. For a real treat, try the grilled octopus and chicharrones.

El Lechoncito de Oro

Be sure to save room for El Lechoncito de Oro , open nightly from 8 p.m. until …whenever. This unassuming tented stall is an after-hours institution specializing in mouthwatering seared pork tacos covered in crispy pork rinds and spicy salsa verde.

Best Time to Visit

Gabriel Perez / Getty Images

Oaxaca is a big state — a little larger than the state of Indiana — occupying several tropical and subtropical climates. As a result, the temperature can vary wildly depending on where you're visiting and when. "The best time to visit Oaxaca depends on your preferences for weather, cultural events, and crowd levels," Rabinor says.

The good news is it's almost always pleasantly warm and abundantly sunny — except during the rainy season, which happens from May to September. Rabinor says that while this time of year "brings occasional showers and higher humidity" it also "offers lush landscapes and fewer visitors." For instance, he says July is a popular month to visit Oaxaca and can be crowded since it overlaps with the Indigenous cultural festival of Guelaguetza , also called Lunes del Cerro or "Mondays on the Hill."

Early November is also a perennially popular time to visit. The weather is dependably inviting, as it's the start of the dry season, which extends through April. You'll also be able to experience Día de los Muertos celebrations , bringing mirth, marigold, and mesmerizing pageantry into the streets of cities and villages throughout the country.

Oaxaca is most easily reached by flying into Oaxaca International Airport (OAX), or, as it's officially known, Aeropuerto Internacional Xoxocotlán. Nonstop service from the United States is available from Los Angeles (LAX) on Volaris, Dallas (DFW) on American Airlines, and Houston (IAH) on United Airlines. You could also fly into Guadalajara (GDL) or Mexico City (MEX) from other U.S. cities, and then connect to OAX via a domestic carrier such as Aeroméxico or Viva Aerobus.

While having access to a vehicle would be handy for visiting sites outside the city, Oaxaca is pretty walkable and you can always hire a local car service to drive you to farther destinations. Cabs are readily available for securing transportation within the downtown area, while the city's bus system is efficient and affordable. To travel to and from the airport, you can take a taxi or bus if you're not renting a car.

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Navigating Oaxaca: The Key Travel Restrictions Every Visitor Should Know

• Last updated Oct 01, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category United States

Are you dreaming of exploring the vibrant streets, beautiful architecture, and rich culture of Oaxaca, Mexico? Before you pack your bags, it's important to familiarize yourself with the current travel restrictions in place. As a result of the ongoing global pandemic, both national and international travel to Oaxaca has been subject to various limitations and requirements. In this guide, we'll delve into the specifics of these restrictions, enabling you to navigate your way through the planning process and ensure a safe and seamless journey to the breathtaking region of Oaxaca.

What You'll Learn

What are the current travel restrictions in place for oaxaca, mexico, are there any specific quarantine requirements for travelers entering oaxaca, are there any restrictions or specific guidelines for visiting tourist attractions or cultural sites in oaxaca, are there any limitations on public transportation or intercity travel within oaxaca, are there any specific entry requirements or documentation needed when traveling to oaxaca.

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact travel worldwide, it is important to stay informed about the current travel restrictions in place for different destinations. In this article, we will focus on the travel restrictions in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Oaxaca, known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and rich history, is a popular tourist destination. However, due to the ongoing pandemic, the Mexican government has implemented certain measures to control the spread of the virus and ensure the safety of both residents and visitors.

Firstly, it is essential to note that the travel restrictions and guidelines in Oaxaca may change frequently, depending on the current status of the pandemic. Therefore, it is crucial to stay updated with the latest information from official sources such as the Oaxaca State Health Department or the official website of the Mexican government.

Currently, travelers entering Oaxaca must adhere to the following restrictions:

• Health declaration: Travelers are required to complete a health declaration form, which includes information about their health status, recent travel history, and contact details. This form helps authorities monitor and track potential COVID-19 cases.
• Negative RT-PCR test: Travelers, including both Mexican citizens and foreigners, must provide a negative RT-PCR test result for COVID-19. The test must have been taken within 72 hours of their departure to Oaxaca. This requirement aims to minimize the risk of importing the virus into the state.
• Quarantine: While there is no mandatory quarantine upon arrival in Oaxaca, individuals who test positive for COVID-19 or show symptoms may be required to isolate themselves for 14 days. It is important to note that the cost of isolation, including accommodation and medical expenses, will be the responsibility of the traveler.
• Face masks and social distancing: Travelers are required to wear face masks in public places and maintain a safe distance of at least 1.5 meters from others. These measures are in line with the general guidelines for preventing the spread of COVID-19.

Additionally, it is essential to consult with airlines and travel agencies before making any travel plans, as they may have their own specific requirements and restrictions. It is also advisable to check the entry requirements of your home country or any transit destinations to ensure a smooth journey.

It is important to note that these restrictions may change at any time based on the evolving situation of the pandemic. Therefore, staying up-to-date with official information and guidelines is crucial.

In conclusion, while travel to Oaxaca, Mexico is still possible, there are certain travel restrictions in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These include providing a negative RT-PCR test result, completing a health declaration form, wearing face masks and practicing social distancing. It is important to stay informed and follow the guidelines provided by the local authorities and official sources to have a safe and enjoyable visit to Oaxaca.

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As of the latest information available, there are currently no specific quarantine requirements for travelers entering Oaxaca. However, it is important to note that the situation may change, and it is essential to stay updated with the latest guidelines and regulations from the Mexican government and local authorities.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on travel worldwide, and Mexico is no exception. To protect the health and safety of its citizens and visitors, the Mexican government has implemented various measures to mitigate the spread of the virus.

Travelers entering Mexico, including Oaxaca, are required to fill out a health declaration form provided by the Mexican government. This form includes questions about the traveler's health status and recent travel history. It is essential to provide accurate and honest information to help authorities assess the potential risk of COVID-19 transmission.

While there are no specific quarantine requirements for travelers entering Oaxaca at the moment, it is still crucial to adhere to general preventive measures to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading the virus. These measures include wearing face masks in public areas, practicing social distancing, frequently washing hands with soap and water, or using hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content.

Travelers should also be aware of any entry requirements imposed by airlines or other transportation providers. Some airlines may require proof of a negative COVID-19 test before boarding, regardless of the destination's regulations. It is advisable to check with the airline or transportation provider regarding any specific requirements or guidelines they may have in place.

It is essential to stay updated with the local situation by monitoring official sources of information, such as the Mexican government's official website, local health authorities, and the World Health Organization (WHO). These sources will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on quarantine requirements, travel restrictions, and other measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In summary, while there are currently no specific quarantine requirements for travelers entering Oaxaca, it is essential to stay informed and follow general preventive measures to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. This includes wearing face masks, practicing social distancing, and maintaining proper hygiene. Adhering to any requirements imposed by airlines or transportation providers is also crucial to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience.

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When visiting tourist attractions and cultural sites in Oaxaca, it is important to be aware of any restrictions or specific guidelines that may be in place. These guidelines are usually in place to protect the sites and ensure the safety of visitors. By following these guidelines, you can help preserve the cultural heritage of the region and have a more enjoyable experience.

One of the most important guidelines to keep in mind is to respect the rules and regulations set by the site management or local authorities. These rules may include restrictions on photography, touching artifacts, or entering certain areas. It is crucial to adhere to these guidelines to avoid damaging or disturbing the site.

In addition, it is important to be mindful of the surrounding environment when visiting tourist attractions and cultural sites. This includes not littering, avoiding damage to natural surroundings, and being respectful of wildlife. By practicing responsible tourism, you can help protect the natural beauty and ecosystems of Oaxaca.

When visiting archaeological sites in Oaxaca, it is also important to be aware of the cultural significance of these sites. Many archaeological sites in Oaxaca are sacred to the indigenous communities, and it is important to show respect and reverence when visiting these places. This may include dressing modestly, avoiding loud noises or disruptive behavior, and following any specific cultural protocols that may be in place.

Another important aspect to consider when visiting tourist attractions and cultural sites in Oaxaca is the impact of tourism on the local communities. It is important to support local businesses and artisans by purchasing their products and services. This helps to sustain the local economy and preserve traditional crafts and cultural practices.

To give some specific examples, let's consider the popular tourist attraction of Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec city in Oaxaca. When visiting Monte Albán, visitors are not allowed to touch the ancient stone structures or climb on them. This guideline is in place to protect the delicate structures from damage.

Similarly, when visiting the Guelaguetza, a traditional cultural festival in Oaxaca, visitors should dress modestly and respectfully to honor the indigenous traditions. This includes avoiding revealing clothing and wearing traditional attire if possible. This guideline helps to maintain the cultural integrity of the festival and show respect for the participants.

In conclusion, when visiting tourist attractions and cultural sites in Oaxaca, it is important to be aware of any restrictions or specific guidelines that may be in place. By respecting these guidelines and practicing responsible tourism, you can help preserve the cultural heritage, natural environment, and local communities of Oaxaca.

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As a tourist, it is always helpful to know about the limitations on public transportation or intercity travel within a particular region or city. Oaxaca, a state in southern Mexico, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural landscapes. Many tourists choose to visit Oaxaca City and explore the surrounding areas, such as the archaeological sites of Monte Albán and Mitla, the picturesque towns of Hierve el Agua and Teotitlán del Valle, and the pristine beaches of Puerto Escondido and Mazunte. Therefore, understanding the limitations on public transportation or intercity travel within Oaxaca is crucial for planning a successful trip.

When it comes to public transportation within Oaxaca City, there is a reliable and affordable system in place. Buses are the primary mode of transportation, and they cover most areas within the city. These buses run frequently and have fixed routes and designated stops. Additionally, taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street or requested through a ride-hailing app. However, it is essential to negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before starting the journey, as they may try to overcharge tourists.

While public transportation within Oaxaca City is relatively straightforward, there are some limitations when it comes to intercity travel. The most significant limitation is the lack of a comprehensive and efficient intercity bus system. Unlike in other Mexican cities such as Mexico City or Guadalajara, where there are multiple bus terminals that connect different regions of the country, Oaxaca has a single central bus terminal that mainly serves nearby towns and cities.

If you plan to travel between Oaxaca City and other major destinations within the state, such as Puerto Escondido or Huatulco, you will likely need to rely on private transportation options. Hiring a car or arranging a private transfer is the best way to travel long distances within Oaxaca. This allows for greater flexibility in terms of timing and itinerary, and it also eliminates the need to navigate the complexities of public transportation or adhere to fixed bus schedules.

However, it is important to note that driving in Mexico, especially in rural areas and smaller towns, can be challenging for inexperienced drivers. Road conditions may not be up to international standards, and local driving customs and rules can differ from those in other countries. It is crucial to exercise caution, follow all traffic laws, and be prepared for unexpected situations on the road.

In conclusion, public transportation within Oaxaca City is reliable and affordable, with buses and taxis serving as the primary modes of transport. However, intercity travel within Oaxaca can be limited due to the lack of a comprehensive bus system. In such cases, it is advisable to consider private transportation options such as hiring a car or arranging a private transfer. Regardless of the mode of transport chosen, it is crucial to familiarize oneself with local driving customs and rules and exercise caution while traveling on the roads of Oaxaca.

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When traveling to Oaxaca, Mexico, there are a few specific entry requirements and documentation that you need to be aware of. It is important to have all the necessary documents in order to ensure a smooth entry into the country. Here is a step-by-step guide on what you need to do before traveling to Oaxaca:

• Valid Passport: The first and most important requirement is a valid passport. Make sure your passport is not expired and that it will remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Mexico. This is a standard requirement for most countries, including Mexico.
• Tourist Card: In addition to a valid passport, you will need a tourist card (also known as a tourist visa) to enter Mexico. Most travelers can obtain this card upon arrival at the airport or land border crossing. It is usually included in the price of your airline ticket or can be obtained at the border for a fee of around $25 USD. Make sure to fill out the tourist card accurately and keep it with your passport throughout your stay in Mexico.
• Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may also need to obtain a visa before traveling to Mexico. The visa requirements vary from country to country, so it is important to check the Mexican embassy or consulate website in your home country for specific information. Some countries have visa exemption agreements with Mexico, allowing their citizens to enter without a visa for a certain period of time. Others may require a visa application and interview process.
• Return Ticket: When entering Mexico, immigration officials may ask for proof of onward travel. This means that you may need to show a return ticket or evidence of your departure from the country. It is always a good idea to have a copy of your return ticket or itinerary saved on your phone or printed out, just in case it is requested.
• COVID-19 Requirements: Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there may be additional entry requirements and documentation needed when traveling to Oaxaca. Make sure to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines from the Mexican government or your home country's embassy or consulate. This may include providing a negative COVID-19 test result, quarantine requirements, or health declaration forms.

It is essential to check the most up-to-date information regarding entry requirements and documentation before your trip to Oaxaca. The requirements can change, so it is always a good idea to consult official sources of information such as government websites or contact the embassy or consulate of Mexico in your home country.

In conclusion, when traveling to Oaxaca, you need a valid passport, a tourist card, and possibly a visa depending on your nationality. It is also important to have proof of onward travel and to stay informed about any additional COVID-19 related requirements. By ensuring you have all the necessary documents and information ahead of time, you can have a stress-free entry into Oaxaca and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

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Frequently asked questions.

As of [current date], there are travel restrictions in place for Oaxaca due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Non-essential travel to Oaxaca is discouraged, and there may be specific entry requirements or restrictions in place for visitors. It is important to check with the local authorities or the Mexican government for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Foreign visitors are currently allowed to enter Oaxaca, but there may be specific entry requirements and restrictions in place. It is important to check with the Mexican government or the local authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding entry and travel requirements. It is also recommended to have proper travel documentation, such as a valid passport and any necessary visas, before planning your trip.

Quarantine requirements for Oaxaca may depend on your country of origin and any specific entry restrictions in place. It is important to check with the Mexican government or local authorities for the most up-to-date information regarding quarantine requirements. It is also recommended to follow any local health and safety protocols while in Oaxaca, such as wearing face masks and practicing social distancing.

Oaxaca, like many other places around the world, has implemented various health and safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. These measures may include mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing protocols, and capacity limitations in certain establishments. It is important to stay informed about the local guidelines and follow them during your visit to Oaxaca to ensure your own safety and the safety of others.

While travel within Oaxaca may be allowed, there may be specific restrictions or limitations in place depending on the current COVID-19 situation. It is important to stay updated on any local travel advisories and follow any guidelines or restrictions set by the local authorities. Additionally, it is recommended to practice good hygiene and adhere to health and safety protocols while traveling within Oaxaca to help minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Mexico travel advice

Latest updates: Entry and exit requirements – added information on tax-exempt items

Last updated: September 5, 2024 15:43 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, mexico - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Mexico due to high levels of criminal activity and kidnapping.

Regional Advisory - Avoid non-essential travel

• Chiapas, excluding the cities of Palenque via highway 186 from Villahermosa, San Cristobal de las Casas and Tuxtla Gutiérrez
• Chihuahua, excluding Chihuahua City
• Colima, excluding the city of Manzanillo if accessed by air
• Guerrero, excluding the cities of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo if accessed by air
• Jalisco, within 50 km of the border with Michoacán state
• the Lagunas de Zempoala National Park in Morelos
• Michoacán, excluding the cities of Morelia and Patzcuaro
• Nayarit, within 20 km of the border with the states of Sinaloa and Durango
• Nuevo León, excluding the city of Monterrey
• Sinaloa, excluding the cities of Los Mochis and Mazatlán
• Sonora, excluding the cities of Hermosillo, Guaymas/San Carlos and Puerto Peñasco
• Tamaulipas, excluding the city of Tampico
• Zacatecas, excluding Zacatecas City

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Levels of crime, particularly violent crime, are high throughout Mexico.

If you’re a victim of a crime, you must report it immediately to local authorities. Criminal investigations require that a formal complaint be made in person. You should hire a local lawyer to represent your interests and follow up on your case after you return to Canada. Failure to do so may result in incomplete investigations or long delays in bringing cases to trial.

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. Remain vigilant in airports, bus stations, buses and the Mexico City metro system.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times,
• Keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• Don’t show signs of affluence or wear expensive jewellery

Organized crime

Criminal groups, including drug cartels, are very active. ‎Clashes between cartels or gangs over territory, drugs and smuggling routes are common. Armed clashes between security forces and drug cartels can occur without warning.

In some parts of the country, the military, the navy and federal police forces have been deployed to maintain a visible presence and combat organized crime to improve security conditions. They maintain a visible presence and:

If you plan on travelling to Mexico:

• be vigilant
• don’t show signs of affluence
• stay in tourist areas
• be very cautious on the roads, including major highways
• avoid travelling at night
• research your destination thoroughly
• monitor local media for the latest information

Tourist areas

Mexican authorities have made efforts to protect major tourist destinations, resulting in lower levels of gang-related violence in these areas. However, incidents of violent crime still occur in major cities, popular tourist areas and resorts. Fighting between criminal gangs and cartels has taken place in:

• restaurants

Innocent bystanders have been injured or killed. You may be in the wrong place at the wrong time and become a victim of violent crime.

Border areas

Criminal activity and violence occur regularly in border areas. Confrontations between organized criminal groups and Mexican security forces continue to pose a risk. Shootouts, attacks and illegal roadblocks may occur without warning.

The situation is tense in the border area between:

• Mexico and the United States
• Mexico and Guatemala

You should travel to Mexico by air to avoid criminal incidents at international land border crossings.

If you plan to cross an international land border:

• remain extremely vigilant
• use only official border crossings

Armed robbery

Armed robbery occurs frequently. Criminals sometimes follow a victim after they exchange or withdraw money.

Criminals on motorcycles often rob other motorists and pedestrians on the roads.

• Don’t show signs of affluence
• Stay in hotels and resorts with good security
• Don't resist an attack
• Rent cars without stickers or other advertisements for the rental company
• Ensure that you only stop in major centres, at reputable hotels or at secure campsites
• Avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in public areas of the airport
• Don’t leave valuables in the vehicle

Canadian travellers have been physically and sexually assaulted. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers and security personnel at popular tourist destinations were involved. Sometimes, hotel staff are not helpful and try to dissuade victims from reporting the incident to the police.

There are reports of individuals posing as police officers and driving cars resembling police vehicles committing:

• physical assault
• sexual assault

If you are in Mexico:

• avoid walking after dark
• avoid deserted streets at night and isolated areas

Are you a victim of sexual violence?  – Government of Canada and British Embassy in Mexico City

Carjackings

Carjacking is common on roads along the Pacific coast and northern borders. Criminals mainly target:

• camper vans
• sport utility vehicles 
• pickup trucks

If you believe that you’re being followed, go directly to a police station.

Kidnappings

Kidnappings, including express kidnappings, occur frequently throughout Mexico. Kidnappers have targeted foreigners, including Canadians.

If you're kidnapped:

• comply with the kidnappers’ requests
• don’t resist

Express kidnappings may occur in large urban areas. Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. Victims may be held overnight to make a second withdrawal after midnight. Thieves often work in cooperation with or pose as taxi drivers. 

• Only use reputable cab companies or ride-sharing apps
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist

Home break-ins

Tourists staying in private and rental homes have been the victims of break-ins and burglaries. Make sure you lock windows and doors securely.

Disputes over timeshare arrangements occur. Timeshare sales representatives may be very persistent and often use pressure tactics to make a sale.

Members of criminal groups often pose as real estate representatives offering to buy your property for large amounts for use as a timeshare. They may never pay for the property or charge high administrative fees.

You're legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within 5 working days. It's illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract. To cancel your contract, you must write directly to the timeshare company.

Before purchasing a timeshare:

• carefully review the contract
• consult a Mexican attorney
• only provide your credit card number if you are sure you want to make the purchase
• keep copies of all correspondence

If you suspect fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer immediately.

• Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer (PROFECO)  – Mexican Government (in Spanish)
• Should I buy a timeshare in Mexico?  – Embassy of Mexico in Canada
• Should I sell my timeshare in Mexico?  – Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Online scams

Travellers fall victim to online scams, including phishing emails and romance scams. Certain scams target senior citizens.

 Scam victims are subject to:

• coercion into acting as a drug or money courier for criminal groups
• forced money transfers and withdrawals of funds

Before travelling to Mexico to visit someone you met online:

• be wary of individuals who ask you to carry a package from Mexico on their behalf
• beware of people who show a keen interest in you online

Useful links

• Alcohol, drug and travel
• Warning to Canadian Seniors Targeted by International Drug Smuggling Scams
• Overseas fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• don't withdraw large sums of cash
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overcharging

Certain establishments, such as bars or nightclubs, may try to overcharge you.

Discussions about overcharging have turned violent. Tourists have been threatened and forced to pay the bill.

• Always confirm the price of an item before ordering 
• Do not leave an open tab 
• Avoid giving your credit card to bar or restaurant staff 
• Check your bill for accuracy before paying 

Extortion schemes are common in Mexico. Incidences of virtual kidnappings are increasing and are more common than traditional forms of kidnapping.

Virtual kidnappings

Virtual kidnappings are a form of extortion. Victims are neither captured nor detained. Criminals use threats and knowledge of their victim’s personal information to create the impression of a kidnapping and demand ransom from the victim’s friends and family.

Criminals gather information on their victims from a variety of sources, including:

• social media
• watching and eavesdropping on conversations
• phone theft or hacking

Criminals use many tactics in virtual kidnapping. Many of these tactics involve criminals calling potential victims in their hotel rooms, posing as their friends or family members in distress, posing as government officials or claiming to represent criminal gangs.

 Always protect your personal information, both in person and over communications networks.

• When you answer the phone, wait for the caller to speak
• If the caller asks who is speaking, you're threatened on the phone or hear screams, hang up immediately and report the call to the authorities
• Don't discuss travel plans, your room number or any other personal information with strangers
• Never leave your cell phone unattended
• Ensure your cellphone is password protected and enable two-step verification for your applications
• Don't share personal details to strangers in person, over the phone or on social media, especially when using hotel phones
• Don’t admit visitors to your room

If you believe a friend or family member is the victim of a virtual kidnapping, you should contact the Government of Canada to verify if the kidnapping is legitimate before taking any action or sending ransom money.

Police corruption

Legitimate police officers have demanded money from tourists or arrested tourists for minor offences such as:

• drinking alcohol on the street
• public urination
• traffic violations

They have requested immediate cash payment in exchange for their release. This practice is common in tourist areas.

If this occurs:

• don’t hand over your money or your passport
• ask for the officer’s name, badge and patrol car number
• ask for a copy of the written fine, which is payable at a later date, or insist on going to the nearest police station
• Payment of traffic violations  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Some incidents of assault, rape and sexual assault against Canadian women have occurred, including at beach resorts and on public buses. 

• Always remain vigilant
• Do not accept offers of transportation from strangers
• Avoid walking alone at night

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Mexican law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Mexican society, particularly in rural areas.

2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics. Transgender and gender non-conforming individuals are disproportionately targeted for violence and can face discrimination.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Spiked food and drinks

There are reports of criminals adding drugs into items that could put you at risk of sexual assault or robbery.

Items include:

• food and drinks

Incidents are most likely to occur:

• in nightclubs
• in bars and restaurants
• on public transportation, including taxis on the street

While you’re in Mexico

• be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• order drinks in sealed bottles or cans instead of in plastic cups

Unregulated alcohol

Some bars, restaurants and resorts have served unregulated alcohol. Some travellers have reported getting sick or blacking out after drinking alcohol.

• Buy alcohol from reputable establishments
• Seek medical assistance if you begin to feel sick

Alcohol, drugs and travel

Mexico's standards for the height of balcony railings are considerably lower than those in Canada. Falls have resulted in deaths and injuries. Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur frequently and roadblocks are common during demonstrations. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation, as well as airport closures.

It’s illegal for foreigners to conduct political activity in Mexico, including participating in demonstrations. If you participate in demonstrations as a foreigner, you may face detention, deportation, and the denial of future entry into Mexico.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Riptides are common and powerful waves make swimming and water sports dangerous. Several drownings occur each year.

Many beaches don’t have warning flags to indicate unsafe conditions and they don’t always have lifeguards on duty.

Lifeguard services do not always meet Canadian standards.

• Consult local residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
• Respect the areas reserved for swimming

Water sports

Tour operators do not always comply with Canadian standards, and many don’t conduct regular safety checks on their equipment.

Canadians have been involved in accidents where operators of recreational vehicles demand compensation exceeding the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

If you undertake water sports:

• use a reputable company
• make sure that your travel insurance covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity
• wear appropriate safety equipment, such as helmets and life jackets
• do not use the equipment if you are unsure of its safety
• do not dive if you have been drinking alcohol or using other substances

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, scuba diving, and other extreme sports can be dangerous.

Tour operators may not meet Canadian safety standards.

If you intend to participate in adventure tourism activities: 

• share your itinerary with a friend or family member if you’re alone
• stay on marked trails and consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that covers incidents related to this type of recreational activity
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you have proper equipment and bring sufficient water
• monitor weather conditions and other possible hazards
• refrain from using equipment if you are unsure of its condition or safety

Power outages

Mexico sometimes experiences power shortages.

Power outages could impact essential services, such as:

• public transportation, including flights
• medical services
• the public water supply
• telecommunications
• banking transactions
• the supply of basic necessities

Telecommunications 

The telecommunications network is not reliable in rural areas.

Canadian cell phones generally work in major cities.

Using data plans outside Canada  

Road safety

Fatal accidents are frequent.

Police don’t strictly enforce traffic laws, including for drinking and driving. Police don’t regularly patrol the highways. Crime is common on highways, especially in rural areas.

Toll highways are typically better maintained than secondary highways. 

• Only use frequented rest areas and gas stations
• Avoid travelling after dark
• Only use toll roads and highways
• Fill your gas tank before you travel
• Always keep doors and windows closed and locked
• Don’t hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers
• Road alerts – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Information on roadside assistance – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Pre-paid toll card (in Spanish)

Road conditions

Road conditions vary greatly throughout the country. Many common hazards, including construction and speed bumps, are unmarked and many roads or exits are unsigned.

Road conditions can be dangerous, especially on rural roads, due to:

• abandoned vehicles blocking the road
• sharp curves
• slow-moving vehicles
• stray livestock

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws and often:

• drive at excessive speeds
• drive aggressive or reckless
• don’t use signals to indicate turns or lane changes
• don’t routinely stop at pedestrian crosswalks 

Vehicles and bicycles often operate without sufficient lights and reflectors.

Illegal Roadblocks

Illegal roadblocks are common. Heavily armed gangs have attacked travellers on intercity highways who fail to stop or pay a ‘toll’.

If you are threatened by criminals, stay calm and don’t resist.

Checkpoints

The military and federal police search for drugs and firearms at checkpoints throughout the country.

Public transportation

Some public and private vehicles are poorly maintained. 

The Mexico City metro is often very crowded and a popular place for pickpocketing. During rush hour, there are metro cars reserved for women and children at the front of the trains.

The Metrobus in Mexico City is generally reliable. There are sections reserved for women and children at the front of the buses.

Crime is common on intercity buses.

• Don’t use mini buses
• Take direct bus routes
• Only use bus companies that offer VIP or executive class transportation travelling on toll roads
• Travel only during daylight hours
• Do not carry large sums of cash
• Exercise caution at bus stations

In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with “A” or “B.” Taxis from designated stands have a company logo and icence plate number on the side of the car.

Official taxis in Mexico City are pink and white. Users can reserve these taxis on the CDMX app.

• Only use officially marked taxis
• Never share a cab with strangers

When arriving at an airport in Mexico, pre-pay the taxi fare at the airport inside or outside the terminal and ask to see the driver’s official identification.

My taxi  – CDMX app (in Spanish)

Ridesharing services

Ridesharing apps are available at some airports.

Disputes between taxi and ride-share service drivers may occur. Although tourists have not been targeted, you may be caught up in these incidents and be harassed or injured. 

If you use a ride-sharing app:

• confirm the driver’s identity and license plate before getting in the car
• use the security features in rideshare apps

Pirates commit attacks and armed robberies against ships in coastal waters in the Bay of Campeche. Travellers should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Mexican authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Mexico.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: required Work visa: required Student visa: required

Canadians travelling to the northern border zone (within 21 kilometres of the U.S. border) for work don’t need a visa for stays of 72 hours or less.

If your employer is processing your visa for you:

• obtain copies of all correspondence between the employer and the Mexican immigration authorities
• verify that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities
• request a receipt from your employer for any document that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa
• don't surrender your passport to your employer

Activities requiring a visa

You may not be able to undertake the following activities while visiting as a tourist:

• volunteer work
• religious/missionary work
• certain types of eco-tourism

For information on the type of visa required for these activities, contact the Mexican Embassy or the closest Mexican consulate.

Travelling to Mexico by Land – Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Tourist card

When you enter Mexico for a stay of less than 180 days, you are required to have a Multiple Immigration Form (FMM) or Tourist Card.

If you enter Mexico by air:

• the immigration official will stamp your passport and note the number of days you are allowed to spend in Mexico, or
• if you are a tourist, you will go through an E-gate kiosk where you will scan your passport and self-register your entry. You will receive a receipt and have 60 days to download your e-tourist card

If you enter Mexico by land:

You must present a completed tourist card unless you stay in Mexico for less than 72 hours within the northern border zone. You can complete the tourist card form online before your arrival. However, you must print the form and present it to the migration official at the port of entry. You can also obtain a tourist card at the immigration office located at the border.

If you don’t obtain a tourist card upon arrival, you may face:

You should keep your tourist card with you at all times as proof of your legal stay in Mexico. You may be asked to show it to Mexican officials when exiting the country or if you are stopped at an immigration checkpoint. If you are unable to show your tourist card or digital tourist card upon departure, you will have to pay for a replacement.

• Portal access for digital tourist card  – Government of Mexico
• Multiple Immigration Form  – Government of Mexico

Length of stay

An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico and note it:

• on your tourist card if you’re entering by land 
• in your passport if you’re entering by air

You may not automatically be allowed to stay in Mexico for a maximum period of 180 days. If you're seeking the maximum number of days, you may be required to:

• explain the purpose of your trip to the immigration official
• provide details about your trip (accommodations, funds, return flight, etc.)
• provide a letter of invitation, if staying in someone’s home

You won’t be able to request an extension or change the condition of your stay from inside the country.

Tourism tax

Most visitors must pay a tourism tax.

This tax is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road or sea will have to pay this tax at a bank following entry. The bank receipt must be attached to the tourist card for submission at departure.

You don't have to pay this tax if:

• you're entering by land for tourism purposes, and your stay will not exceed 7 days
• you're travelling to the northern border zone for less than 72 hours
• you're travelling to Mexico on a cruise ship

Other entry requirements

Immigration officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay
• proof of accommodations

Mexico has a list of tax-exempt items you can include in your luggage. If you exceed the allowed limits, you will be required to pay an expensive tax and your items may be confiscated. Customs officials pay particular attention to electronic devices, alcohol, and cigarettes. Make sure you carefully read the list of tax-exempt items before travelling to Mexico.

Items you can include in your luggage – Mexico’s National Customs Agency

Dual citizenship

If you enter and leave Mexico as a dual citizen, you must identify yourself as a Mexican citizen and carry valid passports for both countries.

Laws about dual citizenship

Criminal records

Canadians with a criminal record or a warrant for arrest may be refused entry and returned to Canada or to a third country on the next available flight.

• Children and travel

To leave Mexico, children under 18 who are a citizen or resident of Mexico must carry:

• a Mexican Minor Travel Consent Form; or
• a notarized consent form if travelling without a legal guardian
• Mexican minor travel consent form – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 26 August, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Salmonellosis is a common illness among travellers to this country. It can be spread through contaminated food or beverages, such as raw or undercooked poultry and eggs, as well as fruits or vegetables.

Practice safe food and water precautions . This includes only eating food that is properly cooked and still hot when served.

Pregnant women, children under 5 years of age, those over 60 years of age, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.

Cases of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella have been reported among Canadian travellers returning from Mexico. These strains of Salmonella do not respond to some of the recommended antibiotics if treatment is needed.

Most people recover on their own without medical treatment and from proper rehydration (drinking lots of fluids).

• Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Travellers with severe symptoms should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

American trypanosomiasis (Chagas disease)   is a risk in this country. It is caused by a parasite spread by infected triatomine bugs. The infection can be inactive for decades, but humans can eventually develop complications causing disability and even death.

Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from triatomine bugs, which are active at night, by using mosquito nets if staying in poorly-constructed housing. There is no vaccine available for Chagas disease.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

The quality of care varies greatly throughout the country. Good health care is available in private hospitals and clinics in major cities, but health care services are limited in rural areas.

Health care from private hospitals and clinics is generally expensive. Most private facilities don’t deal directly with medical insurance companies and will require payment with a credit card in advance or a bank transfer/direct deposit.

Mental health services are extremely limited in Mexico, particularly outside of Mexico City. Services and treatment standards may differ substantially from those in Canada.

Most healthcare providers speak Spanish.

Emergency and ambulance services are widely available. Response times vary widely depending on traffic and availability of services and may be slow in rural areas.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive, and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Contaminated beaches

Storm run-off, sewage or oil may affect the water quality at some beaches. Water can contain bacteria, parasites and viruses and cause illness.

• Avoid swimming in polluted water
• Avoid swallowing water while swimming

Medical tourism

Canadian travellers have had serious health complications following cosmetic or other elective surgeries abroad.

Before leaving for medical travel, you should do your research, considering:

• the health and financial risks
• the medical facility
• language barriers
• travel insurance coverage

You should discuss your medical plans with your primary healthcare provider in Canada before travelling. Most provincial and territorial health care programs are extremely limited in their coverage offered abroad.

• Ensure that the healthcare providers you choose are authorized by the Mexican health authorities
• Ask to see the credentials of the healthcare providers
• Obtain a written agreement detailing the proposed treatment or procedure
• Travelling outside Canada to receive medical care
• If you become sick or injured while travelling outside Canada or after your return
• Medical tourism  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Some prescription medications may not be available in Mexico.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in Mexico. 

• Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
• Always keep your medication in the original container
• Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
• Carry a copy of your prescriptions

Medication cannot be sent to Mexico from Canada via courier services.

Many types of medication, both over the counter and prescription, are readily available with little oversight. Counterfeit medication is common in certain parts of Mexico.

If you purchase medication in Mexico:

• obtain a local prescription
• exercise caution
• purchase from a reputable location

Air quality

You may experience health problems caused by air pollution in major cities. In Mexico City, air pollution peaks between December to March.

Consult your doctor before booking your trip if you have lung, heart or respiratory problems.

Altitude sickness

Mexico City is 2240 metres above sea level. In some parts of the country, you may experience health problems due to high altitudes.

Altitude sickness can be life-threatening. It may require immediate medical evacuation.

• Know about the symptoms of altitude sickness
• Find out how to prevent or reduce the effects of altitude sickness

Death abroad

If you plan to retire or spend long periods of time in Mexico, or travel there for medical procedures, you should:

• share your plans or wishes with relatives
• make sure important documents can easily be located
• make arrangements in case of your death while in the country
• What if I Die in Mexico?
• Death outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences.

Foreign nationals are often held in pre-trial detention and there can be lengthy delays before a trial.

Police may detain you for up to 72 hours for many petty crimes including:

• failure to pay a bill
• disorderly behaviour

Detention conditions are below the standards of Canadian prisons.

• The Mexican criminal law system
• Arrest and detention

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Mexico are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Mexico to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Mexican authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy prison sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Imports and exports

The Mexican government enforces strict laws on the possession, importation and trafficking of firearms and ammunition.

Anyone entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to imprisonment.

It is illegal to enter the country with knives with blades longer than 6cm.

Vehicles and boats

Mexico has very strict rules on importing foreign vehicles and boats.

You must enter Mexico with the proper import permit and insurance since it cannot be obtained once you are in Mexico. If you fail to provide the proper permit and insurance, you could:

• face a fine
• have your vehicle seized

You must present a paper document of your vehicle registration to obtain a vehicle importation permit from Mexican authorities. If you present a digital document of your vehicle registration, your vehicle may be refused entry into Mexico.

• Importing foreign vehicles  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Temporary vehicle import application system  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Travelling to Mexico by land  – Embassy of Mexico in Canada

Cigarettes and alcohol 

If you are over 18, you can bring into Mexico up to: 

• 10 packs of cigarettes 
• 25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco 
• 3 litres of alcohol 
• 6 litres of wine 

If you bring more than the allowed quantities, even if you declare or hand them over to authorities, you will have to pay a hefty import tax.

It’s illegal to remove archaeological artifacts or to export such items from Mexico.

• What is included in your luggage?  – Government of Mexico
• Restricted goods  – Government of Mexico

Smoking and vaping 

Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all public places except for clearly marked designated smoking areas. This includes the following places: 

• beaches 
• hotels 
• markets 
• parks 
• restaurants 

You may be fined or arrested if you’re caught smoking in public. 

Electronic cigarettes

It’s illegal to bring, sell or distribute:

• electronic cigarettes 
• vaping devices 
• vaping solutions 

Customs officials could confiscate these items if you have them in your possession upon arrival. You could also be fined or detained. 

Merchandise that you cannot bring into Mexico – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Mexico.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Mexico, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Mexico.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Mexico, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Mexican court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Mexico to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Identification

Authorities may request to see your identification at any time, including your, tourist card or proof of your legal status in Mexico. Carry your original identification at all times.

Identity documents

The names on your identification must match those on your birth certificate to obtain official Mexican documents, including:

• marriage certificates
• immigration documents

Middle names are often not included in Canadian identity documents. This has caused significant difficulties for many Canadians planning to move to Mexico or dealing with the Mexican Civil Registry. Obtain a Canadian passport that will meet Mexican requirements prior to applying for residency.

Investments

Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated. Disputes related to property acquisition or other investments are costly and take time to resolve.

If you plan to buy property or make other investments in Mexico:

• seek legal advice in Canada and in Mexico before making commitments
• choose your own lawyer
• avoid hiring a lawyer recommended by a seller

Rental accommodations

Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government.

If you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement, you must obtain the services of a local lawyer.

You should carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

Auto insurance

Mexican liability insurance is mandatory. Canadian automobile insurance is not valid in Mexico.

You can obtain insurance at the Mexican border. You should obtain full coverage, including coverage for legal assistance.

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, you may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. If you don’t have Mexican liability insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. If you’re found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of an accident, or if you don’t have a valid driver’s licence, your insurance will be considered invalid.

You could be taken into custody and have your vehicle seized until responsibility for the accident is determined and all fines are paid. You must report any accident you’re involved to the police.

Criminals may deliberately cause traffic accidents and threaten you with violence in order to make insurance claims or request cash from the other party.

Driving restrictions in Mexico City

To reduce air pollution, the Hoy No Circula (No Driving Today) program restricts some cars from driving in Mexico City from Monday to Saturday between 5 am to 10 pm.

Additional driving restrictions apply between February and June when pollution levels are high.

You will face driving restrictions depending on:

• the last digit of your license plate
• where your license plate was issued
• your car’s emission sticker

Hoy No Circula program is strictly enforced. You may face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of your vehicle if you don’t comply. Consult the Hoy No Circula calendar before driving.

Electric and hybrid cars are exempted from these restrictions. Gas-fueled cars of a 2008 model or later may obtain a tourist pass valid for selected drive days.

• Driving restrictions calendar for Mexico City  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Tourist pass  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Ministry of Environment  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Buying or selling a vehicle

You can only buy a car in Mexico if you are a temporary or permanent resident.

Selling your imported vehicle is illegal in Mexico and is subject to penalties including:

• car seizure
• deportation

The currency of Mexico is the Mexican peso (MXN).

You must declare upon arrival and departure if you carry more than $10,000 USD or equivalent in other currencies in:

• money orders
• any other receivable document 

Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

There is a limit to the amount of U.S. dollars that residents and foreigners can exchange in Mexico, depending on your immigration status. The rule doesn’t apply to Canadian dollars, but some financial institutions, hotels and currency exchange bureaus don’t make the distinction.

Money declaration – Government of Mexico

Mexico is subject to various natural disasters, which can occur at any time.

In the event of a natural disaster:

• monitor local news to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Secretary of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection  – Government of Mexico City (in Spanish)
• Get prepared

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Mexico. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities
• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center

Severe heat waves occur during the hot season, from April to May in the south, and from July to September along the Pacific Coast.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Sun and heat safety tips for travellers

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides, especially between June and November. They can hamper overland travel, especially in rural areas. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

Landslides — Get Prepared

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone and there is a risk of earthquakes, aftershocks and landslides.

Earthquakes occur, particularly in Mexico City and the following states:

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of a tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

• Latest earthquakes  - U.S. Geological Survey
• Tsunami alerts  - U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Forest fires

Forest fires may occur, particularly during the dry season from:

• January to June in the centre, north, northeast, south and southeast
• May to September in the northwest

The air quality in areas near active fires may deteriorate due to heavy smoke.

In case of a major fire:

• stay away from the affected area, particularly if you suffer from respiratory ailments

Daily report on wildfires  – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)

Mexican authorities are closely monitoring multiple active volcanoes including:

• Popocatepetl

Access to national parks in these areas could be restricted at any time without notice.

Eruptions could occur at any time. They sometimes lead to short-notice evacuations of surrounding areas, and ash clouds may also disrupt domestic and international flights.

Exposure to falling ash and toxic fumes from active volcanoes can affect your health.

If you are planning to travel near active volcanoes:

• consult a physician in advance to determine associated health risks if you suffer from respiratory ailments
• familiarize yourself with local emergency plans
• avoid restricted areas
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice

In the event of a volcanic eruption:

• Popocatepetl volcano updates – Government of Mexico (in Spanish)
• Colima Volcano  – University of Colima (in Spanish)

Local services

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Roadside assistance

The Angeles Verdes is a highway patrol service that provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can download the App on your mobile device.

In case of an emergency, you can also dial 078 or 800 006 8839 (toll-free in Mexico) to reach them.

Consular assistance

Aguascalientes, Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de Mexico, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Morelos, Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luís Potosí, Tabasco, Tamaulipas, Tlaxcala, Veracruz, Zacatecas.

Campeche, Yucatán, and Quintana Roo north of the municipality of Solidaridad, including Puerto Morelos, Isla Mujeres and Holbox

Baja California, Sonora

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Mexico, in Mexico City, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

The Ultimate Guide to Oaxaca, Mexico (Things to Do 2023)

Ready to explore Mexico’s enchanting city of Oaxaca? This is your guide to planning the best things to do while visiting Oaxaca.

Oaxaca has long been on my list of places to visit in Mexico. And with this year dedicated to exploring all that Mexico has to offer, like this remote surfing town , the jewel box town of San Miguel de Allende , and this Yucatan treasure , I was more than eager to get to Oaxaca.

I had the chance to explore Oaxaca with El Camino Travel, a curated group trip company. I led a 6-day tour with 12 women, all with the help of El Camino Travel. Their ability to find the best local things to do, connect with artisans, and give an incredible travel experience made our trip to Oaxaca amazing ( and completely unrepeatable ). So I can’t say better things than to book that El Camino Travel group trip — check out my IG highlights on Oaxaca for more.

I came in a night early into Oaxaca before the group trip and took two days to explore the city on my own. Throughout the El Camino trip, we also had ample free time to explore, so my guide is for all of the wonderful things I discovered while there.

Read on to find the best things to do while visiting Oaxaca — from the arts, and coffee shops, to memorable dining, Oaxaca has it all.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Oaxaca:

• Pug Seal ,  for the best design hotel
• Grana B&B ,  for the best design for dollar hotel
• Hotel Escondido ,  for the best luxury hotel
• Casa Antoineta , for the best romantic stay

Things to Do

• Visit the petrified pools of Hierve el Agua

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

For all international trips, I recommend having reliable travel insurance. I like to use World Nomads .

The Ultimate Guide to Oaxaca, Mexico

What to know about visiting oaxaca, mexico.

How to Get to Oaxaca, Yucatan?

You can get to Oaxaca, Mexico, by flying into Oaxaca’s Xoxocotlán International Airport (IATA: OAX) from major Mexican cities like Mexico City, Cancún, or Guadalajara. There are direct flights from the US from airports like Dallas Ft. Worth and Los Angeles.

Once you arrive in Oaxaca, it’s best to take a taxi or pre-book a private transfer into the city center (around 25 minutes.). On arrival, once you clear customs, there is a taxi stand inside the airport where you prepay. There are two options: collectivo and private. Collectivo means a group transfer. It’s cheaper but you will have multiple stops (around 140 pesos).

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Oaxaca?

The best time to visit Oaxaca, Mexico, is generally during the dry season, which spans from late October to early May. This period offers pleasant weather with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding attractions. However, be aware that Oaxaca can get crowded during major festivals like Dia de los Muertos (late October to early November) and Semana Santa (Holy Week, typically in March or April), so plan your trip accordingly if you want to experience these cultural events.

How Do I Get Around Oaxaca?

Oaxaca’s city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city’s attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.

For longer distances, taxis are a convenient way to get around Oaxaca, especially for reaching destinations outside the city center. You can find taxis at designated stands or hail them on the street. It’s a good idea to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey or make sure they use the meter. You will need cash for almost all taxis.

Do I Need a Rental Car in Oaxaca?

For visiting the city of Oaxaca itself, you do not need a rental car. If you plan to do a day trip to nearby sights without a hired guide/transfer, this is where a rental car may be handy. You could allot a few days of your trip with a rental car if you wanted to.

Rental Car Tip: I use Discover Cars for my rental cars in Mexico, choose full coverage insurance as required my Mexico, and opt for trusted companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt. Renting a car and driving in Mexico is quite easy. Book your car with Discover Cars here .

Is Oaxaca Safe?

In general, Oaxaca is considered one of the safest destinations in Mexico. I had several afternoons and evenings out solo and felt comfortable. Should you practice common sense when traveling? Absolutely. Consider where you go, when, and whether or not it’s best to be solo or with a group when traveling anywhere in the world.

Currency, Language, and Health

The local currency is Mexican pesos, which you could pull out prior to arrival or on arrival at a local ATM. You will need cash for smaller stores, food stalls, and markets. Credit cards are widely accepted at large institutions.

The local language is Spanish, and I always recommend having a handful of useful, everyday phrases to refer to if need be.

Is it Safe to Drink the Tap Water in Oaxaca?

It is not safe to drink tap water in Oaxaca. Stick only to bottled water and reliable sources.

Where to Stay in Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca has a vibrant selection of boutique hotels, design-worthy vacation rentals, and haciendas. Check out  the full list of my favorite hotels in Oaxaca  for more!

Where I Stayed: Grana B&B

While there are many incredible hotels to choose from, I went with Grana B&B for my one solo night in Oaxaca before joining the group trip. Its central location, chic design, and included breakfast were a few reasons I had chosen this hotel. The rates are some of the best in comparison to other design hotels in Oaxaca, making it a reasonable place to stay in terms of price. The central courtyard and even complimentary rooftop yoga classes are a wonderful addition to the stay. Book the best rates here .

Other Hotels in Oaxaca to Consider

Though I only had time for one hotel stay, I always have a few favorites on my radar:

Where to Eat in Oaxaca

Oaxaca is home to incredible food. It’s truly one of the best “culinary” destinations in Mexico with a strong cultural presence in their ingredients and cuisine. I’d recommend a mix of experiences — street food and fine dining. It’s a beautiful blend of many types of food in Oaxaca. Do know that in high season, reservations are highly recommended.

Levadura de Olla Restaurante

Levadura de Olla was one of my favorite meals in town, I came in solo for lunch. Have to try their tomato salad and any of their entrees are wonderful. One other unique drink to try here is the “tepache” or fermented pineapple beer.

Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante

One of the better fine dining experiences in town. Casa Oaxaca has stunning views of the church and if you can reserve a rooftop, try to! Loved all of the food, the bean soup was a personal favorite.

Chef Enrique Olvera, known for his Michelin-star cuisine, opened up Criollo . On the World’s 50 Best Restuarant lists, this prix-fixe menu pays homage to Oaxacan cuisine. The setting is stunning, do reserve in advance.

Los Danzantes

I’m 50/50 on what I ate here but want to include it nonetheless as many love Los Danzantes . I liked most of my meal, it’s more elevated dining, and the setting is tucked away off the street. I walked in without a reservation, I think having one would have changed the experience for me.

Sabina Sabe

Sabina Sabe is such a gem, it’s a mezcal bar with tons of small plates. Also listed on North America’s Best Bars, I came in for a late lunch. The pork tacos here are a must!

Amá Terraza

Set above Casa Antoineta , Amá Terraza is a lovely rooftop bar for small plates and natural wine. You could likely just walk in, and lunch is also popular here.

Selva Oaxaca Cocktail Bar

On North America’s 50 Best Bars list, I’d recommend popping into Selva at least once for a cocktail. Their innovative menu is so fun and the server will help you choose the best one for you. I did the house cocktail, which was more savory than sweet!

Tacos de Comal Plaza Del Carmen

A total classic street food cart in town, definitely come by Tacos Del Carmen for late breakfast or lunch.

Pan Con Madre

There are many pastry shops in Oaxaca, but Pan Con Madre was my favorite for both pastries and coffee. I ended up taking some for takeaway as I couldn’t decide.

One of the more popular bakeries and restaurants in town, I popped into Boulenc twice while in Oaxaca for a bite. On my final morning, I had a sit-down breakfast, the food was delicious.

Other Restaurants on My List

While I can’t eat everywhere, I always have an ongoing list of places. Those included:

• La Cocina de Humo
• Lechoncito de Oro

My Favorite Coffee Shops in Oaxaca

• Muss Cafe at Casa Antoineta
• LIA Café at Hotel Principal
• Cafe Blasón
• Cafe “El Volador”
• Onnno Loncheria
• Masea Trigo y Maiz

Things to Do in Oaxaca

Explore the downtown.

On arrival, one of the best things to do in Oaxaca is to walk downtown. Many small plazas and the Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) are bustling with city life. You really can’t go wrong with a leisurely stroll starting from the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán down into Centro.

Visit the Many Museums

Oaxaca is packed with culture and history, with several different museums on offer. My favorite one was the Museum of Cultures of Oaxaca, Santo Domingo (open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Friday), housing archaeological artifacts, an ancient library, and cloisters. I’d block out 2 hours to see this one as there is a lot to take in.

Another favorite was the free Museo Textil de Oaxaca (open daily from 10 or 11 a.m. until 6 or 8 p.m.), which houses textiles from the region.

Museo De La Filatelia is another must-visit museum that houses surrealist art and a beautiful patio (open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.).

Try Ancestral Hot Chocolate at Rito Chocolatería

Oaxaca is known for its artisanal hot chocolate that comes from hundreds of generations ago. Often referred to as ancestral hot chocolate, Rito Chocolatería is the spot to go in and try it. You can also pop in and buy chocolates to bring home.

Taste Mezcal

You’re in the mezcal capital of Mexico, so what better place to try mezcal? While you can certainly visit a mezcal distillery, one way to enjoy it is by stopping at one of the many mezcal bars in Oaxaca. My three choices are Selva , Sabina Sabe , and Mezcalería In Situ . For those looking to do a sit-down tasting, La Mezcaloteca was recommended (reservations required).

There is no end in sight when it comes to shopping. I went to over a dozen stores during my time exploring Oaxaca. I found some of the “mercados” to feel not super authentic, so I ended up returning to a few stores to purchase more. My favorite find of the trip was LIA Café , a coffee shop and curated store. I went in 4 separate times because each time new items kept arriving in the store.

Another favorite for ceramics was Cooperativa 1050º , so many goodies here and don’t forget the second floor. For custom hats, do stop into Sombreros Alberly Premium , these hats are amazing. Another store is Marchanta , a great collection of Mexican designers, but quite expensive in price.

Peruse and Eat in the Markets

Oaxaca City has several markets to peruse through, many housing small restaurants and food carts. Mercado Benito Juárez is the biggest, and well worth a visit. Afterward, you’re right next to Mercado 20 de Noviembre , another fresh food market with stalls of local street food.

Visit Hierve el Agua

Taking a day trip to Hierve el Agua is a must when visiting Oaxaca. About 1.5 hours away, you can either rent your own car or join a tour that takes you out there. I’d highly suggest getting out as early as possible as once it reaches a maximum capacity of 200 people, it closes off. The scenic petrified waterfalls and cool spring pools are set high in the mountains.

You can also dip in the springs and go hiking in that area. A few recommended guided Hierve el Agua tours from Oaxaca are this full-day tour or this full-day tour.

Looking to Explore More of Mexico?

See  why Sayulita is a fun-filled adventure Explore  Mexico’s most beautiful city: San Miguel de Allende Dive deep into  Mexico City’s design and food scene

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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

I use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

I use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

I use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Rental Car

Self-driving is the best way to explore most destinations. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, select full coverage insurance, and opt for a reputable company like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

I use Priority Pass to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

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Mexico Travel Advisory

Travel advisory september 6, 2024, mexico - see state summaries.

Reissued after periodic review with updates for Chiapas, and Durango.

Country Summary:  Violent crime – such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery – is widespread and common in Mexico. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted. In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.

U.S. citizens are advised to adhere to restrictions on U.S. government employee travel. State-specific restrictions are included in the individual state advisories below. U.S. government employees may not travel between cities after dark, may not hail taxis on the street, and must rely on dispatched vehicles, including app-based services like Uber, and regulated taxi stands. U.S. government employees should avoid traveling alone, especially in remote areas. U.S. government employees may not drive from the U.S.-Mexico border to or from the interior of Mexico, except daytime travel within Baja California and between Nogales and Hermosillo on Mexican Federal Highway 15D, between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey on Highway 85D and between Ciudad Juarez and interior cities as noted in the Chihuahua section. Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Mexico.

Do Not Travel To:

• Colima state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guerrero state  due to  crime .
• Michoacan state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sinaloa state due to  crime  and  kidnapping
• Tamaulipas state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping.
• Zacatecas  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Reconsider Travel To:

• Baja California  state due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Chiapas state  due to  crime .
• Chihuahua state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Guanajuato state  due to  crime .
• Jalisco state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Morelos state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Sonora state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To:

• Aguascalientes  state due to  crime .
• Baja California Sur state  due to  crime .
• Coahuila state  due to  crime .
• Durango state  due to  crime .
• Hidalgo state  due to  crime .
• Mexico City  due to  crime .
• Mexico State  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Nayarit state  due to  crime .
• Nuevo Leon  state due to  crime .
• Oaxaca state  due to  crime .
• Puebla state  due to  crime  and  kidnapping .
• Queretaro state  due to  crime .
• Quintana Roo state  due to  crime .
• San Luis Potosi state  due to  crime and kidnapping .
• Tabasco state  due to  crime .
• Tlaxcala state due to  crime .
• Veracruz state  due to  crime .

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To:

• Campeche state
• Yucatan state

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

If you decide to travel to Mexico:

• Keep traveling companions and family back home informed of your travel plans. If separating from your travel group, send a friend your GPS location. If taking a taxi alone, take a photo of the taxi number and/or license plate and text it to a friend.
• Use toll roads when possible and avoid driving alone or at night. In many states, police presence and emergency services are extremely limited outside the state capital or major cities.
• Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  X/Twitter .
• Follow the U.S. Embassy on Facebook and X/Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Mexico.
• Mariners planning travel to Mexico should check for U.S. maritime  advisories  and  alerts , which include instructions on reporting suspicious activities and attacks to Mexican naval authorities.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest travel health information related to your travel. 

Aguascalientes state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Aguascalientes state.

Baja California state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Transnational criminal organizations compete in the border area to establish narco-trafficking and human smuggling routes. Violent crime and gang activity are common. Travelers should remain on main highways and avoid remote locations. Of particular concern is the high number of homicides in the non-tourist areas of Tijuana. Most homicides appeared to be targeted; however, criminal organization assassinations and territorial disputes can result in bystanders being injured or killed. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employees must adhere to the noted restrictions:

• Mexicali Valley:  U.S. government employees should avoid the Mexicali Valley due to the heightened possibility of violence between rival cartel factions.  The boundaries of the restricted area are: to the east, the Baja California/Arizona and Baja California/Sonora borders; to the south, from La Ventana (on Highway 5) due east to the Colorado River; to the west, Highway 5; and to the north, Boulevard Lazaro Cardenas/Highway 92/Highway 1 to Carretera Aeropuerto, from the intersection of Highway 1 and Carretera Aeropuerto due north to the Baja California/California border, and from that point eastward along the Baja California/California border.
• Travelers may use Highways 2 and 2D to transit between Mexicali, Los Algodones, and San Luis Rio Colorado during daylight hours. Travelers may also use Highways 1 and 8 to transit to and from the Mexicali Airport during daylight hours.  Travel on Highway 5 is permissible during daylight hours.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other travel restrictions for U.S. government employees in Baja California state. These include high-traffic tourism areas of border and coastal communities, such as  Tijuana ,  Ensenada , and  Rosarito .

Baja California Sur state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Baja California Sur state.

Campeche state – Exercise Normal Precautions

Exercise normal precautions.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Campeche state.

Chiapas state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime.

U.S. government employees may not travel to the municipality of Ocozocoautla and to the following restricted areas in the southeastern region. All areas within the boundaries, including highway and roads unless specifically exempted, are restricted. East-Northeast Boundary: the eastern boundary follows the Mexican-Guatemalan border from the southern point on the Pacific coast, along the border, to the northern end point east of Netzahualcóyotl. Northern Boundary: from Netzahualcóyotl in a straight line southwest towards the northern limit of Ocosingo. Western Boundary: from Ocosingo in a straight-line south to El Ocote, from El Ocote in a straight-line west to San Francisco Pujiltic, from San Franciso Pujiltic southwest to just north of Mapastepec. South-Southwest Boundary: Highway 200 from Mapastepec to Tapachula. All towns along this highway are not restricted. The area to the north of highway 200 defines the southern boundary of the restricted area. From Tapachula, the restricted area boundary is north and east of the city limits and then extends southeast to the Pacific coast at Tres Hermanos San Isidro.

 U.S. government employees may travel to Tapachula within the city limits and on Highway 225, from Port Chiapas to Tapachula, including the Tapachula Airport.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas

Chihuahua state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Battles for territory between criminal groups have resulted in violent crime in areas frequented by U.S. citizens and U.S. government employees, including restaurants and malls during daylight hours. Bystanders have been injured or killed in shooting incidents. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

U.S. government employee travel is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Ciudad Juarez:  U.S. government employees may travel to the area of Ciudad Juarez bounded to the east by Bulevar Independencia; to the south by De los Montes Urales/Avenida Manuel J Clouthier/Carretera de Juárez; to the west by Via Juan Gabriel/Avenida de los Insurgentes/Calle Miguel Ahumada/Francisco Javier Mina/Melchor Ocampo; and to the north by the U.S.-Mexico border.  Direct travel to the Ciudad Juarez airport (officially called the Abraham González International Airport) and the factories located along Bulevar Independencia and Las Torres is permitted.  Travel to San Jerónimo is permitted only through the United States via the Santa Teresa U.S. Port of Entry; travel via Anapra is prohibited.

U.S. government employees may only travel from Ciudad Juarez to the city of Chihuahua during daylight hours via Federal Highway 45, with stops permitted only at the Guardia Nacional División Caminos station, the Umbral del Milenio overlook area, the border inspection station at KM 35, and the shops and restaurants on Federal Highway 45 in the city of Ahumada.

• U.S. government employees may travel between Ciudad Juarez and Ascension via Highway 2.
• Nuevo Casas Grandes Area (including Nuevo Casas Grandes, Casas Grandes, Mata Ortiz, Colonia Juárez, Colonia LeBaron, Paquimé and San Buenaventura):  U.S. government employees may travel to the Nuevo Casas Grandes area during daylight hours via Mexico Federal Highway 2, and subsequently Federal Highway 10, to Nuevo Casas Grandes.  Employees are permitted to stay overnight in the cities of Nuevo Casas Grandes and Casas Grandes only.
• City of Chihuahua:  U.S. government employees may travel at any time to the area of the city of Chihuahua bounded to the north by Avenida Transformación; to the east by Avenida Tecnológico/Manuel Gómez Morín/Highway 16/Blvd.José Fuentes Mares; to the west by the city boundary; and to the south by Periférico Francisco R. Almada.
• U.S. government employees may travel on Highways 45, 16, and 45D through the city of Chihuahua and to the Chihuahua airport (officially called the General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport). 
• U.S. government employees may travel to Santa Eulalia to the east of the city of Chihuahua, as well as to Juan Aldama via Highway 16 to the northeast.
• U.S. government employees may travel south of the city of Chihuahua on Highway 45 to the southern boundary of Parral, including each town directly connected to Highway 45, including Lázaro Cárdenas, Pedro Meoqui, Santa Cruz de Rosales, Delicias, Camargo, Ciudad Jiménez, and Parral itself.
• U.S. government employees may only travel on official business from the city of Chihuahua on Highway 16 to Ciudad Cuauhtémoc bounded by Highway 21 to the north and east, Highway 5 to the west, and Bulevar Jorge Castillo Cabrera to the south. 
• Ojinaga:  U.S. government employees must travel to Ojinaga via U.S. Highway 67 and enter through the U.S. Port of Entry in Presidio, Texas.
• Palomas:  U.S. government employees may travel to Palomas via U.S. highways through the U.S. Port of Entry in Columbus, New Mexico, or via Highway 2 in Mexico.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Chihuahua, including  Copper Canyon .

Coahuila state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur in parts of Coahuila state. 

U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Zaragoza, Morelos, Allende, Nava, Jimenez, Villa Union, Guerrero, and Hidalgo municipalities : U.S. government employees may not travel to these municipalities.
• Piedras Negras and Ciudad Acuña:  U.S. government employees must travel directly from the United States and observe a curfew from midnight to 6:00 a.m. in both cities.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Coahuila state.

Colima state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.  

Violent crime and gang activity are widespread. Most homicides are targeted assassinations against members of criminal organizations. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.  

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with noted restrictions: 

• Manzanillo:   U.S. government employee travel is limited to the tourist and port areas of Manzanillo.  
• Employees traveling to Manzanillo from Guadalajara must use Federal Toll Road 54D during daylight hours.  

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Colima state. 

Durango state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Durango state.

• West and south of Federal Highway 45:  U.S. government employees may not travel to this region of Durango state.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Durango state.

Guanajuato state – Reconsider Travel

Gang violence, often associated with the theft of petroleum and natural gas from the state oil company and other suppliers, occurs in Guanajuato, primarily in the south and central areas of the state. Of particular concern is the high number of murders in the southern region of the state associated with cartel-related violence. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Areas south of Federal Highway 45D:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area south of and including Federal Highway 45D, Celaya, Salamanca, and Irapuato.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Guanajuato state, which includes tourist areas in:  San Miguel de Allende ,  Guanajuato City , and  surrounding areas.

Guerrero state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime.

Crime and violence are widespread. Armed groups operate independently of the government in many areas of Guerrero. Members of these groups frequently maintain roadblocks and may use violence towards travelers. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping in previous years.

U.S. government employees may not travel to any area in the state of Guerrero, including to tourist areas in  Acapulco ,  Zihuatanejo , Taxco , and  Ixtapa .

Hidalgo state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Hidalgo state.

Jalisco state – Reconsider Travel

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Jalisco state. In Guadalajara, territorial battles between criminal groups take place in tourist areas. Shooting incidents between criminal groups have injured or killed innocent bystanders. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Jalisco-Michoacan border and Federal Highway 110:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area between Federal Highway 110 and the Jalisco-Michoacan border, nor travel on Federal Highway 110 between Tuxpan, Jalisco, and the Michoacan border.
• Federal Highway 80:  U.S. government employees may not travel on Federal Highway 80 south of Cocula.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no other restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Jalisco state which includes tourist areas in:  Guadalajara Metropolitan Area ,  Puerto Vallarta (including neighboring Riviera Nayarit) ,  Chapala , and  Ajijic .

Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico City. Use additional caution, particularly at night, outside of the frequented tourist areas where police and security patrol more routinely. Petty crime occurs frequently in both tourist and non-tourist areas.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico City.

Mexico State (Estado de Mexico) – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Both violent and non-violent crime occur throughout Mexico State. Use additional caution in areas outside of the frequented tourist areas, although petty crime occurs frequently in tourist areas as well. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Mexico State.

Michoacan state – Do Not Travel

Do not travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Crime and violence are widespread in Michoacan state. Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Federal Highway 15D:   U.S. government employees may travel on Federal Highway 15D to transit the state between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
• Morelia:  U.S. government employees may travel by air and by land using Federal Highways 43 or 48D from Federal Highway 15D.
• Lazaro Cardenas:  U.S. government employees must travel by air only and limit activities to the city center or port areas.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of the state of Michoacan, including the portions of the  Monarch Butterfly Reserve  located in Michoacan.

Morelos state – Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel due to crime and kidnapping.

Violent crime and gang activity are common in parts of Morelos state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Morelos state.

Nayarit state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout Nayarit state.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S government employees in Nayarit state.

Nuevo Leon state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Nuevo Leon state.

Oaxaca state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence occur throughout the state.

U.S. travelers are reminded that U.S. government employees must adhere to the following travel restrictions:

• Isthmus region:  U.S. government employees may not travel to the area of Oaxaca bounded by Federal Highway 185D to the west, Federal Highway 190 to the north, and the Oaxaca-Chiapas border to the east.  This includes the cities of Juchitan de Zaragoza, Salina Cruz, and San Blas Atempa.  
• Federal Highway 200 northwest of Pinotepa:  U.S. government employees may not use Federal Highway 200 between Pinotepa and the Oaxaca-Guerrero border.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees to other parts of Oaxaca state, which include tourist areas in:  Oaxaca City ,  Monte Alban ,  Puerto Escondido,  and  Huatulco .

Puebla state – Exercise Increased Caution

Exercise increased caution due to crime and kidnapping.

Criminal activity and violence may occur throughout the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Puebla state.

Queretaro state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Queretaro state.

Quintana Roo state – Exercise Increased Caution

Criminal activity and violence may occur in any location, at any time, including in popular tourist destinations. While not directed at tourists, shootings between rival gangs have injured and killed innocent bystanders, including U.S. citizens. Violent crime, including homicides and assaults, has increased in Tulum.

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Quintana Roo state. Exercise increased caution after dark in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum and remain in well-lit pedestrian streets and tourist zones.

San Luis Potosi state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in San Luis Potosi state.

Sinaloa state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime is widespread. Criminal organizations are based in and operating in Sinaloa.

Travel for U.S. government employees is limited to the following areas with the noted restrictions:

• Mazatlan:  U.S. government employees may travel to Mazatlan by air or sea only, are limited to the Zona Dorada and historic town center, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport and sea terminal.
• Los Mochis and Topolobampo:  U.S. government employees may travel to Los Mochis and Topolobampo by air or sea only, are restricted to the city and the port, and must travel via direct routes between these destinations and the airport.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Sinaloa state.

Sonora state – Reconsider Travel

Sonora is a key location used by the international drug trade and human trafficking networks. Violent crime is widespread. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. Travelers should maintain a heightened level of awareness of their surroundings in all their travels in Sonora.  Security incidents may occur in any area of Sonora.

• Travel between Hermosillo and Nogales:  U.S. government employees may travel between the U.S. Ports of Entry in Nogales and Hermosillo during daylight hours via Federal Highway 15 only. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid unnecessary stops as security incidents, including sporadic, armed carjackings, and shootings have been reported along this highway during daylight hours. Travelers should have a full tank of gas and inform friends or family members of their planned travel.
• Nogales:  U.S. government employees may not travel in the triangular area north of Avenida Tecnologico, west of Bulevar Luis Donaldo Colosio (Periferico), nor east of Federal Highway 15D (Corredor Fiscal). U.S. government employees also may not travel in the residential and business areas to east of the railroad tracks along Plutarco Elias Calle (HWY 15) and Calle Ruiz Cortino, including the business area around the Morley pedestrian gate port-of-entry. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Nogales due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.  
• Puerto Peñasco:  U.S. government employees may travel between Puerto Peñasco and the Lukeville-Sonoyta U.S. Port of Entry during daylight hours via Federal Highway 8 only. They may not travel on any other route to Puerto Peñasco. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in Puerto Peñasco. due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Triangular region near Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry:  U.S. government employees may not travel into or through the triangular region west of the Mariposa U.S. Port of Entry, east of Sonoyta, and north of Altar municipality.
• San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea, and Agua Prieta : U.S. government employees may travel directly from the nearest U.S. Port of Entry to San Luis Rio Colorado, Cananea (via Douglas Port of Entry), and Agua Prieta, but may not go beyond the city limits. Travel is limited to daylight hours only. Travel between Nogales and Cananea via Imuris is not permitted. U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these cities due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.
• Eastern and southern Sonora (including San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos):  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora east of Federal Highway 17, the road between Moctezuma and Sahuaripa, and State Highway 20 between Sahuaripa and the intersection with Federal Highway 16. U.S. government employees may travel to San Carlos Nuevo Guaymas and Alamos; travel to Alamos is only permitted by air and within city limits.  U.S. government employees may not travel to areas of Sonora south of Federal Highway 16 and east of Federal Highway 15 (south of Hermosillo), as well as all points south of Guaymas, including Empalme, Guaymas, Obregon, and Navojoa.  U.S. government employees may not use ANY taxi services, public buses, nor ride-share applications in these areas due to a lack of secure vetting and/or dispatching procedures and the danger of kidnapping and other violent crimes.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may travel to other parts of Sonora state in compliance with the above restrictions, including tourist areas in: Hermosillo , Bahia de Kino , and Puerto Penasco .

Tabasco state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tabasco state.

Tamaulipas state – Do Not Travel

Organized crime activity – including gun battles, murder, armed robbery, carjacking, kidnapping, forced disappearances, extortion, and sexual assault – is common along the northern border and in Ciudad Victoria. Criminal groups target public and private passenger buses, as well as private automobiles traveling through Tamaulipas, often taking passengers and demanding ransom payments.

Heavily armed members of criminal groups often patrol areas of the state and operate with impunity particularly along the border region from Reynosa to Nuevo Laredo. In these areas, local law enforcement has limited capacity to respond to incidents of crime. Law enforcement capacity is greater in the tri-city area of Tampico, Ciudad Madero, and Altamira, which has a lower rate of violent criminal activity compared to the rest of the state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Matamoros and Nuevo Laredo:  U.S. government employees may only travel within a limited radius around and between the U.S. Consulates in Nuevo Laredo and Matamoros, their homes, the respective U.S. Ports of Entry, and limited downtown sites, subject to an overnight curfew.
• Overland travel in Tamaulipas:  U.S. government employees may not travel between cities in Tamaulipas using interior Mexican highways. Travel between Nuevo Laredo and Monterrey is limited to Federal Highway 85D during daylight hours with prior authorization.

To view a map of the restricted areas, visit https://mx.usembassy.gov/maps-of-restricted-areas U.S. government employees may not travel to other parts of Tamaulipas state.

Tlaxcala state – Exercise Increased Caution

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Tlaxcala state.

Veracruz state – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime and gang activity occur with increasing frequency in Veracruz, particularly in the center and south near Cordoba and Coatzacoalcos. While most gang-related violence is targeted, violence perpetrated by criminal organizations can affect bystanders. Impromptu roadblocks requiring payment to pass are common. There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Veracruz state.

Yucatan state – Exercise Normal Precautions

There are no restrictions on travel for U.S. government employees in Yucatan state, which include tourist areas in:  Chichen Itza ,  Merida ,  Uxmal , and  Valladolid .

Zacatecas state – Do Not Travel

Violent crime, extortion, and gang activity are widespread in Zacatecas state. U.S. citizens and LPRs have been victims of kidnapping.

• Zacatecas City : U.S. government employee travel is limited to Zacatecas City proper, and employees may not travel overland to Zacatecas City.
• U.S. government employees may not travel to other areas of Zacatecas state.

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The state of Oaxaca (wah-hah-kah) has a special magic felt by Mexicans and foreigners alike. A bastion of indigenous culture, it’s home to the country’s most vibrant crafts and art scene, some outstandingly colorful and extroverted festivities, a uniquely savory cuisine and diverse natural riches. At the center of the state in every way stands beautiful, colonial Oaxaca city, an elegant and fascinating cultural hub. Nearby, the forested Sierra Norte is home to successful community-tourism ventures enabling visitors to hike, bike and ride horses amid delicious green mountainscapes. To the south, across rugged, remote ranges, is Oaxaca’s fabulous tropical coast, with its wide sandy beaches, pumping Pacific surf, seas full of dolphins and turtles, and a string of beach towns and villages that will placate even the most anxious of travelers: surfer-heaven Puerto Escondido; planned but relaxed Bahías de Huatulco; and the mellow delights of Mazunte, Zipolite and San Agustinillo.

Free Things to Do

Attractions, must-see attractions.

Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca

Oaxaca City

Got two hours? You'll need it for the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, housed in the beautiful monastery buildings adjoining the Templo de Santo Domingo. This…

Playa Zicatela

Puerto Escondido

Legendary 3.5km-long Zicatela is the best-known surfing spot in Mexico courtesy of the tempestuous surfing waves of the Mexican Pipeline. The heart of the…

Playa Zipolite

Zipolite's beach is huge, running for a good 1.5km and dispatching massive waves. It's famous for its nudity; you'll see people randomly swimming,…

Playa Carrizalillo

Small is beautiful at Carrizalillo, set in a sheltered cove west of the center that's reached by a stairway of 157 steps. It’s popular for swimming and…

Playa Salchi

Bahías de Huatulco

Halfway between the western edge of Parque Nacional Huatulco and Puerto Ángel awaits some of the most precious coastline in Oaxaca. The water can be…

Templo de Santo Domingo

Gorgeous Santo Domingo is the most splendid of Oaxaca’s churches, with a finely carved baroque facade and nearly every square centimeter inside decorated…

Punta Cometa

This rocky cape, jutting out from the west end of Mazunte beach, is the southernmost point in the state of Oaxaca and a fabulous place to hike at sunset…

Laguna de Manialtepec

The 6km-long Manialtepec Lagoon, beginning 14km west of Puerto Escondido along Hwy 200, is an essential spot for bird enthusiasts and a fascinating place…

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Oaxaca City Travel Guide

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Oaxaca City, Mexico: At a Glance

Known for its colorful festivals , artisan towns , amazing cuisine and unique history, Oaxaca state is still somewhat off the beaten path, but gaining in popularity each year.

There are two parts to the state — Oaxaca City and the mountain towns (like San Jose del Pacifico ) in the north, and the beaches of Oaxaca on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.

How do you pronounce Oaxaca?

You’re not alone in wondering, How do you say Oaxaca? , as it’s a very common question! The Oaxaca pronunciation is  waa-HA-kah .

Oaxaca City Travel: What to know before you go

The annual Oaxaca Day of the Dead celebration is one of the most fun times to travel to Oaxaca City, Mexico.

• ✈️ Airport: Oaxaca International Airport (code: OAX), also called Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport
• 💰 Currency: Mexican Peso
• 🗣 Language: Spanish, though English is common, and you may even hear some indigenous languages
• ⏰ Time Zone: Central Standard Time (GMT-6)
• 🎫 Mexico Visa: The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Oaxaca — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.
• 🔌 Electricity Socket : You’ll mostly find Type A (two-prong) and Type B (three-prong) — the same as used in the U.S. For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this universal travel adaptor .

oaxaca City guide

Where is oaxaca city located.

Oaxaca state is located in south-central Mexico, between Chiapas state and Guerrero state, and south of Mexico City. The state’s capital Oaxaca City (which is officially named Oaxaca de Juarez, though most people just call it Oaxaca), is located in the center of the state.

Oaxaca Mexico map

What is oaxaca known for.

Oaxaca City is popular with Mexico culture travelers, and is also known as the Foodie Capital of Mexico — so don’t miss out on all the amazing Oaxacan food .

Besides Oaxaca City, travelers also flock to the beaches of Oaxaca on the Mexico Pacific Coast, though the city is about 160 miles (258 km) from the coast, so you can’t do any Oaxaca day trips from the city to the beaches.

Ultimate oaxaca City guide

Oaxaca travel: what’s the best way to get to oaxaca city.

Colorful Downtown Oaxaca City, Oaxaca Mexico.

For Oaxaca City, you’ll want to fly into Oaxaca City International Airport (code: OAX), located about 20 minutes from Centro Historico (Historic Downtown Oaxaca City).

From there, you can book private transportation , a rental car , or take a taxi or colectivo (small, shared van) to your accommodation . 🚗 Note: There is no Uber in Oaxaca state.

Best Way to Get to Oaxaca beaches

On the beaches of Oaxaca, there are two airports; the first is Puerto Escondido International Airport (code: PXM), for those traveling to Puerto Escondido and Chacahua National Park.

The second, Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (code: HUX), is the better option for Huatulco, Mazunte and Zipolite, San Agustinillo and Puerto Angel.

🏝 Traveling from Oaxaca City to the beaches? Check out these detailed guides for Oaxaca City to Puerto Escondido , and Oaxaca City to Huatulco .

• Best Hotels in Oaxaca City

Looking for the best places to stay in Oaxaca City ?

First time visitors will find staying near the Zocalo in  Oaxaca Centro  (Downtown) very convenient because this area is walkable. There’s also the colorful and artsy  Jalatlaco  neighborhood, and  Xochimilco , the most historic neighborhood in Oaxaca .

The hotels you see featured below are in Downtown Oaxaca City, but if you need more options, check out these:

• Best Oaxaca Hotels With Pools
• Best Boutique Hotels in Oaxaca
• Best Oaxaca 5 Star Hotels
• Best Hostels in Oaxaca City

Quinta Real Oaxaca ($$$$)

Quinta Real is the hands-down best hotel in Oaxaca City! With a mix of Old World charm, modern amenities, 5 Star service and ideal location in downtown, there simply is no better place to stay in Oaxaca Mexico.

Hotel City Centro Oaxaca ($$$)

The famous pink Oaxaca hotel is the place to stay, both for comfort and for some of the most Instagram worthy Oaxaca photos. It’s just steps from downtown in the Jalatlaco neighborhood, a trendy area with cool cafés and street wrt.

Selina Oaxaca Hostel ($$)

Selina Oaxaca is located in the heart of Centro Historico (Downtown Oaxaca City), within walking distance of everything. This Oaxaca hostel is a favorite among budget travelers, solo travelers and digital nomads in Oaxaca.

Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City, Mexico

Besides all the mouth-watering  Oaxaca cuisine you’ll want to devour, there’s also plenty of Oaxaca day trips just outside of the city to see the beautiful nature , UNESCO World Heritage Sites, colorful colonial cities, pueblos magicos (magic towns), and more.

Check out some of the Oaxaca sites below, and don’t miss this comprehensive list of the 30 Best Things to Do in Oaxaca City .

Hierve el Agua

Centro Historico

Mitla Ruins

Día de Muertos

Monte Alban

Artisan Towns

Oaxaca Markets

Restaurants

Mezcal Bars

Botanical Garden

El Tule Tree

Best tours in oaxaca city, mexico.

Tours in Oaxaca City are a great way to see the sites — and unless you’re planning to rent a car in Oaxaca, tours are the best way to get around as transportation costs will add up quickly.

If you do want a Oaxaca rental car, check out this guide to Renting a Car in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know .

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists?

According to experts, you are statistically quite safe while visiting Mexico. In fact, Oaxaca consistently ranks as one of the safest states in Mexico, which includes both Oaxaca City and the beaches of Oaxaca on the coast.

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small… When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is  yes . Carlos Barron, 25-year FBI Veteran (source:  Forbes )

That’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Oaxaca; they do.

As with traveling anywhere, follow general travel safety like not walking home alone at night, watching your alcohol consumption and staying aware of yourself and surroundings.

For an added safety measure, pack these  travel safety items , dress in a way so your Mexico outfits blend in with the locals, and buy a Mexico SIM card .

Is Oaxaca safe for solo travelers?

On a personal note, I lived in Oaxaca by myself for four months, and felt quite safe.

Now, this wasn’t magic; I made it a priority to stay safe by not walking home alone at night, never drinking too much, etc. Check out my Mexico Solo Travel Guide for more info on Mexico travel safety for solo female travelers.

What’s the best travel insurance for Mexico?

This is a question I get a lot as a Mexico travel writer and Mexico expat. To determine which Mexico travel insurance is best for you , consider factors like the policy’s total cost, your deductible, the coverage you need, your medical benefits, etc.

🏆 In general, I only ever recommend two companies to purchase Mexico travel insurance from, World Nomads and Safety Wing .

• World Nomads is the biggest name in travel insurance. Plans start at about $7 USD per day , but can go up depending on your needs. World Nomads is best for general travelers, with their Standard Plan, and adventure travelers, with their Explorer Plan. ▶︎ Get a FREE quote here
• SafetyWing is perfect for digital nomads in Mexico, general travelers and long-term travelers. Plans start at about $42 USD per month , and cover everything from medial emergencies to theft. This is the cheapest Mexico travel insurance, though the company is highly regarded. ▶︎ Get a FREE quote here

Oaxaca Blogs: Learn more about Oaxaca travel

17 Best Oaxaca Walking Tours You Won’t Want to Miss in 2024

Oaxaca Day of the Dead 2024: Ultimate Travel Planning Guide

10 Best Oaxaca Street Food Tours for Foodies in 2024

15 Best Oaxaca Ruins You Must See in 2024

13 Best Oaxaca Hostels for Travelers in 2024

Oaxaca Street Food: 17 Things You Must Eat in Oaxaca (2024)

Bus From Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido: What to Know in 2024

Oaxaca city travel: frequently asked questions, can you drink the water in oaxaca mexico.

No — Unfiltered Mexico tap water is not safe for human consumption. However, you will need to keep drinking water and to stay extra hydrated, as Mexico is quite close to the Equator.

In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico. So what can you do?

• If you’re renting an Airbnb with a kitchen, you can boil the water before drinking it.
• You can keep buying bottled water — Though this gets expensive, and is horrible for the planet!
• Use the Water-To-Go Filterable Bottle . This refillable bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Mexico, and is good for the planet ♻️ Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals, chemicals and more.

I personally own one, as you can drink Mexico water from any source (even the tap), and be completely safe. Get 15% OFF with code SOLO15!

🧳 Mexico Packing list

Wondering what else you need on your packing list for Oaxaca Mexico? Check out this guide — Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download .

What’s the Oaxaca weather like?

Weather-wise, Oaxaca City has deserts and mountains, so it’s more cool and dry. You will however, see quite a bit of rain during the Oaxaca rainy season from about April to September.

The Oaxaca beaches on the coast have a much more tropical climate, so expect warm temperatures year-round, and a lot of rain from about May to October.

🌡️ Oaxaca City Weather: Temperature averages

What’s the best time to visit Oaxaca City?

The best time to visit is during the Oaxaca dry season from October to May .

Overall, northern and central Oaxaca have a temperate, desert-like climate — though you’ll want to try to avoid the rainy season from April to September, as it rains quite a bit. During the other months, you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days and cool, crisp nights.

The most popular time to visit Oaxaca for festivals is during Día de Muertos ( Day of the Dead ), held November 1-2 each year. The Guelaguetza Festival in July is another popular time for Oaxaca travel.

🏝 Oaxaca beaches

The beaches of Oaxaca have a much more tropical climate than Oaxaca City. The rainy season lasts from April to late-October or November, and the coast of Oaxaca sees a lot  of rain.

The best time to visit the beaches of Oaxaca is from November to April , when the temperatures are mild and the humidity and mosquitoes are at bay.

This is also during the annual whale migration, when pacific gray, humpback and blue whales swim along the coast of Oaxaca to their breeding grounds.

How do you get around Oaxaca City?

The pueblo magico (magic town) of Mitla is one of the three Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico.

Oaxaca City is very walkable, so if you’re just staying in the city itself, you can walk and use taxis and public transportation as needed.

If you’re doing Oaxaca day trips, a  rental car  or group tour is your best bet, and I recommend booking Oaxaca tours via  Viator  and  Airbnb Experiences .

Is there Uber in Oaxaca City?

No  — There is no Oaxaca Uber service, and no Lyft in Oaxaca either.

They do have  DiDi Taxi  through the DiDi Rider app, which lets you call a Oaxaca taxi via the app. It’s basically like using Uber or Lyft, but you will get a regular cab.

• Download DiDi Rider for  iPhone
• Download DiDi Rider for  Android

Are taxis saf in Oaxaca Mexico?

For the majority of travelers, yes , taxis are perfectly safe to use in Oaxaca.

I personally prefer to call taxis via the DiDi Rider app, so I have a record of my trip and the price is already set for me, but you can also just hail a cab on the street. Also, the app lets you pay by credit card.

How many days do I need in Oaxaca?

Of course, this answer depends on your travel style. If you just want to see the highlights on Oaxaca City, you can do that in 3-4 days .

A great place for slow travel in Mexico, you could spend a month in Oaxaca and not see all the top spots and hidden gems. From the mountains in the northern part of the state, to the beautiful beaches all the way south, and so much to see in between — Oaxaca state would make a great longer trip.

Since many travelers don’t have a month, you’d realistically need at least seven full days to explore both Oaxaca City and one or two Oaxaca beach towns .

If you’re just staying in one part of the state, either the city or the beaches, four full days will suffice.

Is Oaxaca worth visiting?

Yes — Oaxaca Mexico is a unique Mexico destination that so many types of travelers will want to check out.

From the food, art and culture in Oaxaca City, to the off the beaten path Pueblos Mancomunados and the Oaxaca magic mushroom town of San Jose del Pacifico , to the tropical Puerto Escondido beaches and Huatulco beaches — there’s something for everyone.

🗣 Mexico Language

Mexico Fun Fact : There’s actually no official language of Mexico! Spanish is the most widely-spoken, so some mistakenly say Spanish is the official language of Mexico. However, the government actually recognizes 68 national languages, including the Nahuatl Aztec language, the Maya language, and various Zapotec languages in Oaxaca.

💰 Mexico Currency

Mexican Peso — Exchange rates vary, but have hovered at about $20 pesos to $1 USD for about the few decades. You will find some places that take U.S. dollars, but usually at an unfavorable rate, so stick to using pesos in Mexico .

☀️ Mexico Weather

Mexico is a big country — the 7th largest on Earth, in fact! It’s hard to generalize the weather in Mexico, because it will vary greatly by where you’re traveling.

In general, temperatures are mostly mild everywhere all year long, though summers on the coast are hot and humid, and winters in Central and Northern Mexico are on the colder side. Throughout the whole country, the rainy season runs from (about) April through September.

✈️ Mexico Travel Seasons

• Mexico Busy Season: The busy season in Mexico runs October to March, as this is the dry season and you’ll get the best weather. December is the busiest month for tourism in Mexico.

• Mexico Slow Season : If you don’t mind some rain, you’ll often find the best travel deal during the Mexico slow season of April to September. Do keep in mind that June 1-November 1 is Hurricane Season, and Mexico beaches are all susceptible.

• Mexico Shoulder Season : The shoulder season is that magical time when prices are still low and the weather is good. The Mexico shoulder season is from about mid-October to November and January to early-April.

Check out this Ultimate Packing List for Mexico — so you know what to pack and what NOT to pack for Mexico! This article offers advice on packing for Oaxaca cities, and packing for a Oaxaca beach vacation. Beyond what Mexico outfits and clothing you’ll want to bring, here are a few extra things to consider:

Filterable Water Bottle

Mexico is close to the Equator, so you’ll need to stay extra hydrated. In fact, dehydration is one of the most common ways people get sick in Mexico. A filterable, refillable water bottle not only keeps you hydrated, but also filters your water so you don’t get sick in Oaxaca.

The Water-To-Go Bottle has a built-in, three-stage filtration system that removes 99.9999% of all water-borne contaminants. These include bacteria, microplastics, viruses, heavy metals and chemicals.

Mexico SIM Card

Want to be able to use your phone in Mexico?! Of course you do! Pick up a Mexico SIM card before your trip, and swap it out on the plane while you’re waiting to exit. This way, you have phone and data service the second you arrive in Mexico.

Anti-Hangover Meds

Planning to party hardy?! Make sure you’re not wasting any of your precious travel time with a hangover. Liquid I.V. has about 80,000 positive reviews on Amazon, and is considered the best defense against hangovers.

No matter if you’re headed to the beach or a city, you’ll want to wear a hat to shield yourself from the strong Mexican sun. This cute sun hat is the perfect stylish and practical accessory for your Mexico vacation.

As you’ll want to reapply a few times throughout the day, a light, mineral-based sunscreen is ideal. Headed to the Oaxacan beaches? Do your part to practice responsible tourism in Mexico by only using an eco-friendly Reef Safe Sunscreen while swimming. You can even ditch the sunscreen altogether and opt for a long sleeve swimsuit (rash guard) instead.

Bug Repellent

Mosquitoes are common throughout Oaxaca — especially on the beaches! Repel Insect Repellent is an eco-friendly brand that’s DEET-free and plant based, with a pleasant lemon and eucalyptus scent. Don’t want to use a spray? Pick up some Mosquito Repellent Bracelets .

The vast majority of travelers do not need a visa for Mexico — this includes Americans, Canadians, and most Europeans. Head here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa.

🎫 What is the mexico FMM ?

When you go through Customs & Immigration to enter the country, you’ll receive your Forma Migratoria Multiple , or FMM Tourist Card (sometimes listed as FMT). If you’re coming by plane or cruise ship, there is no charge; for those driving across the border, the FMM costs about $30USD.

In most circumstances, all visitors get a 180-day (six month) visa — so you can legally stay up to six months!

🚨 Have your FMM on you at all times

Keep in mind that though it’s called an FMM card , it’s actually just a small piece of paper. Keep your FMM on you at all times in your wallet, as this proves your legal status in Mexico. It’s rare, but if an officer stops you, they can ask to see your FMM.

🎫 Don’t lose your FMM!

You need to have your FMM on you at all times, as proof of your legal status in the country. Be sure to keep track of your FMM, as you’ll have to give it back to an Immigration officer at the airport, cruise port, or land crossing when you’re leaving the country.

If you lose your FMM, there is a $600 peso ($30USD) cost to replace it, and some paperwork you’ll need to fill out before you can leave the country. If you’re flying home, plan to arrive at the airport about one hour earlier than you normally would to do the paperwork and pay the fine.

As this question doesn’t have a yes/no answer (I wish it did), I do my best to answer it in depth in this article, Is Mexico Safe to Travel to Right Now . However, for the most part, Mexico is statistically quite safe for all travelers — including solo travelers. Check my Solo Female Mexico Travel page for more info on Mexico solo travel safety.

Mexico solo travel guides

Mexico is a big country, and it has plenty of amazing solo female travel destinations — like the ones featured in this article, 20 Best Solo Travel Mexico Destinations to Visit . In it, you’ll get recommendations of places to visit in Mexico, from solo travelers who have actually been to them.

🎧 solo travel podcasts

• Ep. 34 |  Planning your first Mexico solo trip • Ep. 40 | Tips for safe solo travel in Mexico • Ep. 53 | 30 Solo female travel tips, Pt. 1

To answer the question, Is it safe to drive in Oaxaca? — YES , it’s considered safe to rent a car and drive in most places in Mexico. As the country is quite large, road trips are a great way to see a lot in a little time, and especially popular in the Yucatan Peninsula , Baja California Peninsula and Oaxaca state.

The one caveat to Oaxaca Mexico driving safety is that you’ll be in a foreign country, unfamiliar with their laws and customs. Head here for a complete guide to Renting A Car in Oaxaca: Everything You Need to Know , where you’ll also get 10 useful Mexico driving tips.

🚙💨 Looking for the best Mexico car rental company? Discover Cars works with both local Mexican companies and international companies to get you the best rates. Not only do I recommend them — I also use them whenever I rent a car in Oaxaca and the rest of Mexico .

As a general rule, you’ll want to know at least a few words of Spanish when visiting anywhere in Mexico. This is both a sign of respect, and will also help you have a better, smoother trip.

If you stick to the more touristic places in Mexico, you should be fine with basic Spanish. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, be advised most people in pueblos  (small towns) speak little to no English.

Here are some options:

• Brush up on your Spanish: Use a language-learning program like Rocket Spanish , so you’re confident, and conversational, before your trip.
• Download the Google Translate App: For this to work at all times, you’ll need a Mexico SIM card with data — as the app won’t work when you’re off-WiFi.
• Travel with a Mexico phrasebook: This Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook is an Amazon best seller, and a great non-digital language assistant!
• Save the infographic below as an image on your phone. This way, you have access to these common words, phrases and questions even when you’re off-WiFi.

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U.S. State Department Renews Warning About Travel To Mexico — Where It Says Visitors Can Travel This Spring

• News and Tips
• Travel News

Mexico is one of the most popular international destinations for American travelers. Cancun, Tulum, and Playa del Carmen particularly draw high numbers of tourists from the U.S.

However, as the spring break and Easter travel season approaches, anyone planning a trip to Mexico this spring must reckon with the sobering news of four Americans who were recently attacked by gunmen while traveling in Mexico.

The four individuals had traveled to Mexico so one could have a medical procedure. Then, in the city of Matamoros in Tamaulipas state, just south of Brownsville, Texas, the four were shot at and kidnapped. Two of them were killed in the gunfire. The other two, one of whom was also shot, have now been returned to the U.S., according to NBC News .

The U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico issued a statement reminding U.S. citizens that it previously issued a travel advisory listing Tamaulipas state as a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” area in Mexico.

The natural inclination for anyone planning to travel to Mexico, as well as for family and friends of those prospective travelers, is now to question whether or not it’s safe to visit Mexico.

Zachary Rabinor, founder and CEO of the travel company Journey Mexico, says it’s important to remember that the Americans were killed and kidnapped a long distance from popular tourist destinations in Mexico.

“To put things in perspective, Matamoros is about 1,360 miles away from Cancun,” Rabinor said, according to CNN . “That’s about the equivalent distance from the Texas side of the border to Chicago, Illinois.”

Jaime Lopez-Aranda, a senior security manager at travel risk management firm International SOS, agrees that popular resort areas are still fairly safe.

“It is relatively safe for travelers to head to tourist destinations and major urban centers such as Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey,” Lopez-Aranda told CNN Travel.

Importantly, the U.S. State Department has issued a number of advisories for U.S. citizens traveling to various Mexican states in recent weeks. Now, as violent crime and kidnapping rates increase across Mexico, Americans considering travel to all but two of the states in Mexico should be aware of renewed and increased warnings, the State Department cautions.

“Violent crime — such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery — is widespread and common in Mexico,” the State Department explains .

“The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in many areas of Mexico, as travel by U.S. government employees to certain areas is prohibited or restricted,” the State Department continues. “In many states, local emergency services are limited outside the state capital or major cities.”

Here are the State Department’s travel advisories for each of Mexico’s states.

Do Not Travel To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to not travel to five states in Mexico due to increasing levels of crime and kidnapping.

Those states are Colima (where Manzanillo is located), Michoacan, Sinaloa (where Mazatlán is located), Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas (home to Zacatecas City).

Guerrero — where Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, and Ixtapa are located — is also on the State Department’s “Do Not Travel” list because crime is widespread in those areas.

Reconsider Travel To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to “reconsider travel” to five states in Mexico due to crime and kidnapping.

Those states are Baja California (where Tijuana is located), Chihuahua, Guanajuato (where Guanajuato City is located), Jalisco (home to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta), and Sonora.

The states of Durango and Morelos are also on the State Department’s “Reconsider Travel To” list due to high crime rates.

Exercise Increased Caution When Traveling To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to “exercise increased caution when traveling to” 17 areas of Mexico, primarily due to crime rates but also due to the threat of kidnapping in some places.

Those states are Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur (where Cabo San Lucas , San Jose del Cabo, and La Paz are located), Chiapas, Coahuila, Hidalgo, Mexico State, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca (home of Oaxaca City and Huatulco), Puebla, Queretaro, Quintana Roo (where Cancun , Cozumel, Tulum, and Riviera Maya are located), San Luis Potosi, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, and Veracruz.

Mexico City is also on the list due to high crime rates.

Exercise Normal Precautions When Traveling To

The State Department advises U.S. citizens to “exercise normal precautions when traveling to” Campeche and Yucatan, where Chichen Itza and Merida are located.

Know Before You Go

If you decide to travel to Mexico, the State Department offers some guidance.

“Exercise increased caution when visiting local bars, nightclubs, and casinos,” the State Department recommends. “Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry. Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.”

U.S. citizens with an emergency are also reminded that they can call the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico for help.

U.S. citizens on their way to Mexico are also advised to make a note of U.S. Embassy & Consulates emergency contacts in the area where they will be traveling.

Finally, the State Department recommends international travelers enroll in STEP, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program .

Doing so enables U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate. That way travelers can receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in their destination country, make it easy for the U.S. Embassy to contact travelers in the event of an emergency, and also make it easier for family and friends to contact travelers in case of an emergency.

For more about changing travel conditions in countries around the world, be sure to read our Travel News content, including:

• New Cost To Travel To Europe Delayed Until 2024 — What Visitors Need To Know
• Traveling To Europe This Spring? 5 Countries Where Strikes Could Affect Your Trip
• TSA Is Asking Travelers With Pets To Stop Doing This One Thing — Here’s What It Is

Jim Fulcher has been a writer and editor his entire career. In addition to writing, he also enjoys traveling--particularly in an RV. Over the course of numerous trips, Jim has driven an RV through West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. His favorite national park is Yellowstone, which he has visited three times.

36 Hours in Oaxaca, Mexico

By Elisabeth Malkin Updated Nov. 23, 2023

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As Oaxaca’s attractions multiply and tourists pack its new hotels and upscale restaurants, the southern Mexican city has still preserved its character. It’s common to hear the brass band and drums of a calenda, a street procession that is accompanied by dancers, giant puppets and enormous spinning balloons, to celebrate a wedding or baptism. The city hosts festivals year round, but it’s especially joyous in December, when residents honor Mexico’s patron saint, the Virgin of Guadalupe, and the city’s patron saint, Our Lady of Solitude. During the whimsical Night of the Radishes , held annually on Dec. 23, artisans transform giant radishes into elaborate sculptures. Meanwhile, Oaxacans are constantly innovating, reworking their traditional cuisine or adapting their ancient textile heritage. The city’s arts scene draws young people, giving Oaxaca a vigor that similar small cities would envy.

Recommendations

• La Cocina de Humo , a tiny restaurant, offers an introductory cooking course that teaches how to prepare classics like Oaxacan moles, salsas and tamales.
• Jardín Etnobotánico , a botanical garden, features the lush biodiversity of Oaxaca State and shows how it influenced the development of pre-Hispanic civilizations.
• Humito Cocina y Foro 8 Temblor opened last year and presents live jazz, boleros, cumbia and other genres in a cozy performance space overlooking city lights.
• Museo de Arte Prehispánico de México Rufino Tamayo houses a vast collection of pre-Hispanic figures chosen for their aesthetic qualities.
• Oaxaca’s printmaking workshops highlight a vibrant art form among the city’s young artists. Visit studios like Taller La Chicharra , Burro Press , La Máquina Taller de Gráfica , Taller Artístico Comunitario and the arts center at the middle of the movement, the Instituto de Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca .
• Marimba Orquesta “Hermanos Carreón ” is a nine-piece band featuring percussion and brass instruments that plays most nights on the Zócalo, a plaza that is the heart of the city, attracting dancers of all skills.
• San Martín Tilcajete is a village to Oaxaca’s south where artisans carve and paint elaborate fantasy creatures. See the creations at Jacobo and María Ángeles Workshop , Una Inspiración de mi vida and Alebrijes Amaltea .
• At Origen , the inventive chef Rodolfo Castellanos fuses traditional Oaxacan flavors with other cuisines.
• Alfonsina is the singular vision of the chef Jorge León, who returned to his hometown to explore the essence of Oaxaca’s biodiversity in his recipes.
• El Lechoncito de Oro is a late-night taco stand serving chopped suckling pig to after-hours revelers.
• Boulenc is a bakery and breakfast spot with delicious pastries and unbeatable sourdough bread.
• Sabina Sabe is a popular mezcal and cocktail bar that attracts a lively young crowd of tourists and locals.
• Restaurante Coronita is a restaurant where oaxaqueños have been going to sample moles and no-frills classics since 1948.
• 1050 Grados is a pottery cooperative selling minimalist tableware.
• Los Baúles de Juana Cata offers a rich variety of high-quality woven and embroidered Oaxacan textiles.
• La Casa de las Artesanías de Oaxaca sells an expansive selection of handicrafts, textiles, pottery and rugs.
• La Danta is a luxury Airbnb in the home of the late Oaxacan artist Francisco Toledo and is run by his family. Four limestone bungalows (listed separately), designed by the local architecture firm Root Studio , are set among the dense vegetation of a landscaped garden built into the city’s 18th-century aqueduct. The bungalows range from 3,000 to 6,000 pesos (about $175 to $350) a night.
• Hotel Casa de la Tía Tere , in the city center, is a popular family-friendly hotel with a swimming pool. A standard room costs 1,520 pesos and a bungalow is 2,620 pesos.
• Casa Las Mercedes is a centrally located small hotel with a quiet courtyard and simple rooms. Ask for a room on the top floor to get the best light. Rooms start from 1,350 pesos.
• For short-term rentals , look in Xochimilco and Jalatlaco, two picturesque neighborhoods just to the north and east of Oaxaca’s historic center.
• Walking is part of the pleasure of visiting Oaxaca, whose historic center is small enough to explore on foot. Street taxis circulate widely and are safe and cheap. Taxis are the best way to reach Alfonsina and San Martín Tilcajete, two destinations in this guide that are outside of the city; they can be rented by the hour (250 to 300 pesos). Uber is not available in Oaxaca, but Didi , a similar ride-sharing app, is.

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

D enver, Colo.: The city is undergoing a rebirth , with a newly refreshed Union Station and the gradual reopening of the mile-long, pedestrian-friendly 16th Street Mall to go along with views of the snow-capped Front Range.

La Rioja, Spain:  A drive through rolling vineyards will take you to 5 family-run restaurants  where you’ll find flavorful, affordable dishes you can linger over for hours.

Seattle, Wash.:  Today’s Seattle is ever evolving, filled with colorful neighborhoods that are emblematic of the Emerald City’s  natural beauty, vibrant street life ,  and commitment to both preservation and progress .

Stockholm-Helsinki Ferry:  The 16-hour trip between the two northern European cities is a festive summer ritual , with plenty of singing, gambling, limbo contests and maybe a bit too much to drink.

Swim in the Wild:  Looking to take a dip in or near a city center? Here are some European urban areas that have successfully opened up waterways for swimmers .

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Oaxaca: Waterfalls and Mangoes 2 Days Bike Trip

Oaxaca, a vibrant Mexican state, beckons adventurers with its natural wonders. The "Waterfalls and Mangoes 2 Days Bike Trip" promises an immersive experience, where travelers can explore the region’s stunning landscapes . Over two days, you will embark on a 40 km bike ride, discover picturesque waterfalls, and explore the rich cultural heritage of charming villages. With expert guidance and carefully selected accommodations, this trip offers an unparalleled blend of outdoor adventure and Oaxacan authenticity. But the true essence of the journey lies in the unexpected moments that await those who dare to venture beyond the beaten path.

• A 2-day bike trip in Oaxaca, Mexico, featuring culture, scenic bike rides, and opportunities to explore natural wonders like waterfalls and the Apoala Canyon.
• The trip includes a 40 km bike ride, a 30-minute hike, and a 1-hour hike to the Apoala Canyon, as well as a 50 km bike ride.
• Participants can swim at a waterfall, visit small villages, and descend to the town of Santiago Apoala, known for its mangoes.
• The trip is priced starting at $248.32 per person and includes meals, water, transportation, and equipment such as mountain bikes, gloves, and helmets.
• The trip is suitable for intermediate fitness levels, with varied terrain including some challenging uphill sections, and requires providing information on bike size, food restrictions, and medical conditions.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Oaxaca: Tlacochahuaya, Mezcal and Teotitlán Del Valle Tour
• From Oaxaca: Private Transfer to Huatulco
• Oaxaca: Ancestral Mezcal Experience
• Oaxaca: Geoparque Exploration Tour

Trip Overview

The Oaxaca: Waterfalls and Mangoes 2 Days Bike Trip offers an immersive experience through the diverse landscapes of the Mixteca region.

This 2-day adventure spans 10 hours of activity, with prices starting at $248.32 per person. Cancelations can be made free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. The trip is available in both English and Spanish.

Highlights include culture , natural wonders like waterfalls, and scenic bike rides through varied terrains.

Participants will need to provide their bike size, food restrictions, and medical information prior to the trip.

Itinerary Details

The first day of the Oaxaca: Waterfalls and Mangoes 2 Days Bike Trip begins with a 40 km bike ride and a 30-minute hike.

The adventure starts from Asunción Nochixtlán, just an hour’s drive from Oaxaca City. Riders will cycle through the Mixteca region, visit small villages, and enjoy scenic views before descending to Santiago Apoala. Here, they’ll hike to a waterfall and have the option to swim, weather permitting.

The second day includes a 1-hour hike to the Apoala Canyon, followed by a 50 km bike ride. Participants will enjoy breakfast in the village, an optional uphill ride, and a 25 km descent through the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve before reaching Cuicatlán, known for its mango production.

• Cultural immersion in the Oaxacan countryside
• Exploration of natural wonders like waterfalls
• Varied terrain from mountains to plantations

Day One Activities

Riders embark on a 40 km bike ride through the Mixteca region, taking in the sights of small villages and scenic vistas.

The descent to Santiago Apoala offers a chance to hike to a beautiful waterfall , where participants can enjoy a refreshing swim, weather permitting.

The group explores the winding roads, catching glimpses of the local way of life.

After returning to the bicycles, they continue their journey, eager to discover more of Oaxaca’s natural splendor on this adventurous day one itinerary.

Day Two Activities

Departing from the village, the group embarks on a 1-hour hike to the breathtaking Apoala Canyon .

After a hearty breakfast, they’ve the option to tackle an uphill ride through the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve . The diverse terrain offers a thrilling challenge as they bike down a 25-kilometer descent to the town of Cuicatlán, known for its abundant mango production.

The day’s journey culminates with a 2.5-hour return to Oaxaca City.

This dynamic second day showcases:

• Immersion in Oaxaca’s natural wonders
• Opportunities for physical and mental exhilaration
• Appreciation for the region’s agricultural heritage

Included Experiences

Included in the Oaxaca bike trip are several experiences that enhance the overall adventure. Participants will enjoy a provided lunch on both days of the tour.

To keep hydrated, water and fruits are readily available. A qualified mountain bike guide leads the group, providing knowledgeable commentary and support throughout the journey.

For transportation, the trip includes all necessary transfers to and from the starting and ending points.

Finally, the tour provides the essential equipment , such as mountain bikes, gloves, and helmets, ensuring a comfortable and safe cycling experience.

These inclusive offerings create a well-rounded and worry-free adventure for travelers exploring the wonders of Oaxaca.

Preparation Requirements

To prepare for the Oaxaca bike trip , travelers should gather a few essential items . The terrain can be rugged, so a sun hat , sunscreen, and insect repellent are crucial for protection against the elements.

Long-sleeved shirts are recommended to shield from the sun and potential scrapes. Plus, bringing a camera is encouraged to capture the stunning natural landscapes and cultural experiences encountered along the way.

The trip caters to an intermediate level of fitness , so participants should ensure they’re comfortable with the level of activity involved.

With the right preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the beauty and adventure of Oaxaca’s countryside.

Difficulty and Pre-Trip Info

The Oaxaca bike trip caters to an intermediate level of fitness , so participants should ensure they’re comfortable with the level of activity involved.

The daily distances cover around 40-50 km of cycling, with an additional 30-60 minutes of hiking. While the terrain is varied, there are some challenging uphill sections .

Participants are encouraged to provide their bike size, any food restrictions , and medical conditions prior to the trip so the guides can accommodate them accordingly.

The provided equipment, including mountain bikes, gloves, and helmets, are well-maintained to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The trip isn’t suitable for those with limited cycling experience or fitness levels.

Highlights of the Trip

The Oaxaca bike trip offers a culture into the region’s countryside, showcasing its natural wonders and scenic landscapes.

Riders will experience the traditional way of life in small villages, exploring the diverse terrain from mountains to lush plantations.

Key highlights include:

Cultural Immersion : Interact with local communities and gain insights into Oaxacan rural life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage.

Natural Wonders : Marvel at the breathtaking waterfalls and the dramatic Apoala Canyon, immersing in the area’s remarkable natural beauty.

Scenic Ride : Enjoy a varied and picturesque journey, from challenging mountain routes to exhilarating descents through the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Oaxaca: Monte Alban & City of Oaxaca Private Tour
• From Oaxaca: Natural and Cultural Highlights Guided Day Tour
• Oaxaca De Juarez: Roundtrip Private/Shared Airport Transfer
• Oaxaca: Exclusive Private Yagul UNESCO Heritage Site Tour
• Oaxaca: Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class With Market Visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i rent a bike instead of bringing my own.

Yes, you can rent a bike for this trip. The tour provider includes mountain bike rentals with the package, so there’s no need to bring your own bike. All necessary equipment is provided.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trip Beyond 2 Days?

Yes, the trip can be extended beyond 2 days. Clients can inquire about adding extra days to explore more of Oaxaca’s natural and cultural attractions at an additional cost per day.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Single Travelers?

The trip’s standard price is based on double occupancy. There may be an additional single supplement fee for solo travelers, though this cost is not explicitly stated in the trip details provided.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The minimum age requirement for this tour is not specified. Many bike tour operators welcome participants of all ages, though they may have age restrictions or require parental supervision for younger travelers to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Can I Make Dietary Requests Beyond the Included Meals?

Yes, participants can make dietary requests beyond the included meals. The tour operator is willing to accommodate special dietary needs or restrictions if communicated in advance via WhatsApp or email.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Monte Alban
• One Day All Pyramids of Oaxaca: Monte Alban, Mitla, Dainzú
• Oaxaca: Ancestral Mezcal Tasting in Ocotlan Valley
• Oaxaca City Tour
• Oaxaca: Mezcal Tasting Session With Expert
• Oaxaca: Night Street Food Tour With Transfers and Tastings
• Oaxaca: Guided City Walking Tour
• Monte Alban Walking Tour
• Oaxaca: Monte Alban Guided Archaeological Tour
• Oaxaca: Street Art Bike Tour
• Oaxaca: Zipline, Nature Walk and Gastronomy Tour
• Xoxocotlan Airport: Private Transfer to Oaxaca City
• Oaxaca: Forest and Nature Walking Experience
• Hierve El Agua, Native Towns and Mezcal Full-Day Tour
• Oaxaca: Traditional Oaxacan Food Cooking Class

The "Waterfalls and Mangoes 2 Days Bike Trip" in Oaxaca offers an exhilarating blend of adventure and culture. Participants can expect a scenic 40 km bike ride , a hike to picturesque waterfalls, and the opportunity to explore charming villages. With delicious meals, guided support, and the natural wonders of Apoala Canyon , this trip promises an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to discover the breathtaking beauty of Oaxaca .

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