Located at the intersection of three large valleys, Oaxaca is surrounded by mountains over 2,000 m high. On their top, constructions erected in the past by pre-Hispanic civilizations rise. The historical center of the city as well as the site of Monte Alban have been classified by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. Here, strolling through the pedestrian streets and in the many shady parks where a fountain flows. An atmosphere where culture has a special place thanks to the universities that surround the city. We strongly advise you to rent a car to visit the surrounding villages and sites

What to visit Oaxaca?

When to go to Oaxaca?

When to go to Oaxaca? Being located in the southern part of Mexico, the capital of the state of Oaxaca is quite pleasant to visit all year round. In order to know when to go to Oaxaca, one should keep in mind that the tourist year in Mexico as a whole is divided into three periods: the off-peak period, which is ideal for taking advantage of preferential rates and not having to run into all of one's office colleagues, is from April to June and from September to November. These are certainly the best times to go to Oaxaca! The intermediate period is due to the school vacations in July and August. The tourist "boom" period extends from December to March or April, depending on the dates of Holy Week. The boom means higher prices and reservations, but also a wider range of activities for tourists. The Festival of the Dead (Dia de Muertos, October 31 to November 2) is also a very busy time and a great time to see the city!

Use the map to see the lowest prices at a glance:
See prices on map

Weather at the moment

Loading...
Weather all year round

Oaxaca's weather is dependent on a warm humid subtropical climate. During the months of June through September, there are approximately 10 days of rain per month. The average annual temperature in Oaxaca is around 20°C, with peaks of 30°C and even 35°C, and lows of 8°C in December and January.

Budget

Mexico's currency is the peso, represented by the $ symbol. Although much more expensive than Guatemala and Honduras, Mexico remains a relatively cheap country despite inflation. Food and lodging are cheap in Oaxaca, and even cheaper when you move away from the city center, although it is quite possible to treat yourself to luxurious addresses. It all depends on the lifestyle you choose to lead!

Procedures

All French travellers to Oaxaca and Mexico in general must be in possession of a valid passport, not a visa, at least six months from the date of entry into the country. Otherwise, the Mexican authorities may refuse entry. Each adult entering Mexico will be issued a tourist card from the Mexican State (Forma Migratoria de Turista - FMT); it is a document to be kept and required when leaving the country. It allows you to stay for a maximum of 180 days in Mexico, but migration agents often automatically enter a shorter period of stay on the card (usually 90 days); if you wish to stay between 90 and 180 days, do not hesitate to request it from the migration agent.

Health

While no vaccine is required to travel to Oaxaca and Mexico, it is recommended to be vaccinated against diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis and hepatitis A. Those planning a more adventurous and remote stay will also plan to protect themselves against hepatitis B, typhoid and rabies as a preventive measure. Vaccination against yellow fever is not mandatory, except for travellers coming from an exposed area in Africa or Latin America. Water is not always drinkable in Oaxaca, so if you want to avoid diarrhoea, you should prefer to drink bottled water as a source of hydration!

How to go to Oaxaca? Our advice & tips

Going to Oaxaca as part of an organized trip is quite feasible. There are many French-speaking tour operators covering southern Mexico, and they often offer tours that include a visit to Oaxaca. If you wish to limit your trip to this city only, you will certainly find "packaged" offers including airfare, lodging and activities.

Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destination

The average price of a round trip flight to Mexico from France (about 12 hours) is around 1,000 to 1,300 € in high season, and 650 to 1,100 € in low season. The easiest way is to fly to Mexico City and then return to Oaxaca either by air or by land.

It should be noted that the price variation depends on the airline used and, above all, on the reservation period. In order to get the best rates, it is essential to book well in advance. Remember to buy your tickets six months before departure!

To get around the city, you can choose between the municipal bus network, which is becoming more extensive and efficient every year, and cabs. As for short distances in the city center, they can easily be covered on foot. You can also rent a car for more autonomy.

Organize your trip with our partners Oaxaca
Transportation
Accommodation & stays
Services / On site

Oaxaca travel inspiration

Find unique Stay Offers with our Partners

Pictures and images Oaxaca

Église de Santo Domingo. Author's Image
Eglise Santa Domingo à Oaxaca. Jmorse2000 - iStockphoto

Discover Oaxaca

When to travel?

When to go to Oaxaca? Being located in the southern part of Mexico, the capital of the state of Oaxaca is quite pleas...
Read more about it

Weather forecast

Oaxaca's weather is dependent on a warm humid subtropical climate. During the months of June through September, there...
Read more about it

Budget

Mexico's currency is the peso, represented by the $ symbol. Although much more expensive than Guatemala and Honduras,...
Read more about it

Formalities

All French travellers to Oaxaca and Mexico in general must be in possession of a valid passport, not a visa, at least...
Read more about it

Health

While no vaccine is required to travel to Oaxaca and Mexico, it is recommended to be vaccinated against diphtheria, t...
Read more about it

How to travel by yourself?

The average price of a round trip flight to Mexico from France (about 12 hours) is around 1,000 to 1,300 € in high...
Read more about it

How to get organized?

Going to Oaxaca as part of an organized trip is quite feasible. There are many French-speaking tour operators coverin...
Read more about it

Getting around

To get around the city, you can choose between the municipal bus network, which is becoming more extensive and effici...
Read more about it

Send a reply