Located in Mexico’s southern region along the Pacific coast, Oaxaca’s terrain consists of extensive valleys and mountain chains. In this state, known for its important history and culture, you’ll have the opportunity to visit various town and cities inhabited by about 16 distinct ethnic groups. In many of those places, the indigenous people have preserved the traditions and customs of old. First you can visit the city of Oaxaca, the state capital, a colonial city with some of the nation’s most magnificent architecture. There you’ll see Baroque edifices, green quarry stone constructions and you can visit important museums like the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, which is housed in the Ex-Convent of Santo Domingo. You can also enjoy the city’s traditional fiestas, such as Noche de Rabanos and Guelaguetza.
Oaxaca also has diverse archaeological sites, including the Zapotec ruins at Monte Alban, declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO, and Mitla, which is known for it fret-ornamented structures. Nearby you can check out the Arbol del Tule, a 2,000-year-old tree that measures 11 meters in diameter. You can also visit the Chacahua Lagoons, an ecological zone with mangroves and beaches, as well as the beautiful bays of Huatulco and Escondido, where you can do all kinds of water sports.
During your visit, don’t forget to try Oaxaca’s delicious regional cuisine. For great souvenirs you can buy the famous black pottery or alebrijes, colorfully painted wooden figurines.
Huatulco
Huatulco is a coastal paradise with crystalline waters and various types of sand. It is located 277 km (171 mi) from Oaxaca and 50 minutes, by plane, from Mexico City. Because it is on the Pacific coast and has lowland jungle vegetation, the climate is hot and semi-humid, with an average temperature of 28º C (82º F) and sunny days throughout most of the year. This destination has nine bays, which are protected areas, and 36 beaches, which are part of the Bahia de Huatulco National Park. Most of the beaches have calm blue-green waters, such as those at the Tangolunda Bay, where you’ll find top-notch hotel resorts, excellent plazas and one of the best golf courses on the Pacific coast. Another popular beach destination is the Santa Cruz Bay, considered one of the most important ecological reserves due to its coral reefs. Thanks to its abundant marine life, not only is an excellent spot for scuba diving and snorkeling, but it also hosts the annual Torneo de Pesca de Pez Vela (Sailfish Fishing Tournament) in April and May. When exploring these destinations, the vast natural beauty, the diverse landscapes and the many recreational activities that each one offers will leave you fascinated. What’s more, Huatulco offers excellent tourist services and you’ll find the people there very hospitable, allowing you to discover this destination’s great culture, art, cuisine and natural wonders.
Oaxaca
Oaxaca City is located in Mexico’s southern region in the middle of a zone surrounded by four valleys. Behind the valleys lie three important mountain ranges, which keep the climate mild with an average temperature of 18º C (64º F).
In this city, the capital of the state of Oaxaca, you can admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings in the Centro Historico (Historic Center), which was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. The edifices include la Catedral (The Cathedral), el Templo y ex Convento de Santo Domingo de Guzman (The Temple and Ex-Convent of Saint Domingo de Guzman), la Basilica de la Soledad (The Basilica of Solitude) and el Teatro Macedonio Alcala (The Macedonio Alcala Theater), among other magnificent colonial and 19th-century constructions. As you visit the main |
