Not gonna lie, the best day trips from Oaxaca, Mexico, are where the real magic happens.
Sure, Oaxaca City is incredible. But the moment you venture outside of the historic center, you’ll find turquoise springs, ancient ruins, enchanting mezcal villages, and mountain towns bursting with color.
If you’re here wondering which adventures are actually worth your time, I’ve got you covered.
I know the struggle. You’ve got limited days and endless options. Some trips look amazing online but turn out to be tourist traps.
Others are tricky to reach if you don’t know how to get around like a local. Trust me, I’ve definitely wasted a bus ride or two figuring this out, so you don’t have to.
After several visits, I’ve learned which spots are the real deal and how to visit without stress.
Think of this as your shortcut to exploring Oaxaca like a savvy traveler, not a confused first-timer. Let’s dive into the Oaxaca day trips that will make your trip 10,000 times better.
Expert Tip: Do not book tours via Get Your Guide or Viator. Shop around once you get here since you can find much better prices upon arrival.
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1. Hierve el Agua
Visiting Hierve el Agua is one of the most unforgettable day trips from Oaxaca, Mexico, and for good reason.
Located just two hours from the city, this natural wonder resembles a pair of waterfalls frozen in mid-air, formed over thousands of years as mineral-rich springs cascaded down the cliffs and left behind calcium deposits.
I have been to Niagara Falls in the winter, and this 100% looks like a frozen waterfall. So cool!
The site is also home to natural and man-made pools where you can take a refreshing swim while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains.
Be super careful along the edge since it can be VERY slippery. Also, do NOT expect the water to be warm since it is quite chilly.
Several hiking trails through the area give you a closer look at the dramatic landscape.
Entrance fees are surprisingly affordable at about 50 MXN per person, with an additional small community fee of around 50 MXN, plus parking if you’re driving.
Getting there can be an adventure in itself. The most budget-friendly option is to take a bus or colectivo from Oaxaca City to Mitla and then hop into a shared camioneta (truck) for the final leg.
If you’d rather not worry about logistics, plenty of tours combine Hierve el Agua with stops at nearby mezcal distilleries or the ruins of Mitla.
I would recommend doing this since tours are VERY reasonably priced and start at 300 MXN per person. They also include stops at Hierve el Agua, Mitla, the Tule Tree, a Mezcal Distillery, a weaving village, etc.
However you go, it’s worth the effort since the combination of surreal scenery, epic swimming spots, and awesome hiking trails makes this one of my favorite day trips in the area.
2. Monte Alban
If you only do a single-day trip while in Oaxaca city, then let this be it. Not only is this trip super easy, but the ruins are stunning and the views from the top of the hill are INSANE.
To visit, just take the bus from Oaxaca to Monte Albán. The ride takes about 30 minutes, and the price is 120 MXN for a round-trip ticket.
Once you arrive, you’ll pay 100 MXN to access the archaeological zone and the small museum. Do NOT forget to visit the museum.
Yes, it is small, but it is nice. It is also easy to miss since it sits right at the entrance.
Plan to spend between 2 and 3 hours here if you want to properly tour Monte Albán. I also didn’t find a guide essential since there are signs written in English.
Start in the Main Plaza, wander among the stepped pyramids, platforms, and ball court, and climb up the North and South Platforms for sweeping views over the valley.
Finally, stop by the site museum to see super cool Zapotec artifacts, stelae, and burial relics.
Honestly, it’s not just the size or the impressive structures here that wowed me. It’s how the site sits perched on a flattened mountaintop with panoramic views all around.
It’s a perfect blend of political, religious, and astronomical significance that gives deep insight into the ancient Zapotec civilization. Plan to visit early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds.
3. San Martín Tilcajete or San Antonio Arrazola
Just beyond Oaxaca City lies a magical world of fantastical creatures, waiting to be discovered in the charming villages of San Martín Tilcajete and San Antonio Arrazola.
Both are the heartland of the alebrije, the breathtakingly detailed, brightly colored spirit animals carved from copal wood.
For an unforgettable day trip, I recommend picking one village to visit so that you can really enjoy your time there.
The journey is also part of the adventure since you can catch a colectivo (shared taxi) to either spot from the second-class bus station near Abastos Market.
Once aboard, it’s a scenic, 45-minute ride through the Oaxacan valley. Stepping off the Collective, you’ll find that the air is sweet with the scent of copal as you go from workshop to workshop.
Here, you’re not just a spectator but a guest in family-owned studios where multiple generations bring mythical beasts to life with intricate patterns and vibrant, symbolic colors.
The real magic is chatting with the artists themselves, learning about their inspirations, and perhaps even finding the perfect, one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home with you.
4. Mitla
Learn more about Zapotec history with a fun and fascinating day trip to Mitla. Sure, Monte Albán impresses with its grand scale. However, Mitla also captivates with its intricate soul.
See, the name means “Place of the Rest,” and you’ll feel the spiritual weight of this place from the moment you lay eyes on the site’s famous geometric mosaics.
You’ll also see thousands of perfectly carved stones that have been expertly assembled without any mortar. Yup, no one knows how it was done but it’s super cool.
Getting here is also a breeze since all you need to do is hop on a colectivo from the second-class bus terminal near Abastos Market.
The scenic ride takes about an hour and costs next to nothing, making this one of the most affordable and authentic excursions you can do.
Try to budget about half a day to get there and explore the site.
This gives you enough time to visit the five main groups of ruins, admire the incredible stonework in the Hall of the Columns, and visit a stunning 16th-century church built atop a pre-Hispanic temple.
Don’t miss the vibrant market just outside the site gates for beautiful textiles and a refreshing nieve (ice cream).
Trust me, the mesmerizing, labyrinthine patterns of Mitla will stay with you long after you’ve made your way back to Oaxaca.
5. Atzompa
If you love ancient history but hate the crowds, then get off the beaten path and head to the fascinating ruins of Santa María Atzompa, a satellite city of the mighty Monte Albán.
Perched on a hilltop with breathtaking, panoramic views of the entire valley, this site feels wonderfully undiscovered.
To visit, just catch a colectivo specifically marked “Atzompa” from Oaxaca’s second-class bus terminal and enjoy a quick and inexpensive 20-minute ride right to the base of the site.
A short, uphill walk will have you exploring the site for a mere 55 MXN. What makes Atzompa unique are its three magnificent ball courts, lined up in a row, hinting at its immense ceremonial importance.
Don’t miss the extraordinary Casa de los Altares, a noble residence with a fascinating underground tomb complex that you can actually step inside.
Honestly, the sheer scale and quiet majesty of the place, combined with those unforgettable views, make it an absolute hidden gem.
Plan to spend around 2 hours here so that you have ample time to explore everything.
6. Puerto Escondido
Get ready for an epic, albeit long, journey from the highlands to the Pacific coast during a day trip to the legendary surf town of Puerto Escondido.
Known for its laid-back vibes, world-class waves at Zicatela, and breathtaking sunsets, this spot feels a world away from the fresh mountain air Oaxaca is known for.
The reality, though, is that if you want to get here, it is a solid three-hour drive each way along a winding mountain road.
So, while you can visit in a day via ADO bus or a local tour company, you’ll only have enough time to feel the sand between your toes, grab lunch at a palapa-roofed restaurant, and watch the surfers tackle the Pipeline of Mexico before heading back.
Personally? I’d plan to spend at least a few days in Puerto Escondido.
This way, you have enough time to surf the gentler waves of La Punta, take a bioluminescent lagoon tour, or spend a day beach-hopping in Puerto Escondido.
Trust me, Puerto’s relaxed pace is meant to be savored, not rushed.
7. Tule Tree
One quick and easy day trip from Oaxaca City takes you to see the famous Tule Tree, a massive Montezuma cypress that’s over 2,000 years old and that holds the title of the widest tree in the world.
Located in the small town of Santa María del Tule, just 10 km east of the city, it’s an easy hop on a colectivo, local bus, or even a quick taxi ride, making it one of the most accessible Oaxaca day trips.
The tree itself is undeniably impressive since its trunk measures more than 40 meters around, and locals love pointing out animal shapes hidden in the bark.
There’s also a charming church beside it, plus food stalls and mezcal shops nearby if you want to linger a bit.
That said, while I’m glad I went and checked it off my bucket list, I have to admit I found it a little overrated.
After snapping a few photos and walking around the plaza, there wasn’t a whole lot more to do unless you combine it with other stops in the area.
Still, if you’re short on time and want to do something quick and quirky outside the city, the Tule Tree is worth a peek.
Also, do not expect to get close to the tree. It has actually been fenced off (even if you pay 20 MXN for a ticket) since locals used to rip the bark off the tree.
8. San Jose del Pacifico
One of the most unique day trips you can take from Oaxaca City is to San José del Pacífico.
It’s a tiny mountain town perched high in the Sierra Sur. It sits at over 2,500 meters above sea level and is known for its mystical vibes, sweeping cloud forests, and a long-standing association with “magic mushrooms.”
Honestly, San José has become a bit of a legend among adventurous travelers who want to try some shrooms.
But even if you’re not interested in a psychedelic experience, it’s worth visiting just for the scenery.
Yeah, the rolling mountains blanketed in mist are almost otherworldly and the pine forests are perfect place to go for short hikes.
There are also tons of cozy cabins where you can sip on a hot chocolate by the fire while watching the clouds fly by.
To visit, board a bus or colectivo toward Pochutla or Puerto Escondido, and ask to be dropped off in San José.
Generally, the trip takes between 3 and 4 hours along a winding mountain road. So, bring motion sickness pills if you are prone to motion sickness.
I recommend giving yourself a full day, but if you fall in love with the town’s charm, you might be tempted to spend the night.
For me, San José felt like stepping into another world. It was peaceful, surreal, and the perfect escape from the busy streets of Oaxaca.
Expert Tip: The best time to go if you want to experience a mushroom ceremony is between July and October, since this is the mushroom season.
It’s also worth noting that shrooms are not legal in Mexico, but you can still find some tours in town that will take you there for this purpose.
9. Tlacolula de Matamoros
A quick trip to Tlacolula de Matamoros is pure sensory overload in the best possible way.
See, every Sunday, this small town hosts one of the oldest continuous markets in Latin America that actually dates back to pre-Hispanic times.
The market sprawls across the streets surrounding the main plaza, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and meats to textiles, pottery, and handcrafted goods.
It’s a vibrant experience filled with different colors, sounds, and smells that give you a glimpse at Oaxacan life.
To get there, hop on a bus or colectivo from Oaxaca City. The journey takes about 45 minutes and costs around 20 to 40 MXN.
Buses typically depart from the ADO bus station or nearby stops in the city center. Once you arrive, the market is within walking distance of the drop-off point.
Don’t miss the food stalls and be sure to try the barbacoa. It’s a slow-cooked lamb served with fresh tortillas and salsa.
Also, try tejate, a traditional Oaxacan drink made from corn and mamey seeds. The market is busiest in the morning, so arrive early for a lively experience.
10. Visit a Mezcal Distillery
If you’re in Oaxaca City and craving something spirited (get it?), a day trip to a mezcal distillery (or two) is a great way to spend a few hours.
There are distilleries all around Oaxaca, but there are several great options in towns like Santiago Matatlán.
In fact, this place is often referred to as the “World Capital of Mezcal” since you can visit a family-owned palenque and learn how they create delish Mezcal.
Alternatively, you can visit Santa Catarina Minas since this area is home to emerging distilleries like LaLocura, Real Minero, etc.
It’s great because you get to sample rare Mezcal and get a hands-on demonstration of the different methods used to create unique varieties of this liquor.
On the tour, you’ll typically visit the agave fields, see how the maguey (agave plants) are prepared and cooked (often in earthen pits), walk through the fermentation process, and see how the mezcal is distilled.
Then, of course, comes the tasting. You’ll try several varieties (Espadín is common, but wild or semi-wild agaves are also available) and learn about “curados” (infused), and pechugas.
It’s fun because you get to combine culture, scenery, flavor, history, and meet really passionate people.
Plus, many tours include round-trip transport. So, you don’t have to worry about logistics or driving (especially good since you’ll want to savor mezcal without stress).
11. San Bartolo Coyotepec
A day trip to San Bartolo Coyotepec is a must for anyone interested in traditional crafts.
Located just 15 km south of the city, this charming town is renowned for its barro negro (black clay) pottery, a craft dating back over 2,500 years.
The distinctive black sheen, achieved through a unique firing process, sets these pieces apart.
Visitors can explore family-run workshops, such as the famed Doña Rosa Studio, where artisans demonstrate the meticulous process of shaping and polishing the clay.
Meanwhile, the town’s State Museum of Popular Art of Oaxaca (MEAPO) showcases a vast collection of these ceramics, offering insights into their evolution and cultural significance.
Getting there is also pretty straightforward since colectivos depart regularly from Oaxaca City’s Valerio Trujano street, near the Zócalo.
In total, the journey will probably take anywhere between 30 and 40 minutes.
Once in San Bartolo Coyotepec, visitors can stroll through the local market, admire the intricate pottery, and even purchase unique pieces directly from local artisans.
12. Teotitlán del Valle
A day trip to Teotitlán del Valle is a must for anyone wanting to experience Oaxaca’s rich heritage when it comes to textiles.
Located just 25 km southeast of Oaxaca City, this Zapotec village is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of weaving wool rugs using natural dyes like cochineal, indigo, and marigold.
The intricate designs often feature Zapotec symbols and motifs that have been passed down through generations.
So, visitors can tour family-run workshops where artisans demonstrate the entire process.
This way, you can see how they spin the wool, dye the wool, and weave on traditional looms.
Some workshops even offer hands-on experiences, allowing you to try your hand at weaving or dyeing.
To get there, you can take a colectivo (shared taxi) from Oaxaca City heading toward Mitla or Tlacolula and ask to be dropped off at the “crucero” (intersection) near the village.
From there, a moto-taxi will take you into the heart of Teotitlán del Valle. The village also has a quaint church and a small museum dedicated to its weaving history.
13. Santiago Apoala
A day trip to Santiago Apoala from Oaxaca City is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Located in the Mixteca region, this hidden gem is home to lush forests, a turquoise lagoon, the impressive Cola de Serpiente waterfall, and a dramatic canyon.
The main attraction is the Cola de Serpiente waterfall, which cascades down over 30 meters into a crystal-clear pool.
The surrounding canyon also offers stunning views and opportunities for hiking and exploring this serene natural area.
To reach Santiago Apoala, take a bus from Oaxaca City to Nochixtlán (approximately 45 minutes). Then transfer to a local colectivo or taxi for the remaining journey to the village.
Be sure to start early since the trip can take several hours. Plus, the hike to the waterfall is best enjoyed when you have lots of daylight.
Upon arrival, register at the local ecotourism office (a small fee applies) to support the community and gain access to trails.
Guided tours are also available and offer insights into the area’s natural and cultural significance.
14. Visit the Pueblos Mancomunados
A day trip to the Pueblos Mancomunados allows you to immerse yourself in Zapotec mountain culture.
This alliance of eight indigenous villages, like Benito Juárez, Cuajimoloyas, and Latuvi, has developed into a sustainable ecotourism initiative that allows visitors to hike between communities while supporting local economies and preserving local traditions.
To reach the Pueblos, you can take a bus or colectivo from Oaxaca City to Cuajimoloyas, a village known for its cool climate and pine forests.
From there, embark on a guided hike along marked trails that connect the villages, offering breathtaking views of the Sierra Norte mountains.
These trails pass through lush forests, meadows, and valleys, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife and learn about the region’s unique biodiversity.
Personally, I would hire a guide since you’ll need to book things in advance, and it just makes visiting these tiny villages a lot easier.
15. Hike in Santa Caterina Ixtepeji
If you love the great outdoors, a hike in Santa Catarina Ixtepeji will be absolutely perfect for you.
Just under an hour’s drive north of the city, this ecotourism hotspot in the Sierra Norte features cool mountain air, pine forests, and trails that range from easy strolls to challenging hikes.
One of the most popular hikes is the Mirador Pelado Chiquito trail. It’s a 3.7-mile (6 km) round-trip hike with about 1,800 feet (550 meters) of elevation gain.
Starting from the cabins near the basketball court, the trail winds through mossy oak groves, climbs into pine forests, and opens up to panoramic views from the top.
The mirador itself is a two-story wooden structure that offers epic views of the valley below.
For a longer adventure, consider the Cumbre Ixtepeji Loop, a 5.5-mile (9 km) trail that takes about 3.5 hours to complete.
This moderately difficult route takes you past towering agaves, pink-barked madrones, and moss-draped fir trees and is perf for anyone who loves a good trek.
Map of the Best Day Trips from Oaxaca, Mexico
Conclusion
After spending so much time in Oaxaca, I can honestly say the magic of this city doesn’t end with the colorful streets or bustling markets. It spills out into the mountains, valleys, and villages that surround it.
From chasing waterfalls and hiking through misty forests to wandering through ancient ruins and sipping smoky mezcal straight from the source, each day trip feels like a brand new adventure.
That’s what makes Oaxaca such a dream for travelers. You don’t just explore the city, you can experiwence an entire region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Whether you’ve got a few days or a few weeks to spare, carving out time for these adventures is absolutely worth it.
Trust me, once you’ve experienced Oaxaca beyond the city, you’ll see why I keep coming back again and again.
