Visiting Oaxaca for Día de los Muertos, is an unforgettable immersion into a tradition that is both profoundly spiritual and vibrantly festive. From the last days of October through November 2nd, the city transforms into a sensory spectacle honoring the return of departed souls.
The air fills with the sweet, floral scent of marigolds, whose bright orange petals blanket elaborate altars, or ofrendas, constructed in homes, hotels, and public squares. These altars are adorned with candles, sugar skulls, photos of the deceased, and their favorite foods and drinks, serving as a heartfelt welcome.
By day, the markets buzz with activity, selling special pan de muerto (bread of the dead) and intricate decorations. As night falls, the true magic begins. Families flock to cemeteries, most notably the Panteón General and the famous candlelight vigil in Xoxocotlán, transforming them from solemn grounds into places of light and life. Thousands of candles illuminate the gravesites as families share stories, meals, and music, creating an atmosphere that is intimate and deeply moving, not mournful.
The streets come alive with comparsas—carnival-like parades where locals don costumes of skeletons (calacas) and devils, dancing with infectious energy through the night. Visiting Oaxaca during this time is not a somber affair; it's a powerful and beautiful celebration of the eternal connection between life and death.
To give you the most authentic experience possible, all of our activities are guided by the true experts: remarkable local women and the families who have shaped this culture for generations
Welcome to Oaxaca! We're so excited to have you join us.
Our journey together begins at the airport, where we’ll pick you up and bring you to the charming Casa Tabaa hotel. Once you’re checked into this family-owned gem, the afternoon is yours to either rest up from your travels or begin exploring the vibrant streets right outside your door.
This evening, we invite you to a casual welcome dinner at a wonderful local spot. We'll enjoy some authentic Oaxacan cuisine while we get acquainted and kick things off with a classic mezcal cocktail.
Today, we dive into the heart and soul of Oaxaca's traditions. Our journey begins in the sun-drenched fields where the majestic agave grows, learning about the sacred plant that gives us mezcal. Next, we'll visit a local family's vibrant marigold farm to harvest our own cempasúchil—the golden "flower of the dead" believed to guide the spirits home.
With our flowers in hand, we'll arrive at a traditional family palenque (distillery). Here, we'll explore the profound meaning of Día de los Muertos and participate in one of its most beautiful customs: building a traditional altar, or ofrenda, together. The maestro mezcalero (master distiller) himself will then unveil the ancestral secrets of his craft, passed down through generations.
This leads to the moment we've been waiting for—a guided tasting where you’ll learn to savor the complex, magical notes of artisanal mezcal. Our journey culminates with a spectacular lunch specially designed by renowned house chef, Armando Isidro, creating the perfect end to a day of deep cultural immersion.
Today, we connect with the heart of Oaxaca, beginning with a visit to a remarkable women-led coffee cooperative. You’ll engage all your senses—touching the beans, inhaling the rich aroma, and of course, tasting the final product—as you learn about their sustainable farming and the passion behind every cup.
Our sensory journey continues at the bustling heart of the city: the Central de Abastos market. We’ll navigate this vibrant labyrinth of sights and sounds, from enormous loaves of pan de muerto to local delicacies. Here, we'll meet the wonderful García sisters, who will welcome us into their home. They are preparing their family's mole recipe, passed down through generations, and we’ll share this special meal with them in their patio, an intimate experience on the eve of their own family's spiritual return.
As night falls on October 31st, we prepare for one of the most powerful traditions of Día de los Muertos. We will witness how families gather in cemeteries to adorn the graves of their loved ones with candles, marigolds, and offerings, creating a breathtaking sea of light. We will respectfully walk through two different cemeteries, experiencing the beautiful atmosphere of remembrance filled with food, music, and candlelight as families await the arrival of the souls.
This profound experience concludes around midnight. We encourage you to come with an open heart, ready to see how the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca is truly a celebration of life
Enjoy a full day to explore the magic of Oaxaca on your own terms. The day is yours to command, whether that means hunting for the perfect craft at a local market, reflecting on the art at the Museo de las Culturas, or relaxing with a coffee at a sun-drenched café and watching the city life go by.
Later in the evening, we’re diving into one of the most vibrant traditions of all: the comparsa! Think of it as a carnival-like parade where music, dance, and elaborate costumes fill the streets to honor life and death with pure joy. We will head to a local community to experience this authentic celebration firsthand, joining the lively procession as it moves through the town.
Today is a journey to three Oaxacan legends, from natural marvels to living traditions. Our first stop is the unforgettable Hierve el Agua. Here, you can embark on a rewarding hike to see the petrified cascades from below or enjoy a leisurely stroll and a swim in the natural pools famous for their stunning views.
Next, we'll meet a legend of Oaxacan cuisine. We have the special honor of being invited into the home of a traditional cook, who will serve us a delicious stew made with her cherished family recipe. This is a true taste of authentic, home-cooked Oaxacan flavor and hospitality.
We’ll end our day in the presence of another legend: the colossal Árbol del Tule. As you stand beneath the world’s widest tree, you’ll be humbled by its immense size and ancient, silent wisdom, capping off a truly incredible day.
Design Your Perfect Last Day in Oaxaca
How will you spend your final day in this magical city? The day is entirely yours to design, whether you prefer leisurely exploration or a deep dive into ancient culture.
Option A: Independent Discovery Enjoy the city at your own pace. You could explore the famous Benito Juárez market for last-minute souvenirs, discover the incredible textile workshops, or find a quiet moment of reflection in the stunning Ethnobotanical Garden.
Option B: A Curated Cultural Journey (Optional Add-On) Join us for a memorable excursion to the stunning archaeological site of Monte Albán, perched high above the valley. We'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Oaxacan artistry with visits to a workshop creating whimsical Alebrijes and another crafting the world-famous black pottery. (This day trip is available for an additional cost.)
Our Farewell Evening No matter how you spend your day, we will all come together in the evening for one last celebratory meal. We're ending on a high note with an amazing dinner at Las Quince Letras, the renowned restaurant of Chef Celia Florián, to toast our shared memories and the vibrant spirit of Oaxaca.
Ready to go deeper? For those who want to experience the true soul of Oaxaca, this exclusive journey takes you behind the scenes to connect with the region's most iconic traditions.
Ascend to the City of Gods at Monte Albán: Walk in the footsteps of Zapotec kings at one of the most important archaeological sites in the Americas. We'll explore the grand plazas of this ancient capital and marvel at the history etched into its stones.
Step into the Magic of Disney's Coco: Visit the world-renowned workshop that inspired the fantastical spirit guides in the movie Coco. You'll meet the masters themselves and discover the secrets behind the vibrant, natural dyes that bring these whimsical alebrijes to life.
Taste a Cherished Family Recipe: We’ll be welcomed into a traditional village eatery for an unforgettable lunch. You'll savor the perfect seasoning in a dish prepared by the eldest member of the renowned Fabián family—a flavor of Oaxaca you won't find in any restaurant.
Become the Artisan: To complete our day, you'll get your hands on the legendary black clay of the Zapotec valley. Under the guidance of the family of the master artisan Adelaida Fabián, you will learn the ancient techniques and shape your very own piece—a unique souvenir infused with your own creativity and the spirit of Oaxaca.
This is more than a tour; it's a rare opportunity to personally connect with the masters of Oaxacan craft and history. Don't miss out on this unforgettable day!
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