Today we step outside the city and back in time to the mighty Zapotec capital of Monte Albán. Perched high above the valley, this ancient city was once a thriving political, cultural, and spiritual center—and remains one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Mesoamerica. With sweeping views, carved stone relics, and sacred ceremonial spaces, it's a breathtaking glimpse into a civilization that flourished over 2,500 years ago.

Next, we head to the artisan town of San Martín Tilcajete, home to the whimsical, hand-carved alebrijes. At a local family workshop, we’ll meet the master carver and enjoy a home-cooked lunch in her courtyard, surrounded by fantastical creatures in every shape and color. As we eat, she’ll share her process, her passion, and the cultural roots of this beloved folk art.

Later, we’ll gather for a mezcal and mole tasting—an explosion of flavor and tradition. You’ll learn about the spirit of agave and sample the complex sauces that define Oaxacan cuisine. 

The evening is yours to enjoy however you’d like—wander the streets, grab a bite, or settle in somewhere cozy and soak up the magic of Oaxaca at night.

Meals: B, L

We begin the day surrounded by golden fields of cempasúchil—marigolds! These iconic flowers are more than just beautiful; they’re believed to guide the spirits of loved ones back home during Día de los Muertos. You'll wander through a working flower field, take photos, and learn why this bloom holds such deep spiritual meaning in Oaxacan culture.

Next, we head into the mountains to visit the jaw-dropping natural wonder of Hierve el Agua. You'll explore petrified waterfalls, have the option to swim in mineral-rich pools with panoramic views, and discover how the ancient Zapotec once channeled this sacred water to feed their crops. 

Afterward, enjoy a laid-back lunch and, if you're up for it, take a short hike for a closer look at this surreal landscape.

We continue our journey back in time at Mitla, once the spiritual heart of the Zapotec empire. This site—known as the “Place of the Dead”—is famous for its mosaic fretwork, found nowhere else in Mexico. 

As the sun sets, we travel to the home of a maestro mezcalero for an unforgettable evening of mezcal tasting. From the agave fields to the first sip, you'll learn how mezcal is crafted and why it’s so deeply tied to family and tradition. Over a homemade dinner, we’ll hear stories about Día de los Muertos from those who’ve lived it for generations—a heartfelt close to a day filled with nature, history, and ancestral connection.

Meals: B, L, D

This morning, lace up your comfy shoes as we embark on a walking tour of Oaxaca City! 

Guided by a local storyteller and historian, you’ll wander cobblestone streets and colonial alleyways, uncovering centuries of rich history alongside colorful present-day culture. Meet talented artisans preserving ancestral crafts and discover grassroots businesses that give Oaxaca its unique creative pulse.

At midday, we’ll visit Mercado 20 de Noviembre, one of the city’s bustling food hubs. Here, at a beloved local spot, savor smoky tlayudas, mole-drenched chicken, and tamales steamed in banana leaves, paired with refreshing agua fresca or comforting hot chocolate. The market’s scents and sounds will draw you deeper into Oaxacan daily life, with sweet treats waiting to delight your taste buds.

After some free time to rest or explore, we’ll regroup at Casa Bestia Centro Cultural for an engaging printmaking workshop. Learn traditional carving and inking techniques, then create your own artwork to take home! 

The evening culminates with a warm convivio—an authentic Oaxacan gathering where we’ll share tamales, cervezas, aguas de sabor, and mezcal. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, savor local flavors, and soak up the building buzz as Día de Muertos approaches. 

Meals: B, L, D

Today we step into the heartbeat of the Tlacolula Valley with a visit to one of its busy local markets. Surrounded by bright, fresh produce and the buzz of community life, you’ll witness firsthand how the Zapotec people gather their daily ingredients and connect through tradition.

After gathering our ingredients with the help of local friends, we’ll retreat to a welcoming home where you’ll learn to prepare authentic regional dishes—flavors crafted from recipes passed down through generations. While some savor the hands-on cooking, others can indulge in traditional mezcal tasting.

Later, we’ll visit a nearby weaving workshop to uncover the intricate process behind Zapotec textiles. From the art of natural dyeing using native plants to the time-honored weaving techniques, this experience offers a window into an ancient craft that still thrives today. The textiles themselves are living stories of culture, color, and care—perfect keepsakes that directly support the artisans who create them.

The rest of the evening is yours to explore. Your guide is always eager to share hidden gems and local favorites for dining if you'd like recommendations.

Meal: B, L, D

This evening's events promise to be one of the most heartfelt and memorable moments of the trip—an opportunity to witness the soul of Oaxaca during one of its most meaningful traditions.

But first, after a relaxed breakfast, we’ll gather for a meaningful experience with Fundación En Vía, a grassroots nonprofit organization based right here in Oaxaca. En Vía works to empower women through education, training, and micro-financing—supporting female entrepreneurs as they build sustainable businesses and strengthen their communities. On this intimate and eye-opening tour, we’ll meet some of the women involved in the program and hear firsthand how they’re turning their talents and ideas into thriving livelihoods. 

We’ll share a meal with some of the participants—a chance to connect on a more personal level and witness local life beyond the typical tourist lens. You’ll walk away not just inspired, but with a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced in this region.

In the afternoon take a siesta or head out on your own mini adventure—your guide is always ready with suggestions if you’re in the mood to explore.

As we ease into the evening, we’ll come together to begin our personal celebration of Día de Muertos. With guidance from local artisans, you’ll craft your own take-home flower crown (no fresh flowers—so it travels beautifully!) and help create a group altar at our hotel. This shared space is where we’ll honor and remember our loved ones, inviting them to be part of our journey. Bring printed photos or frames from home—or send them ahead so we can print them for you.

Tonight, we’ll journey to the cemetery in Santa María Atzompa—about 30 minutes from the city—for a respectful and deeply moving experience of Día de Muertos. By now, we’ll have explored the significance of this sacred celebration together, and you’ll be equipped with cultural sensitivity tips to help you navigate it with care.

This is a moment of reflection and connection. We’ll bring flowers, candles, and mezcal to offer and share with locals, should the opportunity arise. You're also welcome to bring additional items for the altar or to share.

 Meal: B, L

Today is yours to shape. Sleep in, wander, or dive into an activity that speaks to you. Maybe you’ll stroll through the lush grounds of the local botanical garden, take in some quiet beauty at a nearby museum, or finally pick up that handwoven textile or carved alebrije you’ve been eyeing. If you need help choosing how to spend your time, just chat with your program leader—they’ll have ideas tailored to your interests, whether you’re looking for something low-key, artsy, delicious, or all of the above.

Later, we’ll join in one of Oaxaca’s most iconic and electric traditions: La Muerteada. This lively Day of the Dead parade snakes through the city in a joyous whirlwind of music, costumes, and community spirit. Brass bands lead the way, people dance in skull masks, and the streets are filled with laughter, rhythm, and remembrance. 

As night falls, we’ll head to dinner at one of Oaxaca’s most celebrated restaurants. The chef here draws from her roots in the southern Oaxacan mountains to create soulful, vegetable-forward dishes that are as nourishing as they are creative. Every dish is a tribute to tradition, elevated with care and craft.

And tonight... we party! 

While last night invited quiet reflection, this evening bursts with music, dancing, and joy. We’ll admire the altars, join the street parades, clink glasses of mezcal with new friends, and celebrate life with the people of Oaxaca. Your guides will help get you oriented, and then you’re free to follow the music and explore the festive streets at your own pace.

Meal: B, D 

This morning, we’ll immerse ourselves in the world of cacao with a visit to Chimalpa Cacao, a small-batch chocolate maker dedicated to honoring the deep cultural roots of this treasured ingredient. We'll begin with an introduction to their artisanal process, learning how they transform raw cacao into rich, complex chocolate using traditional techniques and a whole lot of care.

Then comes the fun part—tasting! We’ll sample a selection of their handmade chocolates and try two to three traditional cacao-based drinks. Each one tells a different story of Oaxaca’s relationship with chocolate, from ceremonial recipes to everyday comforts. You'll have the chance to create your own custom cacao beverage, experimenting with ingredients and flavors that speak to you. 

Afterward, take some time to relax, wander, or simply soak up your final full day in Oaxaca. 

Tonight's Farewell Dinner takes us to a beloved local seafood spot known for infusing the spirit of the Pacific into every dish. Think melt-in-your-mouth tuna carnitas tacos, tender grilled octopus, and bold flavors that are both inventive and deeply rooted in tradition. It’s the perfect way to celebrate our final night together!

Meals: B, D

As our time in Oaxaca comes to a close, we leave with full hearts and a deep sense of gratitude. We’ve been welcomed into a city alive with tradition. We've shared meals that honor memory, walked through candlelit cemeteries, and witnessed the soul of Día de Muertos in motion. From the artisans who opened their workshops to the cooks who fed us from the heart, every person has generously shared a piece of their world. 

We’ll arrange your transportation to the airport so you can catch your flights home. For now, it’s time to say hasta luego to Oaxaca—but its spirit will stay with you, long after your bags are unpacked.

Meal: B