Oaxaca City is a treasure trove for anyone eager to explore Mexico’s rich culture, ancient ruins, and flavorful cuisine. Unlike large, impersonal tours, many of these experiences focus on local stories, authentic sights, and engaging guides. We particularly like the Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour, which combines history and comfort in just a few hours—perfect for travelers short on time but hungry for knowledge. And for those who want to truly taste Oaxaca, the Authentic Oaxaca Cultural Food Tour offers a lively, delicious immersion into local markets and street food, giving a genuine glimpse of daily life.
Whether you’re into ancient ruins, spicy mezcal tastings, or cooking classes, Oaxaca’s tour scene offers something special. Our list includes options for all interests and energy levels, with detailed insights to help you pick your perfect experience.
Quick Overview
Oaxaca City’s tours cover a variety of themes: archaeological sites like Monte Alban (see details here), food and market walks (try the Food & Markets Tour), natural wonders such as Hierve el Agua (see more here), and private custom tours (Oaxaca Conmigo Private Tours). Many include expert guides, local artisans, and even hands-on cooking classes. Now, let’s explore each experience in detail.
1. Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour
At number 1, the Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour hits the mark for those who want a quick yet thorough look at one of Mexico’s most important archaeological sites. You’ll be picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle, saving your energy for exploring. The tour covers the highlights of Monte Alban, the ancient Zapotec capital founded around 500 B.C. Tour guides, known for their passion and expertise, bring the site’s history to life with engaging commentary. You get about 1 to 2 hours to wander freely and snap photos, with plenty of time to climb the temples or take panoramic views of the valley.
Guests praise the guide Miguel for his storytelling skills and the overall value at just over $30 per person, making it a budget-friendly option for history lovers. The only potential downside? Entrance tickets aren’t included, and they cost around $100 (as of January 2025). This tour is perfect if you want a meaningful taste of Oaxaca’s ancient past without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: A well-organized, half-day adventure that combines comfort, expert guidance, and a deep dive into Oaxaca’s pre-Hispanic roots.
2. AUTHENTIC OAXACA CULTURAL FOOD TOUR, eat like a local
Food lovers should look no further than the Authentic Oaxaca Cultural Food Tour, rated 5 stars with over 400 reviews. This 6-hour walking tour takes you through bustling markets and street stalls, trying classic dishes like tlayudas, mole, and tamales, all recommended by locals. It’s a feast for the senses—bring your appetite, as plenty of food is included. The intimate group size ensures personalized attention as your guide shares stories about Oaxaca’s culinary heritage, from ancient techniques to modern twists.
Guests often mention how this tour provides a genuine look at local life, not a touristy buffet. The $107.72 price includes tastings, making it an excellent value for a full day’s experience. Active travelers will appreciate the walking involved, but it’s a rewarding way to learn about Oaxaca’s culture through its food.
Bottom Line: An immersive, satisfying day exploring Oaxaca’s vibrant markets and hidden food spots, ideal for curious foodies.
3. Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour
For around $55, the Only Hierve el Agua and Mezcal Distillery Tour offers a full 8-hour journey into Oaxaca’s natural and cultural highlights. Starting with a visit to the stunning petrified waterfalls of Hierve el Agua, you get about 3 hours to hike, soak in the mineral-rich pools, or just relax with mountain views. Afterward, the tour includes a visit to a local mezcal distillery, where you’ll learn about the traditional production process and taste different varieties. A stop at a bakery in Tlacolula adds a regional flavor to the trip.
Rated highly for the knowledgeable guide Margarita and the scenic beauty, this is perfect for active travelers who love outdoors and authentic tastings. The price includes the entrance fee to Hierve el Agua but excludes the $100 entrance to the archaeological site. It’s a full-day adventure that balances nature, culture, and spirits.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded day for those wanting a mix of hiking, natural beauty, and mezcal education—great value for a full experience.
4. Explore Hierve el Agua, Mitla, Tule, Textile and Mezcal for a day
Rated 5 stars with over 380 reviews, this all-in-one cultural and natural tour offers a comprehensive 11-hour exploration. Starting in Teotitlán del Valle, famous for its handmade wool rugs, you’ll visit Hierve el Agua’s stunning waterfalls, then explore the archaeological site of Mitla with a local guide explaining Zapotec symbolism. The tour also includes stops at the Tule Tree, one of the world’s largest, and a mezcal house for tastings and explanation.
This tour suits those with a full day to enjoy Oaxaca’s diverse sites. The combination of natural beauty, ancient ruins, and artisan crafts makes it particularly rich. It’s priced at $60.99, which covers most activities, and reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and variety.
Bottom Line: An all-encompassing private day trip perfect for travelers who want to see a lot but prefer a relaxed pace.
5. Immersion Tour and Oaxaca Markets, All gastronomy included
Rated a perfect 5 stars, this Gastronomy Tour is packed into 3.5 hours, focusing on Oaxaca’s culinary scene. Designed by foodies, it takes you through local markets with tastings of regional ingredients, traditional snacks, and drinks. The small group ensures everyone gets a chance to ask questions and dive into local food traditions. Your guide, Brian, shares stories about the dishes and their significance.
Priced at $55.90, the tour is ideal for those who want an authentic, immersive food experience without a full day. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a quick yet meaningful introduction to Oaxaca’s flavors and culture.
Bottom Line: Short but rich in flavor and stories, this tour is perfect for foodies on a tight schedule looking for authentic tastes.
6. Oaxaca Conmigo Private Tours
For a fully customizable experience, Oaxaca Conmigo Private Tours offers the flexibility to tailor your day. The private vehicle and guide allow you to choose your stops—be it Monte Alban, Hierve el Agua, or artisan villages like Mitla. With a focus on personalized service, the tour can run from 3 up to 9 hours, depending on your interests.
Rated 5 stars from 250 reviews, travelers love the direct communication and ability to craft a day around their preferences. The most common complaint is that it’s pricier at $294 per group, but the bespoke experience often justifies it. It’s best for travelers who want to avoid crowds and focus on specific sights.
Bottom Line: The ideal choice for groups or those who want a tailored day with a private guide—perfect for families or couples wanting exclusivity.
7. The Mezcal Journey
At number 7, the The Mezcal Journey is a 6-hour adventure into Oaxaca’s iconic spirit. Starting from the city center, you visit mezcal farms and a traditional factory in Mitla and Matatlán. You’ll walk through agave fields, learning about the plant’s significance, and enjoy unlimited tastings of different varieties. The tour also includes a traditional Oaxacan meal, and the guide shares insights into mezcal’s cultural importance.
Rated 5 stars, with enthusiastic reviews about the guide Leyda’s knowledge, this experience offers an authentic look at mezcal’s roots. It’s priced at $100.72, making it a worthwhile investment for spirit lovers.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, educational, and tasty way to understand mezcal’s role in Oaxaca’s culture.
8. The Real Traditional Oaxaca culinary Cooking experience
For those who love rolling up their sleeves, this Cooking Experience with a Local Chef offers hands-on lessons in authentic Oaxacan cuisine. Over 5 hours, you’ll learn regional recipes like mole, tortillas, and more, using traditional methods in a local setting. Roundtrip transportation is included, and you’ll leave with new skills and a deeper appreciation of the culinary heritage.
Rated 5 stars, guests appreciate the intimate setting, expert guidance, and the chance to cook in a real kitchen. The $94.57 price reflects a full immersion into local cooking techniques, making it ideal for foodies wanting a personal touch.
Bottom Line: An authentic cooking class perfect for those wanting a memorable, skill-building experience in Oaxaca.
9. Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class
Vegetarians will love the Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class, rated 5 stars. This 4-hour class introduces plant-based versions of traditional dishes, with deep dives into Zapotec ingredients. You’ll visit a local market with your guide Victor, who shares stories about the herbs and vegetables, then cook and enjoy your creations. It’s designed for active participants who want a meaningful culinary experience.
At $66.39, it offers excellent value, especially as it combines market exploration, cooking, and cultural storytelling. Several reviewers mention how much they learned about local ingredients and traditions.
Bottom Line: A delightful, vegetarian-focused experience that combines market visits and hands-on cooking with cultural insights.
10. Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez
Led by Minerva Lopez, this Traditional Oaxaca Cooking Class offers a full-day, personalized culinary journey. Starting with a visit to a large local market, you’ll pick fresh ingredients, then cook in Minerva’s home with her family. She’s known for her deep knowledge of pre-Hispanic and traditional recipes, and the small group size ensures an intimate experience.
Rated 5 stars, travelers rave about her warmth, expertise, and the chance to learn authentic recipes like mole and tamales. The $111.91 price includes transport, ingredients, and a family atmosphere that makes this experience truly memorable.
Bottom Line: A heartfelt, authentic cooking experience perfect for travelers wanting a family-style immersion into Oaxaca’s cuisine.
11. Traditional Oaxaqueña Cooking with Grandma’s Recipes
This Cooking with Grandma’s Recipes offers a cozy, authentic look at Oaxaca’s culinary roots. In a family kitchen, you’ll learn to prepare a three-course meal, listening to stories from your hosts. The experience lasts around 3 hours and creates a genuine connection to local traditions.
Rated 5 stars and at $90, it provides excellent value and an intimate setting. Guests mention how special it feels to cook in a family home and learn recipes passed down through generations.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a homey, authentic cooking session that emphasizes tradition and connection.
12. Monte Alban – Full Day Guided Tour with or without Food
This Full Day Tour offers a deep dive into Oaxaca’s cultural and artisanal crafts. Starting with Monte Alban, the day includes visits to craft workshops specializing in black clay figurines, textiles, and woodcrafts. Lunch in a local restaurant with a buffet of regional dishes is optional. The guided tour covers multiple sites in 8 to 9 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want a rundown.
Guests praise the professional guides and diverse stops. At $35 per person, it’s an excellent value considering the full-day itinerary.
Bottom Line: A full, enriching day suited for travelers eager to combine archaeology, craft, and regional cuisine.
13. Tour Monte Albán, Hierve el agua, Teotitlán Del Valle and Mezcal
At number 13, this multi-site tour condenses Oaxaca’s highlights into one 8-hour day for up to 2 people at $285.38. Starting with Monte Alban, you then visit the artisan town of Teotitlán del Valle and enjoy a mezcal tasting at a family-run distillery. The tour includes a stop at Tlacolula Market for local snacks and a visit to Hierve el Agua’s natural pools. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized, all-in-one experience with a small group.
Guests love the detailed guides and the chance to see multiple facets of Oaxaca’s culture, art, and landscape — especially the combination of ancient sites and craft.
Bottom Line: An intensive, customizable day for independent travelers or couples seeking a tailored, multi-attraction experience.
14. Earth, Corn & Fire: Tasting the Roots of Oaxacan Cuisine
Focused on Oaxaca’s culinary essentials, Earth, Corn & Fire is a 5.5-hour tour exploring the central role of corn in local dishes. You’ll visit markets, taste traditional snacks, and learn about the significance of indigenous ingredients like nixtamalized corn. The tour includes a visit to a local artist’s gallery and a meal with drinks.
With a small group and a price of $115, it’s suited for travelers eager to understand Oaxaca’s deep food traditions in a relaxed setting. Reviewers mention how much they appreciated the stories behind every bite.
Bottom Line: A thoughtful, culinary-focused tour for those interested in Oaxaca’s indigenous ingredients and artisanal arts.
15. Food & Markets Tour
The Food & Markets Tour is a quick 2.5-hour walk through two of Oaxaca’s top markets, sampling local waters, sweets, and savory snacks. Starting at Mercado Benito Juarez, you’ll taste the famous tejate and grasshoppers, then move to Mercado 20 de Noviembre for grilled meats, tamales, and tlayudas.
Rated 5 stars, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want an authentic taste of Oaxaca’s food scene without sacrificing quality. At $55, it offers a compact, flavorful introduction to regional cuisine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for a brief but delicious overview of Oaxaca’s vibrant markets and traditional foods.
16. Ultimate Hierve el Agua Hike + Mezcal
For the most adventurous, the Ultimate Hierve el Agua Hike + Mezcal is a 13-hour day combining hiking, swimming, and spirits. You start early, explore the rock formations, and then hike to Las Salinas, where you can swim beneath a waterfall. The day culminates with a visit to a family-run mezcal distillery, tasting at the source.
Guests describe the guide as passionate and knowledgeable, and the experience as unforgettable. This tour is best for fit travelers with a full day to spare and a love of outdoor activities.
Bottom Line: A full-throttle day for active travelers who want to combine nature, culture, and spirits in one epic adventure.
How to Choose Your Perfect Oaxaca Tour
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, physical fitness, and interests. For a quick cultural fix, the Monte Alban Half Day Tour offers a deep dive into ancient history without a full-day commitment. Foodies should opt for the Authentic Oaxaca Food Tour or Cooking Classes for an authentic taste of local flavors. Nature lovers and adventure seekers will love the Hierve el Agua Hike or Hike + Mezcal for their combination of outdoor activity and cultural insights.
Private tours like Oaxaca Conmigo are perfect if you want to customize your itinerary, maybe mixing archaeology with artisan visits. Book early, especially for popular experiences, to secure your preferred date and guide.
Final Thoughts
Oaxaca City offers a wide range of tours that suit every interest and pace—whether you’re after ancient ruins, culinary adventures, natural wonders, or private custom trips. The Monte Alban Guided Half Day Tour and the Authentic Oaxaca Food Tour stand out for their combination of value and authenticity, appealing to different types of travelers. For the outdoor enthusiast, the Hierve el Agua Hike + Mezcal promises an unforgettable day in nature.
No matter your choice, these tours offer a genuine, well-rounded way to experience Oaxaca beyond just sightseeing—so plan ahead, and enjoy your trip into Mexico’s culinary, cultural, and archaeological heart.