Oaxaca City is a hub for hands-on experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. It’s a place where you can truly connect with local traditions, whether that’s through a vegetarian cooking class or crafting your own alebrije in a workshop. The city’s lively markets, talented artisans, and passionate cooks make it an ideal destination for immersive workshops. We especially love options like the Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class for its focus on pre-Hispanic heritage, and the Chocolate Making Class — a tasty way to learn about Oaxaca’s centuries-old cacao traditions. Whether you’re into art, food, or culture, Oaxaca’s workshops promise authentic and memorable experiences.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of workshops and classes, including traditional cooking, artistic techniques, local artisan crafts, and culture-rich tours. Expect experiences like the Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez for a family-style meal, Wood Engraving Workshops to learn a local art form, and even Contemporary Art Studio Visits. The list below highlights each of these unique opportunities to deepen your Oaxaca experience.
1. Oaxacan Vegetarian Cooking Class
This class offers a deep dive into Oaxaca’s vegetarian heritage, developed through collaborations with experts in pre-Hispanic cuisine. You’ll tour a local neighborhood market with your guide, Victor, to pick the freshest ingredients—something many food tours claim to do but few execute with such personal care. The class includes making dishes like mushroom mole, stuffed zucchinis, and empanadas, with recipes rooted in traditional Zapotec culture. Guests consistently praise Victor’s knowledge and friendly approach, with one reviewer noting, “We learned about Zapotec culture and history from Victor, and the food tasted really good.” At 4 hours for around $66, this class offers excellent value for those interested in authentic, sustainable cuisine and cultural stories. It’s perfect for vegetarians and those keen on food heritage.
Bottom line: If you want a hands-on, culturally rich cooking experience that emphasizes local ingredients and traditional methods, this class is a top pick.
2. Traditional Cooking Class with Minerva Lopez
At number 2, Minerva Lopez’s Cooking Class offers a warm and authentic experience in her family home. Minerva, with over 40 years of cooking tradition, brings her extensive knowledge of pre-Hispanic and traditional Oaxacan dishes into a 6-hour journey that includes market shopping and cooking alongside her family. She takes you into Oaxaca’s largest market, where you’ll select fresh herbs, peppers, and produce, then prepare dishes like mole, salsas, and homemade tortillas. Guests rave about her personal touch, describing her as “warm and welcoming,” and highlight the intimate, family feel of the class. With small groups and a focus on learning, it’s ideal for foodies wanting a genuine, home-cooked experience.
Bottom line: For a deeply personal, culturally immersive cooking experience that feels like cooking with family, Minerva’s class is hard to beat.
3. Flavors of Oaxaca: Cooking Class with No Set Menu and Local Market Tour
This 4.5-hour class offers a flexible, relaxed approach to Oaxaca cooking. You visit a local market to buy ingredients and then choose which traditional dishes to prepare—no preset menu here, which makes it especially appealing for those who want to customize their experience. The class emphasizes technique, origin stories, and taste, with the added bonus of complimentary drinks during cooking and eating. With over 300 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it’s clear that this small-group experience is popular. One reviewer mentioned, “The food was authentic and tasted amazing,” highlighting the quality of the dishes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a flexible, interactive, culinary adventure.
Bottom line: If you prefer customizable menus and like to learn cooking techniques while exploring local markets, this class is a strong choice.
4. Cooking classes from the Isthmus with a Tehuana
This 6-hour class offers a unique cultural twist: cooking with a Tehuana from Oaxaca’s Isthmus region. You’ll shop in a local market and then head to the instructor’s home to learn traditional recipes, including mezcal cocktails to start or finish the meal. The emphasis is on authenticity and cultural exchange, with reviews praising Betsy’s warm hospitality and her skill in teaching. One guest described it as “a memorable experience,” appreciating the blend of market shopping, home cooking, and mezcal tasting. The small-group format and local guide make it ideal for those interested in Oaxacan culture and regional cuisine.
Bottom line: For a deep cultural experience that combines traditional food, mezcal, and local customs, this class is a standout.
5. Make Your Own Chocolate with Oaxacan Tradition Private Class
This 2.5-hour private session offers a sweet journey into Oaxaca’s chocolate heritage. Run by a family from the Zoque community, you’ll toast, grind, and craft your own chocolate in a traditional manner. The experience is highly educational, with participants making their own chocolate drink and learning about cacao’s cultural significance. With an average rating of 5/5 and reviews calling it “fun, educational, and a family experience,” it’s perfect for families or chocolate lovers. It’s a hands-on way to understand Oaxaca’s cacao culture and walk away with a delicious souvenir.
Bottom line: For a personalized, family-led chocolate experience that’s both fun and educational, this private class is a sweet option.
6. Cooking class with a traditional Oaxacan cook
This 4.5-hour class pairs you with a traditional cook in her family outdoor kitchen. You’ll make Memelitas and a molcajete sauce, learning recipes passed down through generations. The class is praised for its authenticity, as chefs use utensils and techniques from their family tradition. Reviewers note the delicious food and friendly environment, with one saying, “The best mole I ever had,” after a hands-on experience. The focus on traditional cooking methods makes it ideal for those seeking a genuine culinary connection.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in learning authentic recipes in a family setting, this class offers a memorable, immersive experience.
7. Wood Engraving Workshop
Engraving is a beloved art form in Oaxaca, and this workshop offers you a chance to try it yourself. Over about 4 hours, you’ll learn the basics of creating an engraving piece, guided step-by-step, whether you’re a beginner or already have experience. Reviews praise the friendly instructor and the opportunity to produce multiple prints. It’s a creative, hands-on activity that provides insight into Oaxaca’s artistic traditions. The workshop is suitable for children and adults alike, making it a perfect family activity or solo adventure.
Bottom line: For those curious about local artistic techniques, this workshop provides a meaningful introduction to Oaxaca’s engraving style.
8. Que rico es Oaxaca, Cooking Classes
This class offers a lively, interactive environment, where everyone actively participates in making traditional Oaxaca dishes. It also emphasizes culture, including visiting a family home and practicing Spanish. The class lasts about 5 hours, and the focus is on fun, hands-on learning with authentic recipes. Multiple reviews highlight how well-organized and delicious the experience is, with one mentioning, “Great food and great company.” It’s a perfect choice for travelers wanting a family-style, authentic experience.
Bottom line: If you enjoy cultural exchange and want to cook in a genuine family setting, this class hits the mark.
9. Mixology class with Mezcal in Oaxaca
For those interested in Oaxacan spirits, this 2-hour class is as much about cocktail skills as it is about mezcal. Led by a contest-winning bartender, you’ll learn how to craft cocktails using mezcal, tasting different varieties along the way. The host’s background in media and competitions adds a professional flair to the experience, and reviews mention how fun and educational it was. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a casual, social activity that combines liquor tasting with mixing skills.
Bottom line: Perfect for cocktail lovers wanting an entertaining, hands-on mezcal experience with expert guidance.
10. 1 Hour Oaxacan Chocolate Making Class with Mole-making and Drinks
This quick but comprehensive class packs a punch in just an hour. You’ll toast cacao, grind beans, and make your own chocolate, then use it to prepare a simple mole and hot chocolate. It’s a highly rated, easy-to-fit-in experience ideal for families or anyone short on time but eager to learn. Guests mention how fun and educational it was, and the tasting of their own chocolate creations adds a satisfying touch. It’s great for beginners or those wanting a taste of Oaxaca’s cacao.
Bottom line: For a short, fun intro to Oaxaca’s chocolate, this class offers a sweet, hands-on experience.
11. Visit to workshops and studios of contemporary art artists
This tour takes you into the studios of contemporary artists in Oaxaca, offering an inside look at the current art scene. Visiting 2-4 artist workshops, you’ll see everything from modern paintings and photographs to sculptures. The tour encourages dialogue and curiosity, with reviews praising the high-quality artists and friendly guides. It’s perfect for those interested in modern art and artistic processes, providing a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s evolving cultural landscape.
Bottom line: Art lovers looking for an up-close look at Oaxaca’s contemporary scene will find this tour inspiring.
12. Oaxacan cooking class
Focused on making mole, this class teaches a traditional, family-style approach. Over approximately 5 hours, you’ll learn to prepare the iconic sauce and other dishes, gaining hands-on skills. The small group size (limited to six) ensures personalized attention. Reviewers note the authenticity and delicious results, with one saying, “The chef passed down recipes from his grandmother.” It’s ideal for serious cooks wanting an authentic Oaxaca experience.
Bottom line: If your goal is to learn authentic mole and regional dishes in an intimate setting, this class delivers.
13. Half-Day Alebrijes Carving and Painting Workshop in San Martin
This half-day workshop combines artistic creativity and local tradition. You’ll visit a workshop in San Martin Tilcajete, watch artisans carve and paint, then decorate your own alebrije with expert guidance. The reviews highlight its family-friendly nature and hands-on fun, with many appreciating the chance to participate directly. The inclusion of round-trip transportation makes it a hassle-free cultural activity, perfect for families or art enthusiasts.
Bottom line: For a hands-on art experience that introduces you to Oaxaca’s famous wooden sculptures, this workshop is a delightful choice.
14. 4 Moles Oaxaca Cooking Class with Traditional Cook
In this 2.5-hour class, you’ll learn how to prepare four different moles, along with tortillas and a chocolate ice cream for dessert. The focus is on storytelling behind each dish, making it more than just cooking—it’s cultural education. Reviewers mention the delicious dishes and organized setup, ideal for those wanting a focused, flavorful experience. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to pack in multiple dishes but keep it relatively compact.
Bottom line: For a comprehensive mole experience that includes multiple recipes, this class is a flavorful option.
15. Monte Alban & artisan house workshop in Arrazola and Coyotepec
This full-day tour combines archaeological exploration and artisan visits. You’ll explore Monte Albán, then visit towns famous for black clay pottery and wooden alebrijes. The tour includes visits to Cuilapan de Guerrero and artisan workshops, making it ideal for travelers wanting cultural depth in one day. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and efficient logistics. It’s suited for those with limited time but a strong interest in both history and crafts.
Bottom line: For a well-rounded cultural day trip that mixes archaeology and art, this tour fits the bill.
16. Art Workshops and Chocolate Shops Tour
This experience offers a blend of art, crafting, and culinary delights. You’ll visit contemporary art studios while sampling Oaxaca’s famous chocolate products. The tour includes learning about local cocoa and enjoying artistic environments—perfect for those wanting a more multifaceted experience. Reviewers appreciate the originality and quality of the activities, making it a unique way to see Oaxaca’s creative scene.
Bottom line: For a combination of art and chocolate, this tour provides a memorable, sensory-rich outing.
How to Choose
Picking the right workshop in Oaxaca depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If authentic regional cuisine is your priority, consider the Minerva Lopez cooking class or the vegetarian class. Want to craft something tangible? The Wood Engraving Workshop is perfect for art lovers. For a cultural deep dive, the Tehuana cooking experience or the art studio visits will satisfy your curiosity. Budget-conscious travelers can look at shorter classes or day trips like the Monte Alban & artisan towns tour, while those seeking a culinary adventure might prefer multi-course classes like the 4 Moles.
Booking early is advisable, especially for small-group or private experiences, as they tend to fill quickly during peak seasons.
To sum it up, Oaxaca offers a diverse range of workshops that cater to foodies, art lovers, and culture seekers alike. Whether you’re interested in cooking, crafting, or learning about local traditions, you’ll find options that bring Oaxaca’s vibrant culture into focus. For a truly memorable trip, pick a couple of experiences that suit your interests, and don’t hesitate to book in advance—these authentic workshops are popular for good reason.