Show off your beauty wearing a typical Oaxacan costume + photo session

Quick overview: For about $218 per person, you get a 2-hour journey into the heart of Oaxaca’s vibrant traditions. This tour is led by local guides and includes the chance to wear authentic costumes from one of the eight regions of Oaxaca, complete with traditional makeup, hairstyles, and jewelry. The highlight is a photo session in front of the stunning Santo Domingo temple, with drone footage to beautifully document your experience.

What we love about this experience: First, the attention to detail in recreating the traditional attire—each costume and hairstyle is meticulously chosen to reflect a specific region’s culture, making it a meaningful way to connect with Oaxaca’s diversity. Second, the professional photo and video recordings turn fleeting moments into lasting memories, perfect for sharing or keepsakes.

A potential consideration is the cost of any damages to costumes or props, which means you might want to handle the costumes carefully—especially if you’re used to being a bit clumsy. The experience is best suited for those eager to celebrate local culture in a personal, visual way, and it’s perfect for travelers who love photography, history, and bespoke experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic regional costumes bring Oaxaca’s diverse cultures to life.
• Professional photo and drone videos create memorable keepsakes.
• The guided tour offers insights into the significance of each element of traditional dress.
• The experience is private, making it personal and flexible.
• Suitable for travelers who appreciate cultural authenticity and photography.
• Not ideal for children under 3, due to the nature of the activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Oaxaca Through Costume and Culture

When you think of Oaxaca, images of colorful markets, ancient ruins, and lively festivals probably come to mind. This tour offers a different angle—wearing the culture rather than just observing it. For two hours, you become a moving canvas of Oaxaca’s traditions, chosen from a selection of authentic costumes representing various regions, each with its own story and symbolism. This is a chance to step into the land’s history with the help of friendly guides who explain the significance behind each garment.

The tour is based in the city’s center, specifically starting at C. Macedonio Alcalá 201-int 206, a location close to many of Oaxaca’s charms. After choosing your costume and having your make-up and hairstyle done in the traditional style, you’ll head to Santo Domingo de Guzmán, the iconic baroque church that dominates the skyline. Here, the guides will lead you through a photo session, capturing the stunning visual contrast of your costume against the ornate architecture.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point at Macedonio Alcalá

The experience begins at a central location in Oaxaca, making it convenient for most travelers staying nearby. It’s the perfect staging ground for getting ready without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Santo Domingo de Guzmán

The highlight of this tour is the photo session in front of the Santo Domingo temple—an architectural marvel with intricate carvings and golden accents. It’s no exaggeration to say this backdrop elevates your photos, turning them into vibrant souvenirs of your trip.

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Guided tour and scenic views

As you walk from your dressing area to the church, your guide shares insights about the history and symbolism of the costumes, jewelry, and traditional hairstyles. This personal touch deepens the experience, transforming a costume rental into a meaningful cultural exchange.

Return to Macedonio Alcalá

After capturing your photos and videos, you’ll head back to the starting point, where the team will provide short clips of the process, as well as drone footage that offers a bird’s-eye view of the scene—adding an extra layer of awe to your memories.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are the costume, jewelry, makeup, hairstyle, the photo session, and video recordings, including drone footage. These elements combine to give you a well-rounded, personal experience that emphasizes both visual beauty and cultural understanding.

Not included are professional editing or retouching of photos, fees for other sites not on the itinerary, or additional services like transport or meals. You’re also responsible for any damage to costumes or props, so handle them with care during the experience.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $218, this experience offers more than just a photo op. You’re investing in cultural authenticity, professional media documentation, and a chance to connect deeply with Oaxaca’s diverse regions. Many travelers have appreciated the personalized service, with reviews noting how “the guides were friendly and informative,” and how “wearing the costumes made me feel proud” of Oaxaca’s traditions.

While it might seem pricey compared to a simple photo shoot, the value lies in the quality and depth—the costumes are authentic, the guide’s explanations enrich the experience, and the photos and videos serve as lasting memories. If you’re someone who loves photography, culture, or simply wants a one-of-a-kind souvenir, this tour is a smart choice.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Reserve at least 24 hours in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your preferred costume region.
• Handle the costumes and props carefully; damage may incur extra costs.
• If you have allergies to makeup or specific sensitivities, inform your guide beforehand.
• This tour is not suited for children under 3, as it involves dressing up and some standing.
• It runs mostly in the morning, so plan your day around the experience to avoid rushing.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy visual storytelling, cultural authenticity, and personalized experiences. It suits those eager to connect with Oaxaca’s traditions in a hands-on way and cherish professional-quality photos. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups wanting a memorable, Instagram-worthy activity that’s both fun and meaningful.

FAQ

Can I choose which regional costume I wear?
Yes, you select from a variety of authentic costumes representing different regions of Oaxaca, each with its own unique symbolism.

How long does the experience last?
The entire tour takes about 2 hours, typically available in the morning, which makes it easy to incorporate into your day.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
The tour price covers the costume, makeup, hairstyle, and media recordings. However, you’ll be responsible for damages if the costume or props are harmed.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. The tour begins at the specified address, which is centrally located in Oaxaca.

Can I get my photos professionally edited?
The experience provides the photos and videos as captured, but professional editing or retouching is not included.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible booking option.

Is this activity suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
The tour is guided in Spanish, so some knowledge of the language or a translator could enhance your understanding of the explanations.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a little makeup or hair product on; the guides will handle the styling.

Is this experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

In summary, if you’re looking for a way to connect with Oaxaca’s vibrant cultural tapestry in a personal and visually compelling way, this costume and photo experience is a fantastic choice. It offers authentic costumes, expert guidance, and memorable photos that will be treasured long after your trip. Perfect for those who want to wear their travel story proudly and have a tangible keepsake of their time in Mexico’s southern state.

You can check availability for your dates here: