Food Tour at the Mercado de Abastos

Imagine strolling through over 20 hectares of vivid stalls, aromatic fruits, and bustling vendors—this is the Mercado de Abastos, the largest market in southern Mexico and a treasure trove of Oaxacan cuisine. For about three hours, guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll get an inside look at what makes this market tick, with plenty of tastings along the way. The tour costs $57 per person, making it a fairly affordable way to dive into Oaxaca’s culinary soul.

What we love about this experience is how it combines delicious food with culture. The guide (Javi, as praised by visitors) takes you beyond the tourist spots, introducing you to local stall owners, and sharing stories behind each dish. We also appreciate the variety—more than just food, you’ll sample mezcals, fresh fruits, and even insects! However, the tour involves walking, so be prepared for some footwork, and skip breakfast—trust us, you’ll want your appetite.

This tour is ideal for curious travelers who want an authentic, unfiltered experience. If you’re eager to understand Oaxaca’s cuisine and culture through food, and enjoy the company of other small groups, this tour will suit you perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic Market Experience: Visit Oaxaca’s largest market with a local guide, not a tourist-oriented setup.
• Tastings: Over 10 types of food and drinks, from tacos to mezcal, including exotic options like huitlacoche and grasshoppers.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about regional ingredients, traditional dishes, and local food stories directly from vendors.
• Photogenic Spots: Capture colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, and vibrant market stalls.
• No Transport Needed: The market is close to the meeting point, making this a walkable, hassle-free experience.
• Flexible and Social: Small group size (limited to 10 participants) allows for personal interaction and questions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Mercado de Abastos Food Tour

Starting Point: Jardín Sócrates

The tour begins in the quiet charm of Jardín Sócrates, a small park beside the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad. Here, you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers, setting the tone for a relaxed, informative outing. The proximity to the market is convenient, with no need for additional transportation, which means more time for tasting and exploring.

Entering the Mercado de Abastos

Once inside the market, the atmosphere immediately hits you with a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells. Over 20 hectares of vibrant stalls and vendors stretch out, offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted crafts. Your guide, who has built relationships with the vendors, will lead you through the different sections—these are not just vendors, but “members of the community,” sharing their stories and specialties.

Food and Drink Highlights

The tour is cleverly designed to showcase a variety of seasonal, authentic dishes. Expect to try classic empanadas de flor de calabaza (pumpkin flower empanadas), tamales, memelas, and barbacoa tacos. But it’s not just about the food; you’ll also sample regional beverages like tejate, a traditional cacao and maize drink, and mezcal, with over 10 varieties available to taste. For the more adventurous, the guide might serve grasshoppers, chicatanas, and ants, which are considered delicacies here.

A particularly memorable stop is the huitlacoche taco—a corn fungus that has become a sought-after ingredient in Mexico. As one reviewer remarked, the experience of trying these lesser-known ingredients “felt like being invited to visit all of the different members of Javi’s family and tasting their specialties.”

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Market Walk and Photo Opportunities

As you traverse the fruit and vegetable sections, you’ll see an explosion of colors—bright oranges, deep greens, and purples—perfect for snapping photos. The vibrant displays are not only eye-catching but also reflect the abundance of fresh, local ingredients.

Shopping and Additional Delights

At the end of the tour, you’re encouraged to linger in the handicrafts area or visit Doña Vale’s famous memelas for even more tasting. The market’s layout makes it easy to explore beyond the tour, so if something catches your eye, you can buy directly from the vendors at friendly prices.

Authenticity and Local Insights

What sets this tour apart is the local expertise. As Jessica from the UK noted, the guide, Javi, is “super informative and fun,” sharing personal stories and cultural insights that elevate the experience beyond just eating. Tessa from New Zealand appreciated how Javi’s relationships with vendors made everything feel personal and genuine.

Practical Details

• The tour lasts about 3 hours, usually in the morning, which is ideal for avoiding the midday heat and catching the market in full swing.
• It’s a small group (up to 10 people), ensuring a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of personal attention.
• The tour is priced at $57, which, considering the numerous tastings and insights, offers excellent value. Remember, all food and drinks are included except for extra shopping or additional snacks.
• The walk is straightforward, with no transportation needed, and the meeting point is a small park next to the Basilica, easy to find.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Instead of just wandering the market on your own, this guided experience provides context and stories that deepen your appreciation of Oaxaca’s culinary traditions. You get to taste more than just typical street food—you’re introduced to ingredients and dishes that are often reserved for locals or special occasions.

Plus, the personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide means you can ask questions—about what you’re eating, local ingredients, or broader cultural traditions. The inclusion of multiple mezcal tastings adds a fun, spirited dimension that truly rounds out the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to try authentic Oaxaca dishes, culture seekers wanting to understand local life through its markets, and small group travelers who appreciate guided conversations and insights. It’s especially suited for those comfortable with walking, as the tour involves exploring a large, bustling market environment.

If you’re interested in shopping for souvenirs or handcrafted items, this tour makes that easy, as it ends in a dedicated handicraft area with ample options. However, if you’re just looking for a quick bite or are on a tight schedule, note that the tour is a focused, immersive experience rather than a casual stroll.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately three hours long, usually scheduled in the morning to help beat the heat and crowds.

Is transportation provided?
No, the market is within walking distance from the meeting point, Jardín Sócrates, so no additional transportation is necessary.

What should I do before the tour?
It’s recommended to skip breakfast to fully enjoy the tastings—trust us, you’ll want that hungry stomach!

Are the food and drinks included?
Yes, all tastings—including tacos, mezcal, beverages, and snacks—are included, except for any extra purchases or additional snacks outside the tour.

Can I buy souvenirs or crafts at the end?
Absolutely. The market has a dedicated area for handicrafts, and you’re welcome to browse and purchase after the tour.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The tour focuses on local and seasonal foods, which may include meats and insects, but you can inquire about specific dietary needs when booking.

In The Sum Up

This Mercado de Abastos food tour offers a rich, authentic glimpse into Oaxaca’s culinary landscape. It’s a chance to taste a variety of traditional dishes, from tacos to exotic ingredients, while learning about local culture from a passionate guide. The small group setting and inclusive approach make it a memorable, worthwhile experience for any curious traveler.

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply someone who loves to eat well while traveling, this tour provides genuine value and a chance to experience Oaxaca like a local. The combination of delicious food, lively market scenes, and personal stories makes it a highlight of any trip to this vibrant city.

Final Words

If you’re visiting Oaxaca and want to go beyond the typical tourist fare, this tour is a smart choice. It’s well-reviewed for its knowledgeable guides, authentic food experiences, and vibrant market atmosphere. Perfect for those who enjoy immersive, small-group adventures with plenty of tastings and photo opportunities, this experience will deepen your appreciation of Oaxaca’s unique flavors and community spirit. Prepare to eat, learn, and maybe even discover a new favorite ingredient—like huitlacoche or chapulines—while making some unforgettable memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: