La Guelaguetza in Oaxaca
Dates
July 24 - 29, 2025
Pricing
$2200 USD per person
Length
5 nights/6 days
Group Size
2 minimum, 10 maximum
La Guelaguetza in Oaxaca
La Guelaguetza is Oaxaca’s most vibrant and spirited festival, a dazzling display of indigenous culture, dance, and music. Every July, communities from across the state gather in Oaxaca City, dressed in traditional attire, to showcase their unique heritage through lively performances and heartfelt offerings of regional goods—embodying the true spirit of "Guelaguetza," or shared generosity.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into this cultural spectacle. Experience the rhythmic beats of traditional dances, savor the flavors of Oaxacan cuisine on a walking food tour, and sip mezcal straight from the source. Witness the breathtaking parades, feel the energy of the performances at the iconic Auditorio Guelaguetza, and explore the artistry of local crafts.
Immerse yourself into Oaxaca’s living traditions. Walk the streets alive with music and color, connect with local artisans, and embrace the communal spirit that makes La Guelaguetza one of the most extraordinary festivals in Mexico.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to the vibrant city of Oaxaca! After check-in at our hotel, take some time to freshen up and recharge. Afterward, the afternoon is yours to freely discover Oaxaca's charm, be it wandering through local markets, savoring a local treat, or wandering around its lively streets. In the evening, we'll regroup for a welcome dinner. You’ll mingle with fellow travelers and dive into traditional Oaxacan cuisine.
Meals included: dinner
Day 2
Ease into your morning, Oaxaca-style. When afternoon hits, we're diving straight into the vibrant pulse of Oaxaca's historical center. With a local guide leading the way, get ready to deep-dive into Oaxaca's food scene and culture. Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey as we stop at four unique tasting locations, sampling over 15 traditional food and drink selections. Post our gastronomic adventure, we'll shift gears and visit a pottery workshop studio, offering a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship and artistry of the region.
Meals included: breakfast and food tour snacks
Day 3
Rise and shine! Today, we’re heading to a Zapotec village to visit an artisanal mezcal distillery. We’ll start the morning with a traditional breakfast before stopping at a local pulquería to learn about pulque, a fermented agave drink with deep roots in Mexican history. You’ll get to taste different varieties and hear about its cultural significance.
Afterward, we’ll step into a local kitchen for a cooking lesson, followed by a mezcal tasting. Then, we’ll walk through the agave fields and see the mezcal distillation process up close. A day of good food, good drinks, and a closer look at Oaxaca’s traditions awaits.
Meals included: breakfast + lunch
Day 4
Today, we’re heading out to Hierve el Agua, one of Oaxaca’s most stunning natural wonders. This petrified waterfall, formed over thousands of years by mineral-rich springs, offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll have time to take in the scenery, walk along the trails, and, if you’re up for it, dip into the natural pools.
After exploring, we’ll visit a nearby village to experience the energy of the calenda, a lively parade with music, dancing, and traditional marmotas (giant paper-mâché figures). This celebration is a vibrant display of Oaxacan culture, bringing the community together in the streets.
A day filled with stunning landscapes, rich traditions, and the lively spirit of Oaxaca.
Day 5
After breakfast, we’ll start the day with an immersive visit to a local textile studio, where we’ll learn about the significance of natural dyes, their cultural importance, and the intricate techniques used by artisans. With a newfound appreciation for this craft, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a traditional barbacoa dinner, hosted by a local family. After dinner, we’ll take part in festival celebrations, experiencing the music, dance, and vibrant energy that make Oaxacan traditions so special. A perfect way to end our journey.
Meals included: breakfast + dinner
Day 6
We’ll have breakfast together, then private airport transportation.
You’ll return home feeling invigorated and will be itching for your next trip to CDMX!
Meals included: breakfast
Additional Info:
Included:
Accommodation for 5 nights in 4-star accommodation
Transportation to and from the airport
Transportation for activities listed above
Meals as listed above
Activities as listed above
Group photographer
Trip leader and 24/7 concierge service for the duration of the group trip
Not included:
Airfare in and out of the country
Mandatory travel insurance
Visa
Souvenirs
Other incidental expenses (just ask if you're not sure)
Alcohol, except where noted
Accommodations: We will be in a four star boutique hotel (pictures below or something similar).
If you sign up with someone else, you will be paired up with that person. Otherwise, you will be assigned a roomie. We will put you and your roomie in contact before the trip! More details regarding accommodation will be shared upon purchase of the trip.
Hotel in Oaxaca (or something similar)
Trip insurance: You are required to purchase trip insurance within 3 days of initial trip deposit. Proof of said trip insurance must be provided within 3 days of initial trip booking.
What to expect in Oaxaca: While we try our best to stick to the itinerary, traveling requires flexibility and changes to transportation and activities may occur. Bring your sense of adventure and enjoy the moment!
Pricing: This trip is priced at $2200 per person. A $500 deposit per person is required to reserve your spot. Final payment is due no later than 45 days prior to departure. All payments must be made by credit card.
Refunds: Deposits for this trip are non-refundable, but this will turn into a credit that you can use on your next booking with us.
Click here to read refund policy for cancellation by the traveler and cancellation by us.
Please read our FAQs page and Booking Terms and Conditions for more information.