Mexico · Festival

4-Day Oaxaca Day of the Dead Tour with Mitla, Yagul and Traditions

4 Days Round trip from Oaxaca Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the historic center of Oaxaca City, including Santo Domingo Church and the vibrant Zócalo
  • 02 Discover traditional crafts, spices, and local products at Benito Juárez Market and 20 de Noviembre Market
  • 03 Participate in a traditional pan de muerto painting workshop in Mitla
  • 04 Observe traditional wool rug weaving and natural dye techniques in Teotitlán del Valle
  • 05 Taste traditional Oaxacan chocolate and learn about its preparation
  • 06 Walk through vibrant marigold fields used in Day of the Dead offerings

Experience the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca on a four-day cultural journey filled with traditions, history, and local encounters. Explore the historic center of Oaxaca City, including the Church of Santo Domingo and vibrant local markets, take part in a traditional pan de muerto painting workshop in Mitla, and discover the artisan culture of Teotitlán del Valle. Walk through marigold fields, visit a family altar, and witness the moving cemetery celebrations in Xoxocotlán before joining a lively comparsa parade, exploring the archaeological site of Yagul, and enjoying authentic Oaxacan cuisine, chocolate, and mezcal throughout the experience.

Begin the day by visiting the marigold fields where these symbolic flowers used in Day of the Dead offerings are cultivated.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
City Oaxaca de Juarez
Languages English, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Discover Oaxaca City's Historic Heart

  • Begin the day with a guided visit to the majestic Church of Santo Domingo, an architectural treasure known for its intricate ornamental details and rich history.

  • Explore the church while learning about the spirituality and historical significance connected to this sacred place.

  • Continue the experience along the lively pedestrian walkway, where colorful cobblestone streets and artisan shops offer authentic souvenirs and local crafts.

  • Arrive at the Zócalo, the vibrant heart of Oaxaca City, where colonial architecture surrounds the lively main square filled with local activity.

  • Spend time observing daily life and experiencing the atmosphere of this historic plaza.

  • Visit the Benito Juárez Market and the 20 de Noviembre Market to discover local textiles, alebrijes, aromatic herbs, spices, and traditional Oaxacan products.

2
Day 02

Mitla Traditions and Artisan Heritage

  • Begin the journey with a visit to Mitla, an archaeological site known for its mysticism and cultural importance.

  • Participate in a special workshop dedicated to painting pan de muerto while learning about the symbolism behind the decorative designs used during the Day of the Dead celebrations.

  • Continue to Teotitlán del Valle, a town renowned for its traditional wool rugs and rich artisan traditions.

  • Observe the preparation of traditional chocolate and taste this ancestral beverage.

  • Visit a local weaving workshop to see the process of dyeing wool with natural pigments and creating intricate handmade rugs.

  • Interact with artisans who share the cultural meaning and history behind their craftsmanship.

  • Conclude the day with a gastronomic tasting featuring traditional Oaxacan dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients.

  • Observe a demonstration of artisanal mezcal production, followed by a tasting experience while guides share stories connected to the Day of the Dead traditions.

3
Day 03

Marigold Fields, Family Altar, and Cemetery Celebration

  • Begin the day by visiting the marigold fields where these symbolic flowers used in Day of the Dead offerings are cultivated.

  • Learn about the cultural meaning of marigolds and their role in guiding spirits during the celebration.

  • Continue to a local market where you can choose traditional elements used to prepare an offering, including sugar skulls, candles, and decorative items.

  • Visit a traditional family home where hosts welcome visitors with hot chocolate, atole, and local snacks.

  • Observe a beautifully decorated family altar and learn about the rituals and traditions associated with honoring ancestors.

  • Travel to the Xoxocotlán Pantheon to explore tombs decorated with flowers, candles, and offerings during the Day of the Dead celebration.

  • Learn about the cultural and emotional importance of cemetery visits during this time.

  • End the day with a traditional dinner featuring tlayudas while sharing reflections on the experience.

4
Day 04

Yagul Ruins and Dancing with La Catrina

  • Begin the day with a visit to the archaeological site of Yagul, where temples, courtyards, and ancient Zapotec structures reveal the history of the region.

  • Walk through the ruins while learning about the civilization that once inhabited this important site.

  • Continue to the town of Etla to discover the creation process of wooden alebrijes crafted by local artisans.

  • Enjoy a traditional lunch in the town while experiencing the local atmosphere.

  • In the evening, join a traditional comparsa parade in the town center.

  • Dance to the music of the local band while participating in the joyful celebrations of the Day of the Dead.

  • Experience the festive atmosphere as music, costumes, and community traditions bring the celebration to life.

  • Conclude the experience with an authentic dinner featuring tamales, Oaxacan chocolate, and mezcal while sharing stories and moments with locals and fellow travelers.

Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Zócalo, marigold fields, Yagul ruins

Where this trip takes you

Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Zócalo, marigold fields, Yagul ruins

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Oaxaca 1 city · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Exclusive tourist transportation for scheduled activities
  • Entrance tickets for the archaeological sites
  • Certified tour guide during the experiences
  • Traveler insurance that applies to incidents on board transport vehicles
  • Applicable taxes included
  • Participate in the Make Your Oaxacan Cheese workshop and experience
  • Experience the City of the Dead cultural activities
  • Participate in the Harvesting the Offering experience
  • Experience the Day of the Dead celebration in the cemetery
  • Participate in the Dancing with La Catrina celebration
  • Enjoy the foods mentioned in the itinerary description

What's Not Included

  • Tips
  • Any other concept not specified in the previous section
  • Foods not mentioned in the previous section
  • Flights
  • Accommodation

What to bring

  • Cap
  • Sunglasses
  • Water
  • Sunblock
  • Cash for personal purchases
  • Towel, sandals, and a swimsuit for Hierve el Agua

Know before you go

  • There are some light walks.
  • It's easy to find safe street food during the journey.
  • Our operators are certified and highly professional.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, Calle Macedonio Alcalá, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., México
Tour start
Oaxaca, Mexico
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 4 days finish where they began, in Oaxaca.

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Starting from

USD 760 /person
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