The Oaxaca Trip
Foodie • Cultural • First Solo Trip
For the love of bold flavors, mezcal tastings, and ancient pyramids. Add colorful markets, artisan kitchens, and family-run distilleries. That’s our Oaxaca trip.
Welcome to Oaxaca!
5 Days / 4 Nights
Starting At $2,399
Up To 16
Our small group trip to Oaxaca is designed for solo travelers in their 20s and 30s who want a mix of culture, food, and connection from day one.
Over five days, you’ll explore one of Mexico’s most vibrant regions through hands-on experiences and a local perspective. Hike out to Hierve el Agua’s cliffside pools, learn to cook traditional dishes like mole and tamales, and walk through ancient ruins at Monte Albán with an expert guide. Along the way, you’ll dive into mezcal culture, sample local favorites like tlayudas, and wander colorful markets filled with spices, textiles, and street food.
This is a side of Mexico that feels deeply rooted and full of character, where traditions remain part of everyday life, and every meal tells a story. And like all FTLO trips, it’s the people you share it with that make it unforgettable.
Physical Activity
Nightlife
Foodie Trip
Cultural
Adventurous
Trip Pace
what you’ll Love about this trip
What's Included
Trip Logistics:
4 nights in an accommodation in a quiet neighborhood of Oaxaca (shared twin room, optional private upgrade subject to availability)
4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 curated dinners throughout the trip, including a welcome dinner and a farewell dinner
Private transportation for all included activities outside of Oaxaca’s historic center
Welcome drinks and orientation to kick off the trip and meet your travel crew
Included Experiences:
Guided day trip to Hierve el Agua, Oaxaca’s iconic petrified waterfalls formed by mineral-rich springs cascading down the cliffside
Scenic hike through the surrounding canyon landscape with sweeping views of the Sierra Madre valley
Time to swim in Hierve el Agua’s natural mineral pools, where calcium-rich spring water collects at the edge of the cliff overlooking the Oaxaca valley
Hands-on Oaxacan cooking experience learning to prepare regional specialties using traditional techniques and local ingredients
Private, after-hours access to Monte Albán, the 2,500-year-old Zapotec capital, exploring temples and ceremonial platforms after the site has closed to the public
Visit to a traditional family-run mezcal palenque in the countryside to learn the full agave-to-bottle production process, from roasting agave hearts in earthen pits to small-batch distillation
Guided mezcal tasting featuring multiple agave varietals and an introduction to how terroir and technique shape Oaxaca’s most celebrated spirit
Home-cooked countryside lunch at the mezcal distillery prepared with locally sourced ingredients
Trip Support & Extras:
Built-in free time to explore artisan markets, textile stalls, rooftop mezcal bars, galleries, and Oaxaca’s vibrant street life at your own pace
Dedicated FTLO Trip Leader throughout the trip, coordinating logistics and providing local knowledge
Access to our pre-departure hub with detailed trip information, packing guidance, cultural tips, and a space to connect with fellow travelers before departure
All entrance fees, taxes, and activity costs for listed experiences
Certain outdoor experiences are dependent on weather and site conditions. In the unlikely event that an activity cannot operate as planned, a suitable alternative will be arranged.
What's Not Included
Flights to and from Oaxaca (fly in and out of Oaxaca City)
Trip arrival and departure airport transfers
Mandatory trip insurance
Meals not mentioned (budget around $150, depending on consumption habits)
Incidental expenses
Where you'll be going
Trip Dates
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$100 off with code: EB2027OAX
Limited private room upgrades are available at checkout starting from $699. If no longer available, you can inquire after booking, and we may be able to secure one.
Standard payments include a $500 deposit + 3 installments. Extended payment plans are available upon request.
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Day by Day
Read through an outline of what’s in store for our Oaxaca trip. This itinerary may be updated as needed.
Day 1 – Oaxaca City
Welcome to Oaxaca!
After dropping your bags at your hotel, meet up with the rest of the crew and get ready for one exciting adventure.
You’ll get the lowdown on this city, region, and ancient culture as we head into the heart of Oaxaca to grab drinks with one hell of a view. And by ancient, we do mean ancient—we’re talking about a region inhabited for thousands of years. Yeah, it’s a lot to wrap your head around.
Kick back with your first mezcal of the week and marvel at the stunning scenery. After that, you’ll head out for dinner at one of the best restaurants in Oaxaca with the crew.
Trip Notes
Read through helpful flight details, trip notes and details about our Oaxaca Trip.
Arrive
Fly into Oaxaca City (OAX)
Arrive by 1 PM on Day 1 and grab a cab to the hotel. (Pro tip: look into round-trip flights to Mexico City and then take a domestic flight to Oaxaca City to save some $$). We do recommend flying in earlier to have some time to explore the city on your own!
Depart
Fly out of Oaxaca City (OAX)
Feel free to leave whenever you like on Day 5.
Private Room Upgrades
Private room upgrades are available for an additional amount and can be added during booking. These are available on a first-come basis, so plan to book in advance if you are interested in your own room.
Dietary Restrictions
Oaxaca’s culinary scene is rich with naturally vegetarian and gluten free options, however hidden ingredients may not always be obvious. Let us know your dietary needs and we will help coordinate with vendors and restaurants.
Mezcal Culture
Mezcal is a celebrated part of Oaxacan culture, often featured in tastings and local experiences. That said, there’s never any pressure to drink – you’re always welcome to opt out and enjoy the moment in your own way.
Accommodations
Stay in a stylish, eco-conscious hotel with a relaxed vibe. Located just outside the city center, it’s still within walking distance of Oaxaca’s vibrant markets, cultural landmarks, and historic sites – an ideal base for exploring the city on foot.
Itinerary Changes
This itinerary is subject to change based on the weather conditions and traveler feedback. In the unlikely event that we are unable to run a specific activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
Passport Requirements
You’ll need a passport with at least one blank page and must be valid for the duration of your stay. We recommend having a few extra months of validity beyond your trip dates, just to be safe.
Physical Activity
This is a relatively active trip with a fair amount of walking on cobblestones and natural terrain.
Weather
Oaxaca’s days are sunny and warm (70s–80s°F / 21–27°C), with cool nights all year-round. Bring breathable layers and a light jacket for early mornings or evening activities.
Let's Get Social
#ftlooaxaca in the wild
How much should I budget for meals and extras?
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Oaxaca is a world-class food destination where even casual meals feel special. From street tacos to gourmet tlayudas, great food is both affordable and unforgettable.
We recommending planning to spend around $150 USD, depending on your personal consumption habits.
I have dietary restrictions. Will there be options for me?
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Yes – just let us know your dietary needs after booking and we’ll coordinate with local partners.
Oaxaca offers a surprising variety of plant-based and allergy-friendly options, especially during cooking and tasting experiences. Still, if you have strict dietary needs, we recommend packing a few of your favorite snacks as cross contimation and hidden ingredients can occur.
What are the accommodations like?
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We stay at a locally run hotel with a minimalist, modern design and a laid-back, welcoming vibe. It’s within easy walking distance of Oaxaca’s markets, museums, and historic sites—making it a great home base for exploring the city on foot.
The space is thoughtfully run with local culture in mind, and rooms are comfortable and well-appointed. Shared rooms are the default, but private upgrades are available if you book early.
What should I pack for Oaxaca?
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Oaxaca’s weather is warm and sunny during the day, but evenings can get cool – especially at higher altitudes. Bring light layers, comfortable walking shoes, and an outfit you feel great in for rooftop cocktails, group dinners, and mezcal tastings. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and anything you like for hiking Hierve el Agua. A small daypack is handy for market visits or Monte Albán.
Any recommendations if I'd like to extend my time abroad?
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If you’ve got more time to spare, you can head to Mexico’s coast for beaches in Puerto Escondido or Huatulco. If you go to Mexico City, it’s also easy to connect to Colombia and Costa Rica for more Latin American adventures.
When’s the best time to go to Oaxaca?
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Oaxaca has a mild climate with warm days and cool nights year-round. We run this trip when the weather is ideal for visiting the ruins, rooftop gatherings, and scenic hikes – so layers are key. Expect highs in the 80s and cooler evenings, calling for a light jacket.
When should I arrive and depart, and how do I get to the hotel?
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Plan to arrive at Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) by 1 PM and to the hotel by 2:30 PM on Day 1 to settle in before our welcome drinks. From the airport, you can take a licensed taxi or book a rideshare to the hotel; both are easy and reliable.
On Day 5, you’re free to fly out of OAX anytime after checkout. FTLO recommends flying round-trip to Mexico City with a short domestic connection to Oaxaca for the smoothest travel.
What’s the pace of the itinerary?
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The itinerary is lively without being exhausting. You’ll explore Oaxaca by foot, tour archaeological sites like Monte Albán, and take a moderately challenging hike to reach the stunning mineral pools of Hierve el Agua. Expect a fair amount of walking each day—nothing too extreme, but some uneven paths, stairs, and elevation. There’s also plenty of time carved out for relaxing, shopping, or sipping a cold drink with a view.
What’s the vibe of this trip?
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This is a perfect trip for food lovers and first-time solo travelers alike. You’ll join a curious, upbeat crew ready to connect over mole tastings, city walks, and local stories. From rooftop mezcal to market meals, the group energy is warm and inviting – ideal for travelers who want to dive into culture without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Common Questions about this trip
Traveler Review Summary
5 Star Rating
The Oaxaca trip with FTLO receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its balance of cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, and authentic local experiences. Travelers frequently highlight memorable moments like hiking Hierve el Agua, cooking with local families, mezcal tastings, and exploring Oaxaca’s vibrant food and art scene. Many reviews also praise the welcoming group atmosphere, thoughtful pacing, and knowledgeable local leadership, with travelers describing the experience as fun, approachable, and especially rewarding for both first-time and returning FTLO travelers.
Read through helpful flight details, trip notes and details about our Oaxaca Trip.
Interested in learning more about our Oaxaca trip?
We're here to help! Whether you're curious about accommodations, accessibility, group vibe, or dietary needs, fill out the form below, and we'll get back to you ASAP.
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