Oaxaca located along the Mexican Pacific
Oaxaca
Most people
visit Oaxaca for its white sandy beaches with clear aquamarine waters
that form an area of spectacular natural beauty. Some of the most
attractive beaches are Zicatela, which is ideal for surfing; Escobilla, a
turtle beach; Zipolite, a nudist beach; and Puerto Angel and Puerto
Escondido, two bays with a truly Oaxaca environment.
Oaxaca and Chiapas have larger Indian populations than other states in
Mexico and throughout the centuries, their practices, beliefs,
traditions, folklore and customs have shaped the local culture, making
these two states fascinating places to visit. The central highlands of
Oaxaca, a stunning mountainous area dotted with lush valleys and
checquered cornfields, has a large population of Zapotec and Mixtec
Indians. Famous for handicrafts and corn, the area is at its prettiest
during the rainy season when the corn is green on the stalks.
The city of Oaxaca itself is a lovely place with colonial architecture
and numerous plazas, courtyards and narrow streets. High above the city
on a mountaintop lies the magnificent ceremonial centre of Monte Alban.
An impressive collection of buildings, ball courts and plazas, its design
varies from the Mayan ruins most commonly visited in the eastern part of
the country. Visit during one of the spectacular festivals such as Dia de
los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in early November or the Guelaguetza
festival in July. June to March is when the city is considered the most
enjoyable, but the tourist season runs from late July to spring. Remember
to buy chocolates and Mezcal from Oaxaca.
A day trip to Hierve el Agua, two hours from the city, is highly
recommended. Here you can relax in the warm waters of the mineral springs
at the base of a 50-meters (160-feet) waterfall.
