OAXACA

Located in Mexico?s southern region along the Pacific coast, Oaxaca?s terrain consists of extensive valleys and mountain chains. In this state, known for its important history and culture, you?ll have the opportunity to visit various town and cities inhabited by about 16 distinct ethnic groups. In many of those places, the indigenous people have preserved the traditions and customs of old. First you can visit the city of Oaxaca, the state capital, a colonial city with some of the nation?s most magnificent architecture. There you?ll see Baroque edifices, green quarry stone constructions and you can visit important museums like the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, which is housed in the Ex-Convent of Santo Domingo. You can also enjoy the city?s traditional fiestas, such as Noche de Rabanos and Guelaguetza.

Oaxaca also has diverse archaeological sites, including the Zapotec ruins at Monte Alban, declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO, and Mitla, which is known for it fret-ornamented structures. Nearby you can check out the Arbol del Tule, a 2,000-year-old tree that measures 11 meters in diameter. You can also visit the Chacahua Lagoons, an ecological zone with mangroves and beaches, as well as the beautiful bays of Huatulco and Escondido, where you can do all kinds of water sports.

During your visit, don?t forget to try Oaxaca?s delicious regional cuisine. For great souvenirs you can buy the famous black pottery or alebrijes, colorfully painted wooden figurines.