The natural wonders and rich cultural attractions of Oaxaca are best explored with a guide, who can add depth and context to the experience. Whether you’re interested in art, history or food, the Travel Office can arrange fascinating day trips with experts.

Zapotec Ruins

Two ancient ruins, Monte Albán and Mitla, offer captivating glimpses into the region’s rich pre-Columbian history. Monte Albán was the ancient Zapotec capital, established around 500 B.C. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a short day trip from Oaxaca city that can be combined with an excursion farther afield to Mitla, a religious center colloquially referred to as the Zapotec Vatican. At the small site, we toured a low pyramid carved with geometric patterns. I was stunned that we were allowed to climb up and inside the structure, allowing us to fully experience the sacred site. Although it’s not as well known as Monte Albán, Mitla is well worth the detour. Consider having your travel advisor arrange a full-day exploration of these two sites before an overnight at Casa Silencio, which is 20 minutes from Mitla.

Natural Wonders

We left the capital early in the morning to beat the crowds at Hierve el Agua, which translates to “boil the water.” Hierve is a mineral-rich clifftop spring that has transformed over the centuries into a series of otherworldly petrified waterfalls. On our excursion with a local guide, we walked below a nine-story formation of calcified springs streaked with color. At the end of the hike, we drank from a bubbling spring and swam in a cool natural pool carved into the rock, which had panoramic views of the valley below. The site is striking, but the drive to Hierve is long and bumpy. I’d only recommend this day trip to those who are keen on hiking and don’t mind swimming in the chilly water.