Holidays in Oaxaca
Painted wooden animals, hot chocolate and mountain-top ruins in southern Mexico's colourful old city. Here's what Oaxaca is like with the family, when to go and how long to stay.
Painted wooden animals, hot chocolate and mountain-top ruins in southern Mexico's colourful old city. Here's what Oaxaca is like with the family, when to go and how long to stay.

Check the latest travel advice and entry rules for Mexico on GOV.UK before you book.
November to March is dry and sunny, with warm days and cool nights. Day of the Dead in late October and early November is spectacular but busy, so book early. The rainy season runs from about June to September, though July brings the Guelaguetza dance festival.
Ancient Zapotec pyramids and plazas on a flattened mountain top above the city.
Rock formations that look like frozen waterfalls, with natural pools to swim in.
A busy market where you can try hot chocolate, tlayudas and grasshoppers if you're brave.
A cactus garden beside the Santo Domingo church, visited on a guided tour.
One of the widest trees in the world, in a small town just outside the city.
Watch families carve and paint bright wooden animals in San Martín Tilcajete.
Yes, for curious families who like food and markets. The old city is walkable and friendly, and day trips to ruins and villages are easy to arrange.
Five to seven nights covers the city and a few day trips. Add a few days on the Pacific coast for beaches.
There are no direct flights. Fly to Mexico City, about 12 hours, then take a short flight to Oaxaca. British passport holders don't need a visa for short stays.
Oaxaca city is generally considered safe for visitors, but take the usual care with bags at night. Check GOV.UK for the latest advice on the wider state.
Put Oaxaca on standby with everyone's other ideas. You each spread your points in secret, get one veto, and the draw picks where you go.