OAXACA - FAQ`S

Where in Mexico is Oaxaca located?

Oaxaca is in southern Mexio. It is bordered by the states of Guerrero to the west, Puebla to the northwest, Veracruz to the north, and Chiapas to the east. To the south, Oaxaca has a significant coastline on the Pacific Ocean.

How do I get from the airport to my hotel?

You can get to Oaxaca, Mexico, by flying into Oaxaca’s Xoxocotlán International Airport (IATA: OAX) from major Mexican cities like Mexico City, Cancún, or Guadalajara. There are direct flights from the US as well.

Once you arrive in Oaxaca, if you have not pre-booked a private transfer with us, it’s best to take a taxi into the city center (around 25 minutes.). On arrival, once you clear customs, there is a taxi stand inside the airport where you prepay. There are two options: collectivo and private. Collectivo means a group transfer. It’s cheaper but you will have multiple stops.

How do I get around Oaxaca using public transportation?

Oaxaca's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other.

For longer distances, taxis are a convenient way to get around, especially for reaching destinations outside the city center. You can find taxis at designated stands or hail them on the street. It's a good idea to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the journey or make sure the driver uses the meter. You will need cash for almost all taxis.

Is Uber available in Oaxaca?

No, Uber is not available due to legal regulations that prohibit ride-hailing platforms from operating in the state. However, Didi Chuxing, a Chinese ride-hailing platform, has partnered with local taxi drivers to offer a similar service called Didi Taxi. Users can flag down a cab using the orange Didi app.

Can I pay/tip in US dollars?

The local currency is Mexican pesos, which you get on arrival at a local ATM. You will need cash for smaller stores, food stalls, and markets. Credit cards are widely accepted at large institutions.

What is the weather like? When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Oaxaca, is generally during the dry season, which spans from late October to early May. This period offers pleasant weather with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding attractions. However, be aware that Oaxaca can get crowded during major festivals like Dia de los Muertos (late October to early November) and Semana Santa (Holy Week, typically in March or April), so plan your trip accordingly if you want to experience these cultural events.

Is Oaxaca safe for tourists? Are there parts of the city I should avoid?

Although a few regions of Mexico have cartel violence and safety concerns, Oaxac State is mostly free from these threats.

You may, however, encounter issues with the local protests - Oaxaca is famous for the amount of protests and these protesters are usually nonviolent, but they do close down the roads for entire days. The protests ramp up every year around May. Many times, these take place outside of the tourist areas, but occasionally the protest focuses on the city's center's zocolo.

In terms of personal safety walking around town, you should have no issues walking the city center after dark, it's lively and active until midnight; and later on the weekends. Cabs are always nearby too, if you need a quick lift back to your hotel.

Visitors are advised not to wander off into the suburbs outside central Oaxaca. While much of the crime in Oaxaca (and Mexico in general) is confined to cartel on cartel violence, occasional violent robberies do take place.

Is there free wifi in Oaxaca?

Wi-Fi in Oaxaca City is generally fast and reliable, but it can be harder to find outside of the state capital. Some hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.

Is it safe to drink the tap water in Oaxaca?

No, the water is not safe to drink. Stick only to bottled water and reliable sources.

I don`t speak Spanish. Will many people speak English?

The local language is Spanish, and we always suggest you get a good English-Spanish guide book, or app on your phone, and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.

What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?

Emergency: Dial 911

Ambulance: Dial 911, See also the Hospital with an Emergency Room, below:

Hospital with a 24-hour Emergency Room: (1) Clinica Hospital Carmen, Calle M. Abasolo 215, Col. Centro, Tel. 951 516 0027. (2) Hospital Reforma, Calle Reforma 613, Col. Centro, Tel. 951 516 0989 or 951 516 6100. Both of these hospitals have a 24-hour ambulance.