When it comes to family travel, choosing a destination that caters to children’s interests while also offering something for parents can be a daunting task. However, Oaxaca, Mexico, provides the perfect combination of fun, education, and cultural experiences for all ages.
Located in southern Mexico, Oaxaca is known for its vibrant art scene, rich history, and beautiful landscapes. Children will love exploring the ancient ruins of Monte Albán and learning about local traditions at the Ethnobotanical Garden, while parents can indulge in the local cuisine and relax in the city’s charming colonial architecture.
One of the unique experiences in Oaxaca is the opportunity to learn from and work alongside local artisans, such as those who specialize in the production of traditional textiles, ceramics, and woodcarvings. Children can get creative through crafting and parents can learn about the process and heritage of these crafts.
For those who want to spend time in nature, Oaxaca offers opportunities to discover native wildlife at La Paz Waterfall Gardens or to engage in kayaking and snorkeling at Puerto Escondido. These activities provide a way to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Finally, after a packed day of activities, families can unwind and relax while indulging in the delicious cuisine that Oaxaca has to offer. A food tour through the local markets is a great way to taste various traditional dishes, including mole – one of the region’s most famous dishes.
Overall, Oaxaca offers endless possibilities for family travel. From culture and history to nature and food, there is something for everyone in this Mexican gem.
Exploring the Ancient Ruins: A Day Trip to Monte Albán
Heading to Oaxaca with kids? Monte Albán, the ancient Zapotec ruins located on a hilltop overlooking the city, is a must-visit destination. The ruins of Monte Albán are one of the most prominent archaeological sites in Mexico, making it a perfect opportunity to teach your kids about history, architecture, and culture.
Your exploration begins with a 20-minute scenic drive from Oaxaca to the archaeological site, where your children can spot the Mitla ruins, a pre-Hispanic religious city en route. Once at the site, you’ll marvel at the expansive mountain vistas and learn about the Zapotec civilization dating back to over 2,500 years ago.
Monte Albán is a great place to expose your children to the fascinating world of archaeology, where they can witness excavation sites, discover ancient artifacts and learn from your guide. The site is home to numerous pyramids and slightly spooky tombs just waiting to be discovered.
Take a picnic lunch so you can fuel up for the climb up to the Gran Plaza. The centerpiece of the ruins is the Grand Plaza, the center of political, religious, and cultural life in the Zapotec kingdom. Here children can climb around small pyramids, observe the ancient ball game court and take in the panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
If you don’t want to climb, the site offers plenty of open spaces where your children can run around and explore freely. There’s also a small museum that showcases a range of archeological treasures from the site, including the famous Danzantes (the dancers), who in fact are not dancers, but tortured humans depicted in stone carvings.
Afterwards, wrap up your visit to Monte Albán with an authentic Oaxacan hot chocolate and a visit to the souvenir shop. Your kids will be fascinated by the variety of archaeological replicas, beautifully designed and crafted by the Oaxacan artisans. Overall, Monte Albán is a must-visit for families and a sure way to leave your children with a love of history, culture, and adventure that they’ll remember for years to come.
Learning about Local Traditions: Visiting the Ethnobotanical Garden
Tucked away in the heart of Oaxaca lies the beautiful Ethnobotanical Garden, a hidden gem that offers a unique glimpse into the local culture and traditional practices. This garden is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the intertwined relationship between nature and human lives.
The garden is located on the site of a former monastery and has been carefully designed to showcase the diversity of plant life used by the indigenous communities in their daily lives. Visitors can spend hours wandering through the meticulously curated gardens and learning about the different uses of the plants, from medicinal properties to spiritual significance.
One of the highlights of the garden is the collection of traditional agave plants, which are used to produce the famous Oaxacan mezcal. The knowledgeable guides will explain the process of turning the agave into mezcal and offer visitors a chance to sample the final product.
The Ethnobotanical Garden is not just a place for learning about the local flora; it’s also an excellent opportunity to gain insight into the cultural practices of the indigenous people of Oaxaca. The garden often hosts live demonstrations of traditional crafts and rituals, such as weaving and dancing.
For those interested in a more immersive experience, the garden offers workshops on topics such as medicinal plant identification and traditional food preparation. These workshops are a great way to learn from local experts and gain hands-on experience with the practices that have been passed down through generations.
Exploring the Ethnobotanical Garden with its stunning collection of plants and its rich cultural significance is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this garden is the perfect way to deepen your understanding of the people and landscapes of Oaxaca.
Getting Creative: Crafting with Oaxacan Artisans
One of the hidden gems of Oaxaca is the prevalence of local handicrafts. From embroidered textiles to hand-carved wooden figures, there is no shortage of creative expression in this region. And what better way to appreciate and learn about these crafts than by working alongside the artisans who create them?
Many artisans in Oaxaca offer workshops that allow visitors to learn about traditional techniques and create their own piece of art to take home as a souvenir. One popular option is to take a weaving class, where you will learn how to use a traditional backstrap loom to create intricate designs using bright and bold colors.
Another popular craft to learn is woodcarving, which has a long history in Oaxaca. Artisans often use the local hardwood known as copal to create figures that have both spiritual and aesthetic significance. You can spend the day carving and painting your own animal or human figure, guided by an expert craftsman.
For those interested in pottery, there are also workshops available where you can learn how to create Oaxaca’s iconic black clay pottery. You’ll learn how to mold the clay into the desired shape, smooth it out, and fire it in a kiln. And of course, you’ll get to take your creation home with you.
These workshops not only provide a hands-on learning experience but also allow you to support the local artisans that keep these traditional crafts alive. And who knows, you may even discover a new passion for a particular craft and come home with a new hobby!
Discovering Native Wildlife: A Visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens
If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous experience while in Oaxaca, look no further than the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. This stunning attraction allows you to explore some of Mexico’s most lush natural landscapes while getting up close and personal with some of its most fascinating animals.
The gardens feature a wide variety of native wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, sloths, and more. You’ll have the opportunity to observe these beautiful creatures in their natural habitats and even interact with them in a safe and controlled environment.
In addition to its animal exhibits, La Paz Waterfall Gardens also offers a range of thrilling outdoor activities. Take a hike through its stunning nature trails, many of which lead to breathtaking waterfalls. If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even try your hand at zip-lining or white water rafting.
While at La Paz, don’t forget to take advantage of its many cultural activities as well. Learn about the region’s rich history and traditions at the on-site museum, or sample some of its delicious local cuisine at the gardens’ restaurant and cafĂ©.
Overall, a visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens is a must-do for nature and animal lovers alike. With its breathtaking scenery, exciting activities, and fascinating wildlife exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this incredible attraction.
Indulging in the Local Cuisine: A Food Tour Through the Markets
Oaxaca is well-known for its delicious and unique cuisine that has a rich history and culture behind it. What better way to experience this than by taking a food tour through the various markets of the city?
The markets of Oaxaca are a food lover’s paradise, filled with a wide variety of fresh ingredients and traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. A food tour through these markets allows you to taste and explore different regional flavors and spices that are unique to Oaxacan cuisine.
One of the most popular markets to visit is the Mercado de la Merced, located in the historic center of the city. This bustling market is known for its wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods. Here, you can sample traditional dishes such as tlayudas, memelas, and quesillo, all of which are made with local ingredients.
Another market worth exploring is the Mercado Benito Juarez, which is the largest market in Oaxaca. Here, you can find an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats, as well as a diverse selection of traditional snacks and dishes. Make sure to try the famous Oaxacan mole, which is a sauce made with over 20 different ingredients and is a staple in the local cuisine.
For those who are adventurous eaters, a visit to the Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a must. This market is known for its wide selection of meats, including the famous grilled chapulines (grasshoppers). Don’t be afraid to try new things and expand your palate while exploring the markets.
A food tour through the markets of Oaxaca not only allows you to indulge in the delicious local cuisine, but also gives you a glimpse into the daily life and culture of the city. Make sure to come hungry and with an open mind, as you never know what delicious surprise you may find around the corner.
Having Fun in the Sun: Kayaking and Snorkeling at Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is a beach town on the southern coast of Oaxaca, known for its surfing. However, it’s also home to a variety of other water sports, including kayaking and snorkeling. Start your adventure by renting a kayak and paddling out into the turquoise waters of the Pacific.
As you glide through the clear water, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of sea turtles, dolphins, and even humpback whales that migrate through the area. For an even closer encounter with the marine life, strap on a mask and snorkel and explore the coral reefs just offshore.
Don’t worry if you don’t have your own gear – there are plenty of shops and tour operators that rent everything you need to explore the underwater wonders. Several beaches in Puerto Escondido are great for snorkeling, including Playa Manzanillo and La Punta.
After your water adventure, head to one of the many seaside cafes or restaurants for a cold drink and some delicious seafood. Try the traditional Mexican dish of ceviche, which is made with fresh seafood marinated in lime juice and spices.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short hike to the nearby Laguna de Manialtepec. This bioluminescent lagoon is a natural wonder, with sparkling blue-green waters that light up at night. Take a night tour to see the spectacle up close and personal.
Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or visiting for the first time, Puerto Escondido is a great destination for those looking to have some fun in the sun. With its stunning beaches, clear waters, and abundant marine life, it’s no wonder that it’s one of Mexico’s most popular beach destinations.
Conclusion
Visiting Oaxaca with kids can be an engaging and fun experience for the whole family. From exploring the ancient ruins at Monte Albán to kayaking and snorkeling in Puerto Escondido, there are endless opportunities for families to bond and create unforgettable memories.
Learning about local traditions at the Ethnobotanical Garden and crafting with Oaxacan artisans are also great ways to immerse oneself in the culture and connect with the community. Families can take home unique handmade souvenirs to remember their time in Oaxaca.
For those interested in wildlife, the La Paz Waterfall Gardens offer a chance to witness native species and learn about conservation efforts. And of course, indulging in the local cuisine is a must-do activity when in Oaxaca. Families can enjoy a food tour through the markets and taste the flavors that make Oaxacan cuisine one of the best in Mexico.
Overall, Oaxaca offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and adventure for families to explore together. Whether it’s discovering ancient ruins, immersing in local traditions, tasting the local cuisine, or engaging in outdoor activities, Oaxaca has something for families of all ages.
So pack your bags, grab the kids, and head to Oaxaca for an unforgettable family vacation!
