Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

¡Bienvenido/a a Oaxaca, Mexico! You are about to experience the biggest Mexican celebration of the year! Oaxaca is the authentic cultural and foodie epicenter of the country – and of Day of the Dead celebrations. It’s one of those special places in the world, where ancient civilizations have left an undeniable mark. Consequently, it’s probably one of the most culturally diverse areas in the whole world.

Upon arrival, a private driver will be waiting for you at the airport to take to your hotel. In less than half an hour you reach your homebase for the following week.

It’s not easy to describe the magic of a visit the cemeteries in villages like Atzompa on the 31st of October. The lights of millions of candles, marigold flowers all over the place, families celebrating with their favorite bites and beverages, a band playing the songs of the season nonstop…it’s a real and authentic celebration! This is the place were one realizes that the Day of the Dead is indeed a day that’s truly about remembrance for Mexican people.

Jump into private transportation and enjoy a smooth ride to Atzompa, as your UnGuide tells you more about this special event. The rest… you are about to experience yourself!

The Maya were one of the ancient civilizations that left a profound mark on Mesoamerica, and Oaxaca is no exception. You’ll have the chance to explore one of the most well-preserved Maya archaeological sites, left untouched by the Spanish, allowing it to remain remarkably intact.

Monte Alban, located near the historic center of Oaxaca de Juárez—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is just a 30-minute drive from the city center. Your UnGuide will be there to help you make the most of your visit to this extraordinary historical site. Discover the remarkable achievements of this ancient civilization and uncover the secrets of the Maya.

Yes, we said chocolate. In this workshop, you learn everything about the history of cacao in Latin America, while you get hands-on and make your own chocolate straight from the cacao beans. There’s an incredible connection between ancient cultures like the Maya people and chocolate as we know it today. Tasting is the highlight for most.

What are Alebrijes? If you’ve seen the Walt Disney movie Coco, you definitely know what they are in detail. If not, you’re in the right place. These colorful handicrafts were created by Pedro Linares, a Oaxacan artist. They represent several fantastic creatures that once appeared in one of his dreams. The one and only Frida Kalho and Diego de Rivera got to know about them and they fell in love with them. Slowly they gained popularity to a point that Pedro, the artist, was awarded the National Price for Arts and Science – the highest award given to artisans in Mexico.

Your UnGuide takes you to a Alebrije workshop, where you hear insights on the many details about them and get hands-on in your temporary assignment as a local Oaxacan artisan.

Every journey has its end, and today marks the final chapter of your Day of the Dead UnTour. The day is yours to explore at your own pace, with your UnGuide providing a curated list of recommendations to help you make the most of your last moments in this captivating city.

As evening falls, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a special location. Enjoy one final taste of Oaxaca’s exquisite cuisine while reminiscing about the incredible experiences of the past seven days. It’s the perfect way to conclude your Day of the Dead week.

Your UnGuide will assist with anything that you might need for check out and assure a smooth return or help you in to your next destination. Private transportation is waits at the assigned time for our transfer from your hotel to the airport.

Hasta pronto amigos y amigas!