Guadalajara to Oaxaca: 6 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

Most people would immediately think of taking a commercial flight, but there are actually several options available to you.

The best way for you will depend on your budget, how long you’re going to spend in Mexico, and how quickly you need to be in Oaxaca.

I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca simply and safely in six fantastic different ways.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Why Should You Visit Guadalajara?

Guadalajara is a large city of over five million people and is the capital of the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It’s the second-largest city in Mexico by metropolitan area, with lots of great attractions in and around its beautifully preserved historic city center.

Like all major Mexican cities, Guadalajara is home to a stunningly beautiful cathedral in its historic center, the Guadalajara Cathedral. The Guadalajara Cathedral was originally constructed during the 16th and early 17th centuries in the Spanish renaissance style. However, its two newer gothic towers that were built after the original structure was destroyed in an earthquake in the 19th century make it truly spectacular.

Nearby Tlaquepaque is a colorful Mexican “magic town” (pueblo mágico) where you can enjoy a more relaxed pace and explore some great local artisanal cafes, art studios, and street art. You can also walk down the Andador Turístico de Tlaquepaque (the “tourist walk”) and see the beautiful colorful umbrellas creating an artificial rainbow above you.

And if you’re an aficionado of tequila, you will be in heaven. The birthplace of tequila itself is just 40 miles away in the town of Tequila, where you can tour the famous Jose Cuervo Distillery and taste some of the freshest Tequila you’ll ever find.  You can also follow the tequila trail (la ruta de tequila) through over 150 registered distilleries that, together, make 100% of the tequila in the world today.

Before we jump into getting from Guadalajara to Oaxaca, let’s look at why you should consider visiting Oaxaca in the first place.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Why Should You Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is worth visiting for so many reasons!

It is known for its rich cultural heritage, its beautiful colors everywhere, and its wonderfully friendly people. There are breathtaking landscapes that will captivate you, and you’ll fall in love with its mouthwatering cuisine.

Oaxaca has a vibrant art scene, wonderful markets and highly-skilled brilliant artisans of many kinds. Each year it also holds unique traditional festivals such as Day of the Dead, La Guelaguetza, and Noche de Rábanos.

It has beautiful buildings that are centuries old and breathtaking ruins that are thousands of years old. If that isn’t enough, real wonders of the world like Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree are just a short drive away from Oaxaca City.

And once you’ve explored the city, you can visit some of its magical towns and travel south to visit its idyllic Pacific coast and explore some of its little-known ocean paradises like Puerto Escondido and Huatulco.

You’ll struggle to find a region as richly diverse as Oaxaca. There are just so many things for you to do that you will wish you could stay longer!

So let’s look at how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

1. Fly to Oaxaca

If you think even briefly about how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca, it won’t surprise you that flying is the quickest and most convenient option.

This is the case even when you add the time it takes to get to the airport before you fly.

Fast Facts: Flying From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Where Do I Book A Flight To Oaxaca?

I recommend that you use Expedia.com to book your flights. You can check flights using the Expedia search box below:

You’l be able to see the best deals available on different dates and flying with different airlines.

How Do I Get From Guadalajara To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) from Guadalajara.

I’ve set these out in detail below for you.

1. Rental Car

If you have a rental car already, you can usually drop it off at the airport before you fly.

All reputable providers have kiosks at the airport, and you’ll just need to make sure that you return it to the designated parking area for rental cars.

Tip: If you didn’t book the car at the airport, you’ll need to check with your provider that you can drop it off at the airport and you may need to pay an additional one-way fee.

2. Private Transfer

Your hotel should be able to arrange a private transfer to Guadalajara International Airport for you. If you want to arrange it yourself, I recommend using Viator, which has several options.

Private transfers will start at around US$30 and will take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on where your hotel is located and the time of day that you need to travel.

Tip: Check whether the transfer is shared with other passengers. If the driver needs to collect other passengers, the trip will be longer and you’ll need to allow more time.

3. Taxi

Taxis are easy to find in Guadalajara, especially if you’re staying at a large hotel. I recommend that you ask the front desk to book you a taxi before you check out, and it will be waiting for you as soon as you’ve settled up.

There’s nothing to stop you hailing your own taxi, although I think letting the hotel arrange it is better so that you focus on getting packed and ready to travel.

If you do hail a taxi on the street, you’ll need to agree the fare with the driver before you go, but you can expect it to be around US$10 to US$15, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

4. Uber

Uber is available in Guadalajara and it’s perfectly safe to use. If you don’t already have the Uber app installed on your phone, you’ll need to install it before you can call a driver using Uber.

The app works the same as it does in the US, so you’ll pay up front using a credit card and the driver will then pick you up. The app will send you the details of the driver and the vehicle picking you up ahead of its arrival.

An Uber from Guadalajara to the airport should cost you around US$10, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

5. Public Transport

According to Statista, Guadalajara had a population of 5.7 million at the end of 2020, so it’s not surprising that the city has a sophisticated public transport network to help you move around.

Traveling on the light rail or on a city bus is simple enough, although you’ll need to buy a rechargeable travel card (called “Mi Movilidad“), which you can get in a Metro station and many bus stations in the city. The card will cost you 30 Mexican pesos (about US$1.50). You can find a map of the Guadalajara light rail and bus lines here.

Once you have the card, you use it to tap in when you board a train or a bus, and you can use it to pay for others too if you’re traveling as a group. When you run low on credit, you can recharge the card at machines available at the metro or city bus stations.

The cheapest way to travel from the airport to your hotel is to take the public bus, and it will cost you 9.50 Mexican pesos (less than US$1.00).

You’ll need to take the Ruta T13-A bus from the airport to into the historic center of Guadalajara. The trip will take around an hour.

Tip: Make sure that you have your Mexican pesos handy when you are buying your recharge card or when you’re topping it up.

FAQs: Flying To Oaxaca

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca flying commercially.

But if I haven’t answered your question yet, take a look at the FAQs and their responses below.

How Much Is A Commercial Flight To Oaxaca?

Commercial flights fluctuate from season to season and it depends on how far ahead you book, but prices typically start at around US$50 from Oaxaca.

Check out Expedia.com for the best deals available.

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Oaxaca?

Volaris, VivaAerobus and AeroMexico fly to Oaxaca, but only Volaris flies direct.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight starts at around 1 hour 35 minutes with a direct Volaris flight.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance from Guadalajara to Oaxaca is approximately 495 miles (around 796 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) to depart and you’ll use Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca when you arrive.

How Far Is It From The Airport To The City Center?

It’s about 6 miles from Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) to the Zócalo in the historic center of Oaxaca.

How Can I Get From the Airport To My Hotel?

Oaxaca is a large city with a well-developed transportation system. You can get a taxi, a private transfer, a DiDi, or the public bus to the city.

Taxi

You’ll be able to get a taxi from the airport. A taxi will cost around US$15 and you can get one in front of the airport when you exit.

Private Transfer

If you’re staying in any of the major hotels, the concierge will be able to arrange an airport transfer service for you.

If you want to arrange it yourself, check out your options on Viator. Prices start at around US$50.

Bus

There is a public bus available, but the route doesn’t go to the airport, so you’ll have to walk 10 minutes to highway 175 to catch it. There are various routes available, and you can just take one heading north to get to the city.

The bus will cost you 8 Mexican pesos (US$0.50). Make sure you have Mexican pesos with you.

DiDi

There’s no Uber in Oaxaca, but you can use the DiDi app, which works in a similar way.

DiDi is usually a little cheaper than a taxi, and you can expect to pay around US$15 into the city.

Can I Rent A Car At Oaxaca Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

2. Rental Car To Oaxaca

A road trip from Guadalajara to Oaxaca is a great option that offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.

There’s nothing quite like the open road.

Fast Facts: Rental Car From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 13 to 14 gallons to get to Oaxaca.

How Do I Find A Rental Car?

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. Assuming you’re driving one way and dropping off your car in Oaxaca when you arrive, you can expect to pay around US$650 plus gas.

If you’re planning on driving the car back to Guadalajara, then you’ll pay around US$25 per day plus gas.

What Is The Best Route From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

The route from Guadalajara to Oaxaca starts at the south of the city on highway 23, which becomes highway 90D just to the east of the city.

After around 10 miles, you’ll take highway 15D to the south-east and will follow that for nearly 250 miles until you reach Arco Norte. You’ll follow Arco Norte in a 150 mile arc around Mexico City until you reach highway 150D just outside Puebla.

After around 60 miles you’ll reach Cuacnopalan and you’ll then turn south on 135D and follow that for then next 140 miles until you turn on to highway 190 for the last 10 miles into Oaxaca City.

What’s Great About Driving to Oaxaca?

There are some great advantages to renting a car and driving to Oaxaca.

1. Freedom

Of all of the options, driving literally and figuratively puts you in the driver’s seat.

You get to choose every aspect of your journey, from departure time to the speed you travel to how often and where you stop.

2. Privacy

One of the best things about driving is that you don’t have to share your journey unless you want to.

If you’re traveling as a family, driving also means that you can have your familial privacy whilst you travel.

3. Convenience

Driving is the ultimate convenience. All you’ll need to do is book the car and pick it up whenever you’re ready to go.

This is particularly helpful if you have a family and it might take a little longer than expected to get everyone ready.

FAQs: Rental Car From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca by rental car.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

A rental car that you pick up in Guadalajara and drop off the next day in Oaxaca will cost around US$650. The price is high because it includes a one-way fee. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Guadalajara, then the rate is much cheaper (around US$25 per day) and you’ll just pay the daily rate and the gas.

Most providers don’t charge you per mile travelled, but make sure you check before you sign on the dotted line.

What is the Route From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

The route from Guadalajara to Oaxaca starts out on highway 15D and follows it for nearly 250 miles until you reach Arco Norte. You’ll follow Arco Norte in a 150 mile arc around Mexico City until you reach highway 150D just outside Puebla.

After around 60 miles you’ll reach Cuacnopalan and you’ll then turn south on 135D and follow that for the rest of the way into Oaxaca City.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 12 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 620 miles (999 km) from Guadalajara to Oaxaca.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Guadalajara?

There are lots of places in Guadalajara where you can rent a car, including on Avenida Niños Héroes and other places downtown and at Guadalajara International Airport.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

The short answer is yes, you will be able to rent a comfortable modern vehicle in Guadalajara. However, the level of luxury that you enjoy depends very much on your budget.

The car rental providers in Guadalajara have a range of vehicles that you can choose from, ranging from compacts up to luxury limousines.

Is It Safe To Travel By Car?

Yes, it is safe to travel by car provided you take basis precautions such as wearing your seatbelts, traveling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

3. Bus To Oaxaca

If you can’t or don’t want to fly and don’t want to drive yourself from Guadalajara to Oaxaca, the bus is a great option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Where Can I Book A Bus From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

In Mexico, different bus companies service different parts of the country.

For the route from Guadalajara to Mexico City, the two biggest providers of bus routes from Guadalajara to Oaxaca are Futura and Elite Select.

For the route from Mexico City to Oaxaca, ADO (Autobuses de Oriente), AU (Autobuses Unidos) and OCC (Ómnibus Cristóbal Colón) are the largest providers.

I recommend using ClickBus or Busbud to find the best deal.

Tip: there’s no WiFi in the bus, so download anything you need at the hotel. You might also want to bring a neck pillow to help you sleep and Benadryl or Dramamine if you get carsick.

What’s Great About Taking The Bus?

Okay, so it’s not a private jet and never will be. Still, there are some positives to taking the bus.

1. The Bus Is Cheaper

Taking the bus will usually work out a little cheaper than flying.

That’s especially the case if you are planning to take a taxi to and from the airport each time.

2. Buses Take Their Time

It might seem like a strange thing to say, but buses are a bit like slow-food.

As you travel the approximately 620 miles (999 km) from Guadalajara to Oaxaca through the mountains, you’ll get to soak in the diverse natural beauty of Mexico.

3. You’ll be Dropped Off In The City Center

If you take the bus from Guadalajara to Oaxaca, you’ll be dropped off close to downtown Oaxaca.

When you get off the bus, if you’re staying in the town center, you can take a short taxi ride to your hotel.

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

I’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca by bus.

How Much Is The Bus From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

Prices start at around US$85 per person per trip.

Which Buses Run From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

For the route from Guadalajara to Mexico City, the two biggest providers of bus routes from Guadalajara to Oaxaca are Futura and Elite Select.

For the route from Mexico City to Oaxaca, ADO (Autobuses de Oriente), AU (Autobuses Unidos) and OCC (Ómnibus Cristóbal Colón) are the largest providers.

I recommend using ClickBus or Busbud to check availability for your dates and to find the best deal.

Is There a direct Bus from Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

No, there is no bus service that can take you the whole way from Guadalajara to Oaxaca without a stop in between.

Most of the buses will stop in Mexico City, although you can also find buses that make a stop in Puebla if you would prefer to stop over there.

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time starts at around 13 hours, depending on the time of day you’re traveling, the provider you use and the layover time between connecting buses.

What is the Distance From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

The bus route is approximately 620 miles (999 km) long.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Guadalajara, the pick-up point is Central de Autobuses de Guadalajara, just a few miles south-east of the historic center.

In Mexico City, you’ll usually be dropped off at Central de Autobuses del Norte in the north of the city. The connecting bus to Oaxaca usually departs from TAPO, just to the east of the city, but you can easily reach it with a quick ride on the Metro.

The stop next to Central de Autobuses del Norte is called Autobuses del Norte on Línea 5, and the stop next to TAPO is called San Lázaro on Línea B. You’ll need to change lines at Oceanía.

In Oaxaca, the drop-off point is Terminal ADO in the north-east of Oaxaca, just a short walk to the historic center.

Are The Buses Comfortable?

The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and the seats are comfortable semi-recliners.

There is no WiFi, though, so download everything you need before you leave the hotel.

Is It Safe To Travel By Bus?

You will be perfectly safe provided you take basic precautions.

Most importantly, keep your belongings with you at all times and keep your valuables out of sight.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

4. Carshare To Oaxaca

Another option you can use to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca is a carshare.

Car-sharing is very popular in Mexico and it’s a great cheap way to travel while getting to know new people.

Fast Facts: Carshare From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Where Can You Book A Carshare From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

The easiest way to find a reputable carshare service is on BlaBlaCar.

There are different options available and you can choose a ride with a verified driver with lots of positive reviews.

What’s Great About A Carshare?

Although you won’t be able to take full control like you could with a rental car, there are some benefits of using a carshare rather than driving yourself.

1. Cheap Way to Travel

Car-sharing is often much cheaper than any other option.

Similar to Uber, the car-sharing model is unregulated and costs are lower as a result.

2. Easy to Organize

Arranging a car-share is very easy through online platforms like BlaBlaCar.

You’ll be able to see the pick-up and drop-off points at the time of booking and you’ll then pay when you’re picked up.

3. No Responsibility for the Vehicle

Similar to the other options where you’re being chauffeured, you won’t be responsible for what happens to the car while you’re on the road.

You’ll only be responsible for paying the agreed price and your liability ends there.

FAQs: Private Transfer From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca by carshare.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

A private transfer starts at around 700 Mexican pesos (US$35) per trip for one person. If you book with a larger group, the price per person will usually go down.

Most services cap the number of passengers, so make sure you check this before you book.

What is the Route From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

The route from Guadalajara to Oaxaca by private transfer will follow the same route as you would take if you rented a car.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 12 hours.

What is the Distance From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 620 miles (999 km) from Guadalajara to Oaxaca.

Are The Carshare Cars Comfortable?

Drivers with good reviews will have comfortable vehicles. Contact the driver ahead of agreeing to a carshare ride to confirm.

Is It Safe To Travel By Carshare?

Yes, but you should be aware that some people may try to use the platforms to run scams.

You should be able to easily avoid this by choosing drivers who have verified profiles and lots of positive reviews.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

5. Private Jet to Oaxaca

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Guadalajara to Oaxaca, even though it is a relatively short distance.

And yes, it is monstrously expensive, but can’t be beaten for comfort and convenience.

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Where Can I Book A Private Jet from Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend taking a look at AlbaJet, which sets out various options for the Guadalajara to Oaxaca route.

How Do I Get From Guadalajara To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) from Guadalajara. The options and prices are broadly the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

There are obviously some big positive aspects of flying with a private jet.

1. Glamour

It’s hard to think of a more stylish or glamorous way to arrive in Oaxaca than in a private jet.

If you want to feel like a rockstar when you arrive, there’s no better way to do it.

2. Convenience

If you need to travel urgently on short notice, flying on a private jet is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Special Occasions

If you’re traveling as a group for a wedding or for a stag or hens night, a private jet is a great way to ensure that everyone arrives at the same time.

With a large group, the prices per person aren’t quite so eye-watering, although your wallet will still take a good beating.

FAQs: Flying From Guadalajara to Oaxaca by Private Jet

If you still have questions about how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca by private jet, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Private Jet To From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

If you want to fly privately from Guadalajara to Oaxaca, you’re looking at around US$10,000 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$35,000 for a larger jet seating up to 16 people.

Extremely glamorous and wonderfully convenient, but not for those of us with weak wallets.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a private jet is around 1 hour 20 minutes.

You’ll also get through security faster and will be able to board and get off more quickly than on a commercial flight.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance from Guadalajara to Oaxaca is approximately 495 miles (around 796 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll fly out of Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara to depart and you’ll use Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) when you arrive.

How Far Is It From The Airport To The City Center?

It’s about 6 miles from Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) to the Zócalo in the historic center of Oaxaca.

How Can I Get From Oaxaca International Airport To The City Center?

The options are the same as for a commercial flight, which I’ve set out in detail in the section above.

Can I Rent A Car At Oaxaca Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

6. Helicopter to Oaxaca

If you would consider taking a private jet from Guadalajara to Oaxaca, a similar option is to take a helicopter. Helicopter taxi services are definitely the transport of the future, so if you can afford it, why not start now?

While a helicopter is slower than a private jet and not as luxurious due to the limited space, you’ll have much more time to sightsee on your way to Oaxaca. On that basis, I definitely think it is an option that you should have on your list.

Fast Facts: Helicopter From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Where Can I Book A Helicopter From Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

There are a few different sites that you can take a look at.

I recommend starting with Patriot Aviation or Meicer Aviación, each of which can offer you a personalized quote on request for the Guadalajara to Oaxaca route.

How Do I Get From Guadalajara To The Airport?

In most cases, you’ll take off from Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara when you’re flying by helicopter.

The options and prices for getting from downtown Guadalajara to the airport are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying By Helicopter?

Most of the advantages of flying privately apply to flying by helicopter as well.

I’ve added a few specific ones that are unique to flying with a helicopter below.

1. Better For Sightseeing

While flying by helicopter is much faster than traveling by land in a car or a bus, it is still a lot slower than flying commercially or privately.

That might be a downside if you’re in a hurry, but if you’re not, you’ll have a much better opportunity to enjoy the scenery as you fly.

Basically, because you’ll be flying lower and slower, you’ll see more for longer.

2. Convenience

As with a private jet, if you want to travel quickly, a helicopter flight is extremely convenient.

You can usually book a window during which your pilot will be available, and you can arrive and fly at any time in that window.

3. Better if You Fear Flying

It might sound like an odd thing to say, but if you’re keen to fly yet have a fear of flying, a helicopter flight is likely to be a better bet than a flight on a jet.

Helicopters take off vertically so there’s no dramatic acceleration that bothers many people when flying. They also fly lower and don’t use pressurised cabins, which means that you won’t have the discomfort from the change in pressure like you do in a plane.

All in all, a helicopter flight is a “lighter” version of flying, if you like. So if you’re not really keen on flying but need to travel quickly, this is a great option for you.

FAQs: Flying From Guadalajara to Oaxaca By Helicopter

If you still have questions about how to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca by helicopter, take a look at the FAQs and responses below.

How Much Is A Helicopter from Guadalajara to Oaxaca?

If you want to fly by helicopter to Oaxaca, you’re looking at around US$7,500 for a helicopter seating six to eight.

The price will go up for the larger, heavier models that require more crew members to pilot them.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time on a helicopter will be around 4 to 5 hours in total.

You won’t be able to fly that in one journey, because the maximum range of most helicopters is around 400 miles. You’ll need to either stop and refuel at Puebla or split up your trip into two or more flights.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance from Guadalajara to Oaxaca is approximately 495 miles (around 796 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll use Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) to depart and you’ll use Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca when you arrive.

How Far Is It From The Airport To The City Center?

It’s about 6 miles from Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) to the Zócalo in the historic center of Oaxaca.

How Can I Get From Oaxaca International Airport To The City Center?

The options are the same as for a commercial flight, which I’ve set out in detail in the section above.

Can I Rent A Car At Oaxaca Airport?

Yes, Europcar and other major providers have kiosks at the airport.

I recommend using DiscoverCars to book the best deal available ahead of your arrival. You can expect to pay around US$30 per day plus gas for a basic rental car.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

What Are The Best Things To Do In Oaxaca?

Oaxaca City is loaded with brilliant things to do. Your problem won’t be finding things to occupy your time. Your problem will be fitting them all into your trip!

There are beautiful churches such as the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad and Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán. These buildings both date back to the 17th century, whilst Oaxaca and Mexico more generally were under the rule of the Spanish.

Oaxaca is also famous for its amazing food. You can try tlayudas, memelas and other fantastic street foods at places like the Zócalo or local markets such as the Mercado Benito Juárez, Mercado de Artesanias or Mercado 20 de Noviembre.

Mezcal lovers will be in heaven. There are amazing mezcalerías on almost every corner selling the best mezcal in the world produced locally using traditional artisanal production methods.

And that’s just the city itself. Once you leave the city limits, the rest of the state has tons to offer you, including the ancient ruins, incredible magic towns, and beautiful beaches.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Where Are The Best Places To Stay In Oaxaca?

When you make it to Oaxaca, the next obvious question will be where do you stay? Well, you’re in luck because Oaxaca has an amazing array of places to stay for you to choose from. Whatever your heart desires, you’ll find it in Oaxaca.

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel, start by looking at Quinta Real, Casa Santo Origen and the Grand Fiesta Americana.

If a boutique hotel is more your thing, then check out NaNa Vida Hotel Boutique, Casa Antonieta Oaxaca and Hotel Parador de Alcalá Oaxaca.

There are also some great hostels like the well-known Selina Oaxaca.

If you want to look at longer lists of curated options, take a look at my article on the best hotels in Oaxaca.

You can also check prices and availability at Booking.com or Expedia.com.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

When is the Best Time to Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca has a subtropical high-altitude climate, meaning that it typically has warms day and then cools off in the evenings.

There is also a dry season and a rainy season, with the rainy season lasting from June through to September.

The best time to visit Oaxaca therefore depends a little or your personal preference, but in my opinion, late October is the best time to visit Oaxaca. The days are warm, the nights are cool, and the city is lively. You’ll also be able to see the Día de los Muertos festival, which is arguably better in Oaxaca that anywhere else in Mexico.

The downside, though, is that prices are expensive and the city is full of tourists doing exactly the same thing as you!

If you’re interested in finding out more about your options here, check out my related article on the best time to visit Oaxaca.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

What Should I Pack To Go To Oaxaca?

Oaxaca has warm days all year, with cool nights that become cold in the winter months of December through to February.

The temperature fluctuates during the day from around 49°F (10°C) to 85°F (30°C). Local Oaxacans deal with this by wearing layers.

You put your sweater or jacket on in the morning and then take it off a few hours later when the sun has warmed everything up.

If you travel during the rainy season from June to September, you can also expect to have very humid days. After a heavy rain, it isn’t uncommon for the humidity to reach over 80%.

So, what should you pack? Whenever you travel, you should bring (or buy shortly after you arrive) a comfortable pair of walking shoes, a sun-hat, lot of light clothes for the day, and a light jacket or cardigan for the evenings.

If you travel in the winter months, you probably want to add a scarf to that list and opt for the slightly warmer jacket.

If you’re going to travel in the rainy season (which can be a great way to spare your wallet!) you should include a few extra articles of clothing (because you can expect to get a bit sweaty) and a fold-up umbrella.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Where Are The Best Oaxaca Beaches?

If you decide to visit Oaxaca’s Pacific coast, Oaxaca has no shortage of amazing beaches.

Both Mazunte and Zipolite are laid-back beach towns and Playa Zipolite even has a clothing optional area if that is your thing!

Playa La Entrega in Huatulco is known for its clear waters and coral reefs, making it a great spot for snorkeling and swimming.

If you’re looking for a place to surf, Playa Zicatela in Puerto Escondido is known for big sets, but if you’re looking for something in Puerto Escondido that is more relaxed, you can visit the sheltered cove of Playa Carrizalillo.

You can get a direct flight to Puerto Escondido or Huatulco from Oaxaca International Airport. Daily direct flights are available.

Check out my related article on Oaxaca’s best beaches if you’re interested in finding out more.

How to Get From Guadalajara to Oaxaca

Final Thoughts

Thanks for reading, and I hope I’ve been able to help you with some ideas for traveling from Guadalajara to Oaxaca beyond just renting a car or taking the bus.

There’s obviously nothing wrong with those options, and frankly they’re probably your best bet most of the time. But I think it’s helpful to understand the other options so that you don’t miss out on a great experience you wish you’d had.

Your options to get from Guadalajara to Oaxaca are many, and all of them are great. Choose the one that most takes your fancy, and have an amazing time in Oaxaca!