How to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca

Mexico City To Oaxaca: 6 Best Ways To Travel [2024]

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Wondering how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca?

There are a lot of different possibilities here, and there are lots of things to consider like price, travel-time and safety.

The last thing you want to do is book a terrible transfer and have an awful time or have to spend lots of money to sort something out last-minute.

To make sure that doesn’t happen, I’ve set out below a comprehensive guide that has helped loads of people find out how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca cheaply, simply and safely.

Ready to go? Let’s get right into it.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

Why Should You Visit Mexico City?

Mexico City is the capital city of Mexico and the country’s largest city. It is a captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity and should be a must-see destination on your Mexico bucket-list.

The list of things to do in Mexico City is enormous. You can go to the Zócalo and see the imposing Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, which houses Diego Rivera’s iconic murals. You can also see world class art at the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Museum of Belles Artes.

The ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán is within the city limits at the Templo Mayor archaeological site and the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán are an easy day trip from the city.

And of course there is the amazing Mexican cuisine that you can enjoy from street vendors or from the many high end restaurants in the city. All in all, having a great time is pretty much a foregone conclusion.

Being the biggest city in Mexico and also being geographically quite centrally-located, it’s also easy to reach from other amazing destinations within Mexico like Zipolite.

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

How to Get From MExico City 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 also breathtaking landscapes that will captivate you, and you’ll fall in love with its mouthwatering cuisine.

There is a vibrant artistic scene, wonderful markets and brilliant artisans of all kinds. Each year it 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. And 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.

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 Mexico City to Oaxaca and the different options available to you.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

1. Fly to Oaxaca

Airport gate seating with plane taking off outside the window

If you think even briefly about how to get from Mexico City 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.

For those same reasons, it’s also one of the more expensive options.

Fast Facts: Flying From Mexico City To Oaxaca

  • Around US$50 one way
  • Flight time is 1 hour 10 minutes direct
  • Multiple flights per day
  • Departs from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX)
  • Arrives at Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX)

Where Do I Book A Flight To Oaxaca?

I recommend that you use Expedia.com to book your flights. They will be able to show you the best deals available on different dates and flying with different airlines.

You can check flights using the Expedia search box below:

How Do I Get From Mexico City To The Airport?

The Angel of Independence (El Ángel de la Independencia) in the foreground between the skyscrapers of downtown Mexico City

You have a few options to get to Mexico City Airport (MEX) from Mexico City.

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 Mexico City 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 Mexico City Airport for you. If you want to arrange it yourself, I recommend using Viator, which has over 100 different 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 Mexico City, 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$15 to US$20, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

4. Uber

Uber is available in Mexico City 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 Mexico City to the airport should cost you around US$15 to US$20, depending on the location of your hotel and the time that you need to travel.

Tip: Uber drivers aren’t allowed to accept tips in Mexico City, so don’t be surprised if they decline if you offer them any extra money!

5. Public Transport

According to Statista, Mexico City had a population of 9.3 million at the end of 2022, so it’s not surprising that the city has a sophisticated public transport network to help you move around.

Traveling on the Metro or on a Metrobús is simple enough, although you’ll need to buy a rechargeable travel card (Tarjeta de Movilidad Integrada), which you can get in a Metro station, many Metrobús stations, or in newstands around the city.

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 Metrobús stations.

Metro line 5 (the yellow line) stops at Terminal Aérea, which services both of the terminals at Mexico City Airport. If you’re traveling with the Metrobús, you can take line 4 right to the terminal 1 and terminal 2 buildings. You can find a map of the CDMX Metro and Metrobús lines here.

Both the Metro and the Metrobús lines operate from early in the morning until late in the evening. You can expect to pay between US$1 – US$2 per trip per person.

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

What’s Great About Flying?

View of aircraft wing and land below from interior window of aircraft

Flying has a bunch of obvious advantages.

1. Faster Trip Time

Flight time from Mexico City to Oaxaca is very quick at around 70 minutes, which is a huge time saving compared with the up to 8 hour long bus trip.

If you’re short on time, every hour you lose travelling is time that you could spend exploring Oaxaca City.

2. Great Views From The Plane

Even after years of flying, I still like to stare out the window of a plane at the city as we’re taking off and getting ready to land.

Flying will also give you the chance to see the mountains and sprawling valleys of Oaxaca from above as you head south away from Mexico City.

3. safest Way To Travel

Air travel is one of the safest forms of travel in the world, and this holds true in Mexico.

Since 1919, Mexico has only had 158 air travel deaths in total, an average of about 1.5 people per year. By comparison, there were around 107 million air passengers in Mexico in 2022 alone.

That puts your chances of dying on a flight to Oaxaca at about 1 in 71 million. By comparison, the World Health Organisation suggests based on 2019 data on Mexican road deaths that the odds of dying per year were 1 in 7,813.

That means that you are more than 9,000 times safer flying than taking the bus!

How to Get From Mexico City To Oaxaca

FAQs: Flying To Oaxaca

View of airplane wing from within the aircraft with clouds in the background

I’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca City by air.

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, but are typically around US$50 from Mexico City. Check out Expedia.com for the best deals available.

Which Commercial Airlines Fly From Mexico City?

Volaris, Aeroméxico, and Viva Aerobus all fly from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

What is the Flight Time?

Flight time is on a commercial flight is around 70 minutes, depending on the flight that you take.

What is the Flight Distance?

The flight distance is approximately 290 miles (around 450 km).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll fly out of Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to depart and you’ll use Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca de Juárez when you arrive.

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

Oaxaca Airport is 5.8 miles (10km) south of the Oaxaca de Juárez city center.

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

You can get a taxi, a private shuttle, the colectivo or the public bus to the city.

A taxi will cost around US$25 (MX$400), a private shuttle around US$50 (MX$800), the colectivo will cost around US$5 (MX$100), and the bus will cost around US$1 (MX$10).

Check our my related article on Oaxaca Airport if you want more detail on this.

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 Mexico City to Oaxaca

2. Private Jet to Oaxaca

Private jet parked on the tarmac in front of a beautiful blue sky

Before you ask, yes, you can absolutely get a private jet from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

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

Fast Facts: Private Jet From Mexico City to Oaxaca

  • Starts at around US$5,000
  • Flight time is around 40 minutes direct
  • Departs from Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX)
  • Arrives at Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX)

Where Can I Book A Private Jet 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 Mexico City to Oaxaca route.

How Do I Get From Mexico City To The Airport?

You have a few options to get to Mexico City Airport (MEX) from Mexico City.

The options and prices are all the same as for a commercial flight (see above).

What’s Great About Flying With A Private Jet?

Most of the advantages of flying commercially apply to flying privately as well.

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

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 travelling 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.

How to Get From Mexico City to OaxacA

FAQs: Flying From Mexico City to Oaxaca by Private Jet

View of the jet engine of a private jet against the background of the setting sun

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

How Much Is A Private Jet To Oaxaca?

If you want to fly privately to Oaxaca, you’re looking at around US$5,000 for a light jet seating six to eight, going up to around US$20,000 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 40 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 is approximately 290 miles (450 km) to Oaxaca Airport (OAX) from Mexico City Airport (MEX).

Which Airports Do I Use?

You’ll fly out of Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX) to depart and you’ll use Oaxaca Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca de Juárez when you arrive.

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

Oaxaca Airport is 5.8 miles (10km) south of the Oaxaca de Juárez city center.

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

You can get a taxi, a private shuttle, the colectivo or the public bus to the city.

A taxi will cost around US$25 (MX$400), a private shuttle around US$50 (MX$800), the colectivo will cost around US$5 (MX$100), and the bus will cost around US$1 (MX$10).

My related article on Oaxaca Airport has more detail on this.

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 Mexico City To Oaxaca

3. Bus To Oaxaca

If you want a more scenic experience while getting from Mexico City to Oaxaca, the bus is a great option for you.

Fast Facts: Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca

  • Starting at around US$35
  • Travel time is 6 – 8 hours, depending on the trip
  • Multiple trips per day
  • TAPO, Mexico City
  • Either Terminal ADO or Terminal AU in Oaxaca

Where Can I Book A Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The two biggest providers of standard bus routes from Mexico City to Oaxaca are ADO (Autobuses de Oriente) and AU (Autobuses Unidos).

I recommend using 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 wind through the approximately 290 miles (450km) from Mexico City to Oaxaca, you’ll get to soak in the natural beauty of Mexico’s southern countryside.

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

If you take the bus from Mexico City to Oaxaca, you’ll be dropped off in Oaxaca City rather than outside the city at an airport.

Depending on the terminal at which you’re dropped off in Oaxaca, you’ll arrive not far from the Templo de Santo Domingo if you arrive at Terminal ADO or not far from Mercado 20 de Noviembre if you arrive at Terminal AU.

When get off the bus, if you’re staying in the historic center, you can walk the few blocks to your hotel or take a short taxi ride.

How to Get From Mexico City to OaxacA

FAQs: Taking The Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca

Aisle of a bus with passengers, photographed from the back of the back

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

How Much Is The Bus From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

Prices start at around US$35 for an overnight journey and around US$50 for a daytime trip.

Which Buses Run From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

ADO and AU are the two largest operators.

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

What is the Travel Time?

Travel time is around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the time of day you’re travelling and the provider you use.

What is the Distance From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The bus route is approximately 290 miles (450km) long.

Which Bus Stations Do I Use?

In Mexico City, the pick-up point is TAPO (Terminal de Autobuses de Pasajeros de Oriente) for almost all ADO and AU services.

When you arrive in Oaxaca, you’ll use the ADO Terminal in Barrio Jalatlaco, which is a few blocks north-east of Parque El Llano or the AU terminal just a few blocks to the west of Mercado 20 de Noviembre.

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 basis precautions.

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

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

4. Rental Car To Oaxaca

A road trip from Mexico City 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 Mexico City to Oaxaca

  • Starts at about US$300 plus gas (if driving one-way)
  • Travel time is about 5 – 6 hours
  • Various locations in Mexico City
  • Downtown Oaxaca or Oaxaca Airport (if driving one-way)

Tip: Gas in Mexico will probably cost you around US$5 per gallon, and you’ll need about 5 or 6 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$300 plus gas.

If you’re planning on driving the car back to Mexico City, then you’ll pay around US$30 per day plus gas.

Tip: If you’re driving one-way, you’ll have to drop the car off at Oaxaca Airport, as the downtown branches don’t accept one-way drop-offs.

What Is The Best Route From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The route from Mexico City to Oaxaca sets off east on highway 1500 and passes through Puebla to the south-east.

From there you’ll head further east toward Córdoba, turning south on highway 1350 toward Tehuacán after about 50 miles.

After you reach Tehuacán, you continue heading south on highway 1350. Around 10 miles outside of Oaxaca, highway 1350 turns onto highway 190, which takes you the last few miles south-east into Oaxaca.

What’s Great About Renting A Car?

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

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 travelling 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.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

FAQs: Rental Car From Mexico City to Oaxaca

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

A rental car that you pick up in Mexico City and drop off the next day in Oaxaca will cost around US$300. The price is high because it includes a one-way fee. Gas is on top of that.

If you’re driving it back to Mexico City, then the rate is much cheaper (around US$30 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 Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The route from Mexico City to Oaxaca starts off heading east on highway 1500 before turning south on highway 1350 after about 130 miles.

After that, you follow highway 1350 south until about 10 miles outside of Oaxaca, where it becomes highway 190 and takes you the rest of the way there.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 5 to 6 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

There are some great places to stop along the way, including Puebla, where you can stop for a few hours and buy some amazing local food.

What is the Distance From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 290 miles (465km) from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

Where Do I Rent A Car In Mexico City?

There are lots of places in Mexico City where you can rent a car, including Benito Juárez International Airport and on Avenida Paseo de la Reforma in the Juárez district of Mexico City.

Are The Rental Cars Comfortable?

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

The car rental providers in Mexico City 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, travelling with the doors locked and not driving unsafely.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

5. Private Transfer To Oaxaca

If you’re keen on a road trip from Mexico City to Oaxaca but aren’t so keen to do the driving, you can arrange a private transfer.

It’s a lot more expensive than renting a car and driving yourself, but it lets you relax and enjoy the scenery or even catch up on some sleep.

Fast Facts: Private Transfer From Mexico City to Oaxaca

  • Starts at around US$375 per person
  • Travel time is around 6 – 7 hours
  • Hotel pick-up
  • Hotel drop-off

Where Can You Book A Private Transfer From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The easiest way to find a reputable private transfer service is by using a platform like Viator or Wayak.

There are different options available and you can add in stops along the way in interesting places like Puebla, and you can visit archaelogical sites near Teotihuacán or Cacaxtla.

What’s Great About A Private Transfer?

Although it is more expensive than a rental car, there are some benefits of getting a private driver rather than driving yourself.

1. No Need To Focus On The Road

The best thing about being chauffeured is that you don’t need to worry about driving.

Watching the road for six hours or more is exhausting and means that you won’t be able to completely relax until you reach Oaxaca.

2. Great For Groups

A private transfer is great if you’re travelling as a group.

You get to share the cost and just focus on having fun and let the driver bring you to Oaxaca.

3. Capped risk

The other big benefit of having a private driver is that you don’t bear the risk of having an accident and damaging the car.

Your insurance would likely cover any damage, but having a driver just avoids the risk altogether.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

FAQs: Private Transfer From Mexico City to Oaxaca

Black sedan making a turn on a road in a forest

We’ve set out below some frequently asked questions and answers about how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca by private transfer.

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

A private transfer starts at around US$375 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 Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The route from Mexico City 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 at least 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

The private transfer will usually plan for one stop to eat, unless you need to stop more often to use the bathroom or you plan stopovers in different towns.

What is the Distance From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 290 miles (465km) from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

Are The Private transfer Cars Comfortable?

Yes, the private transfer services offered on Viator and Wayak use comfortable modern vehicles.

Is It Safe To Travel By Private Transfer?

If you travel with a reputable provider such as those arranged via Viator and Wayak, you will be perfectly safe travelling by private transfer.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca City

6. Taxi To Oaxaca

The last land option to mention is the good old taxi.

However, unless you have an emergency, I wouldn’t recommend it. There are just better options available.

Fast Facts: Taxi From Mexico City to Oaxaca

  • Negotiable, but likely around US$500
  • Travel time is around 6 – 7 hours
  • Hotel pick-up
  • Hotel drop-off

Tip: Make sure that you agree the price with the driver before setting off so that there are no misunderstandings.

Where Can You Book A Taxi From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

If you want to book a taxi, you will need to try to find a reliable driver. The best way to do that is to get a recommendation from your hotel.

You may find that your hotel recommends that you instead book a private transfer, and I would also recommend this.

City taxis aren’t made for long distance trips the same way as a bus is. You won’t get air conditioning, reclining seats or a bathroom.

You also won’t be able to get up to stretch your legs, and your driver may not want to stop as often as you do.

I also don’t recommend just hiring a taxi from the street to take you from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

You should only travel with a reputable driver, and you won’t be able to confirm that from hailing a taxi on the street.

How to Get From Mexico City to Oaxaca

FAQs: Taxi From Mexico City to Oaxaca

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

How Much Does It Cost To Drive From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

You’ll need to negotiate your fare, and you should always do this upfront.

You can expect to pay anywhere from US$500 – US$700, depending on how much the driver wants the fare.

What is the Route From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The route from Mexico City to Oaxaca should be the same as you would take if you rented a car or booked a private transfer.

However, you should confirm the route with the driver before you set off.

What is the Travel Time?

You’ll be driving for around 6 – 7 hours, depending on how often you want to stop.

What is the Distance From Mexico City to Oaxaca?

The total distance is approximately 290 miles (465km) from Mexico City to Oaxaca.

Are The Taxis Comfortable?

Taxis aren’t made for long distance passenger travel like a bus or a plane.

If you’re going to travel by taxi, you should ask driver to stop for a few minutes every hour so that you can stretch.

Is It Safe To Travel By Taxi?

In all likelihood, you will be safe enough travelling by taxi from Mexico City to Oaxaca. This is particularly the case if you are travelling in a group.

However, one of the reasons that I don’t recommend travelling by taxi is that you just won’t be able to vet the driver at all unless he is recommended to you.

That increases your risk, and you don’t need to do it, because there are other options available to you.

How to Get From Mexico City 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 Mexico City 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 Mexico City 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 Mexico City 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 Mexico City to Oaxaca

Where Are The Best Oaxaca Beaches?

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

Playa Mazunte and Playa 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 Mexico City to Oaxaca

Final Thoughts

Travelling from Mexico City to Oaxaca is a great experience. You’ll get to see the beautiful Mexican countryside, especially once you hit the mountain ranges closer to Oaxaca.

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

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