What Airport Is Closest To Oaxaca Mexico? The Ultimate Guide [2024]

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Are you planning a trip and want to know what airport is closest to Oaxaca? You’ve come to the right place!

Oaxaca has its own airport, Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), just 5.4 miles south of the historic center of Oaxaca.

Given the short distance, the transfer downtown is also very quick, whether you take the bus, a taxi, or the colectivo.

In this article, I take you on a tour of the airport, which hubs connect with Oaxaca, how to get downtown, the best places to stay once you’re in the city, and the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Let’s jump right in!

WHAT AIRPORT IS CLOSEST TO OAXACA?

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WHAT AIRPORT IS CLOSEST TO OAXACA?

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Where is Oaxaca, Mexico?

Oaxaca is a region of southern Mexico, bound to the south by the Pacific Ocean.

It neighbours the state of Chiapas to the east, the states of Puebla and Veracruz to the north, and the state of Guerrero to the west.

The state of Oaxaca is also home to the city of Oaxaca de Juárez, which is also known as Oaxaca City and rather confusingly simply as Oaxaca.

References to Oaxaca can therefore be to either the city or the state, although usually you can quickly tell from the context what the speaker means.

Oaxaca City is the capital city of Oaxaca state and its cultural center. It is geographically situated in the Oaxaca Valley surrounded by lush mountains and verdant landscapes.

Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is adorned with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets.

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How Do You Pronounce Oaxaca?

Before we come to explaining what is the closest airport to Oaxaca, let’s stop briefly on the word Oaxaca, as many travelers often have some trouble pronouncing it the first time they see the word.

There are three syllables in the word “Oaxaca”. The accent is in the middle. If we break them up, you get OA – XA – CA.

The first part is pronounced “WA“. The second bit is pronounced “HA“. And the last part is just “KA“.

So, putting it together, Oaxaca is pronounced WA – HA – KA. It should sound like this:

Simple, right? Absolutely!

If you’re looking for more detail, check out my related article on how to pronounce Oaxaca.

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Why Should You Visit Oaxaca?

Oaxaca is an amazing destination, and it is worth visiting for many reasons!

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

It has beautiful buildings that are centuries old and breathtaking ruins that are thousands of years old. Each year it holds flamboyant traditional festivals such as Day of the Dead, La Guelaguetza, and Noche de Rábanos.

There is a vibrant art scene, wonderful markets and brilliant artisans of all kinds. 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 de Juárez.

It is rare to find a region so richly diverse.

However, that diversity also applies to its weather! The time that you choose to visit could have a significant impact on your experience.

So let’s talk about the best time to visit Oaxaca!

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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. You’ll get to see the Día de los Muertos festival, the days are warm, the nights are cool, and the city is lively.

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 my related article on the best time to visit Oaxaca.

For now, though, let’s focus on Oaxaca’s airport.

WHAT AIRPORT IS CLOSEST TO OAXACA?

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How Many Airports Are In Oaxaca?

In the state of Oaxaca, there are three international airports. These are Puerto Escondido International Airport, Bahias De Huatulco International Airport, and Xoxocotlán International Airport.

So, what airport is closest to Oaxaca?

Xoxocotlán International Airport is approximately 5.4 miles south of Oaxaca de Juárez, and is the international airport that you will use if you want to go to Oaxaca City.

The airport is essentially a regional airport, and you’ll likely think it quite small if you are arriving from a major city airport like that of Mexico City. And while it doesn’t have an enormous array of facilities, there is a restaurant, snack-bar, and convenience store, and there are also ATMs available.

Xoxocotlán International Airport has just the one terminal, with 10 gates, making ingress and egress a relatively quick affair. If you don’t need to check in or collect luggage, you can expect to be on your way within 30 minutes of arrival.

Despite its rather small size, due to Oaxaca’s ever-growing popularity the airport serviced 1,304,034 passengers in 2022 and is currently on target to beat that figure in 2023.

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How Do I Get To Oaxaca, Mexico?

Now that you know what airport is closest to Oaxaca, let’s look at the best way to get there.

The airport is currently served by six airlines: Aeroméxico, American Airlines, TAG Airlines, United Airlines, VivaAerobus and Volaris.

From the United States, you can get direct flights from Dallas Forth Worth, Houston and Los Angeles. These flights aren’t all that frequent, though, so you’ll need to check which days flights are offered if you are planning on flying direct from these cities.

From with Mexico, you can get a connecting flight from any of Cancun, Guadalajara, Mérida, Mexico City, Mexico City Santa Lucia, Monterrey or Tijuana. The Mexico City to Oaxaca connection is by far the busiest route, followed by the connection from Tijuana.

You can also get a direct flight to Oaxaca from Guatemala City.

Direct flights are obviously preferable if possible, as they reduce your layover time in your connecting airport hub.

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

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Where Do I Get A Connecting Flight To Oaxaca?

More likely than not, if you are visiting Oaxaca from outside of Mexico, you will be routed through Mexico City.

Mexico City is the largest airport in Mexico and the Mexico City to Oaxaca route accounts for around one third of all flights into Xoxocotlán International Airport.

There are usually around 10 flights every day from Mexico City to Oaxaca and the direct flight is only 1 hour 20 minutes. This means that you shouldn’t need to wait very long for your connection, and the flight time is very short.

Direct flights are available from Los Angeles, Dallas Fort Worth and Houston. However, these don’t fly very often.

There are three flights a week from Los Angeles, one flight on each Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Six flights a week out leave out of Dallas Forth Worth, one each day other than Wednesday. Four per week fly out of Houston, one per day on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

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How Do I Get From Oaxaca Airport To Downtown?

Now that you know what airport is closest to Oaxaca, when you arrive, you’ll need to know how you can get from airport into the city.

The good news is that getting from Xoxocotlán International Airport to downtown Oaxaca is straightforward. There are a few options, depending on your preferences and your budget.

Taxis and Shuttles

When you exit the airport, taxis and shuttle services are readily available outside the airport terminal.

Taxis offer a private and efficient way to reach your destination, while shared shuttles provide a cost-effective option for those traveling in groups.

In either case, you’ll get door-to-door service, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey.

A taxi will cost around US$20 (MX$400).

Private Car Services

Many travelers opt for private car services, which offer a greater level of comfort and flexibility.

Booking in advance allows you to have a driver waiting for you upon arrival, eliminating any waiting time.

A private car service will cost you around MX$800.

Public Transportation

If you’re on a budget or just want an authentic local experience, public transportation is also available.

Colectivos, which are shared vans or small buses, connect the airport to downtown. While they take a little longer than a taxi or private car, they are cheaper and provide insight into the daily lives of locals.

Similarly, there are public buses available that you can board at the airport that will take you into the historic center of Oaxaca.

The colectivo will cost around MX$100 (in total) and the bus will cost around MX$10 per person.

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What Are The Best Things To Do In Oaxaca?

Oaxaca 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!

If you love exploring ancient ruins, then you should definitely visit the Monte Albán and Mitla.

There are also genuine wonders of the world just a short drive away, including the stunning Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree, which is the widest tree in the world.

You can also visit the fantastic local markets such as the Mercado Benito Juárez, Mercado de Artesanias or Mercado 20 de Noviembre.

If you like your mezcal, Oaxaca is 100% the place for you! There are amazing mezcalerías on almost every corner just waiting for you to try some of the best mezcal that you’ll ever taste!

There are beautiful churches such as the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad and Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán.

As I said — it is a long list and you will really be hard pressed to see, do and taste all of these things unless you are fortunate enough to spend a lot of time in Oaxaca!

WHAT AIRPORT IS CLOSEST TO OAXACA?

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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 to pack, you ask? 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.

WHAT AIRPORT IS CLOSEST TO OAXACA?

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What Are The Best Places To Stay In Oaxaca?

After answering the question of what airport is closest to Oaxaca, you’ll then need to consider where you would like to stay.

Oaxaca has an amazing array of places for you to choose from. Whatever your heart desires, you’ll find it in Oaxaca.

You can stay in a luxury hotel, such as the Quinta Real, Casa Santo Origen or the Grand Fiesta Americana.

If a boutique hotel is more your thing, you have great options such as the Palacio Borghese, the Hotel Escondido and Hotel El Callejón.

There are also amazing arty hotels like the NaNa Vida Hotel Boutique or the Pug Seal.

And if you’re travelling with a family, there are great haciendas where you can stay just outside the city. Hacienda Los Laureles Spa is a great example of these.

You can check prices and availability at Booking.com.

Remember that it pays to be flexible with your travel dates. Check at least a few days on either side of your ideal travel time to secure the best deal, and also consider the shoulder seasons if you can.

WHAT AIRPORT IS CLOSEST TO OAXACA?

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Where Are The Best Oaxaca Beaches?

Oaxaca has no shortage of amazing beaches.

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

Playa La Entrega 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.

If you’re wondering what airport is closest to Oaxaca for flights to Puerto Escondido or Huatulco, it is still Xoxocotlán 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.

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What Airport Is Closest To Oaxaca Mexico: FAQs

We started by looking at what airport is closest to Oaxaca. I’ve set out below responses to some other frequently asked questions.

What Airport Do You Fly Into For Oaxaca

Xoxocotlán International Airport is the airport that you will fly into if you are going to Oaxaca de Juárez, México. It receives all domestic and international flights for Oaxaca City.

What Time Does Oaxaca Airport Open?

Xoxocotlán International Airport opens to the public at 6 am.

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How Early Should I Get To Oaxaca Airport?

If you need to check any luggage, you should arrive at least 2 hours ahead of your flight’s boarding time.

If you are traveling with carry-on bags only, you can leave it a little later, however, to be on the safe side you should allow at least 1.5 hours ahead of your flight’s boarding time.

Are There ATMs At Oaxaca Airport?

Yes, there are three ATM machines at Xoxocotlán International Airport. They are operated by Bancomer, Cardtronics and Santander.

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Is There Food At Oaxaca Airport?

Yes, there is food available at the Xoxocotlán International Airport, but it isn’t a huge range.

There is a restaurant called Recuerdame, a snack bar called Snack Bar Café y Cacao and a convenience store called Delicatessen Calenda.

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How Long Does It Take To Get Through Oaxaca Airport?

If you have your physical or digital boarding pass with you and you have carry-on bags only, you can expect to be through security and on your way to your gate within 20-30 minutes.

If you need to check your bags, ask for a printed boarding pass, or if you are travelling with a large group, you should arrive earlier.

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How Far Is Oaxaca Airport From The City?

Xoxocotlán International Airport is located approximately 5.4 mi (8.7 km) from the historic center of Oaxaca.

Depending on traffic, it should take about 20 – 30 minutes to travel from the airport to downtown Oaxaca.

WHAT AIRPORT IS CLOSEST TO OAXACA?

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How Do I Get From Oaxaca Airport To The City?

You can book a private shuttle, take a taxi, use the colectivo, or take the public bus.

You can hail a taxi or take the colectivo or the public bus right outside the airport without needing to book.

If you want to book a private shuttle, you should do so in advance. Speak to your hotel, and they will be able to arrange this for you.

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How Many Airports Does Oaxaca Have?

Oaxaca has three international airports. These are Puerto Escondido International Airport, Bahias De Huatulco International Airport, and Xoxocotlán International Airport.

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How Do I Get From Oaxaca To Puerto Escondido?

You can fly from Xoxocotlán International Airport to Puerto Escondido International Airport. There is one flight per day. It departs at 8:00am Monday to Saturday, and 11:00am on Sunday. Flight time is around 45 minutes.

You can also travel by land either by car, bus, or colectivo. If you rent a car, the travel time will be between 6 and 8 hours. The road is also quite windy and goes through the mountains, so you should only do this if you are an experienced driver.

Buses and the colectivo are available, and you can expect travel time to be around 10.5 hours.

There is a new highway planned which should reduce the travel time to three hours. It is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.

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Final Thoughts

So, now that you know what airport is closest to Oaxaca, you can go ahead and plan your trip!

You’re going to have an amazing time!

Buen viaje!