Things To Do
in Matías Romero
Matías Romero Avendaño is a small municipality in Oaxaca’s Istmo de Tehuantepec region, set between river valleys and the coastal plain. The town sits within a warm, humid climate that supports agriculture and fishing, giving the area a distinctly Istmeño flavor. Life here centers on a lively market scene, traditional crafts, and genuine hospitality from Indigenous and Mestizo communities.
It serves as a quieter gateway to the Istmo coast, offering authentic experiences away from the more tourist-heavy routes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic downtown area of Matías Romero, where you can admire the colonial architecture and vibrant local markets. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, sampling dishes like huevos a la mexicana or tamales. Stroll through the streets as you take in the scent of fresh tortillas and the sounds of daily life in this charming town.
After lunch, visit the Museo de Arte de Matías Romero to explore the region's artistic heritage and contemporary works. Take a leisurely walk in the nearby park, where you can relax amidst local flora and watch children play. As the afternoon sun warms the city, stop by a café for a refreshing drink and to mingle with locals.
As twilight descends, head to a traditional restaurant for an authentic Oaxacan dinner, indulging in regional specialties like mole negro or tlayudas. Enjoy live music or folkloric performances that often take place in the town square, bringing the community together. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, where you can appreciate the charm of Matías Romero at night.
Kick off your culinary journey with a visit to the bustling local market, where you can witness the vibrant colors and scents of fresh produce and spices. Engage with local vendors to learn about traditional ingredients used in Oaxacan cuisine, and perhaps pick up some tips for cooking. After exploring the market, enjoy a cooking class led by a local chef, where you'll prepare your own breakfast using the ingredients you gathered.
Post-lunch, dive deeper into the culinary scene by visiting a mezcal distillery just outside of town. Discover the intricate process of mezcal production and partake in a tasting session to appreciate the nuances of this iconic drink. Return to Matías Romero for a leisurely afternoon, sampling street food and trying local snacks as you wander around.
For dinner, enjoy a food tour that takes you to various street vendors and small eateries, tasting an array of dishes like quesillo and chapulines. Experience the lively atmosphere as you mingle with locals and fellow food enthusiasts, sharing stories and recommendations. End your night with a sweet treat from a local dessert shop, indulging in traditional Oaxacan sweets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottled water | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (3-4 km) | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and authentic local culture
- Gateway to Istmo de Tehuantepec with coastal access
- Affordable costs and relaxed pace
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist infrastructure
- Longer travel times to Oaxaca City or coast for major sights
- Rural areas may have limited English-speaking staff
- "Hola, buenos días" - Hello, good day
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Matías Romero
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, expressive market life, and close-ups of ingredients and crafts make for vibrant street photography.
Waterways, reed beds, and sunset silhouettes offer wide, atmospheric landscapes and wildlife shots.
Early light on colonial-style façades and slow daily routines create classic urban photography moments.
Coastal wetlands with birdlife and reflections; ideal for tranquil nature photography and long-exposure shots.
Food in Matías Romero
Matías Romero Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A large, toasted corn tortilla topped with refried beans, queso Oaxaca, salsa, and carne asada or chorizo; a cornerstone of Oaxaca-style snacking that appears in Istmo towns.
Must-Try!
Fish or seafood fillets grilled with a spicy, adobo-like paste; commonly found in coastal-adjacent eateries and some inland spots offering Istmo seafood.
Thinly sliced cured beef served with corn tortillas, beans, and fresh cheese; a simple, flavorful staple in regional markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh produce, herbs, regional cheeses, and ready-to-eat dishes; a great place to sample local snacks and observe daily routines.
Tempting options include tamales, elotes, fresh fruit cups, and fried snacks; ideal for a quick local bite.
Small stands offering tasting pours and coconut-based drinks; a gentle introduction to regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting such as 'Hola' with a smile goes a long way. Use 'usted' when addressing elders and officials.
Ask permission before taking photos of individuals or cultural performances; respect religious or community norms.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and markets; avoid loud or disruptive behavior in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Matías Romero
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leaving 10-15% for service is customary if not included. Small tips for hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers for assistance or luggage are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with strong sun; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak afternoon heat. Occasional brief tropical downpours can occur; good time for early morning activities and coastal trips.
Milder temperatures and clear skies; comfortable for walking tours and outdoor photography. Nights can be cool; bring a light jacket for evenings.
Lush landscapes and vibrant greenery, with frequent showers and higher humidity. Rain can affect road conditions; plan flexible itineraries and pack lightweight rain gear.
Matías Romero at Night
Hiking in Matías Romero
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes with views of the Istmo plains and river valleys; best in cooler mornings.
Flat, easy hikes with opportunities for birdwatching and scenic water views.
Airports
How to reach Matías Romero by plane.
Main regional gateway for international and domestic flights; access to the Istmo region usually via ground transport.
Small regional airport serving the Istmo de Tehuantepec region; limited flights, primarily domestic.
Coastal gateway with regular flights; longer drive to Matías Romero but convenient for beach-focused trips.
Another coastal option with international and domestic connections; typically a longer onward drive to the interior Istmo towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Zapotec and Mixtec presence in surrounding villages; strong traditional crafts and languages.
Core town population blending Indigenous and European heritage with local customs.
People drawn to agricultural and coastal industries; diverse community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and local plazas; informal matches are common in evenings.
Popular on outdoor courts; community leagues can be found in town centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matías Romero.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most eateries. Look for beans, rice, salads, fresh fruit, and vegetable-based dishes; ask for cooking oil and lard-free preparations when possible.