Things To Do
in San Agustín de las Juntas
San Agustín de las Juntas sits in the Istmo region of Oaxaca at approximately 17°N, 96.7167°W. This small town is known for its warm hospitality, indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec heritage, and a pace of life tied to markets and agricultural rhythms. The surrounding valleys and waterways offer quiet scenery, traditional crafts, and a gateway to regional culture.
Located inland, it provides a base for exploring rural Oaxaca with a focus on community life, local cuisine, and nature within reach.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in San Agustín de las Juntas and settle into your charming local accommodation. After unpacking, visit the town plaza to soak in the lively atmosphere surrounded by colorful markets and local vendors. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, indulging in regional specialties like tlayudas or mole.
Explore the historic and cultural sights of the town, including the local church and artisan workshops. Take part in a pottery workshop to learn about traditional crafting techniques from skilled artisans. Sample local delicacies at a street food stall, tasting the unique flavors of Oaxacan cuisine.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk around the plaza, accompanied by the sound of music and festivities. Select a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy regional dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. End the evening with a nightcap at a local bar, mingling with residents and other travelers.
Set off early for a day trip to Hierve el Agua, famous for its stunning mineral springs and petrified waterfalls. Hike through breathtaking landscapes while observing diverse flora and fauna, capturing the beauty of the surroundings with your camera. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools that overlook the majestic scenery.
After a fulfilling morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch amid the cliffs while taking in the views. Continue your hiking adventure, visiting nearby sites such as the pre-Hispanic ruins of the area. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you as you learn about the historical significance of the region.
Return to San Agustín de las Juntas in the early evening and freshen up at your accommodation. Head out to explore the nightlife, where you can find local music and performances showcasing Oaxacan culture. Enjoy a casual dinner at a popular eatery, exchanging stories with fellow travelers you met during the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-3 |
| 🎟Museum or local attraction ticket | $3-6 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laid-back, friendly atmosphere
- Rich indigenous culture and cuisine
- Affordable travel with authentic experiences
- Accessible day trips to rural Oaxaca
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Rural transport can be slower
- English may be less common outside tourist areas
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in San Agustín de las Juntas
Visit one of these nice places.
The lively plaza with colonial architecture offers opportunities for morning long-shots of arcades, palm trees, and residents going about daily routines.
Colorful market fronts, textiles, and street scenes—great for candid photography of vendors and shoppers.
Lookouts along the river valley for panoramic shots of farmland, tree lines, and water reflections at golden hour.
Documenting hands-on weaving or pottery sessions offers intimate portraits of artisans at work.
Quiet streets with painted walls and balconies provide vibrant backdrops for portraits and architectural detail.
Food in San Agustín de las Juntas
San Agustín de las Juntas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A large crispy tortilla topped with refried beans, quesillo (Oaxacan cheese), avocado, and salsa. Commonly found at markets and informal eateries.
Must-Try!
A rich, dark mole often served with chicken or pork, reflecting Oaxaca’s iconic mole traditions. Look for it in local kitchens and family-run restaurants.
Mild, stretchy cheese enjoyed fresh with warm tortillas and fresh salsa; a staple at meals and markets.
Tamales made with fragrant masa, often wrapped in banana leaves and filled with meat, vegetables, or chilies.
Grilled or toasted grasshoppers (a regional snack) sometimes offered at markets, paired with lime and salt, alongside fresh fruit and salsas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market with stalls selling produce, cheeses, tortillas, and ready-to-eat snacks; a great place to observe daily life and sample bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a cordial hello or buenos días. Hospitality is important; modest dress and polite conversation are appreciated in markets and religious sites.
Ask permission when photographing people, particularly in private workshops or family settings. A smile and a friendly nod often go far.
Safety
Tipping in San Agustín de las Juntas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included. Small tips for street vendors and guides are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Many restaurants take cards, especially in larger towns; carry some pesos for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with high humidity; bring sun protection, light clothing, and water. Markets are lively in the mornings; showers can occur in the afternoons.
Frequent afternoon/evening rains; trails may be muddy but vegetation is lush. Pack a light rain jacket and waterproof bag.
Pleasant, cooler evenings; great for outdoor activities and photography with long daylight hours.
San Agustín de las Juntas at Night
Hiking in San Agustín de las Juntas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridge hike offering town and valley views; suitable for a half-day excursion and photography at sunrise or sunset.
Gentle trail along the river with lush vegetation and opportunities to observe birds and river life.
Airports
How to reach San Agustín de las Juntas by plane.
Main gateway to the region with connections to Mexico City and international flights.
Coastal airport serving the southern Oaxaca coast with domestic and some international connections.
Smaller coastal airport with domestic flights; convenient for beach access.
Regional airport serving the Istmo region; flight options vary by season.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Zapotec and Mixtec presence; rich traditional crafts, dress, and ceremonies persist in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played at youth fields and community centers; local leagues and informal games are common on weekends.
Popular in schools and neighborhood courts; often played in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Agustín de las Juntas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Oaxaca dishes center on corn, beans, and vegetables. Choose beans and vegetables in mole or tostadas, and request cheese or avocado instead of meat. When dining out, ask for nopales, grilled vegetables, or cheese-filled dishes without animal stock.