Things To Do
in Santa Catarina Juquila

Interior and exterior shots capture religious devotion, candlelight vigils, and the basilica architecture — best early morning or at sunset for soft light and pilgrim activity.

Colorful market stalls, local textiles, produce and daily life scenes provide vibrant street photography opportunities.

Several viewpoints above the town afford sweeping panoramas of the valley, the Sierra Sur ridgelines and mist-filled cloud forest at dawn.

Macro and wildlife photography opportunities — moss-covered trees, orchids, butterflies and resident birds in dappled light.

Rich, complex sauces (dark moles with chocolate and chili) served over chicken or pork; find homestyle versions in local comedores and during pilgrim festivals.

Must-Try!

Large toasted tortilla topped with beans, cheese, meat and greens; a popular Oaxacan specialty available at markets or casual eateries in nearby towns.

Corn tamales with savory or sweet fillings and hot atole (corn beverage) for breakfast; sold at the municipal market and street stalls.

Oaxaca’s famed distilled agave spirit—locally produced mezcal appears at festive gatherings and in small shops; try it in moderation and look for mezcal produced in nearby valleys.

The town market is the best spot to sample tamales, quesadillas, fresh fruit, coffee and local pastries; vendors often sell homemade salsas, cheeses and religious souvenirs.

Stalls catering to pilgrims offer quick eats (tamales, empanadas, tacos) and hot drinks, useful for a budget-friendly and authentic taste of local food.

In restaurants and comedores, tip around 10–15% when service is good; give small change (10–20 MXN) to porters, cleaners, and guides. For informal help (directions, small favors) a polite thank-you is common; for formal guided services tip 10–15%.

Cash (Mexican pesos) is king in Juquila — small shops, markets and many comedores do not accept cards. ATMs are limited; bring sufficient cash from larger towns. Credit cards may be accepted at a few larger places in nearby towns, but plan for cash for most transactions.

June to September is the rainy season: afternoons bring heavy showers and mist; mornings can be pleasant for hikes but trails may be muddy and some secondary roads slippery.

October and November offer cooling dry weather, clearer skies and comfortable conditions for trekking; pilgrimage activity peaks around religious festivals in late autumn.

December to February is dry and mild by day but chilly at night in the highlands — pack layers for cooler evenings and expect larger crowds around holiday pilgrimages.

March to May brings warmer, drier weather and blooming vegetation; before the rains start, it’s a pleasant time for outdoor activities and birdwatching.

Many residents are of Mixtec heritage (and other indigenous backgrounds), maintaining languages, crafts and agricultural traditions alongside Catholic practice.

The town also has mestizo residents and receives a constant flow of pilgrims from across Oaxaca and Mexico, particularly during religious festivals.

The most popular community sport — informal matches in local fields and strong local interest in regional and national teams.

During festivals and fairs, traditional games and athletic displays may occur, reflecting local customs and community ties.