Things To Do
in Santa Cruz Amilpas

Santa Cruz Amilpas is a small town located in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, known for its rich cultural heritage and proximity to the vibrant city of Oaxaca. The town is characterized by its picturesque streets, traditional architecture, and a warm community atmosphere. Surrounded by lush landscapes and hills, it offers stunning views and a quiet escape from the bustling city.

Visitors can enjoy local crafts, delicious cuisine, and a glimpse into the daily life of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Santa Cruz Amilpas
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Oaxacan breakfast at a local café, followed by a leisurely stroll through the town's main plaza.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan shops to admire and purchase handmade crafts, then head to the nearby market for lunch, sampling local dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, followed by a visit to a nearby church for evening mass or a cultural event.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take an early morning hike in the surrounding hills, witnessing the beautiful landscape and local flora.

afternoon
:

Return to town for lunch, then visit the nearby archaeological site or museum to learn about the region's history.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with dinner at a traditional mezcalería, sampling local mezcal and enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$7
Coffee at a café$2
🚕Taxi fare (within town)$3
🍺Beer at a bar$4
🛍️Souvenir from the market$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes for outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Public transportation options may be limited.
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "No entiendo" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Santa Cruz Amilpas

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaza Principal

The main square is surrounded by colorful buildings and vibrant local life, perfect for capturing the essence of Santa Cruz Amilpas.

Church of Santa Cruz

This historic church features stunning architecture and is ideal for photos, especially during sunset.

Hillside Views

Hiking up the nearby hills offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Santa Cruz Amilpas

Santa Cruz Amilpas offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Oaxaca's rich gastronomic traditions.

Santa Cruz Amilpas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mole Negro

A rich and complex sauce made with various chiles, spices, and often served over chicken or turkey.

Must-Try!

Tlayudas

Large, crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and a variety of meats or vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado de Santa Cruz

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and delicious street food like tacos and memelas.

Climate Guide

Weather

Santa Cruz Amilpas has a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with daytime temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F) and occasional afternoon rain. Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Spring and fall provide comfortable weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities, with temperatures typically between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or a friendly 'Hola' is common when meeting someone; it’s polite to greet shopkeepers when entering.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful of local customs, especially during festivals or religious events.

Dress Code

Casual but modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Santa Cruz Amilpas is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant, especially in less crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when walking alone at night. Emergency numbers are accessible, and local authorities are responsive.

Tipping in Santa Cruz Amilpas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants; rounding up at cafes or for taxi services is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some businesses accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry pesos for smaller purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and local festivals.

Summer

Expect hot weather, often accompanied by rain; early mornings are best for outdoor exploration.

Fall

Cooler temperatures return, along with vibrant cultural celebrations, ideal for experiencing local traditions.

Winter

The weather is pleasant, with cooler evenings; a great time to enjoy local cuisine and indoor attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Santa Cruz Amilpas at Night

The nightlife in Santa Cruz Amilpas is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. Visitors can enjoy a few local bars and mezcalerías where live music often features traditional Oaxacan sounds. Socializing with locals over drinks is common, and some places may host dance events on weekends.

Hiking in Santa Cruz Amilpas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro del Fortín

A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains, with well-marked trails.

Sierra de Juárez

A more challenging hike in the Sierra de Juárez mountains, featuring diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Santa Cruz Amilpas by plane.

Oaxaca International Airport (OAX)

Located about 15 km from Santa Cruz Amilpas, this airport connects to major cities in Mexico and some international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Santa Cruz Amilpas is quite walkable, with compact streets that make it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance, and the town's layout encourages leisurely strolls. However, some hilly areas may require moderate physical effort.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The town is home to various indigenous groups, primarily Zapotecs, who maintain their language and traditions.

Artisans

Many residents are skilled artisans, creating traditional crafts such as textiles, pottery, and woodwork.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in the region, with many locals supporting local teams and playing in community leagues.

Lucha Libre

A form of professional wrestling that is a beloved spectacle in Mexican culture, often featuring colorful masks and high-energy performances.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Santa Cruz Amilpas is manageable due to its small size, with occasional congestion during peak hours. Public transportation consists mainly of shared taxis and buses that connect to nearby Oaxaca City, making it easy to navigate the area without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz Amilpas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes can be prepared vegetarian, but it's best to communicate your preferences to the chef.

Gluten-Free

Some traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free, like tlayudas or mole, but always confirm with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Santa Cruz Amilpas includes local clinics and hospitals in nearby Oaxaca City. Basic medical services are available, but visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical needs. Pharmacies are common and provide over-the-counter medications.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide