Things To Do
in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán
Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán is a historic town just south of Oaxaca City, blending indigenous Zapotec heritage with colonial influences. It serves as a gateway to the rich cultural experiences of the Oaxacan region while maintaining a distinct local vibe in its plazas and markets. The town is known for vibrant street life, traditional crafts, and access to nearby natural and archaeological sites.
With its proximity to Oaxaca City, visitors can easily explore museums, markets, and hillside viewpoints while staying in a more relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Zócalo of Xoxocotlán, where you can admire the striking architecture of the church and surrounding buildings. As the sun rises, local vendors begin to set up their stalls, offering fresh fruits and traditional Oaxacan breakfast options. Enjoy a warm cup of atole and a plate of tlayudas while soaking in the morning atmosphere.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to the nearby Ethnobotanical Garden, where you can learn about the region's diverse flora and its significance to local culture. Spend some time wandering through the lush gardens, taking in the beautiful landscapes and discovering indigenous plants. Afterward, visit the nearby artisan market to shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and pottery unique to the region.
As the sun begins to set, head to a local mezcalería to sample some of the finest mezcal produced in Oaxaca. Engage with local artisans and learn about the mezcal-making process while enjoying the rich flavors of this traditional spirit. For dinner, savor a delicious meal at a quaint restaurant, where you can try regional specialties like mole and chapulines.
Start your morning at the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase ancient civilizations and the evolution of Oaxacan culture through time. Take your time to appreciate the intricate artifacts and stunning art pieces on display.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby archaeological site of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers breathtaking views of the valley below. Walk among the ruins, marveling at the ancient pyramids and plazas while learning about the Zapotec civilization. Don't forget to capture the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
As the evening approaches, return to Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets, where you can observe the daily life of the locals. Savor a delightful dinner at a traditional restaurant, trying dishes such as enchiladas or tamales paired with fresh salsas. Cap off your night with a visit to a local café for a sweet treat and a cup of locally grown coffee.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.70-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Oaxaca City and rich Oaxacan cuisine
- Welcoming local culture and markets
- Access to nearby natural and archaeological sites
- Limited nightlife within Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán itself
- Some attractions require travel to Oaxaca City or surrounding areas
- Variable hillside terrain may require comfortable footwear
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán
Visit one of these nice places.
The main square with colonial arches, vendors waking up, and warm morning light.
A picturesque church façade with colorful details and a traditional Mexican town backdrop.
Vibrant textiles, fruits, and flowers under market lighting, great for candid color shots.
Quiet spot along the river with reflections and local life providing calm compositions.
Food in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán
Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A large, crispy tortilla loaded with refried beans, Oaxaca cheese, and choices like tasajo or chorizo, finished with salsa verde or salsa roja.
Must-Try!
A rich, chocolate-infused sauce served over chicken or pork, typically accompanied by rice and tortillas.
Fresh Oaxaca cheese used in various preparations, from simple quesadillas to melted cheese atop tlayudas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, moles, salsas, and prepared foods; ideal for sampling regional snacks.
Colorful street vendors with quesillo, tamales, tostaditas, and other quick bites perfect for a casual bite.
Broader selection of moles, chocolate, and aromatic herbs; a good option for a day trip from Xoxocotlán.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with ‘Buenos días’ or ‘Buenas tardes’. A handshake or light hug is common among friends; show respect to elders.
Dress modestly in religious sites; avoid loud behavior in markets; ask before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is common if service isn’t included. For street stalls, small change is appreciated.
Cash is widely used; many places in town accept pesos and some card payments in larger restaurants or hotels. ATMs are common in Oaxaca City; some markets may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, bloom-filled landscapes, and manageable crowds; ideal for outdoor strolling and photography.
Warm days with higher humidity and recurring late-afternoon showers; bring a light rain jacket and sun protection.
Dry season returns; comfortable days and cooler evenings—great for long walks and market visits.
Cool mornings with pleasant daytime warmth; layers recommended; rainfall is uncommon but possible.
Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Spectacular petrified waterfalls and mineral pools; a popular hiking and picnic destination a couple of hours from the city.
Hiking routes with panoramic views of Oaxaca Valley, especially around sunrise or sunset.
Rugged trails around the archaeological site offering elevated views over the valley.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán by plane.
Main gateway to the region, located just south of the city in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán; taxis and shuttles connect to town in 15-25 minutes.
Coastal gateway with domestic and some international flights; longer transfer but popular for beach trips along the Oaxacan coast.
Coastal airport offering connections to major hubs; a longer transfer from the Oaxaca region but useful for multi-destination itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents has Zapotec heritage, with vibrant traditions and regional crafts.
A mix of European and Indigenous ancestry forming the urban and rural communities.
A growing group connected to Oaxaca City’s universities and regional businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in towns and schools; local leagues and informal games are common.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games and tournaments occur seasonally.
Played in local leagues and school events; family-friendly field games are common in parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy tamales de grano, nopales, beans, corn, and cheese dishes; request lard-free mole or vegetables cooked in oil.