Things To Do
in Santa Lucía del Camino
Santa Lucía del Camino is a lively municipality on the outskirts of Oaxaca City, offering easy access to the region’s rich culture while maintaining a local, residential charm. It serves as a convenient base for exploring Oaxaca’s markets, food scene, and nearby archaeological and natural sites. The town blends traditional Oaxacan hospitality with modern amenities, making it a practical starting point for day trips to Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, and the Sierra Norte.
With its proximity to Oaxaca City, visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace, flavorful cuisine, and the surrounding highland landscapes just a short ride away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the main square, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of local vendors setting up their stalls. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets lined with colorful houses and greet the friendly locals. Don't forget to stop by a local café for fresh coffee and traditional pan de yema.
Visit the nearby archaeological site of Monte Albán, a significant pre-Columbian site that offers stunning views of the valley. Spend time exploring the ancient ruins, learning about the Zapotec civilization, and capturing breathtaking photos. Afterward, return to Santa Lucía and unwind at a local restaurant with authentic Oaxacan cuisine.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a rooftop bar or patio to soak in the beautiful views of the city. Enjoy a traditional meal while indulging in the local mezcal, a spirit native to the region. End your day by attending a local cultural event or simply taking a pleasant walk to admire the illuminated streets.
Begin your day with a visit to a local artisan market where you can witness the craftsmanship of woven textiles and handmade pottery. Interact with the artisans and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir to take home. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of chilaquiles with a side of fresh fruit.
Participate in a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional Oaxacan dishes using fresh, local ingredients. This hands-on experience will deepen your connection to the local culture and cuisine. After lunch, take a peaceful walk in the nearby botanical garden to relax amidst the beauty of native plants.
For the evening, enjoy a lively dance performance showcasing traditional Oaxacan dances. The vibrant costumes and spirited music will immerse you further into the local culture. Finish the night with a stroll through the festive streets, where local artisans often display their nighttime crafts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within city | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30-70 |
| 🧺Local crafts souvenir | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Oaxaca City’s cultural sights and markets
- Rich regional cuisine with authentic dishes and mezcal experiences
- Good base for day trips to Monte Albán, Hierve el Agua, and Sierra Norte
- Friendly locals and strong hospitality
- Some attractions require short drives to reach the countryside
- Market areas can be crowded and hot during peak season
- Nightlife is more limited in Santa Lucía del Camino itself; best in Oaxaca City
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "¿Qué recomienda probar?" - What do you recommend to try?
- "¿Puede darme direcciones a...?" - Could you give me directions to...?
Places to Visit in Santa Lucía del Camino
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand baroque church with ornate interiors and a striking exterior, ideal for architectural photography and golden-hour light.
Colorful plazas and lively streets with colonial facades, street performers, and bustling markets—great for candid shots.
Elevated vantage point overlooking the city with sweeping views, especially dramatic at sunset.
Ancient ruins set in a high valley; panoramic photos of terraces and the surrounding mountains.
Vibrant stalls and stacks of colorful produce—perfect for close-up food photography and texture shots.
Food in Santa Lucía del Camino
Santa Lucía del Camino Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A deep, complex sauce typically served with chicken or pork, best found in local eateries around Oaxaca City.
Must-Try!
A large tostada topped with refried beans, cheese, avocado, and meat, often enjoyed at mercados and casual restaurants.
A stringy, flavorful cheese used in many dishes and sold in markets throughout the region.
A traditional masa-based dumpling often served in soups or stews, common in Oaxaca's home cooking.
Toasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime and salt, a crunchy snack you may encounter in markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh produce, spices, and a vibrant street-food scene—great for tasting local bites.
Large wholesale and retail market offering a wide range of ingredients, snacks, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a polite 'Buenos días/tardes' and address adults as 'Señor/Señora' to show respect.
Ask permission when taking portraits of people; be mindful in markets and sacred sites.
Mexican culture values warmth and patience; maintain a calm pace, especially in busy places.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Lucía del Camino
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is typically not included in many restaurants; a tip of 10-15% is customary if you’re satisfied. For taxis and hotel staff, small tips are appreciated.
Cash in Mexican pesos is widely accepted, especially at markets. Many mid-range and upscale places accept credit/debit cards; carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor strolls and mercados. Light rain can occur late in the season.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; plan early-morning activities and carry rain gear.
Warm to mild days; fewer crowds and great visibility for city and valley views.
Mild days and cooler nights; comfortable for sightseeing, with occasional cool evenings—layers recommended.
Santa Lucía del Camino at Night
Hiking in Santa Lucía del Camino
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails around mineral springs and dramatic rock formations; accessible via a day trip from Oaxaca City.
Gentle to moderate hikes offering views of the valley and surrounding hills near the archaeological site.
Airports
How to reach Santa Lucía del Camino by plane.
Serves domestic and limited international flights; approximately a 20–40 minute drive to Santa Lucía del Camino depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, reflecting mixed Indigenous and European ancestry common across the region.
A variety of Indigenous groups contribute to the cultural fabric of the wider Oaxaca area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local leagues and casual play in parks.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Lucía del Camino.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Oaxaca City restaurants offer vegetarian moles, tlayudas without meat, and fresh corn-based dishes; ask for gracias (vegetarian options) or substitutions as needed.