Santa Lucía del Camino

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Santa Lucía del Camino's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring the Heart of Santa Lucía
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Venture out early to the scenic Hierve el Agua, famous for its stunning rock formations and natural mineral springs. Take a refreshing hike along the trails, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Bring along a picnic to enjoy amidst nature’s beauty.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit a nearby mezcal distillery to learn about the production process and sample different varieties. Engaging with the distillers offers a deeper appreciation for this important aspect of local culture. Spend the afternoon leisurely exploring the quaint town nearby and perhaps trying more local delicacies.

evening
:

Return to Santa Lucía and unwind at a local plaza, where you can listen to live music while enjoying local street food. Engage in conversation with fellow tourists and locals to share experiences from the day. As night falls, attend a community gathering or festival if one is happening, to celebrate with local traditions.

day 4
Historical Insights
morning
:

Begin with a guided tour of the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, which takes you through the rich history of the region. The exhibits provide fascinating insights into pre-Hispanic cultures and contemporary Oaxaca. Spend time marvelling at the intricate artifacts on display.

afternoon
:

After the museum, head to the beautiful Temple of Santo Domingo, a baroque marvel with intricate details and a striking interior. As you explore the historic grounds, take moment to relax in the nearby botanical gardens. Enjoy lunch at a café that offers stunning views of the temple.

evening
:

For dinner, indulge in a culinary journey of Oaxacan dishes at a renowned restaurant. Sampling tlayudas and mole will give you a taste of local flavors. Attend an evening storytelling session that shares the rich folklore of the region, adding depth to your understanding of Santa Lucía.

day 5
Art and Inspiration
morning
:

Start your day at the Taller de Arte, where you can participate in a workshop with local artists. Engage your creative side and learn techniques in painting or pottery. This immersive experience directly connects you to the vibrant artistic community of the town.

afternoon
:

Visit the surrounding art galleries that feature contemporary Oaxacan artists. Take your time to appreciate the diverse artworks and discuss them with the gallery owners, who often share insightful stories. Enjoy lunch at a charming bistro that highlights local flavors through its dishes.

evening
:

As twilight approaches, find a venue that hosts live music or art displays to fully appreciate the local culture. Let the rhythm of the music and the beauty of the art inspire your evening. Dine at a local food market where you can continue savoring the flavors of Oaxaca.

day 6
Relaxation and Wellness
morning
:

Treat yourself to a morning of relaxation at a local spa, where you can enjoy a traditional massage with local healing techniques. Breathe deeply while rejuvenating amidst an atmosphere of tranquility. Indulge in a healthy breakfast of fresh juice and traditional tamales after your treatment.

afternoon
:

Participate in a yoga session in the park, surrounded by natural beauty, which allows for a peaceful connection to the local environment. This is a wonderful way to engage with other travelers and locals seeking wellness. Afterward, take the afternoon to explore the area’s green spaces or sit in a café with a book.

evening
:

Cap off your day with a serene sunset view from a local lookout point. Talk a leisurely walk along the paths and enjoy the evening breeze as you reflect on your travel experiences. Diners in the area often offer health-conscious menus, so enjoy a wholesome dinner before heading back.

day 7
Culinary Exploration
morning
:

Dedicate the morning to a food tour that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the region. Visit local markets with your guide to taste and learn about different ingredients. Sample early snacks like memelas and quesadillas to fuel your culinary adventure.

afternoon
:

Join a guided tour that takes you to several renowned food establishments committed to traditional recipes. Engage with chefs who are eager to share their family secrets and culinary history. Relish a sit-down meal at a place celebrated for its unique interpretations of classic dishes.

evening
:

Experience a food festival, if available, where vendors showcase their signature dishes and you can interact with passionate food lovers. Enjoy the atmosphere filled with laughter and lively conversations over delicious local cuisine. End the evening with a savory dessert, such as a chocolate tamal or fresh empanadas.

day 8
Community Engagement
morning
:

Spend the morning volunteering at a local community center where you can assist with workshops focused on education or empowerment. Engaging with the community fosters a deep connection to the people and culture. Participate in activities that align with your skills and interests.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch with the community members you're working alongside, sharing stories and experiences. This authentic interaction allows for a more profound understanding of daily life in Santa Lucía. After lunch, visit local schools or projects to see the impact of community initiatives.

evening
:

Return to the community center for an evening gathering that showcases local talents, such as music or dance performances. Sharing an evening filled with joy and creativity culminates the day's efforts beautifully. Reflect on your experiences over a simple, yet heartfelt dinner with those you've worked with.

day 9
Final Reflections
morning
:

On your last day, take part in a mindfulness hike, allowing time for reflection and gratitude for the experiences you've enjoyed. Immerse yourself in nature while contemplating your journey in Santa Lucía. Take photos of your favorite spots as keepsakes.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon revisiting any favorite spots or shops you discovered earlier during your itinerary. Use this time to finalize any last-minute shopping for souvenirs and gifts. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café, savoring the favorite dishes you have grown to love.

evening
:

For your final evening, plan a celebratory dinner at a restaurant that offers panoramic views of the city as the sun sets. Share your experiences with fellow travelers as you toast to the memories created. End the night with a reflective walk through the streets, soaking in the vibrant essence of Santa Lucía one last time.

Discover Santa Lucía del Camino

Read more in our Santa Lucía del Camino 2025 Travel Guide.

Santa Lucía del Camino Travel Guide