Santa María Xadani

Day Trips

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

day 1
Exploring the Heart of Santa María Xadani
morning
:

Start your journey with a delicious traditional breakfast at a local eatery, enjoying staples like huevos rancheros. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, admiring the colorful murals and local artisan shops. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps even pick up a handmade souvenir.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby archaeological sites, where you can learn about the fascinating history and culture of the Zapotec and Mixe people. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shade of a palm tree, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Oaxaca region. End your afternoon by participating in a traditional craft workshop, where you can learn to weave or create pottery.

evening
:

As the sun sets, gather around for a traditional dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients and classic Oaxacan dishes. Experience the lively ambiance of Santa María Xadani by visiting a local mezcaleria, where you can taste various mezcal and learn about its production. Wind down your day by attending a colorful local festival or cultural event, if available.

day 2
Cultural Immersion and Natural Wonders
morning
:

Begin your day with a guided tour of a local coffee plantation to understand the coffee production process and enjoy a tasting session. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes while your guide shares stories about the region's agricultural heritage. Embrace the morning sun as you stroll through the lush coffee fields.

afternoon
:

Discover the unique flora and fauna of the surrounding natural reserves with a hike, led by an experienced guide who will highlight the diverse ecosystems. Find a scenic spot for lunch where you can savor local dishes packed with flavors. As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow, feel invigorated by the beauty of the lush greenery.

evening
:

Return to Santa María Xadani to freshen up before heading out to enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant known for its authentic cuisine. Afterwards, take a leisurely walk through the town, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of local music. If available, seek out a community theater performance to immerse yourself in local storytelling traditions.

day 3
Artisans and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Visit local artisans to watch master craftsmen at work, creating stunning textiles and pottery that reflect the culture of the region. Engage with the artisans and learn about their techniques and the history behind their crafts. Not only will you appreciate the art, but you might also find the perfect piece to take home.

afternoon
:

Participate in a cooking class where you will learn to make traditional Oaxacan dishes, using fresh ingredients from the region. Share a meal with fellow participants, enjoying the fruits of your labor in a relaxed atmosphere. Spend the afternoon wandering through the local market, sampling delicious street food and soaking in the local culture.

evening
:

Dine at a family-run restaurant specializing in traditional mezcal-based cocktails, where you can learn about the different types of mezcal and their unique flavors. Enjoy an evening of music and dance as local performers showcase traditional dances. Wind down your night under the stars, reflecting on the cultural experiences of the day.

day 4
Local History and Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local museum which showcases the rich history and heritage of Santa María Xadani. Engage with informative exhibits that detail the area's indigenous culture and significant historical events. Spend some time mingling with locals who can offer personal stories about their community's past.

afternoon
:

Head to a historical landmark for a guided tour, adding context to the morning's museum experience. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café that serves traditional Oaxacan dishes, allowing you to taste the region's culinary heritage. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring nearby neighborhoods, admiring colonial architecture and beautiful gardens.

evening
:

As the evening sets in, join a community gathering where locals share stories and folk tales, deepening your understanding of their culture. Dine at a rooftop restaurant with namesake dishes that highlight seasonal and local ingredients. End your day with a night market visit, where you can find unique handicrafts and some late-night snacks.

day 5
Adventure Awaits in Nature
morning
:

Embark on an outdoor adventure with a guided kayak tour on a nearby river, enjoying the serenity of nature while spotting local wildlife. Take a break on the riverbank for a light breakfast picnic with fresh fruits and local pastries. The morning sun will keep you energized as you paddle through stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

Return to the land and go for a hike on popular trails that offer breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Lunch at a scenic viewpoint where you can appreciate the beauty of the Oaxacan landscape. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden waterfalls where you can cool off and take memorable photos.

evening
:

After a day full of activity, return to Santa María Xadani for a relaxing dinner at a cozy restaurant that features a garden setting. Enjoy a soothing evening as you share your day's stories with fellow travelers and locals. Sip on herbal-infused drinks while listening to local musicians play traditional music.

day 6
Village Life and Marketplace Discovery
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting a nearby village, where traditional customs are still practiced, and local people warmly welcome visitors. Experience village life by participating in daily activities such as farming or preparing traditional meals. Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a local family where you can engage in conversations about their way of life.

afternoon
:

Return to Santa María Xadani to explore an artisan market where you can find beautifully crafted goods and interact with local sellers who share the stories behind their products. Enjoy a light lunch from the market stalls while tasting local specialties like tlayudas or tamales. Spend the afternoon attending a workshop to learn about local weaving techniques.

evening
:

Join a community event in the evening that features traditional music, dancing, and local cuisine, allowing you to immerse yourself in festivity. Dine at a communal table with locals, sharing food and stories under soft lantern lights. As the evening wraps up, enjoy a tranquil walk back to your accommodation while reflecting on the day’s rich experiences.

day 7
Culinary Exploration and Tasting Trails
morning
:

Begin your day with a mouth-watering breakfast that highlights seasonal fruits and freshly made tortillas at a local café. Visit farms on the outskirts of town to learn about traditional farming practices and see where ingredients for your meals come from. This authentic experience allows you to appreciate the connection between farm and table.

afternoon
:

Embark on a food tour through Santa María Xadani, sampling a variety of local dishes, including mole, quesillo, and regional street foods. Spend your lunch at a popular outdoor market dining on small dishes from various vendors. As you taste, learn about the stories behind the dishes from your guide, deepening your appreciation for Oaxacan cuisine.

evening
:

Join a private culinary class in the evening, where you’ll cook alongside a local chef who will share family recipes and culinary tricks. Enjoy the fruits of your labor while seated at a beautifully set table suited for a festive feast. As the night progresses, share laughs and stories over delicious food and mezcal.

day 8
Religious Heritage and Peaceful Reflection
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local church, a significant historical site that showcases the religious heritage of the community. Engage with locals attending morning mass or spend time reflecting in the quiet ambiance of the church. Appreciate the beautiful architecture and intricacies while learning about the ceremonies held within.

afternoon
:

Visit a nearby shrine that is celebrated by the community for its cultural significance, sharing stories of faith and history. Have a peaceful lunch at a local café known for serving vegetarian cuisine influenced by traditional recipes. Spend the warm afternoon strolling through town, visiting small boutiques and art galleries.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to the church for a special festival or event if one is occurring, experiencing the joy and togetherness of the locals. Dine at a nearby restaurant offering a quiet atmosphere and local drinks to toast your day. End your journey with a quiet moment of reflection, admiring the stars twinkling above the tranquil town.

Discover Santa María Xadani

Read more in our Santa María Xadani 2025 Travel Guide.

Santa María Xadani Travel Guide