Things To Do
in Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna

Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna is a highland municipality in Oaxaca, perched in the Sierra Mixteca with terraced hills and a rich indigenous heritage. The town blends colonial charm with a living tradition of crafts, markets, and agricultural rhythms. Visitors are drawn to stone churches, friendly locals, and dramatic valley views that unfold along winding mountain paths.

Seasonal markets, regional foods, and nearby natural scenery make it a rewarding gateway to rural Oaxaca.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna, where you will be greeted by the stunning landscapes of the Sierra Norte. Take some time to settle into your accommodations and enjoy a traditional Mexican breakfast at a local eatery. Afterward, embark on a leisurely walk through the charming streets, discovering the vibrant architecture and local markets.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the breathtaking Church of San Juan Bautista, known for its unique baroque style and rich history. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby artisan workshops, where you can see local craftspeople at work and learn about traditional techniques. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase handmade souvenirs to take home.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, savoring typical dishes like mole and tlayudas. After dinner, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a folk dance performance or street festival. Wind down the evening by enjoying a nightcap at a cozy bar, listening to live music.

day 2
Nature and Hiking
morning
:

Start your day early with a hike in the surrounding hills, where you can witness the stunning natural beauty of the region. Bring along a local guide who can share insights about the unique flora and fauna found here. Stop for a light breakfast picnic amidst the tranquility of nature.

afternoon
:

After your invigorating hike, return to town for a hearty lunch at a local cazuela restaurant, known for its rich and flavorful dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby archaeological site of the ancient Mixtec ruins, where you can explore historic structures and learn about the area's indigenous history. Engage with the informative guides to deepen your understanding of the site.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a peaceful stroll around the town plaza, where you can experience local life in full swing. Choose a cozy cafe for dinner, trying out regional specialties paired with a glass of mezcal. Cap off the night by sharing stories with fellow travelers and locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🚌Local transport one-way$0.50-1.50
🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night)$25-60
Coffee in cafe$1-3
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$8-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich indigenous culture and crafts
  • Scenic landscapes from river canyons to highland vistas
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Rural roads can be rough and transportation infrequent
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "¡Salud!" - Cheers!

Places to Visit in Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna

Visit one of these nice places.

Calleja Colonial del Centro

A narrow, charm-filled street with adobe walls and colorful doors that glow during golden hour.

Mirador del Río Tezoatlán

Riverside viewpoint offering sunset silhouettes of the valley and surrounding hills.

Mercado Central

Bustling market scenes, vibrant stalls, and candid portraits of daily life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna

Oaxacan flavors dominate, with corn as a staple and dishes that mix peppers, cacao, and fresh cheeses. Expect a balance of street-food snacks and hearty, homestyle meals that emphasize seasonal produce and traditional techniques.

Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mole Negro (Oaxaca Black Mole)

Rich, multi-chile sauce often served with chicken or pork, typically accompanied by rice and tortillas.

Must-Try!

Tlayudas

Griddled corn tortilla topped with refried beans, cheese, avocado, and salsa; a quintessential street-food staple.

Tasajo

Thinly sliced, marinated beef paired with beans, rice, and corn tortillas.

Chapulines

Toasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime and salt, a crunchy traditional snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Tezoatlán

A lively market offering fresh produce, prepared foods, herbs, and regional ingredients.

Climate Guide

Weather

Highland Oaxaca experiences a mild, variable climate with cooler nights year-round. There is a distinct dry season (roughly November–April) and a rainy season (May–October) with occasional tropical storms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a polite 'Buenos días/tardes' and use 'Señor/Señora' in formal settings. Respect local time rhythms and show appreciation for handmade crafts.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travel with awareness of petty theft in crowded markets. Use reputable transport, keep valuables secure, avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night, and stay informed about weather-related road conditions.

Tipping in Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Restaurants: 10-15% if service is not included. Small tips for guides, taxi drivers, and hotel staff.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Pleasant days with blooming flora; comfortable temperatures for walking and light hikes.

Summer

Warmer days with frequent afternoon showers; lush greenery and dramatic raincloud skies.

Autumn

Drying air and clear skies; ideal light for photography and outdoor exploration.

Winter

Cool evenings and mild days; comfortable for town wanderings, with possible chilly nights in higher spots.

Nightlife Guide

Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna at Night

In Tezoatlán, nightlife is low-key, centered around the town plaza, family-run eateries, and small mezcalerías with regional music rather than large clubs.

Hiking in Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de San Antonio Trail

Panoramic overlook of the valley with hillside terrain; suitable for a half-day hike.

Airports

How to reach Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna by plane.

Oaxaca International Airport (OAX)

Primary gateway to the region; domestic flights from Mexico City and select international connections. Typically a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Tezoatlán depending on route.

Puerto Escondido International Airport (PDS)

Coastal airport with regional and some international connections; longer transfer to the highlands but useful if combining a coast trip.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with a pedestrian-friendly plaza. Most sights are reachable on foot, but some attractions require short rides or local transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mixtec communities

A significant portion of residents belong to Mixtec-speaking communities with distinct traditions and crafts.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The most popular sport; local matches and informal play are common in the plaza or municipal fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Streets in town are narrow and can be congested during market days. Public transport is limited; taxis and informal colectivos are common. Roads can be rough after heavy rains.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tezoatlán de Segura y Luna.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose plant-based plates built around beans, corn, vegetables, and queso; request broths and lard be omitted.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities are available in Tezoatlán. For more advanced care, residents travel to larger towns or Oaxaca City. Carry essential medications and consider travel insurance.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide