Welcome to Oaxaca in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Spring in Oaxaca is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant culture and history. Light, breathable clothing like short sleeve shirts and tank tops are ideal for staying cool. Since the weather can get quite hot, especially in April and May, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are essential for sun protection. Evenings can be slightly cooler, so a light jacket or sweater is useful. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the cobblestone streets and exploring ancient ruins like Monte Albán.
Dress Code
Oaxaca has a rich cultural heritage, and locals take pride in their traditional attire, especially during festivals and celebrations. For tourists, casual and comfortable clothing is appropriate for most activities. During the day, lightweight and breathable outfits are ideal for exploring the city, visiting markets, and taking day trips. In the evening, smart casual attire, such as a dress or nice pants with a stylish top, is suitable for dining out or attending cultural events. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the city and visiting historical sites.
*This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.
MARCH
52 – 85F (11 – 29C)
Warm, dry, and sunny
0.3 inches of rain
APRIL
55 – 88F (13 – 31C)
Hot, sunny, with clear skies
0.4 inches of rain
MAY
57 – 89F (14 – 32C)
Hot, dry, with occasional showers
1.0 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for staying cool during Oaxaca’s warm, sunny days. I loved having these for walking through the historic center and exploring markets.
2. Tank Tops: Great for the hottest days, especially when visiting outdoor sites like Monte Albán.
3. Light Jacket: Useful for cooler evenings or early morning starts.
4. Poncho: A stylish option that can provide warmth and comfort in the evenings.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Shorts: Comfortable and ideal for the warm weather, perfect for day trips and casual exploring.
2. Lightweight Pants: Great for both day and evening, providing comfort and coverage.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for casual dining or visiting local artisan villages.
4. Dress: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, ideal for evenings out in Oaxaca’s charming city center.
5. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable for day-to-night activities.
6. Leggings: Ideal for cooler evenings or if you plan to do any outdoor activities like visiting the ruins. I liked having leggings for the cooler nights.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Oaxaca’s many attractions and outdoor sites. I found these to be really practical for long days on my feet.
2. Sandals: Perfect for casual days spent exploring markets and local villages.
3. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for dining out or attending cultural events.
4. Sunglasses: A must for those sunny spring days, especially when spending time outdoors.
5. Hat: Important for sun protection during outdoor activities and while exploring the city.
6. Swimsuit: Essential if you’re planning to visit nearby beaches or natural pools.
7. Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for warm nights in Oaxaca.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a short trip, with enough space for your essentials and a few outfits.
2. Daypack: Useful for carrying water, sunscreen, and other essentials while exploring the city or taking day trips.
3. Purse: Handy for carrying your essentials when going out for dinner or attending events.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying additional layers, shopping, or purchases from local markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Light and breathable fabrics: Oaxaca’s spring weather is warm to hot, so pack light clothing to stay cool.
- Comfortable footwear: Essential for exploring the city’s cobblestone streets and ancient ruins.
- Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong sun.
- Layer for cooler evenings: A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler evenings.
Oaxaca Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT OAXACA?
March is the best month to visit Oaxaca during spring, with warm temperatures and low humidity before the heat intensifies.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN OAXACA?
March: Guelaguetza Preparations – While the festival is in July, preparations and events start in spring, providing a glimpse into Oaxacan culture.
April: Semana Santa – A major religious celebration with processions, reenactments, and events throughout the city.
May: Cinco de Mayo – Celebrated more in Puebla, but Oaxaca also hosts parades and cultural events.
May: Día de la Santa Cruz – A traditional festival with parades, dances, and the decoration of crosses in local neighborhoods.
May: Festival de la Primavera – A celebration of spring with local dances, music, and events showcasing the region’s culture.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN OAXACA IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Oaxaca is a vibrant time to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the historic city center, where you can explore the stunning architecture, including the Santo Domingo Church and the Zócalo. Next, head to Monte Albán, one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico, where you can walk among ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the valley. In the afternoon, explore the local markets, such as Mercado Benito Juárez, where you can shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and delicious local food. If you’re visiting in April, be sure to experience the Semana Santa celebrations, where you can witness traditional processions and reenactments. End your day with a visit to a local mezcalería, where you can taste Oaxaca’s famous mezcal and learn about its production.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT OAXACA IN THE SPRING?
A 4-5 day visit is ideal for experiencing the best of Oaxaca in the spring, including its cultural events, historic sites, and vibrant markets.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start with a morning visit to the historic city center, exploring Santo Domingo Church and the Zócalo. In the afternoon, visit Monte Albán for a tour of the ancient ruins. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying Oaxacan cuisine. Day 2: Spend the morning exploring the local markets, such as Mercado Benito Juárez, for handmade crafts and textiles. In the afternoon, take a day trip to a nearby artisan village, like Teotitlán del Valle, known for its traditional weaving. Finish the day with a mezcal tasting at a local mezcalería.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Visit the Oaxaca Ethnobotanical Garden in the morning, followed by a tour of the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures in the afternoon. In the evening, attend a local cultural event or festival, if available. Day 4: Take a day trip to Hierve el Agua, a set of natural rock formations and mineral springs, where you can swim and hike. Day 5: Explore the artisan markets in the nearby town of San Bartolo Coyotepec, known for its black pottery.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Spend the day visiting the ancient ruins of Mitla, followed by a tour of a nearby agave field to learn about mezcal production. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Oaxacan dinner at a local restaurant. Day 7: Take a day trip to the coastal town of Puerto Escondido, where you can relax on the beach, surf, or visit the nearby lagoons and wildlife reserves.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Visit the Tule Tree, one of the oldest and largest trees in the world, located in the town of Santa María del Tule. Day 9: Explore the historic village of Zaachila, known for its ancient ruins and weekly market. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots in Oaxaca or discover new areas, ending with a final dinner at one of the city’s top-rated restaurants.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Take a day trip to the Sierra Norte mountains, where you can hike, birdwatch, and explore indigenous villages. Day 12: Spend the day in the town of Tlacolula, known for its vibrant Sunday market and traditional food. Day 13: Visit the nearby town of Santiago Matatlán, often referred to as the “world capital of mezcal,” where you can tour distilleries and taste different varieties of mezcal. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying one last meal at your favorite Oaxacan restaurant.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN OAXACA?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Tank Top
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Poncho
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Pair of Lightweight Pants
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Poncho
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Pair of Lightweight Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Poncho
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Pair of Lightweight Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Poncho
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 2 Pairs of Lightweight Pants
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Poncho
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 2 Pairs of Lightweight Pants
- 2 Skirts
- 3 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Sandals
- 1 Hat
- 1 Pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR OAXACA IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Oaxaca’s spring weather is warm, so heavy coats are unnecessary.
High Heels: The city’s cobblestone streets and rural areas are better navigated in comfortable, flat shoes.
Thick Sweaters: The temperatures are warm, so thick sweaters will likely be too hot.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO OAXACA IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $400 – $1,000, depending on the departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $50 – $150 per night, with variations based on the location and hotel class.
Transportation: $10 – $30 for local travel, including public transport and Ubers.
Meals: $15 – $50 per day, depending on dining choices.
Activities: $10 – $50 for entrance fees, tours, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN OAXACA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is customary in Oaxaca. Around 10-15% is typical in restaurants, and $1-3 per drink depending on location. Tip $1-2 per bag for hotel bellhops. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or adding a small tip is appreciated.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT OAXACA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Oaxaca’s spring weather is warm and sunny: Always have sun protection handy, such as sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
- The city is very walkable: Bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore on foot.
- Plan for cultural experiences: Oaxaca hosts several cultural events in the spring, so check out the festival schedules before your trip.
- Be mindful of altitude: Oaxaca sits at a higher elevation, so stay hydrated and take it easy on your first day to adjust.