Article updated on 02.18.23
The beautiful city of Oaxaca and its surroundings
Our stay on the coast was shortened because we had a mechanical problem… Our front suspensions and steering were damaged because of the road conditions and the weight of our Camper. We were leaning too much to the left and in the long run this problem could become more serious. We wanted to repair our pickup on the coast but the garage we went to did not have the parts. So we had to drive to Oaxaca City. When we arrived, we went straight to the garage. He took 1 hour to look at the car and informed us that he would need 2 days for the repairs.
We could not stay in our camper during this time so we grabbed the opportunity to stay in a downtown hotel for two nights.
Visit of the city centre of Oaxaca
The city is really beautiful and colourful. The speciality of the region is coffee and chocolate. It’s a good thing, we love both of these things. The traditional hot chocolate is drunk with water, perfect for Audrey who can’t eat dairy products!
We spend our days walking around and eating good food. There is something for everyone between the markets, the bui-bui, the rooftop bars and the chic restaurants. We were charmed by the city’s colourful paved streets.
A petrified waterfall
After two days in the city centre, we pick up our camper and set off to visit the area. We drive to Hierve El Agua, a petrified waterfall. The road to get there is very beautiful, natural, curves that go up the mountain. When we arrive in the afternoon, the place is crowded with tourists. Our advantage is that we can sleep on the parking and thus enjoy the place at sunset and sunrise without a cat. The colours, the setting is just wow!
A small Zapotec village
On the way down from the beautiful waterfall we stop in Teotitlan. A small Zapotec village which is famous for its textile creation. We discover family workshops where they weave carpets the old fashioned way. The wool is dyed naturally with flowers, shells, bark, etc.
Day of the Dead, Dia de Los Muertos
NWe return to Oaxaca for the Day of the Dead. This celebration is the most important of the year. Thousands of tourists from all over the world come to Mexico just for this date. We have the chance to attend and discover the streets full of decorations, flowers and altars. The icing on the cake is that we are with Ludo, our dear friend from Switzerland, for this event!
The festival takes place over several days with free events in the streets such as parades, dancing, concerts, etc. Its purpose is to cherish the dead. Mexicans put a picture of their loved ones on an altar and donate food and flowers for them. It is very beautiful and interesting to see this culture which has a completely different approach to death than ours.
We are once again conquered by this magnificent city and region of Oaxaca! We can only recommend to come and take the time to stay there for at least a week.