Oaxaca: culture and food

A fascinating tour that will immerse you in the authentic culture of Oaxaca. The program is rich in local gastronomic delights, ancient archaeological sites and traditional crafts.

The 6-day adventure begins at the historic Quinta Real Hotel and an introduction to the local Zapotec community. We'll attend a cooking class and a market tour, then learn about some local textile traditions. Afterwards, we'll head to the archaeological zone of Monte Albán for a private tour, and then to Santo Tomas Jaliesa, where we'll get to know the local cuisine.

We will take part in a modern culinary master class from the famous chef Alejandro Olmedo, then we will have a relaxing ceremony in a temazcal led by a shaman and the opportunity to try caldo de piedra - a dish also called “stone broth”.

Day 1: Welcome to Oaxaca

Upon arrival in the cultural capital of Oaxaca, guests are provided with a private transfer to the Quinta Real Hotel. This building was built in 1576 and was originally the monastery of Santa Catalina de Siena. The feet of nuns walked along its corridors for almost three centuries.

At the height of political unrest in 1862, the nuns were ordered to leave the monastery, and their former convent became offices for municipal officials and remained so until 1972, when the restoration began. The interior decoration of the building was carried out by the National Institute of Anthropology and History.

A team of experts has restored the frescoes that decorated the ancient walls. The original design of the floors has been restored and, where possible, works of art from previous years have been restored. No two rooms at the Quinta Real Oaxaca are alike, but they all offer modern amenities set against a Spanish colonial backdrop.

Overnight: at the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel

Day 2: Zapotec traditions in Teotitlan del Valle

Today we are attending the first of two culinary master classes: from representatives of the local Zapotec community. But first, learn about some of the historical forces that shaped the local cultural landscape by visiting a magnificent 17th-century church built by the Spanish on the site of a Zapotec ceremonial site, repurposing sacred carved stones.

A story about the frescoes and the history behind them. After getting acquainted with the culture and history of the Zapotecs, we will go to the market, accompanied by a local family, to purchase the best ingredients for guizados.

Oaxaca is famous for its culinary traditions, and this particular community is also widely famous for its weaving skills. You will learn about natural dyes and traditions of creating completely unique blankets and carpets.

Before returning to Oaxaca, we will visit a local distillery, where we will learn about the production of mezcal from agave. Although the drink has gained international popularity in recent years, the best mezcal in the world still comes from Oaxaca. In the evening we will try the exquisite, smoky varieties of reposado and anejo.

Overnight: at the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel

Day 3: Monte Alban

Today we continue to get acquainted with the ancient traditions of Oaxaca and local cuisine: we will visit the World Heritage Site, Monte Alban. We learn about the great ancient civilization of Monte Alban and its traditions of maize cultivation, which are still preserved today.

After a private guided tour of Monte Albán, we will visit the artisan town of Santo Tomas Jalieza. Here we will get acquainted with the traditions of producing nixtamal (specially processed maize). Then we use it and other local ingredients, particularly local gourmet cheeses, to create amazing local dishes like zucchini quesadillas, tlayudas and memelitas—all local specialties that require specially prepared nixtamal. Let's study the process, learn how to use a comal (special frying pan) and enjoy the prepared dishes!

Depending on the interests of travelers, you can visit local artists to see colorful mythical carvings known as alebrigis (Spanish for “unseen beasts”).

Overnight: at the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel

Day 4: Cooking class with Chef Alejandro Olmedo

Spend time in the countryside with local campesinos (farmers) and learn about the modern dishes that continue to attract international attention to Oaxaca with local chef Alejandro Olmedo of Casa Oaxaca.

We will visit the large central market and discuss ancient traditions and cosmopolitan approaches to the variety of local dishes. In his personal masterclass, Alejandro will demonstrate various Oaxacan dishes, sharing his extensive gastronomic knowledge.

Discuss the latest discoveries in Zapotec communities with Chef Alejandro to better understand Oaxacan cuisine. Let's prepare another special dish and enjoy it together with craft mezcal.

Overnight: at the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel

Day 5: Temazcal ritual and caldo de piedra tasting

Accompanied by a local shaman, we will attend a purification ceremony in a temazcal. An ancient ritual, the hot stones combined with carefully selected herbs in the steam room create a unique and unforgettable experience. Then we will have lunch at a local establishment. Let's learn all about the traditional food known as caldo de piedra, or "stone broth."

Overnight: at the Quinta Real Oaxaca Hotel

Day 6: Departure

Private transfer from hotel to airport.