Family Cultural Adventure in Oaxaca

Whispers of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a day of diving deep into Oaxaca's historical roots while indulging in its vibrant contemporary culture. With Priya, Aarav, and me in tow, we set out to explore ancient ruins, savor traditional dishes, and discover unique artisanal crafts. It was a day that perfectly encapsulated why we chose Oaxaca for our family adventure – a place where the past and present intertwine seamlessly.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Itanoní. This place is a true gem. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of corn, the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine. I had read about their dedication to using heirloom varieties, and I was eager to taste the difference. The restaurant itself is unpretentious, with simple décor that lets the food speak for itself. We sat at one of the picnic tables, and I was immediately drawn to the women working the comals, expertly pressing and grilling the masa into tortillas.


Discover the essence of Oaxacan cuisine at Itanoní, where traditional breakfast meets vibrant local culture.

I ordered a tetela, a triangular folded tortilla filled with black beans and queso fresco. The tortilla was thick and slightly chewy, with a distinct corn flavor that was unlike anything I’ve ever tasted. Priya opted for the memelas, topped with beans, cheese, and salsa. Aarav, ever the adventurous eater, tried a tamale steamed in banana leaves. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to Itanoní’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. I washed my meal down with a refreshing tascalate, a drink made from roasted corn, cocoa, cinnamon, and achiote. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration.

Oaxaca is a place where the echoes of ancient civilizations resonate in the modern world, creating a unique tapestry of culture, history, and flavor.

Fueled by our delicious breakfast, we headed to Yagul, an ancient Zapotec city-state located about 38 kilometers southeast of Oaxaca City. As we drove along Highway 190, the landscape transformed into a rugged, cactus-covered terrain. Yagul, meaning Old Stick or Old Tree in Zapotec, is perched atop a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding valley. It's less crowded than Monte Albán, which meant we could wander around the ruins at our own pace, soaking in the atmosphere and imagining what life was like here centuries ago.


Explore the ancient ruins of Yagul, an archaeological wonder in Oaxaca, Mexico, and experience the rich heritage of the Zapotec civilization.

Aarav was particularly fascinated by the Juego de Pelota, the ancient ball court. I explained to him how the Zapotecs played a ritualistic game here, possibly with life-or-death stakes. He was amazed by the size of the court, the largest in the Valley of Oaxaca and the second largest in Mesoamerica, imagining the intensity of the games played here so long ago. We climbed the Fortaleza (Fortress), the rocky hill towering above Yagul. The climb was a bit challenging, but the panoramic views from the top were well worth the effort. From there, we could see the entire site laid out before us – the palaces, temples, and residential areas – a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the Zapotec people.

After Yagul, we drove to Zona Arqueológica de Mitla, another significant Zapotec site. Mitla, meaning Place of the Dead in Nahuatl, is known for its intricate geometric designs and unique architecture. Unlike other Mesoamerican sites, Mitla's buildings are adorned with elaborate stone mosaics, creating a stunning visual effect. We explored the Grupo de las Columnas, the most impressive section of the site, with its towering columns and ornate facades. Aarav enjoyed running through the open spaces, imagining what it must have been like to live in this ancient city. Priya was fascinated by the history of the site, learning about the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures that had inhabited Mitla over the centuries.


Explore the ancient architectural marvels and vibrant culture of the Zona Arqueológica de Mitla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oaxaca, Mexico.

By this time, we were all feeling quite hungry, so we made our way to Los Pacos Oaxaca for lunch. This restaurant is renowned for its moles, the complex and flavorful sauces that are a staple of Oaxacan cuisine. We decided to try the tasting sampler of all seven moles, an experience that was both educational and delicious. Each mole was unique, with its own distinct blend of chilies, spices, and other ingredients. My personal favorite was the mole negro, with its rich, smoky flavor and subtle hint of chocolate. Priya preferred the mole rojo, which was spicier and more robust. Aarav surprised us all by enjoying the mole amarillo, a milder, more delicate sauce. We savored our moles with a selection of traditional Oaxacan dishes, including enchiladas, tamales, and tlayudas. It was a truly memorable meal, a celebration of the flavors of Oaxaca.


Experience the rich flavors of Oaxacan cuisine at Los Pacos Oaxaca – where tradition meets fine dining in an inviting atmosphere.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to spend the late afternoon shopping for local crafts at La Casa de las Artesanías de Oaxaca. This artisan collective showcases the work of talented artists from across the state, offering a wide array of textiles, pottery, wood carvings, and other handmade goods. I was particularly drawn to the colorful textiles, woven with intricate designs and vibrant colors. Priya admired the delicate pottery, crafted with traditional techniques and unique patterns. Aarav, of course, was fascinated by the alebrijes, the whimsical wooden sculptures of fantastical creatures. We spent hours browsing the stalls, chatting with the artisans, and learning about their craft. We ended up buying a few souvenirs to take home with us – a handwoven rug for our living room, a set of ceramic bowls for our kitchen, and a small alebrije for Aarav’s room. These items would serve as a reminder of our time in Oaxaca, a tangible connection to the culture and people we had come to admire.


Discover the essence of Oaxacan culture at La Casa de las Artesanías, where exquisite handicrafts and vibrant art come together in a unique shopping experience.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a fine dining experience at Origen. This restaurant is known for its innovative Oaxacan cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. The ambiance was elegant and sophisticated, with soft lighting and attentive service. We opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey through the diverse regions of Oaxaca. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. We savored the delicate fish ceviche, the rich duck enchiladas, and the tender beef tongue with chichilo mole sauce. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a celebration of the culinary artistry of Oaxaca.


Discover Oaxacan culinary artistry at Origen – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

As we walked back to Hotel Camba, I reflected on the day’s adventures. We had explored ancient ruins, savored traditional dishes, and discovered unique artisanal crafts. We had immersed ourselves in the culture of Oaxaca, connecting with its history, its people, and its flavors. It was a day that perfectly encapsulated why we had chosen Oaxaca for our family adventure – a place where the past and present intertwine seamlessly, where ancient echoes resonate in the modern world. I am excited about tomorrow, when we plan to visit the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Soledad and the Museum of Contemporary Art and Oaxaca Cultures. I am also looking forward to trying some mezcal at El Espacio: Cocktail, Mezcal & Agave Bar. It promises to be another day of cultural immersion and discovery. For now, it’s time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this magical land.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel Camba in Oaxaca, a charming base for your adventures with free Wi-Fi and tour assistance.