Cultural Immersion in Oaxaca with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Visions of the Present

Today was a day of exploration that bridged the ancient and the contemporary, offering a deeper understanding of Oaxaca's cultural and natural heritage. From the majestic ruins of a once-great civilization to the serene beauty of a garden showcasing Oaxaca's diverse flora, every moment was a lesson in history and a celebration of life. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to learn, to experience, and to share these incredible stories with all of you.

Our day began early, fueled by anticipation and a hearty breakfast at Hierba Dulce. I had read that it was one of the best vegan restaurants in Oaxaca, and I was eager to try their take on traditional Mexican cuisine. The restaurant was a short walk from Hotel Camba, and the aroma of spices and freshly prepared tortillas filled the air as we approached. I opted for the 'fake papatzul' – a vegan twist on a classic dish – while my friends, Hans and the others, chose enchiladas and miso soup. The food was delicious, the service was friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed. It was the perfect way to start a day of exploration.


Discover Hierba Dulce: A charming vegan restaurant in Oaxaca offering innovative dishes made from fresh local ingredients.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off for Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán. The ancient Zapotec capital sits atop a mountain, offering panoramic views of the Oaxaca Valley. As we drove up the winding road, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the thought of the people who had built this city so many centuries ago. The weather was mild, with the temperature hovering around 74°F (23°C), but the humidity was high. I was glad I had worn comfortable walking shoes and a hat, though I did regret forgetting my Spanish phrasebook. I made a mental note to buy one at La Casa de las Artesanías later in the day.


Discover the ancient wonders of Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where history and breathtaking landscapes meet in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Arriving at Monte Albán, we were greeted by a sprawling complex of pyramids, plazas, and platforms. Our guide, a knowledgeable local with a passion for history, led us through the site, explaining the significance of each structure. I learned that Monte Albán was founded around 500 BC and served as the Zapotec capital for over a thousand years. At its peak, the city had a population of around 35,000.

As we walked through the Great Plaza, I tried to imagine what life must have been like in this ancient city. The Zapotecs were skilled astronomers, mathematicians, and artists, and their influence can still be seen in the architecture and artifacts of Monte Albán. I was particularly fascinated by the Danzantes, a series of stone carvings depicting what are believed to be captured war prisoners. Their contorted poses and expressive faces told a story of conflict and sacrifice.

To truly appreciate a culture, one must walk in the footsteps of its ancestors.

After a few hours of exploring Monte Albán, we drove back down the mountain and headed to La Olla for lunch. This restaurant, run by Chef Pilar Cabrera, is known for its traditional Oaxacan cuisine and warm, inviting atmosphere. We were lucky enough to get a table on the upper-level dining room, which was decorated with colorful artwork by local artists. I decided to try the squash blossom soup, which was as beautiful as it was delicious. Hans opted for one of the moles, while the others chose various Oaxacan specialties. The food was excellent, and the service was attentive. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring ancient ruins.


Discover authentic Oaxacan cuisine at La Olla, where every dish is crafted with fresh local ingredients and rich cultural heritage.

Following lunch, we made our way to the Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca. This ethnobotanical garden is located behind the Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca and the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, in the former grounds of the Santo Domingo monastery. The garden showcases the diverse range of flora native to Oaxaca, the most biodiverse region in Mexico.


Explore the stunning Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, a vibrant botanical garden showcasing native plants and rich cultural heritage, perfect for nature lovers.

We joined a guided tour, as access to the garden is only permitted with a guide. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the plants and their cultural significance. I learned that the garden was created in 1998, after a group led by artist Francisco Toledo successfully lobbied against the construction of a luxury hotel on the site. Today, the garden is a living museum, showcasing the relationship between plants and people in Oaxaca.

As we walked through the garden, I was amazed by the variety of plants on display. There were towering cacti, delicate orchids, and medicinal herbs, each with its own unique story. Our guide explained how different Oaxacan ethnic groups use these plants for food, medicine, and crafts. I was particularly interested in the traditional food crops, such as corn, beans, and chepil, the herb used in tamal de chepil.

After the garden, we headed to La Casa de las Artesanías de Oaxaca. This shop is a cooperative of 59 artisans who work with different crafts from the state of Oaxaca. I was able to find a Spanish phrasebook, as well as a few souvenirs for my family back in Berlin. Hans bought a beautiful hand-woven rug, while the others picked up various pottery items and textiles.


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 had reservations at Pitiona, a restaurant known for its contemporary Oaxacan cuisine and stunning views. Chef José Manuel Baños uses local ingredients and modern techniques to create a unique dining experience. We opted for the tasting menu, which took us on a culinary journey through the eight regions of Oaxaca. Each dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. The quiet and harmony that Pitiona exudes made for a memorable evening. The service was attentive, and the ambiance was sophisticated. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience the essence of Oaxacan cuisine at Pitiona, where tradition meets innovation in every delectable dish.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had today. From the ancient ruins of Monte Albán to the vibrant plant life of the Ethnobotanical Garden, I learned so much about Oaxaca's rich history and culture. And tomorrow promises even more adventure, with a trip to Hierve el Agua and the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo on the itinerary. I'm also looking forward to trying Mezcalería In Situ, a local bar known for its mezcal. Until then, I'll dream of pyramids, plazas, and the flavors of Oaxaca.

It's experiences like these that reinforce my belief in the power of travel to broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding of the world. And as I reflect on the day, I realize that the true essence of Oaxaca lies not just in its historical landmarks and natural wonders, but in the warmth and resilience of its people. It's a lesson I'll carry with me long after I leave this magical place.