Cultural Immersion in Oaxaca with Friends

Whispers of the Past, Giants of the Present

Today was a day of deep dives into Oaxaca's rich tapestry of history and nature. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of our hotel, Hotel Camba, my friends and I set out to explore ancient ruins and witness the grandeur of one of the world's most impressive trees. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded my Berlin apartment for a life of travel, even if just for a couple of weeks each year.


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

Our first stop was El Quinque for breakfast [i]. I opted for a traditional Oaxacan breakfast, savoring every bite while Hans enjoyed a hearty plate of huevos rancheros. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day with a delicious meal [i].


Discover the authentic flavors of Oaxaca at El Quinque, where traditional Mexican cuisine meets modern culinary artistry.

After breakfast, we headed towards Mitla, a site that has always held a special allure for me. The Zona Arqueológica de Mitla, or Place of the Dead in Nahuatl, is an ancient city that served as a prominent religious center for the Zapotec and Mixtec cultures. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a mesmerizing blend of cacti and mountains, providing a stunning backdrop to the archaeological site.


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

The architecture of Mitla is unlike anything I've ever seen. The intricate geometric designs, made from precisely cut and fitted stones, are a testament to the advanced skills of the ancient civilizations that once thrived here. Walking through the ruins, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like centuries ago. The site felt serene, almost as if the spirits of the past were whispering secrets through the stone walls. It's fascinating to think that Mitla was once a bustling city, full of life and activity. Today, it stands as a silent witness to the passage of time.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

After spending a couple of hours exploring Mitla, we were ready for lunch. We drove back towards Oaxaca City and stopped at Zandunga Sabor Istmeño, a restaurant known for its traditional Istmeño cuisine. The flavors of the Isthmus region are bold and vibrant, and I was eager to try some of the local specialties. I decided on the *cochito horneado*, a succulent roasted pork dish that was absolutely divine. My friends opted for the *tamales* in mole sauce, which they declared to be equally delicious. The restaurant itself was charming, with colorful decor and a lively atmosphere. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel after our morning adventure.


Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Zandunga Sabor Istmeño – a culinary journey filled with vibrant flavors and rich traditions.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to see the famous Tree of Tule. Located in the town of Santa María del Tule, just a short drive from Oaxaca City, the Árbol del Tule is a Montezuma cypress tree that is estimated to be over 2,000 years old. As we approached the town, we could see the massive tree towering over the church and the surrounding buildings. It was truly a sight to behold.


Experience the grandeur of the Tree of Tule in Oaxaca, a symbol of nature's beauty and cultural heritage, attracting travelers seeking tranquility and history.

The sheer size of the Tree of Tule is awe-inspiring. With a circumference of over 40 meters, it is considered to be one of the widest trees in the world. It’s said that it would take about thirty people holding hands to encircle its trunk. As I stood beneath its branches, I felt a sense of humility and wonder. This tree has been standing here for millennia, witnessing the rise and fall of civilizations. It's a living testament to the power and resilience of nature.

The local guides pointed out various shapes and figures in the tree's gnarled trunk and branches, such as an elephant, a lion, and even a pineapple. It was fun to use our imaginations and try to spot the different shapes. The Zapotecs have a legend that the tree was planted by a priest of the Aztec wind god, Ehécatl. They call it the “Tree of Life,” believing that its roots connect directly to the underworld, making it a mystical portal. The tree is not only a natural wonder but also a symbol of cultural significance.

Before heading back to Oaxaca City, we stopped by Galería Fe y Lola Rugs & Textiles. I had read about their beautiful Zapotec rugs made with natural dyes, and I was eager to see them in person. The gallery was a treasure trove of colors and patterns, each rug telling a unique story. I was particularly drawn to a rug with intricate geometric designs in shades of indigo and ochre. It was a bit pricey, but I knew it would be a special reminder of my time in Oaxaca. Plus, knowing that the rugs are made using sustainable practices and support local artisans made the purchase even more meaningful.


Explore the vibrant craftsmanship of Oaxaca at Galería Fe y Lola Rugs & Textiles, where unique handmade rugs tell a story of tradition and artistry.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Oaxaca City, tired but content. For dinner, we decided to try Gozobi Restaurante Bar. The rooftop terrace offered stunning views of the city, and the atmosphere was lively and festive. The food was delicious – I had the *arrachera* steak with *hoja santa* pesto, which was cooked to perfection. The mezcal cocktails were also a highlight, providing a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Oaxacan flavors at Gozobi Restaurante Bar—where tradition meets modern culinary art in every bite.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. Immersing myself in different cultures, exploring ancient ruins, and witnessing the wonders of nature fills me with a sense of joy and gratitude. As I reflect on the day, I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures. We plan to visit the Ex Convento Cuilapam de Guerrero and the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín, followed by dinner at Pitiona. But for now, I’m content to savor the memories of today and dream of the discoveries that await us.

The weather in Oaxaca in August has been pleasantly warm, with highs around 28°C (83°F) and lows around 11°C (52°F). We've had some rain, but it's mostly been in the afternoons, which hasn't hindered our explorations too much. The humidity is quite high, but it's nothing I can’t handle.

I think I’ll need to pick up a Spanish phrasebook soon; I completely forgot to pack one [i]! While many people speak English, especially in tourist areas, I feel it's important to make an effort to communicate in the local language. I also wish I had brought a hat [i]. The sun can be quite strong, even on cloudy days. But these are minor details. Overall, I am having an incredible time in Oaxaca with my friends. I am so glad that we decided to come here and experience all that this beautiful city has to offer. The warmth of the people, the richness of the culture, and the beauty of the landscape have captured my heart. And I know that the memories I am making here will stay with me long after I return to Berlin.

Tomorrow, we're planning on visiting the Ex Convento Cuilapam de Guerrero and the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín. I'm particularly excited about the art center, as I've heard it's a beautiful space dedicated to promoting contemporary art. And of course, we'll be sure to sample more of Oaxaca's delicious cuisine along the way!