Journeys: Mexico's Day of the Dead in Oaxaca
From $3,249.00 CAD
About Mexico City, Mexico
Celebrate one of Mexico’s most intriguing festivals in the eclectic city of Oaxaca, where indigenous culture holds strong. During Day of the Dead, which takes place at the end of October and early November each year, pre-Hispanic traditions honouring the departed merge with Catholic feasts to create a truly unique holiday. Delve into the beautiful spirit of Día de los Muertos, witnessing spectacular street dances, costumes, and altars while discovering the picturesque landscapes and mouthwatering flavours of Oaxaca.
Travel Style
National Geographic Journeys
Service Level
Upgraded
Physical Grading
2 - Light
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Oaxaca Culinary Experience, Oaxaca. Arrival transfer. Visits to observe cemetery vigils in the small surrounding towns. Oaxaca Day of the Dead procession. Orientation walk and market visit in Oaxaca. Alebrijes Artisan Community. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Take part in the Day of the Dead festival, explore Mexico's artistic heartland, experience the culinary delights and traditional cooking methods of this region, visit the ruins of Monte Albán or Mitla
How large will the group be?
Max 16.
What meals are included in this trip?
6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private vehicle, walking.
Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Hotels – 6 nts.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Itinerary
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Oaxaca
Arrive before 3pm. Arrival transfer is included. Meet your Expedition Leader and group at a welcome meeting before enjoying dinner together. El Día de los Muertos is a holiday in Mexico to honour and pray for loved ones who’ve departed. During this period in Oaxaca – centre-stage for Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico – cemetery vigils and street parades are not to be missed.
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Oaxaca
In Oaxaca City, where colourful crafts spill from market stalls and the scent of mole drifts through cobbled streets, spend the week immersed in culture, cuisine, and the electrifying spirit of Day of the Dead. Experience the festival’s theatrical parades as elaborately costumed revelers march to the rhythm of brass bands, and witness the quieter beauty of candle-lit cemetery visits where families gather to honour loved ones.
Savour Oaxaca’s celebrated cuisine with a hands-on tortilla workshop before stepping into a local family’s kitchen to taste traditional dishes and learn the stories behind time-honoured cooking methods. Journey beyond the city with your Expedition Leader to the brilliant cempasúchil, or marigold, fields and discover how these iconic flowers are harvested and woven into the festivities. You will also take part in preparing a Day of the Dead altar, gaining insight into the symbolism behind each meaningful element as you contribute to its creation.
Between atmospheric vigils and vibrant street celebrations, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Perhaps wander lively plazas or visit the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, where sweeping valley views and centuries-old pyramids connect you to the region’s deep past. Today's tour includes visits to cemeteries in Atzompa to view the altars and families gathering as dusk turns to dark. The many candles placed around the altars and graves add to the ambiance. In addition, you'll view Day of the Dead parades in both Oaxaca and the Etla Valley. Participants in these parades dress in elaborate costumes and are serenaded by brass bands. Mezcal, served in small plastic cups, is frequently passed out to those watching the parades.
Day of the Dead takes place between October 31 and November 2 and is a celebration and remembrance of the deceased. Families will build private altars and bring large feasts to cemeteries, to be with the souls of the departed. It is believed that the souls will come back to visit and take part in the celebrations. Some of the “ofrendas” (altars) are very elaborate and include sugar skulls and marigold flowers. In most regions, the souls of infants and children are honoured on November 1. Adults are remembered on November 2. It is generally a festive rather than somber gathering.
The Oaxaca area is well known for its many artisans who make everything from pottery, to elaborate weavings, and mezcal (tequila's cousin). The group can also take an optional visit to a couple of the nearby communities to see the artisans at work.
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Oaxaca
Further immerse yourself in the defining elements of the celebration as the week’s experiences continue. From hands-on traditions to street celebrations, each moment contributes to a deeper understanding of this meaningful holiday.
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Oaxaca
Your journey continues as the week’s featured experiences unfold. Each day offers a different lens on Oaxaca’s vibrant Day of the Dead traditions.
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Oaxaca
As the celebration continues, the week’s experiences build in richness and depth, offering further insight into the traditions and spirit of Day of the Dead.
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Oaxaca
As the journey nears its close, enjoy the remaining highlights of the week’s experiences. Each element reflects the colour, culture, and significance of Day of the Dead in Oaxaca.
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Oaxaca
Depart at any time.
