Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido: Day of the Dead

The adventure

In Mexico, death isn’t the end of the road — it’s the beginning of a huge party. Rooted in Aztec tradition, Oaxaca’s colourful Day of the Dead festivities have been drawing curious visitors for decades. This week-long tour throws you right into the middle of the action with four straight days of parades, macabre costumes, and market visits in search of sugar skulls. Then, it’s off to the coastal town of Puerto Escondido for some well-earned R&R on the beach you’ll be more than grateful for — or, if you’ve still got the energy, parties galore.

At a glance

Where you'll go

Day by day

Your journey through

Mexico

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalDía de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a festival that runs from October 31 to November 2 to celebrate and remember loved ones who have deceased. Although the festival is to honour those who have passed on, it is a festive and upbeat celebration rather than somber gathering. Families cook feasts and offer them by the graves of those who have passed to encourage them to come back and join in on the festivities. Oaxaca is one of the main hubs of celebrations for Day of the Dead – the cemetery vigils and street parades make this an experience not to miss!

Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a festival that runs from October 31 to November 2 to celebrate and remember loved ones who have deceased. Although the festival is to honour those who have passed on, it is a festive and upbeat celebration rather than somber gathering. Families cook feasts and offer them by the graves of those who have passed to encourage them to come back and join in on the festivities. Oaxaca is one of the main hubs of celebrations for Day of the Dead – the cemetery vigils and street parades make this an experience not to miss!

Day 2Stop by a local market to learn about…

Stop by a local market to learn about local traditions and ceremonial objects used during Day of the Dead celebrations.

Day 3Join in the celebrations during a Day…

Join in the celebrations during a Day of the Dead parade. Experience all that is going on in the zócalo or main square.

Day 4Enjoy free time to take part…

Enjoy free time to take part in the celebrations in the zócalo, spend the day checking out nearby artisan towns, or visit the ruins of Monte Albán.

Day 5Travel to the tropical paradise of Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido

Travel to the tropical paradise of Puerto Escondido. Enjoy free time for optional activities, or chill on the beach.

Day 6If you haven't hit the waves yet

If you haven't hit the waves yet, grab a board and hang ten, then enjoy an optional final night out with the group.

Day 7Departure dayDepartureDepart at any time.

Depart at any time.

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