Oaxaca’s workshops offer hands-on ways to experience this culturally rich Mexican city. The most worthwhile options include 3-hour painting classes where you’ll learn traditional techniques, and wood engraving workshops that connect you with local artisans. I especially love the cooking classes focused on mole – they’re intimate and authentic, revealing family recipes passed down through generations. The mezcal mixology workshops are another standout, teaching you about this smoky spirit while crafting cocktails with organic ingredients. For nature enthusiasts, the 11-hour Juárez Highlands ecotour delivers stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing.
These respected workshops include English instruction and welcome all skill levels. Let’s explore the best cultural experiences Oaxaca has to offer.
Key Points
- Oaxaca offers a variety of artistic workshops, from painting and engraving to studio visits, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s vibrant creative scene.
- Culinary classes in Oaxaca provide hands-on experiences in preparing traditional Oaxacan dishes like mole, as well as opportunities to learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques.
- Specialized cooking classes, such as vegetarian and cocktail-making workshops, offer deeper explorations of Oaxaca’s diverse culinary heritage and contemporary trends.
- Ecotourism experiences in the Juárez Highlands allow visitors to engage with local communities, explore natural wonders, and participate in traditional activities like wood milling.
- Many workshops and classes in Oaxaca feature flexible booking options, small group sizes, and inclusive environments, catering to diverse interests and skill levels.
Juárez Highlands: Ecotourism and Workshop Experience
Nestled within the majestic Sierra Juárez mountains, the Juárez Highlands offer visitors an immersive ecotourism experience complemented by a traditional grinder workshop.
Travelers can learn the art of wooden mill making, exploring the intricate process that’s been passed down through generations. Beyond the workshop, the region beckons with hiking trails, birdwatching, and the chance to discover hidden waterfalls, all while enjoying panoramic views from a crystal lookout point.
The 11-hour tour includes round-trip transportation and a tourist coordinator to ensure a seamless experience. Intermediate stops at traditional restaurants allow participants to savor local cuisine for breakfast and lunch, though food costs aren’t included.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this ecotourism adventure in the Juárez Highlands presents a compelling opportunity to take in Oaxaca’s natural and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Juárez Highlands: Ecotourism and Workshop Experience Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca City: Paint Workshop
For those looking to unleash their artistic flair during a visit to Oaxaca, the city’s vibrant paint workshop offers a captivating opportunity.
Led by experienced instructors, the 3-hour session caters to beginners and those with some experience, allowing participants to explore the world of watercolors and acrylics.
The workshop, limited to just 5 individuals, takes place in the charming Jalatlaco neighborhood or downtown Oaxaca, giving attendees a chance to enjoy the city’s rich cultural atmosphere.
Guests will dive into color theory, experiment with different painting techniques, and create a unique 30×30 cm canvas to take home as a memento.
Priced from Kč 1,181 per person, the workshop can be booked with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether visiting solo, with friends, or as a family, this versatile experience is sure to leave participants with a newfound appreciation for the art of painting and lasting memories of their time in Oaxaca.
Read our full review: Oaxaca City: Paint Workshop Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca City: Engraved Workshop
Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca through the city’s captivating engraved workshop. Spanning three hours, this hands-on experience allows participants of all ages and skill levels to explore the techniques and history of wood engraving.
Limited to just 5 people, the workshop ensures a personalized learning environment where you’ll create your own wood engravings and take home 3 prints of your work, leaving one as a keepsake.
Priced from €46.83 per person, the workshop includes all necessary engraving equipment and instruction available in both Spanish and English. You’ll also enjoy complimentary food and drinks as you explore this artistic tradition.
The meeting point is in the charming Jalatlaco Neighborhood or anywhere in Oaxaca’s vibrant downtown center. Simply check availability and let the workshop’s organizers know when you’d like to start.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, reserving your spot has never been easier.
Read our full review: Oaxaca City: Engraved Workshop Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca Art Tour, Workshop and Studio Visits
Indulge in a captivating exploration of Oaxaca’s vibrant art scene through this comprehensive tour that immerses you in the workshops and studios of renowned local artists.
During this 5-hour experience, you’ll visit 2 workshops, engaging in dialogue with the artists to understand their creative expressions. Priced from Kč 2,007 per person, this private group tour offers the convenience of live English and Spanish-speaking guides, as well as round-trip transportation and complimentary refreshments.
After enjoying the artistic process, you’ll have the opportunity to acquire unique artwork directly from the artists’ personal collections. The tour also provides advice and service for shipping purchases to the United States at special rates.
With a flexible reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this Oaxaca Art Tour is a must-try for art enthusiasts seeking an authentic cultural experience.
Read our full review: Oaxaca Art Tour, Workshop and Studio Visits Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca: Cooking Classes From the Isthmus With a Tehuana
Travelers seeking an authentic culinary experience in Oaxaca can enjoy the Oaxaca: Cooking Classes From the Isthmus With a Tehuana.
This 3.5-hour small-group class provides an immersive introduction to traditional Oaxacan cuisine. Participants will learn to prepare mole, a complex and flavorful sauce central to the region’s gastronomy.
The class is led by a local Tehuana, who shares insights into the history and techniques of this treasured dish. With a rating of 4.6 from 16 reviews, the class offers an intimate and enriching experience.
At Kč 1,299 per person, it’s an affordable way to gain hands-on expertise in the vibrant flavors of Oaxaca.
Those interested in a broader culinary tour can also consider the Food and Markets Tour, a 2.5-hour small-group excursion that explores the city’s bustling markets and local cuisine.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Cooking Classes From the Isthmus With a Tehuana Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca: Immersive Mezcal Workshop and Distillation
Those seeking an immersive exploration of Oaxaca’s renowned mezcal culture can experience the Oaxaca: Immersive Mezcal Workshop and Distillation.
This 7-hour small-group tour earns a 4.8 rating from 81 reviews and costs €81.95 per person. Participants learn the intricate process of mezcal production, from harvesting agave to distillation.
They’ll visit a traditional mezcal distillery, sample various mezcal expressions, and gain an insider’s perspective on this artisanal spirit.
The tour also includes a mezcal-paired lunch, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Oaxacan cuisine.
Whether a mezcal aficionado or a curious newcomer, this immersive workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage and craftsmanship behind Oaxaca’s most iconic libation.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Immersive Mezcal Workshop and Distillation Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca: Oaxacan Cooking Classes
Oaxaca’s rich culinary heritage comes alive through its renowned cooking classes, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the vibrant flavors and techniques that define the region’s iconic dishes.
From a 3.5-hour Oaxacan Mole Workshop with a traditional cook to a 3.5-hour Vegetarian Cooking Class, these hands-on experiences provide in-depth instruction on the nuances of local cuisine.
Travelers can learn to prepare a variety of Oaxacan specialties, including the legendary mole sauces that have earned the region global acclaim.
Classes often incorporate visits to local markets, allowing participants to select fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
With small group sizes and knowledgeable instructors, these classes provide a personalized, interactive way to discover the culinary mastery that has made Oaxaca a premier gastronomic destination.
Whether a seasoned cook or a novice, these Oaxacan cooking classes offer an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the region’s rich food culture.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Oaxacan Cooking Classes Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca: Mixology Workshop With Organic Mezcal
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Oaxaca’s vibrant mixology scene, the Mixology Workshop with Organic Mezcal offers a unique opportunity to craft custom cocktails while delving into the history and trends of this distinctive craft.
Priced from Kč 1,181 per person, the 2-hour workshop is led by a master mixologist and limited to just 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention. Guests will create their own mezcal cocktails using a variety of organic ingredients, including fruits, herbs, and even adventurous options like insects.
The experience also includes tastings of 3 wild mezcals and a sensory guide to enhance the mixology journey. With English and Spanish available, the workshop is wheelchair accessible and features a flexible cancellation policy.
Based on 14 reviews averaging 4.9/5, this class promises an energetic and educational exploration of Oaxaca’s vibrant cocktail culture.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Mixology Workshop With Organic Mezcal Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class
Expanding on Oaxaca’s lively culinary scene, the Vegetarian Cooking Class offers an immersive experience for those eager to discover the region’s vibrant plant-based traditions.
Led by expert chefs, this 3.5-hour workshop invites guests to explore the local market, learn traditional recipes, and enjoy a collective meal. The class accommodates up to 4 participants and is offered in both Spanish and English, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Wheelchair users are also welcome. With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve and pay later, this activity provides an excellent opportunity to dive into Oaxaca’s vegetarian cuisine.
Participants can expect to savor delectable dishes, sip on organic mezcal, and engage with like-minded foodies in an inclusive environment.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious learner, this Vegetarian Cooking Class promises a truly memorable culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Vegetarian Cooking Class Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca: Traditional Oaxacan Food Cooking Class
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Oaxaca can embark on the Traditional Oaxacan Food Cooking Class. This 5-hour activity, priced at Kč 2,361 per person, invites participants to discover the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
The class is limited to 6 people, ensuring a personalized and interactive learning environment with a live guide available in Spanish and English.
Participants will visit the Etla traditional market to source local ingredients, then learn to prepare iconic Oaxacan dishes like mole, empanadas, and chocolate de agua. They’ll also enjoy tasting specialties like memelitas, mole, mezcal, and more.
The class is led by Tita, a traditional cook of Mixe origin, providing an authentic culture through stories told in the Mixe language, translated into English.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 6 reviews, this cooking class offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Oaxaca’s culinary traditions.
Flexible booking options and free cancellation make it easy for travelers to plan their culinary adventure.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Traditional Oaxacan Food Cooking Class Review
Book now: Check availability
Oaxaca: Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class With Market Visit
This 5.5-hour traditional Oaxacan cooking class offers travelers an immersive journey into the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Participants will discover Oaxacan gastronomy by cooking with authentic flavors and ingredients, including handmade tortillas and typical drinks like Tejate, Chilacayota, and Margaritas with Mezcal.
The class includes a visit to local markets, where a chef will guide participants in shopping for fresh produce.
Participants can then choose between two dish options suggested by the chef and learn to prepare them under the chef’s instruction.
The bilingual instructor (Spanish, English) will explain the benefits of representative ingredients and local preferences.
Priced at Kč 2,479 per person, this cooking class is likely to sell out.
The package includes hotel lobby pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, liability insurance, and tips.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 58 reviews, this class promises an authentic and delightful Oaxacan culinary experience.
Read our full review: Oaxaca: Traditional Oaxacan Cooking Class With Market Visit Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Oaxaca de Juárez offers a diverse array of workshops and classes to immerse visitors in the region’s rich cultural heritage. From ecotourism and art classes to cooking and mixology experiences, there’s something for all to explore the vibrant traditions of this Mexican state. Whether you’re interested in hands-on activities or simply learning about Oaxacan culture, the workshops and classes in the city provide an enriching and unforgettable experience.