Oaxaca was previously inhabited by the rivaling Zapotec and Mixtec indigenous peoples, and their ancient cities represent two of the most important archaeological sites in the country. Monte Alban, which was the capital of the Zapotecs and reached its peak in 800 A.D., is located just six southwest miles from Oaxaca City. Two centuries later, the Mixtecs conquered the Zapotecs and used Monte Alban as an elaborate cemetery. Today, only 10 percent of the site has been excavated. Mitla is the second most important ceremonial center in the region, and is located 30 miles east of Oaxaca City. Its structures show influence from both the Mixtecs and the Zapotecs.

After the fall of the ancient civilizations, Spanish Conquistador Hernan Cortez arrived in Oaxaca and used the strategic location and geography to distribute produce from local farms along the coast. Huatulco gradually became an extremely active port; however, the vigorous trading activity attracted violent pirates during the second half of the 16th century causing local residents to flee in fear. Following years of struggle, the territory was divided into the capitals of the valley and the isthmus, and in 1983 the Mexican government began developing the site as a tourist complex.

Oaxaca City is the state’s capital and is one of the largest cities in Mexico's southern region, sitting in a valley surrounded by the rugged and breathtaking Sierra Madre del Sur Mountains. While the city's economy relies on modern industry, Oaxaca's colonial charm has remained intact and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Oaxaca features a variety of cultural landmarks including the Museo Rufino Tamayo and the Museo de Arte Contemperaneo, as well as the historic temple and convent of Santo Domingo de Guzman, among others.

Huatulco is located on the Oaxacan coastline and has average temperature of 82 degrees and clear skies all year round. It is known for its nine bays of cerulean waters, beautiful sand and unique and private landscapes spanning 21 miles. The surrounding vegetation ranges from lush forests, sheltering herons, pelicans and falcons, to mangrove swamps with skunks, raccoons and armadillos. The city’s breathtaking vegetation, coupled with the unspoiled beaches of Chachacual, Cacaluta, El Organo and Conejos, make it one of the most beautiful destinations in Mexico.

Also located in the state of Oaxaca is Puerto Escondido, a traditional Mexican fishing village known as the Emerald Coast for its magnificent jade-green waters. The city attracts tourists from all over the world for its remarkable surfing, natural scenic beauty, extraordinary bays and pleasant tropical climate. It is located 200 miles south of the city of Oaxaca and 65 miles west of Huatulco Bay.

Among the many handicrafts found in Oaxaca, the black clay pottery (“barro negro”) is one of the most popular, representing a tradition that dates back to prehispanic times and spans generations. The black clay used to make this pottery can only be found in Oaxaca with most of the artisans concentrated in the town of San Bartolo Coyotepec, about eight miles south of city of Oaxaca. Another popular handicraft in Oaxaca is the colorful “alebrije,” creatively hand-carved or paper mache figures, usually depicting monsters and hand-painted.

The regional cuisine is also an important aspect of Oaxacan life as the state is famous for its mole (a sauce made containing over 20 different spices) and the native types of chiles. In October, Oaxaca hosts their Food of the Gods Festival which, among other things, celebrates chocolate which comes from the state.

Oaxaca is also home to several important regional and national festivals including Guelaguetza in July which celebrates with traditional song and dance and dates back to prehispanic times when the cultures wished to please the gods in hopes of a bountiful harvest. Although a national holiday, the Day of the Dead is not celebrated more passionately than in Oaxaca. The famous skeletons of Jose Guadalupe Posada can be seen throughout the city as people celebrate their dead relatives. And December 23 welcomes the annual Night of the Radish Festival in Oaxaca City, where radishes are transformed into elaborate nativity scenes.

From World Heritage sites to stunning beaches and lush scenery, Oaxaca is a culturally rich state that offers variety and class.