Join us on a 10-day photographic and cultural journey of discovery to Oaxaca, Mexico! This beautiful World Heritage city is also the capital of one of Mexico’s most interesting states. Wander Oaxaca’s intriguing pedestrian-friendly historic center with its glowing Spanish Colonial churches, mansions, and museums. Browse delightful markets, and be dazzled by art galleries featuring work by Mexico’s renowned contemporary artists. Find the perfect treasures at shops overflowing with all manner of handcrafted items ranging from ceramics to hand-woven rugs and colorful indigenous textiles to beautifully worked silver and gold jewelry to whimsical carved wooden animals. Visit the extraordinary Ethnobotanical Gardens and learn about some of the traditional uses of Oaxaca’s endemic plants. During your free time, explore the extraordinary collections at Oaxaca’s fine museums. Savor Oaxaca’s superb cuisine at excellent restaurants; enjoy the activity at the lively central square (zócalo), or relax over a snack at one of the lovely cafes. Surrender to the warm welcome of Oaxaca’s residents and bask in the enchantment of this marvelous city.
Our adventure includes excursions to the indigenous towns of Ocotlán and Tlacolula to explore and photograph their vibrant traditional markets, the weaving village of Teotitlán del Valle, famous for hand-woven Zapotec rugs, San Bartolo Coyotepec, known for its stunning black pottery, and San Martín Tilcajete and Arrazola, villages where fanciful wooden animals (alebrijes) are carved and painted in fantastic designs. Other highlights include Rodolfo Morales' home and studio, the glorious painted church of Santa Ana Zegache and the archeological site of Monte Albán, the Zapotec capital that astounded Spanish explorers when they arrived in the valley. You will also enjoy the fabulous Guelaguetza dinner and performance of regional dances at the historic Quinta Real.
The excitement begins upon your arrival Friday, February 19, 2016 and the memories will last long after your departure on Sunday, February 28, 2016!
Our home away from home is the lovely Oaxaca Ollin in the heart of Oaxaca’s historic district. Start your day with an optional pre-breakfast walk and photo shoot in the glorious early morning light, or relax a bit longer before joining the group for a sumptuous 2-course Mexican breakfast and briefing on the day’s activities. The itinerary is subject to minor alterations but excursions and group activities listed are included. Each location was chosen for both its cultural aspects as well its photographic opportunities. Each day also includes time for photographers to meet, plan, and discuss each day’s photographic possibilities. There are several optional activities as well as ample free time built into the itinerary for you to explore and photograph Oaxaca on your own if you choose.
The tour price is based on your selection of single or double occupancy or regular or deluxe room. Quoted rates per person are priced for 10 participants, and include 9 nights lodging and full Mexican breakfast daily at the Oaxaca Ollin, five (5) sumptuous lunches, and two (2) dinners, excursions to Ocotlán, Tlacolula, San Martin Tilcajete, San Bartolo Coyotepec or Arrazola, Monte Albán, Teotitlán del Valle, one entry to the Ethnobotanical Gardens, airport transfers, tips, and guides.
Single occupancy regular room is $2200.
Single occupancy deluxe room is $2500.
Double occupancy regular room is $1700.
Double occupancy deluxe room is $1850.
All rooms come with either a king-sized bed or two twin beds. There are a limited number of rooms at the Oaxaca Ollin. If you are interested in a single room, please book early.
The minimum trip size is 6 and the maximum 10. The price will be adjusted $150 for fewer than 10 participants. Excluded: Airfare to and from Oaxaca, via Houston, meals on your own, beverages, laundry service, and non-group transportation.
Oaxaca enjoys a delightful high desert climate with nearly year-round Spring-like temperatures. In February you can expect dry weather with daytime highs around 80 and cool nights around 60. Plan to dress in layers. Pack easy-care, lightweight clothing and a sweater or jacket for the early mornings and evenings. Oaxaca’s bright sun and clear air make sun protection a must so be sure to include long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. Take an umbrella for portable shade.
