There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Oaxaca into a quick city adventure. From OAX, the Colectivo/Taxi can get you into town in around 60 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside OAX
A few things to sort out before you leave OAX:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Mexico. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Oaxaca takes about 60 minutes by Colectivo/Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is MXN. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Getting to Oaxaca from the Airport
From OAX, the Colectivo/Taxi gets you to Oaxaca in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Colectivo/Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What’s Worth Seeing in Oaxaca
Two recommendations for your time in Oaxaca:
Start with Zócalo de Oaxaca. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Oaxaca. Then, if time allows, make your way to Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside OAX — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Sala VIP OAX (The Lounge OAX)
- Airport Souvenir & Duty-Free Shops
Eating Well on a Oaxaca Layover
For food in Oaxaca, local travelers recommend Casa Oaxaca El Restaurante. If you have time for a second stop, Los Danzantes Oaxaca is another popular pick.
Back at OAX, Wings (OAX Airport) is the go-to. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf rounds out your in-terminal options.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Oaxaca might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$12 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$28 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at OAX
Dedicated luggage storage at OAX may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Oaxaca’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at OAX, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Oaxaca itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Mexico that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, OAX has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Oaxaca count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave OAX. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.