Things To Do
in San Jacinto Amilpas
San Jacinto Amilpas is a small town just outside Oaxaca City, Oaxaca, Mexico. It sits in a green valley with warm evenings and breezy mornings, offering a calmer pace than the busier city center. The town centers on a friendly plaza, colorful church facades, and easy access to Oaxaca’s diverse cuisine.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring rural Oaxaca while staying close to urban culture and history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and handmade crafts fill the air. Stroll along the narrow streets, admiring the colonial architecture and the historical significance of the buildings around you. Stop for a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying chilaquiles and café de olla while soaking in the local atmosphere.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the San Jacinto Amilpas Church, a stunning example of baroque architecture that dates back to the 18th century. Explore the small art galleries and artisan shops in the area, where you can find unique, handcrafted souvenirs to take home. As the afternoon sun begins to set, relax in the town square, enjoying a refreshing drink as you watch the locals go about their daily lives.
In the evening, indulge in dinner at a local restaurant where you can savor authentic Oaxacan cuisine, like mole and tlayudas. Enjoy live traditional music while you dine, creating an enchanting atmosphere that truly embodies the spirit of San Jacinto Amilpas. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, stopping to enjoy the lively ambiance of the town.
Start your day with a cooking class at a local workshop, where you’ll learn the secrets of preparing traditional Oaxacan dishes. Guided by a skilled chef, you'll gather fresh ingredients from the market and then get hands-on experience in the kitchen. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you relish a delicious breakfast made from your own creations.
After your culinary experience, embark on a walking tour of San Jacinto Amilpas, visiting cultural landmarks and historical sites that tell the story of the town. Stop at a mezcal distillery to learn about the production process and sample different varieties of this iconic Oaxacan spirit. As you explore, engage with locals to gain insight into their traditions and daily life.
For dinner, visit a local family-run eatery where you can dive deeper into the rich flavors of the region. Try regional specialties like memelas and quesadillas made with fresh corn tortillas. Cap off the night by attending a folk dance performance that showcases the vibrant culture of Oaxaca.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-5 |
| 🏨One night in budget hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚎Local transport (day pass) | $2-4 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs at markets | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Oaxaca City and a calmer base for exploration
- Rich local culture and cuisine with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife within the town
- Some services require travel to Oaxaca City for broader options
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in San Jacinto Amilpas
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque church with a colorful facade and traditional Oaxaca tilework, framed by daily town life.
Vibrant street scenes, locals selling crafts, and lively afternoon light perfect for candid photos.
A hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the Oaxaca valley at sunset.
Food in San Jacinto Amilpas
San Jacinto Amilpas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, chocolate-infused chile sauce usually served over chicken or turkey.
Must-Try!
A large toasted tortilla topped with refried beans, Oaxaca cheese, avocado, and salsa for a hearty street-food meal.
Toasted grasshoppers seasoned with lime, salt, and chili—a traditional Oaxaca snack.
Sweet corn tamales often enjoyed for breakfast or a light lunch.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering produce, fresh cheeses, salsas, and ready-to-eat snacks from local cooks.
Vibrant market known for mole stalls, tamales, and regional snacks; a short ride away for diverse options.
Casual bites like quesadillas, tostadas, and fresh fruit cups near the main square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting, like buenos días or buenas tardes, is appreciated; handshakes are common in formal settings.
Wait for everyone to be served, say gracias, and avoid planning meals around loud conversations; modest dress is appreciated in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in San Jacinto Amilpas
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10–15% is customary if service is not included. Small tips to taxi drivers and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and smaller establishments; many restaurants accept cards in Oaxaca City; some rural spots may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures around 20–28°C with low to moderate humidity; ideal for outdoor exploring and photography.
Hot and often humid; afternoon rains or thunderstorms common; carry water and a light rain jacket.
Dry and mild with comfortable days; great for city walks and markets.
Cool evenings and mild daytime temperatures; nights can be cool, especially in higher areas.
San Jacinto Amilpas at Night
Hiking in San Jacinto Amilpas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An easy to moderate loop offering views of the Oaxaca valley and the town.
A short path through farmlands and scrub, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach San Jacinto Amilpas by plane.
Xoxocotlán International Airport; about a 20–40 minute drive to the town, with taxi and bus options into Oaxaca City and connections to San Jacinto Amilpas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A blended community with families rooted in local customs and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local matches and community games in the plazas and fields.
Common in schools and community centers; pickup games in evenings are popular in nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Jacinto Amilpas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose beans, cheese, nopales, and fresh vegetables; request mole or sauces without meat stock; many restaurants can adapt dishes on request.