Journeys: Mexico's Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

El Día de los Muertos is a holiday in Mexico to honour and pray for loved ones who’ve departed. During this period in Oaxaca – centre-stage for Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico – cemetery vigils and street parades are not to be missed.

In Oaxaca City, where colourful crafts spill from market stalls and the scent of mole drifts through cobbled streets, spend the week immersed in culture, cuisine, and the electrifying spirit of Day of the Dead. Experience the festival’s theatrical parades as elaborately costumed revelers march to the rhythm of brass bands, and witness the quieter beauty of candle-lit cemetery visits where families gather to honour loved ones. Savour Oaxaca’s celebrated cuisine with a hands-on tortilla workshop before stepping into a local family’s kitchen to taste traditional dishes and learn the stories behind time-honoured cooking methods. Journey beyond the city with your Expedition Leader to the brilliant cempasúchil, or marigold, fields and discover how these iconic flowers are harvested and woven into the festivities. You will also take part in preparing a Day of the Dead altar, gaining insight into the symbolism behind each meaningful element as you contribute to its creation. Explore Oaxaca's culinary traditions with a market tour and hands-on chocolate class led by a community organization supported by G Adventures that believes in using food as a tool for connection and cultural exchange. Meet a cooperative of women potters from southeastern Mexico and take part in a workshop that offers a closer look at their craft and their work to preserve the beauty and heritage of ancient traditions. Between atmospheric vigils and vibrant street celebrations, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Perhaps wander lively plazas or visit the ancient Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, where sweeping valley views and centuries-old pyramids connect you to the region’s deep past.

Further immerse yourself in the defining elements of the celebration as the week’s experiences continue. From hands-on traditions to street celebrations, each moment contributes to a deeper understanding of this meaningful holiday.

Your journey continues as the week’s featured experiences unfold. Each day offers a different lens on Oaxaca’s vibrant Day of the Dead traditions.

As the celebration continues, the week’s experiences build in richness and depth, offering further insight into the traditions and spirit of Day of the Dead.

As the journey nears its close, enjoy the remaining highlights of the week’s experiences. Each element reflects the colour, culture, and significance of Day of the Dead in Oaxaca.

Depart at any time.