| Distance | 364 km (227.5 miles) |
| Price range | $18-$617 |
| Ride Duration Range | 1h 10m-8h 5m |
| Earliest Departure | 06:10 |
| Latest Departure | 23:00 |
| Most Popular Operator | AU (Autobuses Unidos) |
The most convenient way to travel from Mexico City to Oaxaca is by night train. Tickets are very affordable and it allows you to maximize your day time. Buses are also an option but it’s about a six to seven hour drive, traffic pending. You will want to visit the Botanical Gardens in Oaxaca and enjoy its fine dining options all around the city. Oaxaca is known for its chocolate so be sure to spend some money at the local stores. Pack a jacket because while days are traditionally warm, nights can get quite chilly.
Fastest bus: 6h
Cheapest bus: $18
After Mexico City's awe-inspiring sights and sounds, it's time to change direction and experience life outside the buzzing capital. Located in southern Mexico, Oaxaca is the natural next step on your journey.
Known for a sublime mix of vibrant culture and tradition, Oaxaca is a delight for the senses. This city has everything from delicious street food and iconic mezcal concoctions to beautiful handcrafts and a chic art scene.
However, before embracing this energetic city, you must plan your journey. And we've got the travel guru-approved inside scoop you need.
The ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca covers 459 km (285 miles), so it's no small feat. But it's also not an epic journey. Travel time can take anywhere between one hour and eight hours, depending on preferred transport, so consider your schedule before booking!
Scroll down and learn how to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca in minutes.
Stopping in Oaxaca for a while? Here are the top things to do and see in Oaxaca City.
Oaxaca Walking Tours: The best way to see any city? Via walking tour. There are plenty of free tours in Oaxaca that will take you to the city highlights with an expert guide. Remember to tip!
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman: Constructed in the 16th century, this Dominican church has an incredible facade and a unique history. In addition to being a religious site, it was used as a military building during the Revolutionary War.
Monte Alban: Monte Alban is a pre-Columbian UNESCO World Heritage site only 15 minutes outside the city. This spot dates back to the 6th century BCE, with the incredible Zapotec pyramids and tombs still standing today.
Oaxaca City Markets: Oaxaca is known for its colorful markets. You must visit them even if you're not on the hunt for souvenirs. Top spots for browsing include Benito Juarez Market, Mercado 20 de Noviembre, and Abastos Market.
Yes! Oaxaca is considered very safe for tourists. Whether you're traveling solo or with your family, this city (and province in general) welcomes visitors. While most locals speak Spanish, you can get around with English, and there are plenty of tour guides there to help you.
The main ride options from Mexico City to Oaxaca include buses, flights, cars, and minivans. Here's what you can expect from each:
Thanks to their affordable price, buses are the most popular way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca. The cheapest buses cost $19 and can double as a hotel expense if you book a night bus.
However, this is a longer transportation option, as the average bus journey to Oaxaca takes seven hours. Not great if you're on a tight schedule.
Buses leave from Mexico City Calz Taxquena, Mexico City Carcel de Mujeres Bus Station, Montezuma Calle Francisco Espejel, Mexico City Northern Bus Station, or Mexico City TAPO San Lazaro Bus Station.
Depending on the operator, they generally arrive at the Oaxaca bus station or Oaxaca Dolphins.
Amenities found on most buses include individual seats, 21 kg large luggage, and A/C. Some buses also have WCs onboard, charger sockets, and WiFi.
Flying is the quickest way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca, as the journey only takes one hour and fifteen minutes. So, if you don't have time on your side, this is the option for you.
Flights aren't as cheap as buses, but they're also not the most expensive route. Economy flights start at $85 per person.
You can expect an Economy Flight to Oaxaca to have A/C and WCs. Sometimes, a small carry-on bag is included in the price, and you can buy snacks onboard.
Flights leave from Mexico City Airport and arrive at Oaxaca Airport.
If you're not a fan of flying and want a private transfer, cars are a great way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca.
Cars are more expensive but provide a more comfortable experience with extra privacy. Since this is a longer drive (around six hours), the cheapest rides start at $447 per vehicle. This might seem like a lot at first, but you can split the fee if you travel with two to three passengers. For example, a group of three would pay $149 each.
Most car bookings include A/C, toilet stops, hotel pick-ups and drop-offs, and space for large luggage (usually up to 20 kg per person). Airport pick-ups and drop-offs are also available from some providers.
Typically, cars have space for up to three passengers.
The last way to get from Mexico City to Oaxaca is via minivan. Like cars, minivans are another way to get from A to B with more privacy and comfort. The key difference is that minivans have space for more passengers.
Most Minivans have space for up to five passengers and include A/C, reclining seats, toilet stops, and a 15 kg bag plus hand luggage.
Airport meet-and-greets and hotel pick-up and drop-off are also included.
The most affordable minivans start at $490. This might seem expensive, but when you have more people, you can split the price. For example, a group of five travelers would pay $98 each for a private transfer.
This journey takes approximately six and a half hours.
The ride from Mexico City to Oaxaca can take one to eight hours, depending on your transport.
Most rides travel southeast of Mexico City via the highway, meaning the views on this journey are limited. However, when off the highway, you travel through different neighborhoods as you journey into Oaxaca City.
Pro tip: Pack water and snacks for the journey if you pick a longer ride (like a minivan or bus). Toilet trips are offered, but there's not always time to pick up food and drinks.
Mexico City to Oaxaca is a common tourist route, and each transport type is very safe.
The best time to travel to Oaxaca is from November to April. These months have dry skies and temperatures between 23°C and 27°C (73°F and 80°F).
From May to September, Oaxaca experiences a rainy season. The temperature sits around 24°C/75°F, but you can expect around 400 mm of rain per month. The wettest month is June, where approximately 500 mm of rain falls.
Does your journey continue after Oaxaca?
Get ready for some divine rest and relaxation. Head to the laidback coastal town of Mazunte on the Oaxaca coastline. This little town is known for its awesome waves, turtle sightings, and hippy vibe. Oaxaca to Mazunte takes six hours via car or minivan.
TAPO Mexico City
Fypsa Terminal Acatitla
Fypsa Terminal Moctezuma
Mexico City TAPO Lujo Bus Station
Mexico City - Ejecutiva Sur
Fypsa Oaxaca
Oaxaca Bus Station
Central de Autobuses de Oaxaca
Central de Autobuses de Oaxaca
Oaxaca Airport (OAX)
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A detailed guide on how to get to Oaxaca by bus, plane, and private transfer with tips on getting around Oaxaca.
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