Journeys: Mexico's Day of the Dead in Oaxaca - 7 Days

Arrive before 3pm. Arrival transfer is included. Meet your Expedition Leader and group at a welcome meeting before enjoying dinner together. 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.

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. Today's tour includes visits to cemeteries in Atzompa to view the altars and families gathering as dusk turns to dark. The many candles placed around the altars and graves add to the ambiance. In addition, you'll view Day of the Dead parades in both Oaxaca and the Etla Valley. Participants in these parades dress in elaborate costumes and are serenaded by brass bands. Mezcal, served in small plastic cups, is frequently passed out to those watching the parades.

Day of the Dead takes place between October 31 and November 2 and is a celebration and remembrance of the deceased. Families will build private altars and bring large feasts to cemeteries, to be with the souls of the departed. It is believed that the souls will come back to visit and take part in the celebrations. Some of the “ofrendas” (altars) are very elaborate and include sugar skulls and marigold flowers. In most regions, the souls of infants and children are honoured on November 1. Adults are remembered on November 2. It is generally a festive rather than somber gathering.

The Oaxaca area is well known for its many artisans who make everything from pottery, to elaborate weavings, and mezcal (tequila's cousin). The group can also take an optional visit to a couple of the nearby communities to see the artisans at work.

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.