DÍA DE MUERTOS
Sacred Celebrations: Experiencing Day of the Dead Culture and Traditions in Oaxaca, Mexico
October 28 - November 4, 2025
Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Oaxaca during its most captivating time of year—Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead). Venture beyond the tourist gaze to experience the heart and soul of this profoundly meaningful and beautiful tradition through hands-on workshops, intimate encounters with local artisans, and authentic celebrations with Oaxacan families.
We’ll experience the poignant beauty of candlelit graves, soulful music, and traditional dances, as we gather alongside families in the local cemetery. We’ll join in a vibrant comparsa (parade), dance alongside elaborately dressed figures and traveling bands, allowing ourselves to be a part of the magic of community celebrations.
We’ll venture into fields of radiant cempasúchiles (marigold)s, the iconic flower of Day of the Dead, harvesting our own blossoms to adorn a traditional ofrenda (altar). We’ll learn from local families as they prepare their altars and celebrate with time-honored rituals and feasts, savoring authentic Oaxacan and Day of the Dead cuisine like mole negro and pan de muerto.
We’ll delve into the crafts and art that go along with Día de Muertos, where you’ll witness the creation of intricate papel picado (colorful, tissue-paper banners), craft your own sculpted candle, create your own ceremonial cacao, and carve your own calavera (skull) prints. Through cuisine, craft and community celebrations, we’ll take part in the joy and reverence that permeate this moving tradition.
Important Note: Día de Muertos is the busiest time of year in Oaxaca. This immersive experience will be best enjoyed by those who do not mind large crowds and lively celebrations. While we will have outings during the day, both visiting the cemetery and joining the comparsa will extend late into the night.
DATES
October 28 - November 4, 2025 ∙ 8 Days, 7 Nights
PRICE
Shared Room $4,895 USD
Private Room $5,895 USD
Full Rooming + Pricing Details Below
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
Take part in Day of the Dead celebrations with Oaxacan communities and families, including creating altars and sharing meals
Visit the vibrant marigold fields to harvest blossoms for our altars
Experience Oaxacans honoring and celebrating their loved ones with a visit to a village cemetery (late night)
Join the Day of the Dead parade and celebrations in a local village (late night)
Local, expert guided walking tour of Oaxacan neighborhoods to learn about their Day of the Dead decorations and celebrations
Hands-on printmaking workshop led by a internationally exhibited and awarded, Oaxacan artist
Ceremonial chocolate tasting and hands-on workshop
Hands-on workshop to make a decorative, specialty candle
Visit to Teotitlán del Valle village for a demonstration of weaving and natural textile dyeing
Papel Picado demonstration by master artisan
Transportation to all guided tours
Accommodations at an artist designed, boutique hotel
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout the trip
Trip Prep call to meet your fellow travelers, talk through schedules and recommendations, and answer questions you may have as you prepare for your journey
Día de Muertos
Imagine a celebration where life and death intertwine, not with mourning, but with vibrant colors, joyous music, and the sweet scent of marigolds. This is Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead—a captivating Mexican tradition—where families welcome the spirits of their deceased loved ones for a joyous reunion.
Through colorful altars, festive food, and lively celebrations, they honor the memory of the departed. While there is an element of remembrance, it is a time for joy and connection while celebrating the vibrancy of life.
In Oaxaca, this tradition comes alive with unparalleled intensity. Cobblestone streets are adorned with elaborate altars overflowing with offerings, mesmerizing parades with giant puppets dancing to lively music, and cemeteries are transformed into luminous wonderlands aglow with candlelight. It's a feast for the senses and a profound experience, allowing people to reflect on life, honor those who have passed, and celebrate the enduring bonds of family and friendship.
Day by Day Itinerary
Nota Bene: this is a prospective itinerary. It is subject to modest modifications, dependent on local weather, new opportunities, and the desires of the group.
Delays or modifications may occur due to the the busy season and logistics of city-wide celebrations.
Day 1
Tuesday, October 28
Welcome to Oaxaca!
Make your way to our hotel in the city center. We will send you information closer to your departure with options for airport transfers. Please plan to arrive at the hotel no later than 5pm.
This evening we have a welcome dinner close to our hotel where we will begin our culinary journey in Oaxaca. We’ll sample various traditional dishes and delicious beverages while we get to know each other.
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2
Wednesday, October 29
Today we head to the Teotitlán Valley to experience Oaxacan artistry and tradition as we begin our journey into Day of the Dead culture and rituals. We’ll start the morning with a visit to a master papel picado artisan. Papel picado is crafted from colorful tissue paper, using chisels, punches, or small mallets to create elaborate designs. Created completely by hand, this artist’s intricate designs caught the eye of Disney animators during their research for the beloved film "Coco." You’ll witness his process and skillful handcrafting techniques, while gaining a deeper appreciation for this vibrant folk art tradition.
Next, we’ll visit two sisters who use simple molds and hand sculpting techniques to transform beeswax into elaborate candles. These stunning designs are used for decorative and ceremonial purposes, often adorning Day of the Dead ofrendas (altars) to serve as a symbol of welcome, remembrance or guiding lights for returning spirits. You'll observe their intricate process and—under their expert guidance—you'll craft your own small candle, a luminous keepsake to carry the spirit of Day of the Dead with you.
Afterwards, we'll meet a family who has been weaving for generations, preserving ancestral knowledge, while embracing modern creativity. You’ll learn about the fascinating process of natural dyeing and witness the creation of their one-of-a-kind rugs that blend tradition with contemporary design. Together, we’ll work alongside the family as they they create their vibrant ofrenda (altar), gaining intimate insight into the customs and beliefs that shape their beautiful celebrations. As the day draws to a close, we'll share a delicious meal together, sampling typical Oaxacan cuisine while we connect and experience these Day of the Dead traditions.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Thursday, October 30
This morning we start our day with a trip to the fields of cempasúchil (marigolds). These sacred blossoms are more than just a decoration—their radiant hues and enticing fragrance are thought to help guide the spirits back to the world of the living. You’ll harvest these vibrant flowers and learn about their place in Day of the Dead celebrations.
Next, we'll join a local family as we create our own ofrenda (altar) and adorn it with our fresh marigolds. You’ll learn the significance of each traditional element on the ofrenda, from flickering candles and fragrant copal incense to cherished photographs and delicious food offerings.
For lunch, we’ll gather around the table for a truly authentic culinary celebration, a meal lovingly prepared by Abuelita Lucy. While we feast on mole negro and pan de muerto, we’ll also learn about the history and significance of these dishes in traditional Day of the Dead meals.
Afterwards, we’ll head back to the city where you are free to relax or take in the festivities. Dinner is on your own, though we recommend joining a fellow traveler on the rooftop for a smokey mezcal cocktail.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4
Friday, October 31
Today we begin in the charming Jalatlaco neighborhood, a historic district renown for their Day of the Dead celebrations. Our local guide will lead you through its enchanting streets, revealing the stories and symbolism behind each vibrant display, offering a deeper understanding of the traditions, artistry, and community spirit underpinning these beautiful creations.
As dusk descends, we travel to a small town to witness a truly magical spectacle as families gather together to honor their departed loved ones, transforming the graveyard into a luminous wonderland. You’ll experience the poignant beauty of candlelit graves adorned with flowers, food offerings, and personal mementos. You’ll listen to the soulful music, witness traditional dances, and feel the palpable connection between the living and the departed in this unforgettable, cultural immersion. Our local guide will share the meaning behind the rituals and symbolism, providing context for the music, dances, and offerings unique to this community. Their insights will allow us to respectfully engage with the traditions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for this moving celebration of life and remembrance.
Note: These celebrations only occur at night, their beauty and meaning on full display in the later hours. Be prepared to be out late to experience the traditions as the locals do.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Saturday, November 1
Today we’ll have a later start, leaving you a chance to be well rested and ready for our big evening of celebrations. Tonight we journey outside of Oaxaca City to a small town where you’ll have a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions of Day of the Dead as you become part of the legendary Muerteada parade.
If the afternoon, you’ll have the option to have your face painted as a beautiful calavera (skull) before we join the locals in this mesmerizing procession that winds through the town. Our local guide will provide insights into the symbolism and customs before we take part in these special festivities. Together, we’ll dance alongside elaborately dressed figures, witness captivating performances, and experience the joyous celebration of life and remembrance that defines this unique cultural event.
Note: These celebrations only occur at night, their beauty and meaning on full display in the later hours. Be prepared to be out quite late to experience the traditions as the locals do.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Sunday, November 2
Oaxaca awaits! Today is yours to explore this captivating city at your own pace. You can soak up the Day of the Dead festivities in the bustling zócalo, wander through charming neighborhoods with their own distinct celebrations, or head to the markets to discover unique Oaxacan treasures. No matter where you’re at, you’ll encounter a colorful comparsa, (parade) with musicians and mojigangas (giant paper mache figures) meandering through the streets.
If you’re ready for a break from the celebrations you can explore some of the other wonders Oaxaca has to offer. You can journey back in time at the awe-inspiring Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, one of Latin America's most impressive archaeological sites. For a dose of natural wonder, head to Hierve el Agua and marvel at its petrified waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes. It’s a great place to spend half a day hiking and enjoying nature.
While you are out and about, you’ll have lunch and dinner on your own. We'll be happy to share our insider recommendations so you can sample the best of Oaxacan cuisine.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7
Monday, November 3
Today, we’ll delve deeper into Oaxacan culture with a day dedicated to its rich artistic and culinary traditions. We’ll begin with a journey into the world of cacao, where you'll uncover its fascinating history and significance in Day of the Dead celebrations. Far more than a sweet treat, cacao has a long history of importance in the indigenous cultures of the area, being used medicinally, spiritually, and even as a form of currency. During Day of the Dead, chocolate drinks are placed on the ofrendas (altars) to welcome and nourish the returning spirits. You’ll have a chocolate tasting and learn to craft your own ceremonial chocolate.
Afterwards, we’ll immerse ourselves in Oaxaca's vibrant art scene at a renowned printmaking studio. Oaxaca has a rich tradition in graphic arts with many artists using traditional block printing methods. The surge in printmaking can be traced to protests in the early 2000’s where art became a powerful tool for social expression. Today, you’ll often see themes and imagery relating to Day of the Dead in their work. Under the guidance of an internationally acclaimed Oaxacan artist, you'll carve and print your own unique design, so you can take home a piece of this meaningful tradition.
As the day draws to a close, we’ll gather for a farewell feast that celebrates the heart and soul of Oaxacan cuisine. We’ll savor dishes prepared with the local ingredients and ancestral cooking techniques as we bring our celebrations to a close.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Tuesday, November 4
After breakfast, we’ll pack our bags before saying a final adiós.
We can help you share rides to the airport or get you to your next destination.
Thank you for joining us in Oaxaca!
Meals included: Breakfast
Where We’re Staying
Hotel Azul Oaxaca is a tiny boutique hotel in the Oaxacan city center that’s a quiet showcase for the city’s modern design scene. The attention given to work of local artists means Hotel Azul Oaxaca is more than simply a well-designed hotel—it is a statement about the importance of Mexican design in the international landscape.
Every element of Hotel Azul Oaxaca has been conceptualized and produced by a Mexican artist. Cooly shadowed walkways leading to patios, cactus, and hidden retreats within the walls of Hotel Azul Oaxaca make for an environment open to the interpretation of each guest’s personal experience.
ROOMING OPTIONS
Please read below carefully and make your rooming selection on the booking page
Group Size: Minimum 8 guests and maximum 12 guests.
All Prices are in USD.
SHARED ROOM PRICE
The fee for this trip is $4,895 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Initial Payment due immediately: $1,995
Final Payment due April 29, 2025: $2,900
Room Notes: Shared rooms have 2 separate beds. You will share a room with one other guest for the duration of the trip. Important Note! Shared Room bathrooms may have a privacy curtain instead of a door.
PRIVATE ROOM PRICE
The fee for this trip is $5,895 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Initial Payment due immediately: $1,995
Final Payment due April 29, 2025: $3,900
Room Note: You will have a private room for the duration of the trip
Important Trip Notes + Details
Who is this Trip for?
This trip is for those who enjoy busy and lively, community celebrations, are not bothered by crowds, are up for night time experiences and can embrace the potential delays, traffic, and impromptu changes that may occur from a city-wide celebrations. You should be open-minded and respectful towards rituals and customs that may differ from what you are used to. You should be eager to learn and work hands-on with local, skilled artisans and be curious about regional culture and cuisine.
This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group.
Culinary Notes
If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, you will need to submit those on your Booking form so we can check with our partners in Oaxaca to ensure there are no concerns. Please note that while we do our best to manage specific dietary concerns with prior knowledge, during certain meals, some dishes will be served family-style or served a specific way per local traditions and it will not be possible to change or provide alternate options. Additionally, we cannot accommodate severe nut allergies, vegan, or dairy-free diets on this trip.
We cannot accommodate any allergies or dietary restrictions if you do not advise us when you submit your initial booking request.
Please contact us before booking if you have any questions.
Accessibility
Please note this tour includes several walking tours where the ground may be uneven such as cobblestones, gravel or unpaved roads. You may also be on your feet for a couple of hours at a time. You should be comfortable walking, sitting or standing for long periods.
Travel Health
We recommend consulting a doctor, nurse, health care provider, or travel health clinic once we confirm your booking on this Ace Camps Travel trip so you know what may be required based on your individual circumstances and based on the locations you’ll be traveling to. If you have any health concerns, contact your health care provider for advice prior to booking this Ace Camps Travel trip.
Trip Start + End Locations
This trip starts and ends in Oaxaca City, Mexico.
The closest airport is Oaxaca-Xoxocotlan Airport (IATA code OAX) which is 7 km (4.3 mi) south of Oaxaca city centre.
Weather
Late October/November is a great time to visit Oaxaca. You’ll find it warm and breezy, with abundant sunny skies. During the day, short sleeves are advisable with temperatures around high 70s to mid 80s (25-28°C) but in the mornings and evenings it can be cooler with temperatures around in the mid to low 50s (11-13°C). We recommend packing layers and an umbrella or rain shell just incase.
Included in this Trip
Day of the Dead celebrations with Oaxacan communities and families, including creating altars and sharing meals
Visit to the vibrant marigold fields to harvest blossoms for our altars
Cemetery visit to experience Oaxacans honoring and celebrating their loved ones (late night)
Option to join the Day of the Dead parade and celebrations in a local village (late night)
Local, expert guided walking tour of Oaxacan neighborhoods to learn about their Day of the Dead decorations and celebrations
Hands-on printmaking workshop led by a internationally exhibited and awarded, Oaxacan artist
Ceremonial chocolate tasting and hands-on workshop
Hands-on workshop to make a decorative, specialty candle
Visit to Teotitlán del Valle village for a demonstration of weaving and natural textile dyeing
Papel Picado demonstration by master artisan
Transportation to all guided tours
Seven breakfasts, five lunches and five dinners
Accommodations at an artist designed, boutique hotel
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout the trip
Trip Prep call to meet your fellow travelers, talk through schedules and recommendations, and answer questions you may have as you prepare for your journey
Ace Camps Travel Host
An Ace Camps Travel Host will be with you throughout your trip, dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible experience. Your Host is there for any questions or concerns, to look out for the health and safety of the group and to help resolve any issues that might arise. The Ace Camps Travel Host is not a local guide but will work with our local partners to ensure the right combination of pace, information, and duration. Our local partners are deeply knowledgable in the culture and customs of the area and will be there to share their knowledge and passion with the group.
Not Included in this Trip
International roundtrip airfare; required Travel Insurance; alcoholic drinks; activities and food and beverages not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, spa services, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; and expenses during free time.
Travel Arrangements
Ace Camps Travel will send you detailed Trip Planning information when it’s time to make your travel arrangements. We usually send this information once we’ve reached the minimum number of guests required to run the trip. We’ll also send you an Ace Camps Travel “Preparing for your Journey” document prior to your trip, which will include arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information, and more.
Questions + FAQ’s
If you have any questions about this Ace Camps Travel trip, please feel free to contact us.
You can also read our FAQ’s here.
Travel Insurance
As stated in our Terms and Conditions, we require all guests to have Travel Insurance that at minimum covers both medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Cancellations 180 days or fewer prior to the trip start date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy which is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance.
For full details on our Travel Insurance requirements, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Health + Safety
Our goal is for each of our guests to enjoy the amazing trip we’ve put together. To ensure that happens, we put the health and safety of the group as our top priority. Individual guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all destination and layover country requirements and laws, including any Covid-19 related requirements, providing proof of vaccination, testing before or after entry, masking, etc.
During the trip, if you feel unwell, exhibit signs of, or test positive for an illness, you should be prepared to follow the advice of local health authorities as well as the Ace Camps Travel Host to ensure the health and safety of the entire group. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and/or viral nature of your illness the Ace Camps Travel Host may determine you need to mask, distance, self isolate, or depart the trip early. You are responsible for any expenses incurred from an illness, injury, or early departure including testing, treatment, isolation, accommodation, transportation, etc. and you will not be issued a refund for any unused portion of the trip. This is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance as outlined in our our Terms and Conditions.
For full details on our Health and Safety Policies, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
If you choose to cancel your trip for any reason, you must do so via email to hello@acecampstravel.com. If we receive written notice 181 or more days prior to the Trip start date, we will refund your initial payment, less a $1,000 cancellation fee. If we receive written notice 180 days or fewer prior to the Trip start date you will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the Trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy, including for reasons related to weather, terrorism, civil strife, pandemics, illness, personal, family or medical emergencies, or any other circumstances beyond our control. For this and other reasons, we require you to purchase Travel Insurance.
Be sure to read our Terms and Conditions for full details on Booking and Payment, Cancellation by You and Trip Changes and Cancellations.
SUPPLIES
All workshop supplies are included.