Street Art with an artist

Traveling through Oaxaca offers a visual feast, but the city’s street art scene adds a lively, modern layer to its historic charm. This Street Art with an Artist tour promises to take you beyond the typical tourist paths, uncovering colorful murals and sharing stories behind them. It’s a walking experience designed to connect you with local creativity in a lively, approachable way.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personal touch of guided storytelling by an artist who knows the ins and outs of Oaxaca’s mural scene. Second, the opportunity to capture memorable photos of art that you might otherwise miss. That said, it’s a walk-focused tour, so be prepared for some steps and uneven streets. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to explore Oaxaca’s contemporary art scene in a relaxed setting, especially those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Key Points

• Personalized Guidance: Led by a local artist who shares insider knowledge and techniques.
• Photogenic Murals: Plenty of opportunities for memorable photos of Oaxaca’s vibrant street art.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about the city’s history and local art traditions through guided commentary.
• Accessible Pricing: At $35 per person, it offers a rich cultural experience without breaking the bank.
• Walk and Discover: Expect a 2-hour walk through different neighborhoods, exploring murals and local spots.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants, fostering a friendly, intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Involves

This 2-hour experience kicks off at a monument with a cross, which serves as the meeting point. From there, you’ll set out on foot into parts of Oaxaca that are often overlooked by visitors. As you stroll through neighborhoods like Jalatlaco and Xochimilco, your guide will highlight some of the city’s most striking murals—works that splash color and symbolism across the walls.

You’ll have plenty of chances for photos, both of the murals and the lively local surroundings. The guide’s role goes beyond pointing out artworks; she will share insights into the techniques used by street artists—think spray paint styles, stenciling, and murals’ thematic backgrounds. Since the guide is also an artist, her explanations add an extra layer of understanding, helping you appreciate the craftsmanship behind each piece.

Why It’s Special

Many reviews emphasize the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. One traveler from Germany called the guide “gorgeous and knowledgeable,” mentioning her personal art experience, which enriches the tour. Others noted that the guide’s passion for local art and culture made the experience both lively and informative.

The tour also sheds light on parts of Oaxaca that are often missed on standard sightseeing routes. As one review states, it’s a great way to see neighborhoods like Jalatlaco, describing it as a “hidden gem.” These areas are filled with murals that tell stories of local traditions, history, and social themes, giving visitors a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s vibrant community.

The Murals and Neighborhoods

While we don’t have a detailed list of each mural visited, the reviews suggest that the murals vary in style and content—from splashy, colorful symbols to more nuanced street art that reflects local stories. The Xochimilco neighborhood is praised for some of the best murals, and Jalatlaco is highlighted as a charming, less crowded area to explore.

Expect to see art that resonates with local culture, perhaps echoing Oaxaca’s indigenous roots, social themes, or contemporary issues. The guide often explains the meaning behind the murals, making the art more than just pretty pictures—it’s storytelling in paint.

The Practicalities

For $35, you gain access to a small-group experience, limited to 10 people. This means you get a personalized, intimate feel, with your guide able to answer questions and point out details you might miss on your own. The tour is generally available in the afternoons, making it a flexible addition to your day.

The experience includes a souvenir, which could be a small token or artwork, adding a tangible memory of the tour. Food and drinks are not included, so plan to grab a snack afterwards if you’re hungry—perhaps in one of the local eateries near the murals.

The tour has flexible cancellation policies, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking now with the option to pay later makes it easy to reserve your spot without immediate commitment.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for art enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those interested in local culture. It’s particularly appealing if you want an authentic look at modern Oaxaca beyond the historic sites. If you’re comfortable walking for a couple of hours and want to see a side of the city that’s alive with color and stories, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s not suitable for those over 95 or anyone with mobility issues, given the walking involved. However, if you’re traveling with kids or less mobile guests, you might want to check if the neighborhood walks can be adapted.

At just $35, this tour offers a rich, hands-on experience that combines art, culture, and local insights. Unlike many city tours that stick to museums or historic landmarks, this one immerses you in Oaxaca’s contemporary street art, revealing the city’s creative pulse. The personalized guiding by an artist means you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the murals’ techniques and stories, turning what might seem like simple graffiti into meaningful community art.

Several reviews underscore the quality of the guide’s knowledge and passion, making the experience engaging and memorable. Travelers have praised the tour for its informative, lively storytelling and the chance to discover neighborhoods they would not otherwise explore, like Jalatlaco and Xochimilco. These areas are sometimes called hidden gems, filled with murals that are both beautiful and culturally significant.

The 2-hour duration strikes a nice balance—long enough to see a variety of murals and learn about them without feeling rushed. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t be just another face in a crowd, but part of an intimate exploration.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a street art tour in Oaxaca with a local artist guide is a fantastic way to add an authentic, colorful layer to your visit. It’s ideal for those who want to see beyond the typical tourist sights and connect with the city’s modern expressions of identity and community. The tour’s combination of art, history, and local stories offers genuine insight into Oaxaca’s vibrant, evolving culture.

If you love photography, the murals provide perfect backdrops, and your guide’s tips can help you capture those moments beautifully. If you’re an art lover or simply curious about Oaxaca’s creative side, this tour packs a lot of value into just two hours.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but it’s not recommended for those over 95 or with limited mobility due to walking requirements.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, the tour is walk-focused, starting at a designated monument and exploring neighborhoods on foot.

What’s the cost of the tour?
It costs $35 per person, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy Oaxaca’s street art scene.

Are drinks or food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring a snack if needed.

Is this a group tour?
Yes, limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small-group experience with plenty of personal attention.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera or smartphone for photos, and an open mind eager to learn about local art.

When is the tour available?
It is usually available in the afternoon, but check the schedule when booking.

What makes this tour stand out?
The expertise of the guide, who is also an artist, and the chance to see Oaxaca’s murals in their neighborhood context.

Embark on this art-filled journey and see Oaxaca through the eyes of a local artist—you’ll leave inspired and with a new appreciation for the city’s creative spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby