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Monte Albán In Oaxaca, Mexico
What Are The Monte Albán Ruins?
The Monte Albán Ruins, sometimes also called Danipaguache, are an archeological site in Oaxaca, Mexico. They sit in the state’s central valley, resting between the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Sierra Madre del Sur.
The ruins are vast, encompassing 1200 monuments, carved sacred topography visible from the air, and, despite Aztec influence, a clearly unique, cultural style of hieroglyphics and artful bas-relief sculpture.
Discover Monte Albán’s Ancient, Storied History
Monte Albán was first created by the Zapotec Civilization in approximately 500 B.C. The ruins were subsequently inhabited by the Olmecs, Mixtecs, and a different group of Zapotecs over the next 1500 years.
Some buried structures, like the ancient civic ceremony center, have only been partially excavated.
Where Is Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán In Oaxaca?
The exact location of Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán is Ignacio Bernal S/N, 71233 San Pedro Ixtlahuaca, Oax., Mexico.
In general terms, it rests in the Valley of Oaxaca in Oaxaca, Mexico.
Its coordinates are 17°2′38″N 96°46′4″W / 17.04389°N 96.76778°W / 17.04389.
How To Get To and From Monte Albán Safely
If you want to travel independently, it’s not too challenging to get a reputable taxi or designated tour shuttle to take you from Centro Historico in Oaxaca City to Monte Albán safely.
Of the two, the shuttle is wiser. If you have a bit more cash to spend, hiring a private car is worthwhile.
Alternately, professional tour groups not only offer the benefit of safety (both in numbers and through guides’ insights) but also the wisdom of greater context and history, which can draw nuanced inspirations from the experience.
The Best Sites To Experience On a Monte Albán Tour
There are several extraordinary sites to explore on a Monte Albán tour. Its cultural and historical impact is so significant that it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Here are just a few highlights you won’t want to miss.
Main Plaza (Plaza Central)
The Main Plaza is a central square, once a hub of all civil and community activity, particularly ceremonial. The original construction of the plaza’s three reconstructed temples happened in distinct periods over the course of 700 years. Standing in the main plaza offers a sense of history vaster and stranger than you’d usually feel at home.
The North Platform (Plataforma Norte)
The Northern Platform is known for art and artifacts in the Teotihuacan style. These reveal a possible diplomatic or political alliance between the two civilizations.
Notable elements in Platforms Norte include:
- An obelisk-like stela detailed on all sides with figures in ceremonial dress
- A semi-submerged patio and alters for private rituals among the elite.
- A “jeweled building,” partially sunken and absorbed with obsidian, mica, and dramatic staircases
- Two pillars depicting a sculpture of the Wide-Beaked Bird deity
Building of the Dancers (Edificio de los Danzantes)
Edificio de los Danzantes is a building initially built by Zapotecs in 500 B.C., then partially built over and layered alongside structures created 400 years later by Olmecs or their descendants.
The elaborate carved mural-like images depict dance, war, and sacrifice of conquered enemies. Olmec-influenced depictions of faces and disembowelment are particularly memorable.
Astronomical Observatory (Edificio J)
For many, the ancient observatory, sometimes called “Structure J,” is the most visually iconic building on the entire site. Its shape is a pentagon, and it isn’t aligned with the other structures. Instead, it seems to “point” North.
Edificio J is suitably mysterious and alluring.
South Platform
The South Platform is one of the newer structures, potentially built as recently as 800 A.D. It’s known for its elaborate depictions of 22 Jaguars and inscriptions honoring the sitting rulers, as well as a royal staircase upward to two, separate small ritual pyramids.
Enjoy Monte Alban With Caravan
If you want to experience the mystery and awe of deep time in the Monte Albán Ruins, consider joining one of Caravan’s Tours of Mexico’s Ancient Civilizations.
But don’t procrastinate! Spots on our all-inclusive package trips are first come, first served.
Don’t let the vacation of a lifetime pass you by. Call our agents toll-free at 1-800-227-2826 to book your spot. Or, learn more by calling our information team at +1-312-321-9800.
2025 Hotels
2025 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are usually rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Day 1 • Mexico City
Barcelo Mexico Reforma
Ideally located on the Paseo de la Reforma, within an easy walking distance of historic Alameda Park and Monumento a la Revolución, the tallest triumphal arch in the world. The Barcelo has an on-site coffee shop, bar/lounge and a full service restaurant. The hotel features an indoor heated pool, fitness center, and spa. Free WiFi.
Days 2, 3 • Puebla
Intercontinental-Presidente
The Intercontinental-Presidente is a modern mid-rise hotel with two full-service restaurants and a lobby bar. Your hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and a 24-hour fitness center. Free WiFi.
Days 4, 5, 6, 7 • Oaxaca
Hotel Holiday Inn Express-Centro Historico
The hotel is located in the historic center, just 4 blocks from the Tourist Walkway, the Santo Domingo Temple, and the Cultural Center. The Holiday Inn Express is centrally located to restaurants, shops, and galleries. Your hotel features an outdoor pool and gym. Free WiFi.
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
Arrival Transfers
Transfer on your own to the Barcelo Reforma Hotel (Av. Paseo de la Reforma 1) in the Centro Historico using the airport's taxi service. Rates are fixed based on city zones. Pay for your taxi ticket in advance at the booth inside the airport terminal and proceed outside to wait in line for your official verified taxi. Depending on traffic, the ride to your hotel should take approximately 30-45 minutes.
Departure Transfers
Caravan includes departure transfers on the day the tour ends from your hotel to the Oaxaca Xoxocotlan International Airport (OAX) in Oaxaca, Mexico, arriving at 5:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. If you wish to go at a different time or extend your stay in Mexico, you will need to transfer on your own at your own expense.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
To enter Mexico, U.S. citizens will need a passport valid for 6 additional months after the date of your arrival into Mexico. Non U.S. citizens, please check passport and visa requirements. Note: If you are travelling with children under 18 years old without both parents or legal guardians, you should carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws.
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Mexico City | Puebla | Oaxaca | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 71/44 | 0.3 | 69/42 | 0.3 | 78/48 | 0.3 |
| Feb | 74/46 | 0.2 | 72/44 | 0.3 | 82/50 | 0.3 |
| Mar | 77/49 | 0.2 | 75/47 | 0.3 | 85/54 | 0.3 |
| Apr | 79/53 | 0.5 | 77/50 | 0.6 | 87/58 | 1.0 |
| May | 80/56 | 1.5 | 78/53 | 1.9 | 85/60 | 2.9 |
| Jun | 77/57 | 4.5 | 75/54 | 5.1 | 81/61 | 6.5 |
| Jul | 74/56 | 4.9 | 74/53 | 5.1 | 79/60 | 6.1 |
| Aug | 74/56 | 4.7 | 74/53 | 5.1 | 79/59 | 5.8 |
| Sep | 73/56 | 4.6 | 72/53 | 5.1 | 78/59 | 6.5 |
| Oct | 73/52 | 2.0 | 72/50 | 2.2 | 79/56 | 2.9 |
| Nov | 72/47 | 0.4 | 71/45 | 0.5 | 79/51 | 0.5 |
| Dec | 71/44 | 0.1 | 70/42 | 0.2 | 78/48 | 0.2 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mexico City | ||||||||||||
| temp | 71/44 | 74/46 | 77/49 | 79/53 | 80/56 | 77/57 | 74/56 | 74/56 | 73/56 | 73/52 | 72/47 | 71/44 |
| rainfall | 0.3 | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.5 | 1.5 | 4.5 | 4.9 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 2.0 | 0.4 | 0.1 |
| Puebla | ||||||||||||
| temp | 69/42 | 72/44 | 75/47 | 77/50 | 78/53 | 75/54 | 74/53 | 74/53 | 72/53 | 72/50 | 71/45 | 70/42 |
| rainfall | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.6 | 1.9 | 5.1 | 5.1 | 5.1 | 5.1 | 2.2 | 0.5 | 0.2 |
| Oaxaca | ||||||||||||
| temp | 78/48 | 82/50 | 85/54 | 87/58 | 85/60 | 81/61 | 79/60 | 79/59 | 78/59 | 79/56 | 79/51 | 78/48 |
| rainfall | 0.3 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 1.0 | 2.9 | 6.5 | 6.1 | 5.8 | 6.5 | 2.9 | 0.5 | 0.2 |
Clothing Tips
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are not required. During the middle of the day, the sun is hot and bright. Caravan recommends shorts or light pants, a light shirt, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Also essential are comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good treads. See Travel Tips for more details.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Travel Tips & FAQs
These are only the first 10 Travel Tips. Read all 41 Travel Tips Included meals for each tour are listed at the end of each day. Meals are shown by B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Full, buffet, or deluxe continental breakfasts are included everywhere. Free bottled water is provided on the motorcoach. Alcoholic beverages are not included unless specified. Virtually everything! Hotels, most meals, all of the activities described in the itinerary, airport departure transfers, gratuities to hotel porters and restaurant staff. Caravan’s professional Tour Directors and local guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a worry free vacation. They are fluent in English, experienced and fun, ensuring a worry-free vacation. Prices do not include air travel, country entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, valet, laundry, all items of a personal nature, extra food and beverages not on the regular menu, and tips to the Caravan Tour Director, driver, and local guides. A well-paced and unhurried itinerary is our goal, after all, you are on vacation! Touring days begin and end at reasonable hours and include frequent stops. While the occasional early morning departure is necessary, we do our best to ensure a leisurely vacation. Caravan has been offering fully guided tours worldwide under the same family ownership and management since 1952. Caravan understands and truly cares about your great expectations. The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that your preferred tour will be open. Late bookings are welcome if the space is still available. Families are always welcome on any of our tours, but we do not have any programs specifically for or limited to families. Families can make specific requests for connecting, adjacent, triple or quad rooms, when available. Children must be at least 5 years old. Caravan Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. The travel protection plan also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. The cost is $129. Children age five (5) and older are welcome on tour when accompanied by an adult. Usually, children travel during the school vacation months of June, July and August, and also during spring and winter school breaks. If you are travelling with children under 18 years old without both parents or legal guardians, carry a notarized letter of authorization signed by the missing parent(s) or guardian(s). A notarized birth certificate showing only one parent, a parent’s death certificate, or a court order of child custody may also be permissible. Failure to have proper documentation could result in denial of boarding by the airline, due to international child protection laws.Are meals included?
My Tour Price Includes
My Tour Price Does Not Include
A Well-Paced Itinerary
Fully Guided Tours Since 1952
Many Tours Sell Out Each Year
Family Trips
Caravan’s $129 Travel Protection
Children on Tour
International Travel with Minors
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. In a typical year, most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best air fare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
