Guide to Mitla Oaxaca Ruins
Mitla is a lesser-known destination for travelers visiting the stunning Oaxaca city for the first time.
However, once there, the name of this archaeological site comes up frequently—whether in conversations or at travel agencies.
And for good reason! It’s an easy and quick excursion from Oaxaca, offering visitors a deeper insight into Mexico’s history, particularly that of the state of Oaxaca.
I visited Mitla with my Austrian friend, who had lived in the city for several years.
And I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary because it’s not only a fascinating site but also incredibly beautiful!
Here’s a guide to the Mitla Oaxaca Ruins.
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Mitla in a nutshell
Mitla, Oaxaca, is the second most important archaeological site in the state after Monte Albán and the most significant Zapotec site.
Its name comes from the Nahuatl word Mictlán, meaning “place of the dead.” Mitla stands out for its religious and funerary significance, as well as its unique architecture, adorned with intricate geometric patterns finely carved into the stone.
Unlike Monte Albán, which served as the political center of the Zapotec civilization, Mitla was primarily a spiritual and ceremonial hub where rituals related to death and the journey to the afterlife took place.
Adjacent to the archaeological site stands the Catholic temple of San Pablo Villa de Mitla, built in the late 16th century using materials from the destroyed Zapotec temples.
Where is Mitla located?
Mitla, Oaxaca, is located in the village of San Pablo Villa de Mitla, 43 km southeast of Oaxaca City.
More specifically, it sits at the upper end of the Tlacolula Valley, one of the three valleys that make up the Central Valleys region.
ALSO READ: 25 Things to Do in Oaxaca
How to get to Mitla?
This guide to the Mitla Oaxaca ruins begins with a key question: how to get there from Oaxaca? You have two options: explore on your own or join a guided tour.
Getting to Mitla on your own
Visiting Mitla on your own couldn’t be easier!
This option gives you more freedom to explore the site at your own pace.
You have two main ways to get there: by car or by public transport.
If you’re on a road trip in the region, reaching Mitla will be hassle-free. Click here to rent a car!
Here’s the route I took by public transport:
- My friend and I took a bus from the Segunda Clase terminal near Mercado de Abastos, heading towards Tlacolula.
- Once in Tlacolula, we hopped on a tuk-tuk to reach Mitla.
There are other ways to get there, but I recommend checking with your hotel staff or locals to find the best public transport option available at the time of your visit.
Booking a tour to visit Mitla
For more comfort, especially if your time in the region is limited or if you’re not confident in Spanish, you can also opt for an organized tour.
Besides simplifying logistics, this option allows you to benefit from a guide’s explanations, helping you better understand the site and its history.
If your main goal is to visit Mitla, a half-day tour with included transportation is available.
However, if you want to make the most of your day and explore other wonders in the region, I recommend this excursion. It will not only take you to Mitla but also to Hierve el Agua and the Tule Tree, among other highlights.
ALSO READ: Oaxaca Tours + Day Trips
Entrance fee
In 2024, the entrance fee to the Mitla Oaxaca ruins cost me 75 MXN.
History of Mitla
Between the 14th and 15th centuries, the city was an important religious center, administered by Zapotec priests who held significant power over the local population.
At the time, it was particularly known for its underground tombs and palaces, which are believed to have served as residences for priests and the city’s elite.
With the expansion of the Mixtec culture in the region, Mitla came under strong influence, as reflected in its distinctive architectural style.
After the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, the colonizers dismantled part of the site to build the San Pablo Church.
What to see in Mitla?
1. The Carved Geometric Friezes
Mitla is the only pre-Hispanic site in Mexico featuring such elaborate decorative friezes.
These geometric patterns, made up of thousands of precisely cut stones fitted together without mortar, cover the walls of palaces and temples.
Each design is unique and is believed to symbolize religious or cosmic concepts specific to the Zapotecs.
2. The Column Group
This section features a large hall supported by six monolithic stone columns.
It is believed that this space served as a palace or a meeting room for Mitla’s priests and rulers.
From here, visitors can access the underground tombs, which were reserved for the elite.
3. The Funerary Tombs
Mitla is renowned for its richly decorated tombs, located beneath the palaces.
Unlike the pyramids used as burial sites in other Mesoamerican civilizations, the Zapotecs designed underground tombs accessible via staircases.
4. The Adobe Group
This area is one of the oldest in Mitla.
It features adobe structures, showcasing the site’s early occupation phases before the rise of carved stone architecture.
What to see near Mitla?
This guide to the Mitla Oaxaca ruins wouldn’t be complete without highlighting the many fascinating sites to explore nearby.
1. The Church of Mitla
The San Pablo Church, built by the Spanish in the 16th century, is located right next to the Mitla archaeological site.
It was constructed on the ruins of an ancient Zapotec temple, and its colonial architecture contrasts sharply with the pre-Hispanic geometric patterns.
2. The Magical Village of Mitla
With its colorful streets, lively market, and well-preserved traditions, Mitla is an ideal destination to immerse yourself in the local culture.
3. The Tlacolula Market
This Sunday market is one of the oldest and most authentic in the region.
It brings together local farmers, artisans, and vendors offering traditional specialties such as barbacoa, tlayudas, and Oaxacan chocolate.
Visiting the market is a great way to experience the daily life of the indigenous Zapotec communities.
4. Hierve el Agua
This breathtaking natural site is famous for its petrified waterfalls, formed by mineral-rich springs depositing calcium carbonate over thousands of years.
Its turquoise pools, perched atop a cliff, offer stunning panoramic views of the Oaxaca Valley.
A perfect spot for a refreshing swim, Hierve el Agua is also a sacred site for indigenous peoples, who regarded it as a source of life and fertility.
General tips to visit Mitla
It can get very hot in Mitla, so make sure to bring a hat or a cap to protect yourself from the sun. If you’re sensitive to heat, I also recommend arriving early in the morning.
Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated—you’ll need it!
Of course, apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
Finally, if you know you’ll get hungry, bring your own snacks. There are a few stalls at the site’s exit, but in my opinion, the prices are quite high.
Where to stay in Mitla?
If you want to make the most of your free time by exploring the village and experiencing its peaceful atmosphere, I recommend spending a night in this magical destination.
Here are 4 hotels where you can stay.
Confetti Pool ($$): This establishment features an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a karaoke area, and a shared lounge for a relaxing stay. The rooms include a balcony with mountain views.
Hotel San Judas ($): This budget-friendly hotel is located just 500 meters from Mitla. All rooms are simply decorated while providing optimal comfort.
Hotel Hacienda Don Eusebio ($$): After exploring the ruins, unwind at this hotel featuring an outdoor pool, a terrace, and a bar. The accommodations include a seating area, allowing you to fully relax.
Casa Regina Oaxaca ($$$): This is the best option for couples looking to unwind after a day of exploration. With stunning mountain views, the hotel features a restaurant, room service, a bar, a garden, an outdoor pool, and a terrace.
ALSO READ: Best Hotels in Oaxaca
Traveling responsibly in Mitla
As everywhere else, it’s important to travel responsibly in Mitla. Here are some tips to help protect the environment and support local communities:
- Pick up all your trash during your visit and dispose of it properly.
- Bring a tote bag to carry your purchases and avoid plastic bags.
- Choose eco-friendly transportation, such as walking, tuk-tuks, or colectivos, to reduce your carbon footprint.
- Support local artisans by buying directly from them.
- Respect the site by not touching the structures and staying on designated paths.
- Learn a few Spanish words to communicate with locals.
- Educate yourself about the social challenges faced by local communities.
I hope this guide to the Mitla Oaxaca ruins will help you enjoy this must-visit destination. You will have the chance to explore an essential archaeological site and to slow down while immersing yourself in the local culture.
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