
Auditorio Guelaguetza
Oaxaca's iconic open-air auditorium on Cerro del Fortín, host to the vibrant Guelaguetza festival and major concerts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Experience Oaxaca's biggest cultural fest

Auditorio Guelaguetza
Best Time
Experience Oaxaca's biggest cultural fest

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oaxaca's iconic open-air auditorium on Cerro del Fortín, host to the vibrant Guelaguetza festival and major concerts.
"Excellent place for festival and concerts! Very good approach!"

🎟️ Book Guelaguetza Seats Early
Popular seats sell out fast! Plan ahead for the best views of the festival .
🚶♀️ Climb for City Views
Walk up Cerro del Fortín for breathtaking panoramic views of Oaxaca City .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Guelaguetza Festival
Auditorio Guelaguetza
Oaxaca's most vibrant cultural celebration, showcasing traditional dances and music from across the state.

Panoramic City Views
Cerro del Fortín
Stunning vistas of Oaxaca City from the hill, especially beautiful at sunset.

Live Concerts & Performances
Auditorio Guelaguetza
A premier venue for national and international artists, from regional Mexican music to pop stars.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Guelaguetza Tickets Early
Consider Concerts & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Guelaguetza Seats Early
Popular seats sell out fast! Plan ahead for the best views of the festival.
🚶♀️ Climb for City Views
Walk up Cerro del Fortín for breathtaking panoramic views of Oaxaca City.
🎶 Check Event Schedules
The auditorium hosts many concerts; see if your visit aligns with a favorite artist.
🧥 Dress for Chilly Evenings
It can get cool after sunset, especially during evening events.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Guelaguetza Seats Early
Popular seats sell out fast! Plan ahead for the best views of the festival.
🚶♀️ Climb for City Views
Walk up Cerro del Fortín for breathtaking panoramic views of Oaxaca City.
🎶 Check Event Schedules
The auditorium hosts many concerts; see if your visit aligns with a favorite artist.
🧥 Dress for Chilly Evenings
It can get cool after sunset, especially during evening events.
🎒 Avoid Large Bags
For events like Guelaguetza, large bags might be restricted.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Auditorio Guelaguetza as an excellent venue for both the Guelaguetza festival and concerts, offering great views from most seats. The panoramic city views from Cerro del Fortín are a significant draw. However, accessibility for wheelchairs and people with disabilities is noted as a potential issue.
"Lots of stairs to get there and enjoy a nice view of the city. I went late so not able to get good photos. It’s worth it, I’d go again"
Claudia Torres
"Excellent place for festival and concerts!
The top layers are free and the lower you pay! Very good approach!"
Manuel Hinostroza Soto
"Came to see the legend of Donaji, it was a great location and the weather was a bit chilly after but easy to walk to Centro and awesome view as well."
gaby smith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Auditorio Guelaguetza is located on Cerro del Fortín. You can walk up from the city center, which offers nice views along the way.
Taxis are also readily available. For those who prefer a scenic route, a shady walking arcade from west of the cathedral leads to beautiful gardens and houses.While specific parking details can vary, it's generally advisable to consider public transport or taxis, especially during major events like the Guelaguetza, as parking can be limited and traffic heavy.
Yes, it's a popular option! The walk up Cerro del Fortín offers great views and is part of the experience for many visitors.
For concerts, taxis or ride-sharing services are convenient. If driving, arrive early to find parking, or consider public transport options if available.
Local buses may serve the general area, but direct routes to the auditorium's entrance can be limited. Taxis are a more reliable option for direct access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Guelaguetza festival, especially for reserved seating, should be purchased in advance. While some upper tiers might be free, popular sections sell out quickly.
Check official ticketing platforms or local vendors.Yes, some of the top layers of the auditorium are often free for the Guelaguetza, but they can fill up very quickly, leading to a scramble.
Arriving early is key for these spots.Concert tickets are typically sold through major ticketing platforms like Superboletos, or directly at the auditorium's box office.
Keep an eye on event announcements for specific sales dates.Opening hours vary greatly depending on whether there's a Guelaguetza event, a concert, or if it's open for general viewing. For specific events, check the schedule; for general access to the viewpoint, it's usually accessible during daylight hours.
For major events like the Guelaguetza, buying on the day is risky and often not possible for desirable seats. For concerts, availability depends on demand, but advance purchase is always recommended.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Seating preference depends on the event. For the Guelaguetza, lower sections offer a more immersive experience, while upper sections provide a broader view. For concerts, proximity to the stage is key. Many reviews suggest any seat offers a good view.
Some reviews mention limitations in wheelchair and handicap access.
It's advisable to contact the venue directly in advance to inquire about specific accessibility arrangements.Expect vibrant displays of Oaxacan culture, including traditional dances, music, and costumes from various regions of the state.
It's a lively and colorful celebration.Photography and videography policies can vary by event. For the Guelaguetza, capturing the moments is common, but be mindful of others. For concerts, check the specific artist's or venue's rules.
The top offers a fantastic panoramic view of Oaxaca City, especially beautiful during sunset.
It's also a great vantage point for understanding the scale of the auditorium.📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for city views from Cerro del Fortín.
During events, capturing the vibrant costumes and performances is key, but be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions.The lookout point on Cerro del Fortín, near the auditorium, provides excellent panoramic shots of the entire city.
The auditorium itself also offers striking architectural photos, especially at dusk.Drone usage is subject to local regulations and venue policies. It's best to check with local authorities or the venue management before flying a drone in the area.
Popular shots include wide-angle views of the city from the hill, vibrant images of Guelaguetza dancers in traditional attire,
and dramatic shots of concert stages at night.While generally allowed, professional photography equipment or extensive setups might require special permission. Always be respectful of performers and other attendees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting the viewpoint on Cerro del Fortín, the walk up can be managed with children, but ensure they have comfortable shoes. The open space at the top allows for some freedom to move around. For any event, bringing snacks and water is advisable, though check venue policies on outside food.
💰 Budget Travelers
Walking up Cerro del Fortín to enjoy the city views is a completely free activity. This offers a significant saving compared to paid attractions and provides stunning photo opportunities. Consider packing your own food and drinks for a picnic with a view to further reduce expenses.
🎶 Music Lovers
Beyond concerts, the Guelaguetza festival itself is a musical spectacle, featuring traditional Oaxacan music and dances that are deeply rooted in the region's history. Experiencing these live performances in the grand open-air auditorium is an unparalleled cultural immersion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Guelaguetza: Oaxaca's Cultural Heartbeat
Beyond the main festival, the auditorium also hosts related events and pre-Guelaguetza performances, such as the 'Lunes del Cerro' (Mondays on the Hill). These events offer a deeper dive into specific cultural expressions and provide a more intimate experience of Oaxacan artistry. Understanding the significance of the Guelaguetza is key to appreciating the auditorium's role as a cultural anchor for Oaxaca.
Many visitors express deep emotional connections to the Guelaguetza, describing it as a unique and moving experience that highlights the pride and richness of Oaxacan identity. The sheer scale and beauty of the performances, combined with the communal spirit, make it a truly unforgettable event.
A Premier Venue for Live Music
Concert schedules are dynamic, with events often announced with varying lead times. Visitors planning a trip should always check the auditorium's schedule or local event listings to see who might be performing during their stay. The variety of genres ensures there's often something for every musical taste, from traditional banda music to pop and rock.
Attending a concert here offers a different perspective on the auditorium, showcasing its versatility beyond traditional festivals. The energy of a live music event, combined with the iconic setting, creates a powerful experience, as evidenced by numerous social media posts capturing the excitement of these performances.
Panoramic Views from Cerro del Fortín
These views are not only visually appealing but also offer a sense of perspective on the city's layout and its relationship with the natural landscape. Photographers often flock to this spot to capture the expansive vistas, especially during sunset or at night when the city lights twinkle below. The accessibility of this viewpoint makes it a must-do for anyone visiting the area, whether attending an event or simply exploring.
While the auditorium itself is the main attraction, the surrounding Cerro del Fortín area is a significant part of the visitor experience. The climb, though sometimes involving many stairs, is rewarded with these spectacular sights, making it a memorable part of any trip to Oaxaca.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit