Villa de Zaachila Market and Ruins
Discover ancient Zapotec and Mixtec history at El Cerrito ruins and immerse yourself in the vibrant Thursday market of Villa de Zaachila.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the vibrant market
Villa de Zaachila Market and Ruins
Best Time
Experience the vibrant market
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover ancient Zapotec and Mixtec history at El Cerrito ruins and immerse yourself in the vibrant Thursday market of Villa de Zaachila.
"The tombs are small, but they are cool to photo if you really want a great experience visit them during the Guelaguetza!"
🎯 Combine Market & Ruins
Visit the Thursday market and the El Cerrito ruins together for a complete Zaachila experience.
📚 Research Before You Go
Read up on the site's history; guides may offer less insight than online resources.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tomb 1 Exploration
El Cerrito Archaeological Zone
Discover a remarkably preserved tomb with intricate figures, offering a WOW moment for history enthusiasts.
Panoramic Views from El Cerrito
El Cerrito Archaeological Zone
Climb to the top of the mound for breathtaking panoramic views of Villa de Zaachila and the surrounding landscape.
Villa de Zaachila Thursday Market
Town Center
Immerse yourself in a bustling local market, a vibrant hub for traditional crafts, food, and cultural exchange.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Zaachila
Understanding the Archaeological Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Combine Market & Ruins
Visit the Thursday market and the El Cerrito ruins together for a complete Zaachila experience.
📚 Research Before You Go
Read up on the site's history; guides may offer less insight than online resources.
📸 Tomb 1 Photo Ops
The well-preserved figures in Tomb 1 are a highlight for photography.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially at the market. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Combine Market & Ruins
Visit the Thursday market and the El Cerrito ruins together for a complete Zaachila experience.
📚 Research Before You Go
Read up on the site's history; guides may offer less insight than online resources.
📸 Tomb 1 Photo Ops
The well-preserved figures in Tomb 1 are a highlight for photography.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially at the market. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Market Bargaining
Haggling is common at the market, so be prepared to negotiate prices. :moneybag:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during market days, carry water to stay refreshed. :droplet:
🚫 Avoid Wormy Food
Be cautious when dining at market stalls; one visitor reported spoiled meat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Villa de Zaachila archaeological site interesting, particularly the well-preserved Tomb 1 and the panoramic views from El Cerrito. While small, it offers a glimpse into Zapotec and Mixtec history. Combining the visit with the vibrant Thursday market is highly recommended for a fuller cultural experience.
"The best part about going to this place is climbing up the cerrito and seeing the great panorama, you're better off reading about this place online than hearing it from the guide. The tombs are small, but they are cool to photo if you really want a great experience visit them during the Guelaguetza!"
roman rebierhcs
"Only one pyramid it is small site and one tomb is accessible. The attendant was helpful and serves as a guide."
Mauricio Polanco
"Not that much to see but still nice
in total two graves (well maintained)
Go there if you are close, but don't spend 2 hours in the highway for it... unless you are a crazy history professor :)"
Jens Rohleder (Xenso)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Villa de Zaachila is easily accessible from Oaxaca City by local bus or taxi. Buses typically depart frequently from the Oaxaca bus terminal and the journey takes around 30-45 minutes. Taxis are also readily available.
Parking can be challenging, especially on Thursdays due to the market. If driving, arrive early or be prepared to park a bit further away and walk.
Yes, Villa de Zaachila is an excellent destination for a day trip from Oaxaca City. Combining the archaeological site with the Thursday market offers a rich cultural experience.
The town center and market are walkable. For the archaeological site, 'El Cerrito,' you can walk or take a short taxi ride from the town center.
Generally, the main roads are well-maintained. However, traffic can be heavy on Thursdays due to the market, so allow extra travel time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The archaeological site 'El Cerrito' is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 9 AM to 5 PM. It's advisable to check with local authorities or INAH for the most current hours, as they can sometimes change.
The entrance fee for the archaeological site is generally around 50 pesos. However, some visitors have noted that INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History) rules can affect access and pricing.
Advance booking is usually not required for the archaeological site. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
Yes, the Villa de Zaachila market is a public space and is free to enter. You only pay for any goods or food you wish to purchase.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children, but this is not always consistently applied. It's best to inquire at the ticket booth.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The site, known as 'El Cerrito,' features one main mound and one accessible tomb (Tomb 1) with remarkably preserved figures. You can also enjoy panoramic views from the top of the mound.
Access to Tomb 2 has been restricted by INAH, reportedly due to COVID-19 protocols, and it is not currently accessible to visitors.
Photography is generally allowed at the archaeological site, especially within Tomb 1, which offers great photo opportunities.
The Thursday market is a vibrant and bustling affair, offering a wide array of local produce, crafts, textiles, traditional clothing, and street food. It's a fantastic place to experience local culture. +1
Given its size, a visit to the archaeological site itself might only take 30-60 minutes. However, if you combine it with the market, you could easily spend several hours.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market offers a diverse range of Oaxacan cuisine, including tlayudas, tamales, mole, and various grilled meats. You can also find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local sweets. +1
For a gastronomic experience with traditional seasoning, 'Juana Cocina de Casa' is recommended. Many local eateries and market stalls also offer authentic Oaxacan flavors.
While most food is delicious, one visitor reported an issue with spoiled meat at a market stall, so exercise caution and choose busy, reputable vendors.
Yes, you can typically find vegetarian options like tlayudas with cheese and beans, tamales, and fresh fruit.
It's generally recommended to drink bottled water or water that has been purified to avoid any stomach issues.
📸 📸 Photography
The most photogenic spots include the preserved figures within Tomb 1 at the archaeological site, the panoramic views from El Cerrito, and the vibrant scenes of the Thursday market.
Photography is generally permitted at the archaeological site, but always be respectful of the ancient structures and other visitors.
The market is a great place to see and photograph traditional Oaxacan attire, including elaborate costumes worn for festivals like Guelaguetza.
Drone usage may be restricted, especially over archaeological sites and populated areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
Look for the intricate details of Zapotec and Mixtec pottery, the colorful textiles at the market, and the expressions of local artisans. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the visit a combined experience: explore the ruins briefly in the morning, then immerse yourselves in the market's sights and sounds. Ensure children are supervised, especially in crowded market areas. Bringing snacks and water is always a good idea for younger visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Focus on enjoying the market's atmosphere and street food for meals, which is significantly cheaper than sit-down restaurants. You can find unique handicrafts at reasonable prices if you're willing to browse and perhaps haggle gently.
🏛️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
It's highly recommended to research the site's history and the significance of its discoveries before your visit, as online resources may offer more depth than a typical guide. Understanding the context of the 'Tesoro de Zaachila' (Treasure of Zaachila) and the ongoing discussions about artifact repatriation will greatly enhance your appreciation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Treasures of Zaachila: Archaeology and History
Among the treasures unearthed are elaborate ceramic pieces, including polychrome vessels and those depicting zoomorphic figures like jaguars. The 'Copa del Colibrí' (Hummingbird Cup) and the 'Vaso del Dios Muerte' (Vase of the Death God) are particularly renowned for their artistry and cultural significance. These artifacts are crucial for understanding the complex societies that once thrived here.
While the accessible Tomb 1 offers a direct glimpse into these findings, the broader context of Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations is vital. Discussions around the return of artifacts to their place of origin highlight the ongoing dialogue between modern anthropology and indigenous heritage.
Experiencing the Villa de Zaachila Market
Visitors can find a wide array of traditional Oaxacan foods, including tlayudas, tamales, and various moles. It's also a prime spot to purchase local crafts, such as pottery, woven goods, and intricately embroidered textiles. For those interested in traditional attire, the market showcases vibrant costumes, some of which can be quite elaborate and expensive, especially those worn for festivals like the Guelaguetza.
While the market offers incredible opportunities for cultural immersion and shopping, it's wise to be mindful of your surroundings and food choices. One visitor reported an unfortunate experience with spoiled food, so it's recommended to choose vendors that appear clean and busy.
Local Legends and Traditions
The region also boasts vibrant traditional dances, such as the 'Danza de los Zancudos' (Dance of the Stilt Walkers), which originated in the Barrio de San Pedro. This dance is intertwined with local religious narratives and historical events, showcasing the community's deep connection to its heritage.
Furthermore, the town is known for its participation in significant cultural events like the Guelaguetza, where traditional costumes and performances are showcased. The sheer artistry and cultural significance of these traditional garments can be astounding, representing a considerable investment in preserving heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit