Monte Albán

"The ancient ruins of Monte Albán are probably the most famous tourist attraction in the region. This Unesco world heritage site was founded in the 6th century BC and functioned as a capital for the Zapotec people for 13 centuries. The first thing I wanna say about Monte Alban is that it’s extremely easy to get to since it’s on a low mountain range that’s very close to Oaxaca City. My friend and I hailed a taxi on the Didi app and spent a total of 160 pesos to get up the hill. If you want a cheaper option, take the bus outside of Hotel Rivera del Angel. They cost 58 pesos and depart every hour from 8:30 to 3:30. They can also take you back down until 5pm, which is how we got back to Oaxaca. Upon arrival, you will buy your tickets either at the ticket booth or some handy machines they have to the side of it. I used the machines, they worked perfectly and the entry was 90 pesos. It is quite sunny up there, so make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and water. Next you can consider hiring a guide. I spoke to a guy named Juan and he said a private guide for my friend and I would cost 700 pesos, which we were not willing to pay. I told him I’d wait a bit to see if he could find other people to split the costs with. He ended up finding 4 other people and we each paid 150 pesos for the tour, which was the perfect length. Juan was also very knowledgeable and had good English. I highly recommend visiting Monte Alban since it’s so easy to get to. it’s also a huge space so it never feels crowded and obviously it carries some significant historical importance. Besides being a beautiful, well-kept site, It also really manages to transport you back in time. All in all, a total win for a popular tourist hotspot. "

"Monte Albán features a vast complex of ancient ruins situated atop a hill, providing sweeping views of the surrounding Oaxaca Valley. The site includes grand plazas, temple pyramids, and intricate carvings, including the famous Danzantes, stone carvings depicting ritualistic figures. The strategic location and layout of Monte Albán highlight the advanced engineering and urban planning of the Zapotecs. Visitors can explore the main plazas, temples, and ball courts while learning about the site’s historical and cultural significance through informative displays and guides. The panoramic views from the site are also a major attraction, offering a stunning perspective of the valley below. How to Get There from Oaxaca City Using Public Transportation: By Bus: Buses to Monte Albán depart from the main bus terminal (Central de Autobuses) in Oaxaca City. The journey takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Buses are typically small and may be labeled as heading to Monte Albán or “transporte a Monte Albán.” By Taxi or Ride-Sharing: Alternatively, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service for a more direct and flexible option. The drive takes about 30 minutes and allows you to set your own schedule."

"Chances are this vast pre-Columbian archaeological site is already on your list, as it once was the most important Zapotec city in Mesoamerica. Founded in 500 BC, Monte Alban had a thriving population of 35,000 for more than 1,500 years. You don’t need to join a tour or even hire an onsite guide to appreciate the site fully. I rarely enjoy plodding through ruins with others learning things I can read online or in a guidebook. If that’s your scene, companies hawk their tours all around the Zocalo. If you, like I, prefer to explore the grounds of Monte Alban with a sense of discovery, you can simply hop in a cab and visit the site on your own schedule. It’s just 8 kilometers from the city center. You also can hire a private guide onsite if you like. TIP: You can climb many of the structures so prepare for steep, thin steps and wear closed-toed shoes! "