The state of Oaxaca is located in the Southwestern region of Mexico. It is situated along the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by a number of other busy and popular states. To the north of Oaxaca and headed towards the Gulf of Mexico is Citlaltepetl or Pico de Orizaba. This is Mexico’s highest mountain. Veracruz, the busiest port of the gulf, is also located north of Oaxaca. It borders Chaipas on the east and Guerrero on the west. The state of Puebla borders the northwestern side of the state and is a direct line to the Oaxaca de Juarez, the capital city of Oaxaca. It is a short drive from Oaxaca to the mountaintop temples of Monte Alban. Here visitors will find the pyramids built by the Zapotec people over one thousand years ago.
Oaxaca de Juarez is not only the state capital but also the largest city in the state. It is located in the heart of the Central Valleys region and is decorated with a plethora of churches, museums, and beautiful parks and gardens. One interesting museum is the Museum of Contemporary Art, which is located in one of the city’s oldest building. The museum has galleries on two floors and displays a number of local artists including Francisco Gutierrez, Francisco Toledo, Rodolfo Nieto, Rodolfo Morales and Rufino Tamayo. Another interesting museum is the Regional Museum which features gold and silver jewelry discovered in Tomb 7 of Monte Alban. The museum is located in ancient monastery buildings belonging to the Santo Domingo Church. The museum also displays artifacts dating back to nomadic and pre-Hispanic periods.
There are a number of beaches along the Pacific Ocean. The coastline had many sandy beaches where visitors can enjoy watching the dolphins and sea turtles play in the water. The best places to enjoy some fun in the sun is between the coastlines of Puerto Escondido and Huatulco. There are a number of beaches that are relatively secluded and do not attract large crowds of people. Some of the beaches attract surfers and skiers alike.
West of Puerto Escondido lies the Lagunas de Chacahua National Park. It is in Villa de Tututepec de Melchor Ocampo. Visitors can reach the park by car or they can take a cruise along the Puerto Escondido waterway. The national park is home to a variety of plant and animal life.
Oaxaca, Mexico is rich in culture and adventure.
