Monte Albán

Basics

Dating back to around 500 BC, Monte Albán was continually occupied for close to 1,500 years by (at different points) the Zapotecs, Olmecs, and Mixtecs. The site was already abandoned when Spanish colonizers arrived in the 16th century. While not fully excavated, Monte Albán offers many highlights, including vast plazas, palaces, and some of the most elaborate tombs unearthed in the Americas.

Visit Monte Albán during a day trip from Oaxaca City, or combine a stop here with visits to nearby towns and archaeological ruins, such as Arrazola, San Bartolo Coyotepec, and Teotitlán del Valle. Multi-day Oaxaca tours often stop at Monte Albán.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The signage at Monte Albán is in Spanish.

• There’s a small on-site museum and a gift shop.

• There is very little shade at Monte Albán, so bring a hat, sunblock, and water.

• Wear comfortable shoes; Monte Albán is an expansive site.

• Children aged 13 and under enter for free.

• Monte Albán is not fully wheelchair accessible due to uneven ground.

How to Get There

Monte Albán is situated just 5 miles (9 kilometers) outside of Oaxaca City and is easily accessible. Tourist shuttles to the area depart from Mina 518 in Oaxaca City, and organized tours typically include round-trip transportation—as well as stops at other points of interest.

When to Get There

Monte Albán is open daily from morning until late in the afternoon. It is perhaps Oaxaca’s most popular archaeological site, so visit early to avoid the largest crowds and the worst of the day’s heat. Weekends tend to be busier than weekdays.

Oaxaca’s Artisan Towns

After you visit Monte Albán, stop at the nearby artisan towns, which are known for producing some of Oaxaca’s most distinctive handicrafts. San Bartolo Coyotepec is known for black clay pottery, and Teotitlán del Valle is famous for handwoven rugs and other textiles. Arrazola is the place to find Oaxacan alebrijes—brightly colored wooden animals.

Ways to explore

Just minutes from downtown Oaxaca, plan a half-day trip to explore Monte Albán. It’s worth visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site with a guide to learn more about its fascinating ruins, which include vast plazas, palaces, and some of the most elaborate tombs unearthed in the Americas. Not to mention spectacular views over Oaxaca from the mountaintop.

Many day tours to Monte Albán from Oaxaca City combine the archaeological site with visits to nearby attractions, such as the artisan villages of San Antonio Arrazola and San Bartolo Coyotepec, the historic Convent of Cuilapam de Guerrero, or the Zapotec ruins of Teotitlán del Valle.

Accessibility

Parts of the ruins are accessible to wheelchairs thanks to a solar-powered elevator and ramps; however, it’s best to visit with a guide, as assistance may be required.

Age limits

None; children under 13 can visit for free.

What to pack

Reusable water bottle and plenty of water, camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat

What to wear

Light, breathable clothing, hiking boots or enclosed shoes with a good grip

Not allowed

While some of the pyramids at Monte Albán can be climbed, take great care not to damage the ancient structures.

Amenities

Museum, free parking, gift shop, food and souvenir stalls

Address 

Monte Albán is situated just 6 miles (10 kilometers) southwest of Oaxaca City, and can be reached by car or on one of the many guided tours from Oaxaca.

Driving

With your own wheels, Monte Albán is an easy, about 20-minute drive from downtown Oaxaca. Head west out of Oaxaca along Route 190, then follow signs to Monte Albán. There are two parking lots on Monte Albán hill, both a short walk from the ruins.

Public transportation

There’s no public transport to Monte Albán, but you can catch one of the regular shuttle buses run from Oaxaca or hire a private taxi.

Best times to visit

The archaeological site is open from 8am to 5pm, with the last entrance one hour before closing. Visit early to avoid the largest crowds and the hottest part of the day, as there’s almost no shade on the mountaintop.

Best days to visit

Monte Albán is one of Oaxaca’s most popular attractions, and it can get crowded. Weekends tend to be busier than weekdays; avoid holiday weekends, and opt for a midweek visit for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

Monte Albán is open year-round. For the best weather, visit during the dry season: December to March. For fewer crowds, plan a shoulder-season trip during October or November.

Special events

While there aren’t any events at Monte Albán, it’s worth timing your visit to attend Oaxaca’s famous Day of the Dead celebrations in November.