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COCINAR OAXACA
2025
MARCH 28 - APRIL 6
A CULTURAL AND CULINARY QUEST
An initiative by Foko, La Pana, Leaders for all People, and La Escuela de Gastronomía Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca (UABJO)
EXPERIENCE OAXACA
A TEN DAY STAY INCLUDING:
Explore the historic city of Oaxaca and surrounding Indigenous Communities like Teotitlán del Valle
Excursions to Monte Albán, Mitla and Hierve el Agua and other historic sites
Study traditional and contemporary Oaxacan cooking with faculty and students at the Escuela de Gastronomía at UABJO
COCINAR OAXACA 2025
WORKSHOPS | WORKSHOPS | WORKSHOPS |
WORKSHOPS | WORKSHOPS | WORKSHOPS |
Escuela de Gastronomía (UABJO)
Culinary Workshops at the Escuela de Gastronomía
Immerse yourself in the heart of Oaxacan cuisine with three hands-on workshops at the prestigious Escuela de Gastronomía at the Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca. Guided by expert professors and students, you’ll delve into the traditions, techniques, and deep cultural roots of one of Mexico’s most celebrated culinary regions.
Master the Art of Oaxacan Moles – Learn the intricate process of crafting traditional moles, from toasting and grinding spices to balancing deep, complex flavors.
Savor Authentic Antojitos – Prepare and taste beloved street food staples like memelas, empanadas, and tetelas, each made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Discover Indigenous Traditions – Cook ancestral recipes from Oaxaca’s surrounding valleys and communities, gaining insight into the history and stories behind each dish.
Craft Traditional Beverages – Refresh your palate with homemade horchata, agua de jamaica, and atole, experiencing the time-honored techniques behind these iconic drinks.
Each workshop is an immersive, hands-on experience where you’ll prepare every element of the meal from scratch. The best part? Sitting down together to enjoy the fruits of your labor, savoring the flavors of Oaxaca in good company.
El Sabor Zapoteco: A Culinary Experience with Reyna Mendoza
Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra Juárez mountains, just 30 minutes from Oaxaca City, the Zapotec village of Teotitlán del Valle is renowned for its rich culinary traditions and artisanal techniques.
Step into this extraordinary culinary tradition with a hands-on workshop led by renowned cook and instructor Reyna Mendoza. Hosted in her private home, this immersive experience offers a rare glimpse into the time-honored foodways of the Zapotec people.
Morning Market Tour – Stroll through Teotitlán’s local market, selecting fresh ingredients while learning about their cultural significance.
Welcome Chocolate & Pan Dulce – Begin your day with a warm cup of traditional Oaxacan chocolate and sweet bread.
Hands-On Cooking Experience – Learn to prepare authentic Zapotec dishes from appetizers to main courses and dessert, using traditional methods like grinding on a metate.
Shared Sit-Down Meal – Savor the dishes you’ve created, paired with drinks and a tasting of artisanal mezcal.
Take-Home Recipes – Receive a full recipe packet in English to recreate the flavors of Oaxaca in your own kitchen.
EXCURSIONS | EXCURSIONS | EXCURSIONS |
EXCURSIONS | EXCURSIONS | EXCURSIONS |
Tour of Oaxaca City
Your guides will help you get familiar with Oaxaca. They’ll take you all around the Zócalo, the main streets, and los mercados and restaurants where you can try amazing, authentic cuisine. You’ll discover art shops and street art all over the city. During your free time each day, you’ll have the chance to explore Oaxaca on your own, knowing that the city is safe and full of vibrant energy. Whether you're enjoying local restaurants, sipping coffee at cozy cafés, or discovering the dance scene, you’ll have the freedom to wander. Don't worry—your guides will be there to help you navigate, offering recommendations and ensuring you find your way to the best spots in town.
Hierve el Agua
Experience the natural beauty and rich traditions of Oaxaca on this unforgettable excursion. Begin your journey with a visit to a family-owned mezcal distillery, where generations of expertise and traditional distilling methods create some of the finest artisanal mezcal. Learn about the process, from agave cultivation to the final smoky sip. Then, continue to Hierve el Agua, a breathtaking site of petrified waterfalls and mineral-rich pools nestled in the mountains. Enjoy stunning panoramic views, take a refreshing dip in the natural springs, and explore the scenic hiking trails surrounding this geological wonder.
Monte Albán
Monte Albán, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Oaxaca, Mexico, is a captivating glimpse into the past. Once the capital of the Zapotec civilization, its stunning ruins include towering pyramids, sacred temples, ancient tombs, and the unique Danzantes carvings. Explore the legendary ball court and uncover the mysteries of this ancient city.
Mitla
Step into Oaxaca’s ancient past at Mitla, a breathtaking Zapotec site known for its intricate stone mosaics and rich history. Wander through sacred temples and palaces, marvel at the unique geometric designs, and soak in the stunning valley views. This is a journey through time you won’t want to miss!
$1750 per person
EXCLUDES AIRFARE
LIMITED TO 10 PARTICIPANTS
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This cost includes hotel, excursions, workshops, transportation, travel insurance, and breakfast + lunch.
It does not include airfare. You will have to buy your own flights.
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We will be staying at Hotel Na’ura - a boutique hotel in the center of Oaxaca. It is just two blocks from the main square. It has its own restaurant, cafe, spa and swimming pool!
*All rooms are shared - 2 participants per room.
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This trip is for anyone interested in exploring Oaxaca and its culinary traditions. You do not have to be a professional chef, this experience is for all cooking levels!
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Yes, each day there will be a workshop or excursion planned in the morning/afternoon, but your evenings will be free! Of course your guides will offer suggestions on other places to explore and eat around the city.
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Your experience will be guided by three members of Leaders for All People. Wes Lites, who is the founder of L4AP and has travelled extensively throughout Oaxaca, Flavia Garcia and Megan Lenahan.
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No!
The workshops will be offered in both English and Spanish. It is not necessary to speak it, but this will be a wonderful opportunity to practice your language skills.
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At the bottom of this page you can fill in our information form with your email and someone from our team will reach out to you with more information.
Optional 5 Day Trip to Mexico City Add-On
If you just can’t get enough of Mexico after traveling through Oaxaca, you can add on an additional 5 days to Mexico City for an additional $800!
Unable to go in the Spring?
DON’T WORRY!
There will be a second COCINAR OAXACA in October!
Stay tuned for more details or sign up for our mailing list.
Sign Up for Cocinar Oaxaca
Interested in going on the culinary quest of a lifetime? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you!