One of the most sought-after and visited tourist destinations in the Mixteca region of Oaxaca is the magical town of San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula, one of the eleven “Pueblitos Mágicos” (Magical Towns) in the city of Oaxaca (known as “Verde Antequera”). It’s a pivotal point for the Lázaro Cárdenas Plan, implemented by the government of Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, and a very attractive place to enjoy unforgettable experiences, far from the winter cold, and with the warm hospitality of its residents.
San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula, this charming Magical Town in the Mixteca Alta region of Oaxaca, is a must-see destination during the winter season. It’s located just 120 kilometers (approximately an hour and a half) from the city of Oaxaca, along Federal Highway 190, between Oaxaca de Juárez and Huajuapan de León in the Mixteca region.
This Mixtec corner of the world combines a 16th-century historical heritage with living traditions that are enhanced under the crisp autumn skies of November. It boasts ideal temperatures, far removed from the winter chill at this time of year. However, when the cold and temperatures do drop, it’s also a very pleasant spot to enjoy a tamale or bread, accompanied by atole or café de olla, by a crackling fire.
With average temperatures of 12-18°C (minimums of 4-8°C at night, perfect for light jackets and cozy fires), winter here invites serene strolls along cobblestone streets and seeking refuge in the region’s traditional homes, with fireplaces, warm walls, and the warmth of traditional kitchens, built either inside or outside the rooms used as bedrooms and living areas.
Influenced by cold fronts (like those expected for the 2025-2026 season), the atmosphere is crisp and magical, perfect for taking photos of its architectural monuments with morning mist. It’s worth noting, however, that in these last days of November, temperatures are warmer, ideal for enjoying a Sunday stroll through its streets.
Among its tourist attractions are the rehearsals of the traditional Danza de las Mascaritas (Dance of the Little Masks), where preparations are underway for the Christmas festivities. In addition, the Christmas lights, decorations, and nativity scenes can already be seen adorning government buildings, homes, cultural centers, and the houses of its residents.
Furthermore, San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula is renowned for its traditions and culinary delights, most notably the famous yellow mole, one of the seven moles that are part of Oaxaca’s cultural heritage.
To get to San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula from the city of Oaxaca, the distance by road is approximately 120 km, with an estimated travel time of about an hour and a half via Federal Highway 190. The approximate cost of the trip by car is 350 pesos, including tolls and gasoline.
But if you’re looking for adventure, you can travel by public transportation. There’s a direct bus that departs from Oaxaca to Teposcolula, taking approximately two and a half hours and costing between 100 and 210 pesos. Alternatively, you can take one of the van services that can take you from Oaxaca for no more than 100 pesos.
These services operate daily from the Oaxaca bus station and from the streets of the city center, arriving at the bus station in San Pedro y San Pablo Teposcolula.
But if you’re looking for adventure, you can travel by public transportation. There’s a direct bus that departs from Oaxaca to Teposcolula, taking approximately two and a half hours, and the fare varies between 100 and 210 pesos. There is also the option of traveling via Asunción Nochixtlán, but it is slower and more expensive, and you would lose valuable time to explore the area at a leisurely pace.
Source: oaxaca.heraldodemexico
