Oaxaca is known for its rich culture, gastronomy, and vibrant colors, but it’s also home to some of the coldest villages in Mexico, ideal for those seeking winter getaways surrounded by nature. During December, January, and February, several mountain communities experience very low temperatures and offer mountainous landscapes, cloud forests, and cozy cabins perfect for disconnecting.
Visiting these destinations in winter allows you to enjoy a different side of Oaxaca, much more tranquil and serene, surrounded by cold ecosystems that contrast with the warmer areas of the state. If you’re planning a winter trip, here are all the details about the coldest villages in the state.
Santa María Yavesía, Oaxaca
This Zapotec community, located 2,000 meters above sea level, is considered one of the cleanest in the region. Its name comes from the Zapotec word “yabeddia,” composed of two words: “ya,” meaning tree or stick, and “beddia,” meaning eagle.
This destination boasts extraordinary natural wealth. Its vegetation consists of mixed pine and oak forests, as well as a portion of cloud forest. During winter, these vegetations transform into a misty landscape, a picture-perfect scene.
There you can find and explore ancient forests, natural viewpoints, caves, mountainous landscapes with wooded areas of Abies hikelli, giant oaks, and other species; and a former mining hacienda.
This destination possesses extraordinary natural wealth. 16th-Century Catholic Church
The Church of the Immaculate Conception dates from the late 16th century and was built by Franciscan friars in a distinctive architectural style, featuring a domed roof and four external chapels.
Lotoa Waterfall
The path along the edge of a stream is the same one people use to get to work, and it’s ideal for those who love the sounds of nature and birdsong.
Piedra Larga-Piedra Ventana
After hiking along a 15-kilometer trail with spectacular views, you’ll reach beautiful spots like Piedra Hembra, Las Vigas, and Piedra Ventana.
San Miguel Amatlán
San Miguel Amatlán, located in the heart of the Sierra Norte of Oaxaca, is a place where nature and history intertwine with the warmth of its people. Its name is a combination of Zapotec words: “Yagaa-Tzzi” means “yellow tree,” a reference to the golden oak that provides the most picturesque views.
Today, this charming mountain town welcomes visitors with unique landscapes, trails that wind through cloud forests, and a hospitality known only to the residents of Amatlán. Every conversation, every cup of coffee, and every walk in the mountains are opportunities to connect with nature.
Visit the Former Mining Haciendas
Discover the Natural Wading Pools
Enjoy a Mountain Biking Route
Museum of the Origin of the United Towns
The Life of the Miner
Ixtlán de Juárez
This region is considered the best destination to visit during the winter, as it boasts four distinct climates: cold, temperate-cold, cold-semi-tropical, and tropical. Part of its name honors Benito Juárez, who was born in Guelatao, just 4 km from Ixtlán.
Ecoturixtlán offers adventure tourism and ecotourism activities such as hiking, interpretive trails, mountain biking, rappelling and zip-lining, and flora and fauna observation, particularly birdwatching.
Panoramic view from the Cuachirindoo Hill Lookout
Observe the splendor of the Santo Tomás Apóstol Temple
Hill of the Forty Days
Cloud forest and Shiaa Rua Via Lookout
Ya-Huela Arch Cave
Clay Mural and Cultural Visit
Source: tusbuenasnoticias
