Visiting the Monte Albán Archaeological Site in Oaxaca, one of 36 UNESCO World Heritage Sites across Mexico. One of the greatest ancient archaeological sites in Latin America.
This is a backstory from when I was holed up in Oaxaca in 2021. I have updated the ticket prices and opening times using official sources. The rest of the content is evergreen.
Inhabited for over 1,500 years by the Olmecs, Zapotecs and Mixtecs, it was one of the most important cities in Mesoamerica. Founded around 500 BC in the heart of Oaxaca’s Central Valley, it served as the Zapotec capital until AD 800.
At its peak, Monte Albán had approximately 35,000 inhabitants, most of whom lived on the terraced slopes of the mountain and were dedicated to agriculture.
The Monte Albán Archaeological Site, along with the Historic Centre of Oaxaca City, was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO on December 11, 1987. The area protected by the INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History) is around 21 sq km.
It is one of over 190 Archaeological Sites in Mexico. I have backpacked and blogged about Chichén Itzá, Palenque, Edzná and Mitla.
Here are some of my photos from my visit to the Monte Albán Archaeological Site in Oaxaca, Mexico, in 2021:
How to get to Monte Albán from Oaxaca
Monte Albán is located just to the west of Oaxaca de Juárez. It’s actually only 7.5 km away.
I took an Autobuses Turísticos minivan from Francisco Javier Mina in Oaxaca centre.
From what I have seen on Google Maps, things are the same as when I visited back in January 2021, with the last price being quoted as 100 pesos for a return ticket.
Just go to the small terminal and buy your ticket.
Practical Visitor Information: Tickets and Opening Times (Updated for 2026)
Tickets: (taken from the official INAH website):
- Nationals and foreigners residing in Mexico: 105 pesos.
- General admission: 210 pesos.
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 8 am to 5 pm (last entry 4 pm).
Neat looking minivan. Central America feel to it for sure.
Dazzling snap shots, too.
36 UNESCO sites? Impressive for a country.
Mexico has the most UNESCO sites in the Americas!! I have been to 7 of them…