If you’ve ever wanted to truly connect with Oaxaca’s vibrant traditions, this tour offers a chance to do just that — in a way that’s fun, personal, and keepsakes-ready. While it’s not your typical sightseeing day, it’s a beautifully crafted experience that lets you step into the heart of Oaxacan culture, if only for a couple of hours.

What really stands out is how personalized this experience feels — from choosing your regional costume to having your hair and makeup done in traditional style. And the fact that it culminates in a professional photo and drone video session means you’ll walk away with images that tell a story of your time there. A small note: it’s priced at $218 per person, which might seem steep for a two-hour activity, but considering the costumes, professional photography, and expert guide insights, many will find it worthwhile for a special keepsake.

That said, this isn’t a tour for everyone. If you’re after a more comprehensive sightseeing experience or traveling with very young children, you might find it a bit niche. Still, for those wanting a meaningful, photo-worthy moment that blends culture with a touch of glamour, this could be a highlight.

Key Points

Authentic regional costumes bring a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s diversity.
Professional photography captures your experience in iconic locations.
Traditional makeup and hairstyles deepen your connection to local customs.
Expert guides share stories and meanings behind each garment.
A scenic visit to Santo Domingo offers a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Flexibility and privacy with a private group enhance comfort and personalization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the experience

Want to capture memories? We've looked into these other photo experiences in Oaxaca De Juarez

The starting point and overall flow

The tour begins at C. Macedonio Alcalá 201-int 206, a central and accessible location in Oaxaca city. After check-in, you’ll be guided through a process that’s as much about understanding as it is about dressing up. The entire experience lasts about two hours, making it a perfect morning activity if you’re looking for something engaging yet not overly time-consuming.

Choosing your costume

One of the most engaging parts of this tour is the selection of a traditional costume. You get to pick from eight different regional styles, each with its own symbolism and history. This isn’t just about clothes — it’s about stepping into a piece of Oaxaca’s identity. Whether you opt for a bold, colorful ensemble or something more subdued, each costume reflects a different part of the state’s cultural tapestry.

Many reviews highlight the value of this choice, with travelers saying it “felt like wearing a piece of history.” The staff is happy to explain the significance behind each garment, which helps you appreciate what you’re wearing beyond just its appearance.

Hair, makeup, and personal touches

Next up is the traditional hairstyle and makeup session. Expect professional styling that aligns with the regional style you chose. It’s a detailed process, but the guides take care to recreate the colors and details that have persisted through generations. If you have allergies to makeup or specific sensitivities, it’s worth informing them beforehand. This part of the experience helps you feel truly transformed, making your photos all the more authentic.

More Great Tours Nearby

The photo session and drone video

Once dressed and styled, the tour shifts to the real fun — capturing the moment. The photo session takes place in Santo Domingo, one of Oaxaca’s most striking landmarks, providing a majestic backdrop. The guides or photographers will help you pose comfortably, resulting in high-quality images that showcase your outfit and the setting.

The addition of a drone video is a real highlight, offering a sweeping view of the area that adds a cinematic touch to your memories. People who have done this rave about how special the aerial footage makes their experience feel, especially when they see the iconic Santo Domingo in the background from above.

While you're exploring Oaxaca De Juarez, here are other experiences we've looked into

Additional videos

Aside from the main photos, you’ll also receive short videos of the process, allowing you to see the transformation from start to finish. These snippets make for fun social media posts or keepsakes.

The guided tour component

While most of the focus is on the dressing and photography, the guides also lead you on a guided walk around Santo Domingo. They’ll share some insights into the history of the building and the surrounding area, enriching your experience beyond just dressing up.

Practical details

The tour is private, which means you won’t be rushed or mixed with strangers — ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting.
It’s suitable for most people, except children under 3 years, and is wheelchair accessible.
You’ll need to reserve at least 24 hours in advance and make sure to inform them of any allergies or special needs.

What’s the value here?

At $218 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s important to see it as an experience and a keepsake rather than just a sightseeing activity. You’re paying for the authentic costumes, professional styling, and high-quality photos and videos. Many travelers find that these memories are worth the cost, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a unique souvenir from Oaxaca.

Considerations and drawbacks

The main downside is the price — it’s a niche activity with a premium price tag, which might be a stretch for budget travelers. Also, since the activity is only two hours, it’s quite a focused experience. If you’re looking for an in-depth cultural tour or a full day of sightseeing, this might feel limited.

Another aspect to consider is that professional photo editing isn’t included. If you want retouched images, you’ll need to arrange that separately, which could add to the overall cost.

Who should consider this experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, memorable photo experience that connects deeply with Oaxaca’s traditions. It’s especially suited for those celebrating a special occasion, or anyone wanting to have a tangible keepsake of their trip. It also appeals to those who enjoy cultural fashion or are simply curious about the regional diversity of Oaxacan costumes.

If you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility issues, check the accessibility details, as it’s designed for individuals who can comfortably engage in a dressing-up activity and photo session.

Final thoughts

This experience offers a unique way to dress in Oaxaca’s traditional attire and capture the moment professionally. It’s not just about looking good — it’s about feeling connected to the land’s cultural roots through the colors, symbols, and history behind each costume. The inclusion of drone footage and expert guides makes it a comprehensive package that leaves you with more than just photos — you get a story, a memory, and a deeper understanding of Oaxaca.

While the price might be a consideration, many will find the value in the quality of the images and the authenticity of the costumes. It’s an activity that truly celebrates Oaxaca’s diversity and beauty, making it a worthwhile addition for those seeking a unique, personal souvenir of their trip.

Ready to Book?

Show off your beauty wearing a typical Oaxacan costume + photo session

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for families or children?
It’s primarily designed for individuals or private groups without mention of specific family accommodations. Children under 3 aren’t recommended, but older kids might enjoy the dressing-up and photo aspect.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts about 2 hours, usually available in the morning, making it a manageable activity in your itinerary.

What is included in the price?
You get to wear an authentic costume, traditional jewelry, makeup, hairstyle, a professional photo session, drone video, and short process videos.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, professional photo editing isn’t included, and you’re responsible for any damage to props or costumes. Entrance fees to other sites or additional services like transfers aren’t included.

Is the experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Can I choose any costume I want?
You can select from eight different regional costumes, each representing a different part of Oaxaca.

How far in advance do I need to book?
Reservations should be made at least 24 hours in advance to ensure availability.

What language is the guide?
The guided tour is in Spanish, so some language skills might be helpful if you want a detailed explanation.

If you’re craving a more personal, visually memorable way to connect with Oaxaca, this tour offers just that. It’s an experience that combines culture, style, and storytelling, all wrapped into a couple of joyful hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: