Day of the Dead Catrina Photoshoot & Mezcal Spirited Faces

If you’re considering a unique way to celebrate the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, this Catrina photoshoot combined with mezcal tasting might just be your perfect fit. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and it seems like a lively, authentic, and visually striking way to truly connect with the region’s traditions.

What really caught our eye are the professionally done makeup transforming you into a Catrina, and the chance to sip mezcal with locals while strolling through the city’s colorful streets. Both elements promise a memorable blend of culture, beauty, and fun.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is focused on photos, a walk through iconic spots, and sharing mezcal. It’s not a comprehensive city tour or historical guide, so if you’re after deep historical insights or extensive sightseeing, you’ll want to add those separately.

This tour suits travelers who want a visual, cultural, and social experience — especially those interested in Day of the Dead traditions, striking photos, and genuine local interactions.

Key Points

• Transform into a stunning Catrina with professional makeup and traditional attire.
• Choose your route, exploring Oaxaca’s core or bohemian neighborhoods.
• Share mezcal with locals while walking through the city’s most iconic streets.
• Get 12 professional photos and a behind-the-scenes video to relive your experience.
• Guided in both English and Spanish to ensure comfort and clarity.
• Focus on visual and social immersion, rather than historical storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Experience Really About?

This experience is a mix of personal transformation, cultural connection, and beautiful photography. Starting in a stylish downtown Oaxaca studio, you’ll be transformed into a Catrina goddess — a striking symbol of Day of the Dead. The professional makeup artists will craft a look that’s both authentic and personalized, and you can opt to wear traditional Oaxacan attire to elevate the visual impact.

From there, the experience shifts to a tailored photoshoot combined with a walking tour. You get to pick your preferred route—either through Oaxaca’s vibrant cultural center around Santo Domingo and Macedonio Alcalá, or through the artsy bohemia of Jalatlaco and the aqueduct. This flexibility means your experience resonates more personally, whether you’re chasing historic sights or trendy corners.

The Transformation: Becoming the Catrina

The highlight for many is the professional makeup. The local artists are skilled at creating a look that’s both elegant and powerful, capturing the essence of the Day of the Dead. Plus, if you choose to wear traditional attire, you’ll add a layer of authenticity and vibrancy to your photos.

This part of the experience is all about feeling confident and beautiful while embracing an important cultural symbol. We loved the way the makeup and attire made participants feel like true characters in Oaxaca’s colorful story.

The Walking Tour and Photoshoot

After your transformation, it’s time to hit the streets. You’ll walk through some of Oaxaca’s most iconic spots, like the Santo Domingo Church and the aqueduct — beautiful backdrops that make your photos pop. The tour isn’t just about snapping pictures; it’s about feeling the city’s pulse, sharing mezcal with locals along the way, and soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Travelers have mentioned that the experience is very personalized, with guides and assistants helping with poses, making sure everyone feels comfortable. The photos are professionally shot, and the team also records behind-the-scenes moments, resulting in a lively video that captures your genuine reactions and the camaraderie of the group.

Sharing Mezcal: Connecting with Locals

One of the most memorable aspects is sharing mezcal during the walk. It’s not just about tasting but engaging in real conversations with Oaxacan locals, which adds depth and warmth to the experience. As you walk, you’ll enjoy sips from a bottle of local mezcal, and sharing cups is a natural icebreaker.

Reviews highlight that this element makes the tour feel more authentic and less touristy, offering a chance to see Oaxaca through the eyes of its people.

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Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The experience lasts about two hours and is designed for small, private groups of up to three participants, making it intimate and flexible. The cost is $191 per person, which includes the professional makeup, traditional attire, photos, video, mezcal, and bilingual guide assistance.

Given the price, this is a value-rich experience for those wanting more than just sightseeing — it’s about creating lasting memories and stunning images. The photos and video are delivered within seven business days, giving you a tangible souvenir of your Oaxaca adventure.

The experience starts in downtown Oaxaca, with the exact location provided after booking. It’s advisable to arrive about 10 minutes early and wear comfortable shoes since there’s walking involved. High heels aren’t recommended, and although pets are welcome, they should be well-behaved and leashed.

What’s Not Included

Since it’s a focused, two-hour experience, additional sightseeing, historical guides, or extended tours are not part of the package. If you’re interested in exploring more of Oaxaca, you’ll need to plan separately. Also, it doesn’t include full meals, so it’s good to plan some local eats after your photoshoot.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value visual storytelling, culture, and authentic interactions. If you’re after a fun, photo-centric way to celebrate Day of the Dead, or want a memorable portrait session in Oaxaca’s most picturesque spots, this is a solid choice.

It’s also perfect if you enjoy spontaneous moments and conversation, as sharing mezcal with locals naturally fosters genuine connections. Conversely, if you’re looking for a comprehensive city tour, historical insights, or are traveling with mobility challenges, this experience might not meet all your needs.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Day of the Dead Catrina Photoshoot & Mezcal Spirited Faces offers a beautifully curated way to celebrate Oaxaca’s vibrant traditions. You’ll leave with striking photos, a lively video, and memories of shared mezcal and conversations in the city’s lively streets.

It’s especially ideal for those who want a personalized, photo-focused experience that combines culture, aesthetics, and social connection. The professional makeup, stunning backdrops, and authentic local flavor make this a meaningful, fun addition to your Oaxaca trip.

While it may not suit travelers craving deep historical tours or extensive sightseeing, it hits the sweet spot for anyone eager to embrace the spirit of Day of the Dead in a creative, engaging way. Expect to walk away with beautiful images, new stories, and a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s warmth.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not specifically designed for children, but if they’re comfortable with makeup and walking, they might enjoy the visual aspect. The focus is more on photo-taking and social interaction.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Traditional attire is provided and optional—wear fitted clothing underneath for easy changing. No high heels are recommended because of walking.

How many photos will I get?
You will receive 12 professional photos that capture the essence of your experience, perfect for sharing online.

Does the tour include the city’s historical guide?
No, it focuses more on photography and culture through visuals and social connection. For historical insights, you might need to look for additional options.

Can I extend my experience or visit other locations?
Additional tours or visits beyond the set route are not included and may cost extra if you choose to explore further.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your travel plans.

Is this experience available in the evening?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the afternoon and evening, ideal for capturing the sunset or evening vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here: