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

If you’re seeking a way to connect more deeply with Oaxaca’s stunning traditions, this tour promises to do just that—while giving you some memorable photos to take home. It’s a carefully curated experience that combines local attire, expert guidance, and beautiful scenery, all wrapped into a two-hour package. We love the immersive nature of this activity, the opportunity for genuine cultural exchange, and the chance to get some standout photos in front of Santo Domingo’s iconic facade.

However, it’s worth noting that this experience is quite focused on personal styling and photography, so if you’re after a broader sightseeing tour, it might not be your first choice. But for travelers craving a unique, picture-perfect moment rooted in Oaxaca’s identity, this experience ticks all the boxes. Perfect for curious culture lovers, photo enthusiasts, or those wanting a different way to explore the city.

Good To Know

• Authentic Costumes: Choose from eight regional Oaxacan costumes, each with its own meaning and beauty.
• Cultural Connection: Learn the significance behind each garment, jewelry, and hairstyle from knowledgeable guides.
• Memorable Photos: Enjoy a professional photo session at Santo Domingo, capturing your personal Oaxacan moment.
• Drone Footage: Get a unique perspective of Santo Domingo with a drone video included.
• Short & Sweet: Just two hours, ideal for fitting into a busy travel schedule.
• Private Experience: Conducted in a private group setting for a more personalized encounter.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Close Look at the Experience

This tour offers a rare chance to step into the shoes of a local Oaxacan, at least for a brief moment. From the start, you’re welcomed into a small, intimate environment where you get to select a traditional costume representing one of Oaxaca’s eight regions. Each costume isn’t just clothing but a symbol of cultural pride, often featuring intricate embroidery, vibrant colors, and regional motifs.

Once you’ve picked your outfit, the expert guides (who are well-versed in local traditions) help you with hair, makeup, and a traditional hairstyle. We found this part particularly fascinating because every detail, from the jewelry to the makeup shades, is carefully explained, giving you a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s cultural tapestry. It’s not just about looking good—each element has a story, connecting you to generations of artisans and local history.

While you’re getting ready, you’ll be encouraged to ask questions or learn more about the garments’ symbolism—making the process educational as well as fun. The guides, whose names and expertise add authenticity, make the experience feel personal and meaningful.

The highlight, of course, is the photos. The Santo Domingo backdrop offers a stunning setting to capture your transformed look—think vibrant costumes against the ornate baroque architecture. The professional photographer ensures you get plenty of flattering shots, and the drone footage of the temple and surroundings adds a cinematic quality to your memories.

Expect to receive a collection of high-quality photos, along with short, engaging videos documenting your preparation process. Reviewers mention that these images make wonderful keepsakes, capturing the spirit of your time in Oaxaca.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Authentic regional costumes are the core of this experience. Each outfit is carefully selected from a range of eight regions, allowing you to represent a piece of Oaxaca’s diverse culture. The costumes are not only beautiful but also steeped in symbolism and tradition, giving you a chance to wear a piece of history.

Cultural storytelling is another highlight. The guides don’t just help you dress up—they share insights into what each garment symbolizes, from the colors to the embroidery. This adds a meaningful layer to your photos, turning them into more than just pretty images.

Photography and drone videography elevate the experience. The professional photos are taken in a picturesque setting with expert guidance, while the drone shots provide a unique aerial perspective of Santo Domingo and its surroundings, making your memories truly stand out.

A personalized, private setting means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd. This tailored approach helps you relax, enjoy the process, and focus on capturing the best moments.

Timing is perfect for a morning activity, fitting neatly into a day of sightseeing or a cultural exploration itinerary. The two-hour duration ensures you get a fulfilling experience without it taking up your whole day.

A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: C. Macedonio Alcalá 201-int 206
The tour kicks off right in the heart of Oaxaca, making it easy to fit into your day. Here, you check in and get a quick briefing before heading into the culture.

Costume Selection & Dressing
You’ll choose from one of eight regional costumes, each representing a different part of Oaxaca. As you pick your outfit, the guides explain the significance behind it, which helps you appreciate the cultural depth. Then, you’ll have your hair styled and makeup applied in the traditional way, recreating the colors and styles passed down through generations.

Photo Stop at Santo Domingo
The main photo session takes place in front of the impressive Santo Domingo temple. This baroque masterpiece offers a dramatic and ornate backdrop, ideal for capturing vibrant images. Expect professional shots in various poses, all designed to highlight your costume and personality.

Guided Tour & Scenic Views
While in the area, your guides walk you around the Santo Domingo complex, sharing stories and details that enrich your visit. The tour lasts about an hour, giving you time to soak in the architecture and enjoy the scenery.

Return & Photo Delivery
Back at the starting point, you’ll receive your photos, short videos, and the drone footage. These are the lasting keepsakes of your experience, ready to share or print.

What’s Included & What to Keep in Mind

The cost of $218 per person covers almost everything needed for the experience: costume, jewelry, makeup, hairstyle, a photo session, drone footage, and short process videos. It’s a comprehensive package, especially considering the personalized attention you’ll receive.

However, it’s important to note what’s not included: professional editing or retouching of photos, entrance fees to sites outside the itinerary, or any additional services like transport or meals. Guests are also responsible for covering any damages to props or costumes, which encourages careful handling.

The activity is designed for privacy, making it suitable for individuals, couples, or small groups. It’s wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal. Children under 3 are not recommended, likely due to the nature of dressing up and photo sessions.

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Practical Tips for Participants

• Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance to ensure your costume and makeup are prepared.
• Allergy concerns should be communicated beforehand, especially related to makeup.
• The experience usually takes place in the morning, so plan your day accordingly.
• If you’d like to revisit your photos, check with the provider about any additional costs for editing.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience offers a wonderful way to connect with Oaxaca’s cultural roots in a personal and visually stunning manner. It’s ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they seek meaningful interaction, beautiful photos, and a chance to wear a piece of history. It suits those with an eye for photography, a curiosity about local traditions, or anyone eager for a memorable, fun activity that’s different from the usual tours.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it’s a valuable, authentic slice of Oaxacan culture packaged in a short, enjoyable session. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups wanting a special keepsake from their time in Mexico’s vibrant southern state.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 3 years old are not recommended, likely due to the dressing-up process and the duration of the activity.

How long does the tour last?
The activity is designed to be around 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a morning schedule.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get an authentic regional costume, traditional jewelry, makeup, hairstyle, a professional photo session, drone footage, and short videos of the process.

Can I choose my costume?
Yes, you select from one of eight regional costumes, each with its symbolism and design.

Are there any additional costs I should expect?
Not for the main experience, but professional photo editing, extra photos, or additional services like transport are not included.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is wheelchair friendly.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to bring anything for the experience?
No specific items are required, but comfortable clothing for the session might be advisable if you want to change after the costume is fitted.

This tour offers a fantastic combination of culture and visual storytelling. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to celebrate Oaxaca’s traditions, enjoy some fantastic photos, and learn about regional customs, it’s a well-rounded choice that’s worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: