Tianguis Turístico 2025: Oaxaca bets on connectivity and cultural richness to attract tourism
Mariel López Villatoro, Undersecretary of Tourism Development of Oaxaca, highlights the state's strategies to strengthen its tourism offering, focusing on air connectivity and the promotion of cultural events such as the Guelaguetza
What are Oaxaca's expectations for participating in the 2025 Tourist Market?
We're coming with a delegation of more than 100 participants, including service providers, tour operators, and security personnel. We're promoting our biggest festival, the Guelaguetza, which will be held in July. We're also announcing that Viva Airlines will be our official sponsor for this event. We've also unveiled new flight routes and have more surprises at our stand.
What progress has been made in Oaxaca's air connectivity?
Oaxaca has four airports, three of which are being expanded or remodeled: Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido, and Huatulco. This year, TAC Airlines will launch a route connecting Guatemala City with Huatulco, starting in July. Additionally, Puerto Escondido Airport has recently been internationalized, allowing flights from Houston and Dallas.
What cultural experiences does Oaxaca offer tourists?
Oaxaca has 570 municipalities, 65 of which are tourist destinations. Our main destinations are Huatulco and Puerto Escondido, ideal for sun and beach tourism, and Oaxaca City, renowned for its cultural richness. In July, we celebrate Guelaguetza, our most important festival, with cultural, culinary, and folklore activities throughout the month. We also have archaeological sites, 10 tourist routes, six Magical Towns, and the Magical Neighborhood of Jalatlaco.
How has tourism in Oaxaca and Mexico evolved in recent years?
The pandemic changed the way people travel, placing a greater focus on meaningful experiences. Oaxaca has seen an increase in domestic and international tourism, especially from India and Asia. The Day of the Dead is one of our most globally recognized holidays, attracting numerous tourists. Furthermore, Oaxaca's inclusion in the Michelin Guide has boosted culinary tourism in the region.
What other tourism promotion initiatives do you have planned?
We started the year participating in FITUR and the ANATO trade fair in Bogotá. We are carrying out promotional campaigns both nationally and internationally, including caravans and destination presentations. We are also collaborating with airlines on advertising campaigns and sponsorships to attract more tourists.