Oaxaca Weather in August

August weather in Oaxaca

August is wet, cloudy and humid. Rain falls on 26 days, often leaving the afternoon damp and the streets slick. You'll get some sunshine, but don't count on a clear day for every outing. The air feels mild rather than scorching, with afternoons warmer than evenings.

You can still enjoy the Santo Domingo church and the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures, then duck into a café when showers arrive. The covered markets, including Mercado 20 de Noviembre, work well on rainy days too. Long hikes and day trips on winding mountain roads are less reliable; heavy rain can make trails muddy and travel slower. Beach plans are a poor fit for this inland city.

Events and local life

The famous Guelaguetza celebrations take place in July, so August usually misses the main festival rush. Around August 15, some towns in Oaxaca state mark the Feast of the Assumption with church services and local festivities. The exact programme varies by town, so ask locally before making a special trip.

For families, a flexible day around the city's museums and markets beats a tightly packed outdoor itinerary.

Crowds and practical tips

August is generally quieter than November to February, Oaxaca's more popular dry-season months. With fewer visitors than during July's Guelaguetza, you may find a calmer feel around the Zócalo and easier access to popular restaurants. Don't expect every hotel or tour to cut its rates, though; prices vary.

At Monte Albán, rain clouds can close in quickly over the hilltop ruins. Go when the sky looks clear, and keep the rest of your day open in case showers change your plans. Back in town, try a bowl of caldo de piedra, a hot stone-cooked soup, for a cosy meal on a damp afternoon.