Day of the Dead Catrina Photoshoot & Mezcal Spirited Faces

When it comes to celebrating Día de los Muertos, Oaxaca is one of the most vibrant and authentic places to witness this tradition firsthand. This tour offers a unique way to connect with the culture — transforming you into a stunning Catrina, sharing mezcal with locals, and capturing beautiful photos along iconic city spots. While it isn’t a full-day tour, its carefully curated experiences pack a punch for those looking for something memorable and visually striking.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines culture with a personal touch — from professional makeup and traditional attire to spontaneous street conversations over mezcal. The chance to get professional photos in some of Oaxaca’s most photogenic locations is a definite bonus. On the flip side, the two-hour duration means it’s a quick snapshot rather than an extensive tour, which might be a consideration if you’re after a more in-depth exploration.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to celebrate Day of the Dead in style, capture stunning visuals, and have authentic encounters. It suits those seeking a mix of culture, professional photography, and fun, informal connections with locals. If you’re after a personalized, colorful, and meaningful way to experience Oaxaca’s traditions, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Key Points

• Cultural Transformation: Professional makeup and traditional attire turn you into a striking Catrina goddess.
• Personalized Route: Choose between exploring Oaxaca’s cultural core or its bohemian neighborhoods.
• Authentic Interactions: Share sips of mezcal with locals, creating spontaneous cultural moments.
• Photographic Memories: Receive 12 professional photos and a behind-the-scenes video.
• Flexible and Convenient: Two hours of guided fun, with the ability to customize your route.
• Great for Social Media: Perfect for capturing eye-catching images and memorable videos.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Oaxaca Day of the Dead Experience

This tour isn’t just about taking photos — it’s about feeling the energy and tradition of Oaxaca’s Día de los Muertos celebration. From the moment you arrive at the downtown studio, you’re stepping into a world where history, art, and celebration blend into one. The experience is designed to be intimate, personal, and fun, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

The Transformation: Becoming a Catrina

Your journey starts with a visit to a stylish downtown Oaxaca studio, where expert local makeup artists will turn you into a mesmerizing Catrina. The professional makeup is detailed and vibrant, capturing the spirit of the iconic Day of the Dead figure. Many reviewers mention how stunning their transformations turned out, often commenting on how they felt like true part of the celebration — a powerful way to connect to the tradition.

If you opt for the traditional attire, you’ll be dressed in authentic Oaxacan clothing, adding that extra layer of cultural richness. The attire, paired with the makeup, creates a photograph that’s both elegant and powerful, perfect for social media or keepsakes.

Customizing Your Route: Cultural or Bohemian

Once transformed, you can choose your route — a thoughtful feature that makes this experience special. You might stroll through the cultural heart of Oaxaca, passing by the Santo Domingo Church and the historic aqueduct, soaking in the vibrant streets and colonial architecture. Alternatively, your route might take you through the bohemian neighborhoods like Jalatlaco, with its artsy vibe and local character.

As you walk, the guides will introduce you to local sights, but the real highlight is the interaction with the people. Sharing mezcal with locals along the way isn’t just a fun tipple — it’s a genuine way to connect, spark conversations, and get a taste of everyday Oaxaca life. One reviewer described these moments as “unscripted and spontaneous, turning the experience into something truly memorable.”

Sharing Mezcal: More Than Just a Drink

What sets this experience apart is the mezcal component. You’re not just sipping quietly; you’re sharing with locals, which adds a layer of authenticity and fun. Expect to pass small cups, toast, and maybe exchange words in Spanish or English. The included bottle of local mezcal means you’re tasting a genuine product, often praised for its quality.

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The Photography and Video

Throughout the tour, a professional photographer captures 12 high-quality photos of your transformation and street moments. These images are curated to showcase the vibrant costumes, authentic locations, and your joyful expressions. Plus, a behind-the-scenes video records the energy and spontaneous laughter of the day, giving you a lively keepsake.

Many participants find this aspect especially valuable. As one reviewer said, “The photos truly captured the magic of the day — I loved having a set I could share instantly with friends.”

The Fine Details and Practical Aspects

Duration and Timing

The whole experience lasts around 2 hours — a perfect length if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful cultural encounter. Check the schedule to see available starting times, with most trips starting in the late morning or early afternoon.

Group Size and Support

The tour is designed for private groups of up to three people, making it intimate and flexible. The bilingual guides provide full support in both English and Spanish, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident throughout. An assistant helps with posing, while another captures behind-the-scenes moments, so no shot is missed.

Cost and Value

At $182 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. You’re getting professional makeup, costumes, a personalized route, mezcal tasting, photography, and video — all in a two-hour window. For many, the photos alone would cost more if booked separately, not to mention the authentic street interactions and your transformation.

What’s Not Included

• Extended tours or visiting additional locations beyond the set route
• Historical guides or detailed storytelling
• Full meals or transportation outside the designated meeting point

Weather and Practical Tips

Since most of the experience is outdoors, be prepared for Oaxaca’s weather. Wear comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen, and arrive about 10 minutes early at the studio. Pets are welcome but need to be well-behaved and on a leash.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

This experience is not just about looking good for photos — it’s about stepping into the spirit of Día de los Muertos and making genuine connections. The professional makeup and attire ensure you look stunning, but it’s the informal street interactions and spontaneous moments that truly set this apart. The included photos and video provide a tangible memory, perfect for sharing your Oaxaca adventure.

While it’s a quick experience, the depth of culture and personalized touches make it a standout choice for travelers wanting a fun, authentic, and visually impressive activity. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy striking photos, cultural expression, and a bit of adventure in their sightseeing.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour offers a rare combination of personal transformation, cultural insight, and fun street interactions. It’s ideal for travelers looking to celebrate Día de los Muertos in an authentic way without committing to a full-day tour. If you’re eager to capture stunning photos while making genuine local connections, this experience will definitely add color and dimension to your Oaxaca trip.

It’s also perfect for anyone who loves creative photos, enjoys mezcal, or wants a memorable story to tell afterward. Keep in mind the two-hour time frame and the need for comfortable shoes, but otherwise, it’s a flexible, friendly, and engaging way to dive into Oaxaca’s most colorful tradition.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the guides are bilingual in English and Spanish, so language should not be a barrier. They’re there to support you through the transformation, route, and photo process.

What should I wear for the photoshoot?
Comfortable, fitted clothing underneath the provided attire is recommended to easily change into traditional Oaxacan clothing. Wear shoes suitable for walking, like sneakers or flats.

How many photos will I receive?
You’ll get 12 professional photos, carefully curated to showcase your transformation and street moments.

Can I choose my route?
Yes, you can select between exploring Oaxaca’s cultural core or its bohemian neighborhoods, customizing your experience based on your interests.

Is this experience good for small groups?
Absolutely. It’s designed for private groups of up to three people, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since most of the experience is outdoors, severe weather may cause rescheduling. The team will notify you if this occurs.

In the end, this tour offers an upbeat, visually stunning, and culturally immersive way to celebrate Día de los Muertos in Oaxaca. Whether you’re snapping photos, sharing mezcal, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, it’s a colorful memory waiting to happen.

You can check availability for your dates here: