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The Best of San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca | Magic Mushrooms, Mystical Mountains, & More

Tucked away in the Sierra Sur mountain range south of Oaxaca Mexico, lies a small village nestled in a cloud forest. Three hours from Oaxaca, find the magic that is San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca. San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca is known for its psychedelic mushrooms, trails that twist through pristine pine forests, and a place where ancient ceremonies and rituals are practiced.

Welcome to the land of Magic Mushrooms, a place of transcendence.

This San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca travel guide includes how to get to San Jose del Pacifico, tips for visiting, a brief history of magic mushrooms, the best things to do, and where to eat and stay in the village.

If you have enough time, make sure to visit the nearby villages that are close to San Jose del Pacifico.

This is a complete guide to San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca, one of the best places to visit in Oaxaca State.

Table of Contents

How to Get to San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

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The main road connects San Jose del Pacifico with Oaxaca City and the coastline

San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca is located midway between Oaxaca City and the rustic coastline dotted with some of Oaxaca’s best beach towns. In fact, many people decide to stay a night or two in San Jose del Pacifico and then continue to the Pacifico coastline.

I highly recommend visiting San Jose del Pacifico independently to enjoy the tranquility at your own leisure.

Oaxaca to San Jose del Pacifico By Bus

It is fairly easy to reach San Jose del Pacifico via public transit. Arriving to San Jose del Pacifico by bus is one of the most popular ways to reach the mountain hamlet.

There are two bus companies that run between Oaxaca City and the coast: Eclipse 70 and Lineas Unidas. Each bus company makes stops and takes a quick break in San Jose del Pacifico.

These small minivans twist through the mountains and are referred to as “vomit comets.” If you get motion sickness, it’s best to take some kind of tablet before the ride, like Dramamine. I’ve witnessed many people getting sick on these speedy vans as the vans zip up to the village that sits at an altitude of over 8,000 ft (2,500m).

For some reason, I always gravitated to using Lineas Unidas bus company. Hop on any minibus that is going in the direction of Pochutla. The buses stop in San Jose del Pacifico in the center of the town.

🚐 Oaxaca to San Jose del Pacifico | Catch Líneas Unidas in the direction of Pochutla in Oaxaca here: Bustamante 601, Centro | Departure: Every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day | One-Way Ticket: $180 pesos per personDuration: 3.5 hours | Verify the Schedule here on Facebook

Zipolite to San Jose del Pacifico By Bus

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There are direct mini-vans that run from Zipolite to San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca via Lineas Unideas

It’s easy to visit San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca after enjoying one of the best nude beaches in Mexico, Zipolite. Zipolite has direct minibusses to Oaxaca City that stop in San Jose del Pacifico.

Alternatively, it’s possible to catch a bus to Pochutla where the buses depart frequently in the direction of Oaxaca.

🚐 Zipolite to San Jose del Pacifico | Catch Líneas Unidas in the direction of Oaxaca here: Playa Zipolite, terminal | Departures: 5 times daily These vans also pass by the beach town of Puerto Ángel  | One-Way Ticket: $210 pesos  | Duration: 4 hours

Here’s the most recent schedule in Zipolite to San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca by Lineas Unideas. Make sure to verify the bus schedule at the tiny terminal before departure.

Daily Departures from Zipolite
4:15
9:45
11:15
13:45
23:00

One of the most popular Oaxaca beach towns is Puerto Escondido, which is further north on the coastline. The buses from Puerto Escondido go straight north to Oaxaca and do not stop in San Jose del Pacifico.

From Puerto Escondido, hop on a bus to San Antonio. Exit the bus on the road and wait for a camioneta, a small truck that you can hop in the back of. These stop in Mazunte while others continue directly all the way to Zipolite. In Zipolite, catch the Líneas Unidas minibus to Oaxaca.

Psst… Coming from the Oaxaca Coast? Don’t miss the rustic beach town of Chacahua Oaxaca

San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca Tours

With its fresh mountain air and beautiful pine forests, San Jose del Pacifico is becoming a popular place to visit in Oaxaca. With its rising popularity, there are now tour companies that take visitors to San Jose del Pacifico as a day trip from Oaxaca.

➜ This San Jose del Pacifico Tour is a budget-friendly tour option for those who only have a short time to visit the magic mushroom capital.

➜ 1 Day in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca tour focuses on the natural beauty of the Sierra Sur Mountains

San Jose del Pacifico Travel Tips

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The lush pine forests of the Sierra Madre del Sur Oaxaca

Here are some important things to know before visiting San Jose del Pacifico, the unofficial magic mushroom capital of Oaxaca.

There is no ATM in San Jose del Pacifico, so it’s important to carry enough cash. A few eateries and places accept credit cards, but many charge an additional fee for processing, so it’s more expensive.

Fun Fact: Oddly enough, you can even purchase magic mushrooms on your credit card in San Jose del Pacifico

Opt to book your San Jose del Pacifico accommodation online before arrival. The town is becoming more and more popular, so it’s better to have a place to sleep beforehand.

Keep in mind that the internet is unstable, especially since the village is located in the mountains and a cloud forest. When the afternoon clouds roll in, it’s not easy to run a credit card. For those who rely on the internet and Wi-Fi for work, the slow speed can be an issue. For those who want to unplug, San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca is paradise.

When is the Best Time to Visit San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca?

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The stellar sunsets of San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

San Jose del Pacifico sits in the Sierra Madre del Sur Mountains at an elevation of 8,360 ft (2,548 m). There are two very distinct seasons: rainy and dry. Since San Jose del Pacific is in a cloud forest, no matter what, clouds will more than likely roll over the mountainsides in the late afternoon.

With that being said, the best time to visit San Jose del Pacifico depends on what you are looking for. If seeking fresh magic mushrooms, visit during the rainy season. If looking to go hiking in San Jose del Pacifico, visit during the dry season when the trails aren’t as muddy. However, the rainy season transforms the landscape into lush and super green.

Either way, visiting San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca is worth it and always a good idea.

When is the San Jose del Pacifico Mushroom Season?

The San Jose del Pacifico mushroom season usually coordinates with the Sierra Sur mountain’s rainy season. The rainy season in San Jose del Pacifico is typically from July to October. This is when you will find an abundance of fresh mushrooms in the mountains, both to eat and those magic ones that take you to another astral plane.

Sometimes I heard the word “hongusto” being tossed around, which essentially is a cross between hongo (mushrooms) and augusto (August). Coincidently, August is the month when there is an abundance of fresh Oaxaca mushrooms.

During the dry season, it’s possible to find psychedelic Oaxaca magic mushrooms preserved in honey. These preserved mushrooms in honey aren’t nearly as strong and are a bit more expensive. They also don’t provide the same “intense spiritual experience” that the fresh mushrooms do, or you might have to take quite a bit more.

No matter what season you go to San Jose del Pacifico, ask around the village and purchase from a reliable source, or join a local and forage your own.

Legality of Oaxaca Magic Mushrooms

Be mindful that magic mushrooms are illegal under Mexican law and consuming them comes at your own risk. While it is unusual to find police in the community who are enforcing the law, it is still technically illegal to consume mushrooms, especially for tourists.

Additionally, consuming magic mushrooms should not be taken lightly. Psilocybin mushrooms have been deeply rooted in sacred ceremonies and ancient rituals of the local Indigenous communities. They were a way to connect with a higher power.

If choosing to consume psilocybin please honor and respect the sacristy of these spiritual vessels.

How Many Days in San Jose del Pacifico Mexico?

San Jose del Pacifico is a nice weekend getaway from Oaxaca, although, I think it’s best to visit during the week to avoid the “crowds.” If you love nature and the outdoors and want to visit the nearby villages, plan on spending at least two full days in the Sierra Sur Mountains.

Those who are active and like to be on the go may find that just a “quick stopover” for one night in San Jose del Pacifico is sufficient.

San Jose del Pacifico Weather

Again, San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca sits at a high altitude in a cloud forest. It will probably rain a little bit on most days. At night, it’s cold, so make sure to pack warm clothing. Many cabañas include a fireplace in the room to help with the chill during the night.

Getting Around in San Jose del Pacifico

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The village of San Jose del Pacifico is small, but there are many places to visit nearby that can be reached by mototaxi

A majority of the San Jose del Pacifico cabanas are outside of the main village area and tucked in the forest, so motos run frequently. In town, you can usually wave down a moto, and the prices are generally listed inside the moto, but there is a standard rate between all of the drivers by distance.

Here are four trusted contacts for Mototaxis in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca.

DriverPhone Number
Luis951 582 35 02
Rogelio951 392 18 07
Ivan951 563 71 16
Dario951 398 7019

To move between villages near San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca, you’ll need to catch a collectivo, one of the small burgundy cars.

Things to Do in San Jose del Pacifico Mexico

Here are some awesome things to do in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca to make the most of your time.

Skip to | More Oaxaca Magic Mushroom Regions | Hiking | Temazcal | Viewpoints | Relax

1 | Oaxaca Magic Mushrooms

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Trippy mushroom-inspired art is found in all places the bathrooms at Temazcal Yo’o Be’en

One of the main reasons people opt to stop at San Jose del Pacifico is to dabble and experiment with psychedelic mushrooms. Technically, mushrooms are a gray area but are not officially regulated in this community and region. For example, you can literally purchase hallucinogenic mushrooms on your credit card from many places in town.

Oftentimes it’s possible to sit in a healing mushroom ceremony with a shaman. Be mindful and check reviews on local shamans, as sometimes “spiritual tourism” is sadly exploited. Otherwise, experienced “travelers” can find a spot in the magical pine forest and take a journey outside their consciousness and into another realm.

Oaxaca magic mushrooms are strong, especially when fresh during the rainy season.

There are two main types of Oaxaca magic mushrooms that are commonly consumed in this mountain region, “Los Niños,” the children, and “Los Maestros,” the teachers. 🍄

In San Jose del Pacifico there are also opportunities to go on foraging tours where you can hunt for all types of mushrooms. This is a great way to experience the plentiful San Jose del Pacifico hiking trails in the area and support the local community.

Besides psychedelic mushrooms, many women will sell fresh edible mushrooms for cooking. Just verify before if they are “hongos magicos,” or for cooking.

More Oaxaca Magic Mushroom Regions

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Street Art of Maria Sabina can be seen all over Oaxaca

While San Jose del Pacifico has been nicknamed “The Magic Mushroom Capital of Oaxaca” this is not where Maria Sabina is from. Maria Sabina is one of the most famous and powerful female shamans. She has been credited with re-introducing mushrooms to the modern world from her small village of Huautla de Jimenez.

Maria Sabina hosted many healing ceremonies throughout the 1950s and 60s in her home in Huautla de Jiménez. The mountain village is found in the Cañada region of Oaxaca State and is one of six Oaxaca pueblos magicos.

History of Oaxaca Magic Mushrooms

It is said that many celebrities came to participate in otherworldly ceremonies with her. Whispers of John Lennon, Bob Dylan, Aldous Huxley, and even Walt Disney were some of the famous names who were said to pass through the house of Maria Sabina. Thousands were said to take the pilgrimage to Oaxaca and sit with this incredible female shaman.

It was actually R. Gordon Wasson who published an article in Life magazine that made eyes turn to Mexico and the curative powers of mushrooms.

Oaxaca magic mushrooms, leaf, what to do in oaxaca, sierra sur mushrooms, mexico mushroom region
Fresh Magic Mushrooms

However, today, many of the healing powers and theories of plants are being revisited. It is said psilocybin can help with severe depression, alcoholism, PSTD, and give people a new way to look at life, and most importantly offer a transcendent experience. This is just another reason why psychedelics are becoming increasingly popular with the population over the age of 60.

Psst… I highly suggest reading How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan to understand how mushrooms and plant medicines are awakening the world and being used as a healing source.

Plant medicines like Peyote, San Pedro, and Ayahuasca are also helping raise consciousness and offer deep healing. Huge shifts can take place in as little as one ceremony, shifts that could take years and years in therapy.

While there are some “new” offerings to take Ayahuasca in San Jose del Pacifico, the plant medicine originates in South America, typically from the jungle areas of Peru, Brazil, and Ecuador.

☛ If interested in sitting with these ancient plant medicines, there is a fabulous retreat and sanctuary in the Cloud Forest in Mindo Ecuador

2 | San Jose del Pacifico Hiking Trails

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Twist through the pine forest on many hiking trails in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

One of the best things to do in San Jose del Pacifico is to explore the many hiking trails. These spectacular paths lead through the dense pine forests of the Sierra Sur.

One of the most popular routes is Cerro la Postema, which boasts views of the surrounding mountains.

Many of the trails in the forest are unmarked and are not found on offline maps. Be mindful when hiking in San Jose del Pacifico, or hire a local guide.

Some of these paths lead to nearby villages, like San Sebastian Rio Hondo and San Mateo Rio Hondo, which make worthwhile and scenic day trips from San Jose del Pacifico.

Psst… Love hiking? In the underrated Mixteca region, Santiago Apoala has some of the best hiking in Oaxaca

3 | Experience an Authentic Temazcal in the Mountains

Temazcal Yo'o Be'en, things to do in san jose del pacifico oaxaca, mushroom, building
Temazcal Yo’o Be’en has an authentic sweat lodge outside of San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca is also one of the best places to experience a traditional temazcal. This is a sacred sweat lodge that honors the four elements, four directions, and our ancestors.

Many of these ceremonies are self-guided but can include a “limpia,” or cleansing of your soul before entering. It is common practice to say a prayer and set an intention when entering into the temazcal.

A typical temazcal consists of four rounds, one for each cardinal direction. The temazcal is heated by volcanic rocks. Depending on the ceremony and place, rocks are usually added between each round, making it hotter the longer you sit in it.

Be prepared to heal in the form of “sweating it out,” and by connecting with the breath. Temazcal is a natural medicine that physically cleanses us and gives us the opportunity to sit with the “uncomfortable.”

me at temazcal, sierra sur, san jose del pacifico, oaxaca temazcal, sacred ceremonies in oaxaca
Sacred Ceremonies are abundant in the Sierra Sur, like sweating it out in a traditional temazcal

Upon exiting the temazcal, be splashed with cold water. Some places have warm herbal tea waiting for you. Emerging from a traditional temazcal ceremony is compared to “exiting the womb” and is often referenced as a “rebirthing experience.”

☛There are a handful of spots that offer traditional Temazcal ceremonies in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca. Temazcal Yo’o Be’en has a great authentic temazcal where they add hot rocks for each round. They also provide tips on how to have a sacred experience. At the end, get splashed with cold water and receive a healing tea.

4 | Visit One of the Many San Jose del Pacifico Miradors

With all those mountains, there are plenty of viewpoints to enjoy in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca.

✔ On the road into town, find the Virgen de Guadalupe Shrine. There is a small observation deck with the “Vivelo” sign and across the street, angel wings are painted onto the rocks. (Free)

✔ Los Altos del Golan San José del Pacífico is in the town, but deeper on the outskirts. It can be located easily with the large white sign that says Mirador. There are different observation decks that offer views of San Jose del Pacifico. Onsite is a cafeteria. (Entrance Fee: $35 pesos, under $2 USD)

✔ Many of the San Jose del Pacifico cabañas have excellent viewpoints as well.

✔ The popular San Jose del Pacifico Accommodation La Cumbre has stellar views and a restaurant, so stop in even if you don’t sleep here.

5 | Support Local Artisans

Don’t forget to walk on the main street in town and observe the many women knitting. They sell cute little knitted mushrooms, warm hats, and more. There are also stands that sell hand-carved wood items.

6 | Simply Be & Relax

One of the best things to do in San Jose del Pacifico is relax, savor the rich nature, and unplug. The internet isn’t the best in the Sierra Sur Mountains, so bring a book or two and enjoy the tranquility.

San Jose del Pacifico is worth visiting, even if you simply do nothing!

Where to Eat in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

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There’s more to eat in San Jose del Pacifico than Magic Mushrooms | Artwork on display at Cabañas Rancho Viejo

Although the town is small, there are quite a few San Jose del Pacifico restaurants and cafes to choose from. Near the main bus station, there are two great bakeries including Cafe Express San Jose del Pacifico to grab pastries, coffees, or hot chocolates.

I couldn’t stop eating the small custard-filled pastries with a cherry on top.

La Morenita

La Morenita is a quaint little cafe serving up typical Oaxacan cuisine. This spot is perfect for breakfast and the prices are more than fair for the portion size. On top of delicious food, they serve excellent coffee, chocolate, and fresh juices, and have super-friendly service.

Find them here: Carretera, Oaxaca – Puerto Angel Km 131 | Hours: Daily, 7:00 – 22:00 | Facebook Page

La Taberna De Los Duendes

La Taberna delos Duendes is probably the most famous restaurant in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca. This Italian-owned restaurant is known for its mouthwatering pasta and diverse wine, artisan beer, and mezcal menu. Reservations are highly recommended as it is an intimate restaurant.

Find them here: Carretera Federal, km 132 +500 | Hours: Daily, 15:00 – 22:00 | Facebook Page

Comedor El Molcajete

At the intersection of the main road that leads to San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca and Cabañas Rancho Viejo is a small home that serves home-cooked meals. The menu is simple and mostly antojitos, or “little cravings,” like quesadillas, tacos, and tlyaudas. The food is good and worth a mention. They might have one of the best salsas I had on my entire trip to Oaxaca.

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Eating at Comedor El Molcajete feels like eating at a close friend’s house

This family-run spot only has two tables inside, but there is an incredible view of the mountains. Also, the family is friendly. They sell artisan knit items next door to the restaurant.

Find them here

Tatsu

Tatsu is a fantastic restaurant in San Jose del Pacifico serving up delicious Asian cuisine. Find everything from ramen, dumplings, and lo mein. There are plenty of vegetarian options on the menu, too.

Find them here: Calle Miguel #9b | Hours: Daily, Breakfast 7:00 – 11:00 / Lunch & Dinner: 13:00 – 20:00 | Instagram Page

Teonanácatl Restaurant

On the outskirts of town, Teonanácatl Restaurant is a modern building that also has a nice outdoor seating area. They serve breakfast and have a diverse menu, including a delightful veggie burger. Service is great and they take credit cards.

Find them here: Carretera, Oaxaca – Puerto Angel km 131 | Hours: Daily, 7:00 – 22:00 | Facebook Page

Where to Stay in San Jose del Pacifico Mexico

One of the best accommodation options in the mountains is to stay at a cabaña. Many places aren’t on popular reservation sites like booking.com yet, so it’s best to contact the place directly.

Cabañas Rancho Viejo is an excellent place to sleep in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca with lots of character

I’ve stayed at Cabañas Rancho Viejo just on the outskirts of San Jose del Pacifico and highly recommend it. They’ve recently added a new hostel Bostel Rancho Viejo.

However, here’s a list of places to stay in San Jose del Pacifico that are utilizing booking.com or have a direct booking through their website.

Budget $: Cabañas La Cumbre San Jose del Pacífico Oaxaca has hostel rooms, cabañas, and unique dome rooms. There is an incredible terrace view. Hostel rooms start at $160 pesos ($7.75 USD) a night.

Mid-Range $$: Cabañas Rancho Viejo is outside of town a bit, but has spacious cabañas with private decks and fireplaces with wood included.

Luxury $$$: Alto de la Sierra By Rotamundos

➜ Find the Best Places to Sleep in San Jose del Pacifico

Adorable Villages Near San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca

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The distant views of lovely San Sebastian Rio Hondo

While many visitors simply pass through San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca, there are some nearby villages that have maintained their authentic charm.

Two noteworthy villages that are easily accessible to San Jose del Pacifico are San Sebastian Rio Hondo and San Mateo Río Hondo. In fact, many of the San Jose del Pacifico hiking trails can lead to these nearby villages.

San Sebastian Rio Hondo

San Sebastian Rio Hondo is an adorable village in the Sierra Sur Oaxaca. The town offers many senderos, or small paths, next to the tranquil river and the hillsides. Remember, it’s possible to hike here from San Jose del Pacifico.

San Sebastian Rio Hondo also has unique boutiques like Khadi Oaxaca, which is focused on preserving ancient weaving techniques that help support the local economy. Stop in at one of the tiendas in town to look for handmade soaps or artisan shops.

In the center of town, a simple church and plaza greet you. On the outskirts of town, find a hauntingly beautiful cemetery.

There are so many things to do in San Sebastian Rio Hondo, but a highlight is Casa Maitri. This little slice of paradise boasts a zen garden, beautiful cabañas, and two powerful temazcal.

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Casa Maitri has a powerful temazcal with stunning views of the Sierra Sur Oaxaca

Spiritual seekers will love the mushroom ceremonies held in a simple meditation room. Casa Maitri also has a vegetarian-focused restaurant on site, but make sure to call in advance to eat and see what’s on the menu.

On the weekend, head to Casa de Barro. They have a cute garden terrace and make fresh artisan bread. Casa de Barro also runs cultural events and showcases local artisanal goods, usually on the weekends.

In San Sebastian Rio Hondo, sleep at Casa Maitri.

San Mateo Río Hondo

San Mateo Rio Hondo is another small village to visit in the Oaxaca Magic Mushroom region, and again, with fewer crowds. Here, there are many hiking trails that connect to both San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca and San Sebastian Rio Hondo.

Hiking in the Sierra Sur Oaxaca Mountains

A unique place to visit in San Mateo Rio Hondo is Torre del Roure where you can purchase serrano ham shaved fresh from the cured leg, just like in Spain.

In the village, there are many artisan shops from fresh honey, and panaderías, to local art.

In San Mateo, there are more places to sleep than in San Sebastian Rio Hondo, like Cabañas Vicenta and Cabañas Juárez.

Casa Chuparrosas offers guest a tranquil space in nature in a private apartment.

More Oaxaca Travel Blogs

After visiting San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca, will you head back to the incredible city of Oaxaca?

Browse through these detailed Oaxaca itineraries that showcase the best things to do in Oaxaca.

Oaxacan cuisine is arguably some of the best in Mexico, so try some of these top-rated Oaxaca food experiences and stroll through a few of these best Oaxaca markets. There are also tons of incredible Oaxaca restaurants and cafes to sample the diverse gastronomy.

There are plenty of Oaxaca day trips to experience the culture, gastronmy, and natural beauty. Don’t miss a chance to visit the rich East Oaxaca Valley from Oaxaca City to Mitla. Other notable places of interest in the East Oaxaca Valley include Teotitlan del Valle, a village known for its ancient weaving techniques, and the sacred mountain of El Picacho.

San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca Travel Guide

San Jose del Pacifico is the perfect gateway village to discover the magical Sierra Sur Oaxaca. This picturesque mountain village is nestled in a cloud forest and is conveniently located between the vibrant city of Oaxaca and the rustic Oaxaca Pacific coastline.

There are a plethora of things to do in San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca from relaxing to hiking. Those looking to take a spiritual journey in the mountains can dabble with the San Jose del Pacifico mushroom ceremony or get the feeling of rebirth by sitting in a temazcal sweat lodge ceremony.

While San Jose del Pacifico is worth visiting, the nearby pueblos of San Sebastian Rio Hondo and San Mateo Río Hondo have an alluring charm to them as well. It’s possible to hike between all the villages via mystical pine forests along dirt paths.

San Jose del Pacifico is a special place to visit in Oaxaca Mexico

What did you think of San Jose del Pacifico Oaxaca? Have you experienced Oaxaca Magic Mushrooms or sat in a sacred temazcal ceremony? Let me know in the comments below!

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12 Comments

  1. Wow, how fascinating. I can say I’ve tried magic mushrooms a few ways – dried and raw, dried on pizza, dried in pasta… but never fresh! What a cool place to visit. I am curious, are the locals generally accepting of foreigners visiting and consuming drugs – does it cause conflict, or is it a pretty harmonious experience for everyone? The hiking does look pretty amazing as well.

    1. Hey Susanna-

      My experience with mushrooms in the Sierra Sur was always harmonious, but I was fortunate to have access to a local in the nearby community that foraged them. I also did not use a retreat center, but it’s possible to see many people from the local communities out hunting for mushrooms both magical and edible. Of course, with natural medicines, there will always be someone trying to exploit and profit on them. If the mushrooms continue to come from a “legitimate source,” the community, local foraging tours, I don’t foresee a problem. However, where there is money to gain, oftentimes things can go awry. I hope this region and the healing techniques will not be abused in the future.

  2. I have dreaming about traveling to different regions of Mexico for the last two years during the pandemic. This is my #1 place to see. Your articles are so helpful.

  3. The information that yo have provided is wonderful.
    I am plan a trip with my husband
    And we have experience with mushrooms but we wan to experience them there with the respect to the Comunity.
    Can you provide me with who to contact for a ceremony.
    Thank you so much.

    1. Thanks Carolina!

      In San Jose del Pacifico, I did not participate in an actual ceremony. Most experiences here are self-guided, with locals selling from a few different places in town. My journey was self-guided, but extremely incredible and powerful. There are some places in town that provide a safe space to have a journey. Safe travels

  4. Greetings Meg! thank you so much for the nicely written article and very useful information. we are looking to visit the area in 2023 and interested in attending the mushroom festival in July. do you know where we could find more information on the mushroom festival in 2023? Gracias!!

    1. Hey Ann, Thanks so much for reading!

      I’m not sure about the mushroom festival and I had never heard of it while visiting. San Jose del Pacifico is very small, so I don’t believe there is an actual information center in the village. The two main popular sleeping places in San Jose del Pacifico of Cabañas Rancho Viejo and Cabañas La Cumbre might have information and dates on the festival.

      In Oaxaca City, there is a Oaxaca Tourist Information center that provide lots of helpful information from the Pueblos Mancomunados villages in the Sierra Norte and beyond. It is found right in El Llano park. A block over, the Oaxaca Lending Library also has tons of knowledge on events and community happenings.

      I hope they can help and please let me know what you think of the festival! 🍄

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