Destination Highlight: Oaxaca, Mexico

Día de Muertos is one of the most powerful and meaningful celebrations in the world, and Oaxaca is its beating heart. In this presentation, we’ll share what makes Oaxaca so special and how to go beyond surface-level tourism into true cultural connection. If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Día de Muertos in a respectful, immersive, and unforgettable way, this is your invitation.

This event is for curious, culturally minded travelers who want more than a checklist trip. If you crave meaningful experiences, authentic connection, and moments that stay with you long after you return home, this is for you.

Many travelers want to witness Día de Muertos, but struggle to find experiences that are authentic, culturally respectful, and deeply immersive rather than commercial or performative.

You’ll walk away from this event with a clear understanding of what makes Día de Muertos in Oaxaca so powerful, and how you can be part of it in a way that honors the culture, the people, and the spirit of the celebration. When you leave, you’ll know:

• What Día de Muertos truly represents beyond the imagery and aesthetics
• How we respectfully participate in traditions like altar-building, cemetery visits, and Muerteada parades
• The unique cultural experiences included — from Zapotec weaving demos to mezcal tastings and cooking classes
• What to expect day-to-day (walking, pacing, downtime, and activity level)
• Whether this journey aligns with your travel style and spirit

Originally from Los Angeles, California, Dylan Dornfield has spent all of his adult life living and learning in Latin American countries Argentina, Nicaragua, and México, where he proudly attained dual citizenship. As a nature lover with a curious mind and an outgoing attitude, he began his guiding work in Oaxaca as a hiking and rock-climbing guide in the Sierra Norte. In 2023, he received a Master’s Degree in Latin American Studies from UCLA, where I also taught inthe Spanish department! One of his main focuses is sharing experiences that go beyond responsible tourism, paving the way for regenerative travel and leaving lasting positive impacts in all the places he visits.