San Jose del Pacifico, Oaxaca, Mexico
Magic Mushroom Capital of Mexico
Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best accommodation in San Jose del Pacifico is San José del Pacífico – Cabañas Camino al Cielo 5
How to Get There:
Fly to Oaxaca City (OAX). From there, take a colectivo directly to San José del Pacífico, about 3 hours. If coming via Pochutla, take a colectivo from the bus station, about 1.5 hours.
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Experience
If you are traveling to Oaxaca City, you may hear of a nearby town called San Jose del Pacifico which is known for its ancestral use of Magic Mushrooms (Psilocybe Cubensis). At about 2500m is this tiny village where all there is to do is just relax and enjoy the total peace and serenity, up above the clouds.
Watch the clouds roll in through the valleys in the afternoon and see some of the most beautiful sunsets. On a rare clear day, you can even see the Pacific coast… just barely.
We planned on staying one night on the way through and ended up staying for a week. It’s a hard place to leave. Just kicking back, get a good book or just think about how you could live here forever, without a worry in the world.
San Jose del Pacifico is 3 hours from Oaxaca City and 3.5 hours from the Pacific coast. Be prepared for some super windy roads, and some super crazy driving from the collectivo drivers. They’re nuts!! It’s like being on a rollercoaster ride. Not the ideal trip if you get travel sickness. Taking shared minivans is one of the only ways to get there is in the minivan/shuttle. Very few big buses travel up and over the mountains.
San Jose del Pacifico has just one main street that is roughly 300m long. Here you’ll find a few places to eat, one internet cafe, a tour company for temazcals, and a few craft stores that sell lots of hand-made magic mushroom crafts and clothing. Anything you want to buy with a mushroom on it, they’ll have it. Then from there, a couple of streets off that up the steep hill, that leads to a small pocket of houses and accommodations.
SEE – Photos & Videos
GO – Getting There
How to get to San Jose del Pacifico
At least 3 different companies are driving from Oaxaca to Pochutla. Each costs $150 pesos to San Jose del Pacifico. It’s exactly 3 hours from both Oaxaca and Pochutla, traffic permitting. All the minivans are 14-seat vehicles with aircon. Take a sweater with you upfront, because the aircon will be on and it’s freezing.
If you’re coming from Oaxaca City, ask your hostel/hotel where the colectivos to Pochutla are. They are all in the same area about 5 blocks south of the Zocalo, near Calle Armenta y López and Calle Bustamante.
If you’re coming from Pochutla, you can’t miss them. As soon as you get off your bus or camioneta, people will be yelling from the other side of the street to get you on their colectivo to take you to Oaxaca.
Do – Activities & Attractions
Magic Mushrooms in San Jose del Pacifico
If you’re seeking magic mushrooms—known locally as hongos mágicos—you won’t need to search far. In fact, some visitors report being offered mushrooms shortly after arriving at their accommodations. While their use is deeply tied to ancestral traditions in the region, it’s important to understand that magic mushrooms remain illegal under Mexican law. The relaxed attitude toward enforcement in San José del Pacífico likely stems from their cultural significance, but this doesn’t make them any less illegal. If you choose to partake, remember that you are breaking the law, and we neither condone nor encourage this. Our intention is to educate about this traditional practice, which has, to some extent, been opened to tourism. Always approach with respect, caution, and awareness.
Many visitors choose to walk 10–15 minutes into the forest to take the mushrooms and immerse themselves in nature, as the experience often lasts anywhere between 3–8 hours. If you decide to partake, it’s crucial to receive clear guidance on proper dosing to avoid overdoing it and overwhelming yourself. Expect to pay around $300–$400 pesos for a dose of mushrooms. Additionally, be cautious when venturing into the forest—getting lost too far from town can turn an introspective journey into a stressful situation. Always ensure you know your way back and prioritize safety during the experience.
For those seeking fresh magic mushrooms, the best time to visit is during the rainy season, which runs from June to September. Toward the end of the season, locals often harvest the remaining mushrooms and preserve them in jars of honey to last until the next harvest. If you’re visiting outside the rainy season, you’ll still be able to find preserved mushrooms, but be aware that their effects are often reported to be weaker—or in some cases, entirely diminished—compared to fresh ones. Keep this in mind when planning your visit and setting expectations.
Temezcals
What’s a Temazcal?? It’s an ancestral sweat lodge, similar to a sauna. They can look like a brick igloo or a concrete box. Depending on the type of temazcal that you’re entering, they can hold anywhere between 2-20 people. They’re used for both physical well-being and natural healing. You can go to ones where you just relax and take your time, or you can get the full experience with a traditional indigenous ceremony.
There are a couple of basic temazcals in town for relaxing, but if you’re looking for the full traditional Mexican experience, ask for Casa de Paco. It’s full of rituals and chanting inside the temazcal and it’s intense. And hot!! Casa De Paco lasts for 1.5 hours. It’s located a 30-minute walk from town into the forest in the middle of nowhere (it’s well-marked with signs though, so it’s easy to find).
You won’t be able to book the Temezcals in San Jose del Pacifico in advance, nor will you need to. A few run every day at 11 am, and some locations will just start them once you arrive, on-demand. The Temezcals cost around $150 pesos per person, though could vary depending on your group size.
To find out more, I wrote about my experience at a temezcal in San Jose.
Where is the swing in San Jose del Pacifico?
San Jose also boasts an epic (and instagrammable) swing with a stunning view! To reach the San Jose del Pacifico swing, you’ll need to embark on a hike lasting approximately one hour towards the southern direction of San Jose del Pacifico. This path coincides with the highway leading to Puerto Escondido. Alternatively, you can choose to hitchhike or hire a Tuk Tuk to transport you there for a fee of 5 USD. Once you arrive, a modest charge of around 3 USD will be required, after which you’ll patiently await the staff to secure you in place.
Disclaimer: Where Sidewalks Ends does not endorse the use of drugs, even when used for spiritual, traditional or ancestral practices. Should you choose to take part, please do so at your own risk, and with trusted people nearby.
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Stay – Accommodation
San Jose del Pacifico is San José del Pacífico – Cabañas Camino al Cielo 5
San José del Pacífico Cabañas Camino al Cielo 5 in El Pacífico offers a comfortable and cozy stay with a one-bedroom apartment featuring a terrace and a garden. Guests can relax by the fireplace or enjoy the peaceful surroundings from the balcony with scenic views. The property provides convenient services including a tour desk, family-friendly accommodations, and optional shuttle assistance. Yoga classes are available for those seeking wellness activities. Highly praised for its tranquil setting and attentive host, Cabañas Camino al Cielo 5 is an ideal choice for travelers looking to unwind and experience the natural beauty of San José del Pacífico.
Check Rates and Availability here!
San José del Pacífico – Cabañas Camino al Cielo 3
San José del Pacífico Cabañas Camino al Cielo 3 offers a cozy one-bedroom apartment with a balcony and terrace overlooking the garden and mountains. Guests can relax in the peaceful surroundings, enjoy the outdoor seating areas, or take part in wellness activities such as yoga classes. The property provides family-friendly accommodations and convenient services, including optional shuttle assistance and a tour desk. Praised for its scenic location, welcoming host, and inviting fireplace, Cabañas Camino al Cielo 3 provides a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking comfort, relaxation, and a connection with the natural beauty of San José del Pacífico.
Check Rates and Availability here!
Cabaña en el Bosque de San José del Pacífic
Cabaña en el Bosque de San José del Pacífico offers a tranquil stay in a chalet with two bedrooms, a terrace, a balcony, and a private entrance overlooking the mountains and gardens. Guests can relax in the peaceful surroundings and enjoy the natural scenery from the patio or garden areas. The property provides convenient services, including private check-in and check-out and housekeeping. Praised for its scenic location and comfortable accommodations, Cabaña en el Bosque offers an ideal retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and a close connection with the natural beauty of San José del Pacífico.
Check Rates and Availability here!
Cabaña La Vía Láctea
Cabaña La Vía Láctea in San José del Pacífico offers a cozy holiday home with one bedroom, a living room, and a private entrance. Guests can enjoy a balcony and patio with garden, mountain, and city views, as well as a peaceful inner courtyard. The property features a fully equipped kitchen and a warm fireplace, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. Highly praised for its convenient location and attentive host, Cabaña La Vía Láctea provides an ideal retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and scenic surroundings in the heart of San José del Pacífico.
Check Rates and Availability here!
Eat – Restaurants
La Taberna De Los Duendes is a must-visit spot in San José del Pacífico, known for its hearty portions, flavorful dishes, and eclectic atmosphere. This cozy bar and grill, located right off the main highway, offers an impressive menu featuring expertly prepared pasta, tender steaks, and unique house-made mezcal infusions. The trippy, vibrant decor adds to the charm, while the friendly staff and occasional presence of the Italian owner enhance the dining experience with personal recommendations. Whether you’re stopping in for a meal or a drink, this lively venue provides a memorable experience in the heart of the mountains.
Tatsu is a hidden surprise in San José del Pacífico, offering a delightful mix of Asian-fusion cuisine in the heart of the mountains. Known for its flavorful ramen, yakisoba, and fried rice dishes, Tatsu caters to a variety of tastes with vegan and vegetarian options as well. Guests love the cozy ambiance, creative touches like table coloring, and the soothing atmosphere complemented by good music. With ingredients imported for authenticity and generous portions, the dishes, such as the miso ramen and bittersweet broccoli, consistently exceed expectations. While the restaurant is cash-only, its warm service and high-quality food make it a standout choice for a unique dining experience in the Sierra.
For a delicious and authentic local breakfast or lunch, La Morenita is a standout choice in San José del Pacífico. This cozy family-run eatery serves traditional Mexican dishes like tlayudas, tacos, and pan dulce, all made with care and love. Visitors rave about the warm, homemade flavors, the rich hot chocolate, and the unbeatable value for money. Conveniently located on the main road, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy a hearty meal in a relaxed setting. With friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere, La Morenita is a must-visit for anyone craving a true taste of Oaxacan home-style cooking.
Time – Seasonality & Schedules
How do I get from Oaxaca City to San Jose del Pacifico?
Throughout the day, buses offer transportation from Oaxaca City to San José del Pacifico, Mexico, with an estimated travel time of around 3 hours, including a brief stop in Miahuatlán. In Oaxaca City, you can find two bus companies, Lineas Unidas and Eclipse 70, conveniently situated within close proximity, just a block away from each other. For a single journey, Lineas Unidas charges 140 pesos for a ticket.
Safety – Possible risks
While San José del Pacífico is generally a safe and welcoming destination, visitors should still exercise caution, especially if partaking in the region’s famous magic mushrooms or venturing into remote areas. Stumbling along the highway or acting irresponsibly can put you at risk of accidents or becoming a target for opportunistic theft. The town is quiet and peaceful, but like anywhere, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings, avoid excessive displays of wealth, and stay in well-lit or populated areas after dark. Always treat the region, its culture, and its traditions with respect, and ensure that your actions do not put you or others in harm’s way.
Please Note: Travel inherently comes with an element of risk (just like crossing the road does). You are putting yourself in elements that are unfamiliar and foreign to your usual lifestyle and with that, become more susceptible to fall victim to those who try to play off those unfamiliar to their local scams. There are also potential dangers in the environments to which you may not be accustomed.
Please take extra care in travelling, ensure that you have adequate medical insurance (accidents seem to happen when you least expect them), and have let a trusted colleague, family member or friend know your whereabouts and activities.
Where Sidewalks End travel advises you to travel at your own risk and to be extra aware of your surroundings (without letting it spoiling your time).
Pay – How much does it cost?
San José del Pacífico is a budget-friendly destination compared to larger tourist hubs like Oaxaca City, Puerto Escondido, or Huatulco. However, its remote location means many goods—especially non-local items like Asian or Italian food ingredients, factory-made clothing, or specialty supplies—need to be transported in. This adds to the cost of providing services, and paying fair prices ensures locals can maintain their livelihoods and continue offering these experiences.
The cost of your visit will vary depending on your choices:
- Budget-Friendly Options: For those on a tighter budget, staying in a hostel or more rustic accommodations and eating traditional, locally sourced meals will keep costs low. Meals at local comedores (simple eateries) often range from $100–200 pesos ($5–$10 USD), and hostel stays can start at just $150 pesos ($8 USD) per night.
- Mid-Range or Higher-End Options: If you prefer more comfort and variety, you can opt for a private cabin or boutique lodging paired with meals at international or upscale restaurants. Prices for private accommodations range from $500–$3000 pesos ($25–$150 USD) per night, depending on the amenities and views. Meals featuring imported ingredients or gourmet preparation can range from $200–$500 pesos ($10–$25 USD) per person.
- Local Experiences Add Value: Supporting the local economy by paying fair prices is more than a monetary exchange—it’s an investment in the community. When you pay for locally sourced meals, handcrafted goods, or accommodations run by locals, you’re helping sustain businesses that rely on tourism, especially in a region where traffic has decreased due to the highway bypass.
While San José del Pacífico offers a more affordable experience than many other destinations in Oaxaca, remember that the quality of your visit is deeply tied to the support you give to the people and businesses here. Paying fairly ensures that future travelers can enjoy this magical destination while helping the community thrive.
Responsible Travel – Best Practices
San José del Pacífico is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering serene landscapes, lush forests, and crisp mountain air. As a visitor, it’s essential to minimize your impact and contribute positively to the local community. Here are a few ways you can practice responsible tourism in this remarkable area:
- Respect Nature: Use reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste and ensure you leave no trash behind. This helps preserve the pristine environment for future visitors and the wildlife that calls this place home. Stick to designated trails and avoid damaging the flora and fauna.
- Support the Local Economy: Tourism has significantly declined since the construction of the new highway bypassing the town, leaving many businesses struggling to stay afloat. Supporting local restaurants, shops, and accommodations not only sustains the community but also enhances your experience by connecting you with authentic local flavors and traditions.
- Pay Fair Prices: Understand that the region is remote, and many goods need to be transported in to meet your needs and comforts. The prices asked by locals reflect these realities. Paying fairly helps ensure they can continue to provide services and maintain their livelihoods.
- Engage Respectfully: Take time to learn about the culture and traditions of the region. If you’re purchasing local crafts or food, engage with the artisans or vendors to understand their stories—it enriches your experience and fosters meaningful connections.
By being mindful of your impact and intentional in your choices, you contribute to preserving the magic of San José del Pacífico while supporting the people who call it home.
Reality Check – Be Aware
San José del Pacífico is renowned for its breathtaking views, peaceful ambiance, and its reputation for magic mushrooms. While the mushrooms hold deep ancestral and spiritual significance in the region, visitors need to understand the realities surrounding their use.
Firstly, though magic mushrooms are not legal in Mexico, they are somewhat tolerated in this area due to their cultural roots. However, this does not mean they are free of legal risk or consequences. Visitors should be mindful of the laws they are breaking and the cultural context in which they are engaging.
For those considering partaking, it’s crucial to approach the experience with respect and awareness. The mushrooms are viewed as sacred by the local people, not as a recreational substance for casual fun. If you choose to partake, ensure it’s in a safe, controlled environment, such as under the guidance of a knowledgeable local, and not out in public.
Stumbling along the highway or acting irresponsibly not only disrespects the local culture but also puts you in harm’s way. This behavior can lead to accidents, theft, or worse. While San José del Pacífico is generally safe, taking unnecessary risks increases your chances of encountering bad actors.
The magic of this region lies not only in its traditions but in its ability to offer peace and introspection. Treat the place and its customs with the reverence they deserve, and you’ll leave with a truly enriching experience.
JOIN US! WSE Travel Packages
This sounds like quite the adventure, right? We thought so too! Though we realize it can be pretty intimidating to get out there into the world on your own, especially when travelling to some of these off-the-beaten-path locations. We love it when our readers give it a shot and try it for themselves! In fact, please leave us feedback if you do!! If trying something ‘this’ adventurous on your own is just a bit outside of your comfort zone, WSE Travel is here to help!
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San José del Pacifico Travel Resources
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Have you been to San Jose del Pacifico?? Did you experience the ancestral magic mushrooms? Feel free to leave a comment and let me know how it was.
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