Travel with Community Education
Travel with purpose and discover the world in a way few travelers ever do. Our educational travel programs feature unique, custom-designed itineraries that combine learning, cultural immersion, and exclusive experiences not available through traditional travel agencies.
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Día de los Muertos in Oaxaca, Mexico: Tradition, Culture, and Celebration | October 29–November 4, 2026
Experience Oaxaca beyond the guidebooks during one of the most meaningful cultural celebrations in the world. From Day of the Dead traditions and Indigenous art to vibrant markets, ancestral mezcal, archaeology, cuisine, and community connections, this immersive journey offers unparalleled opportunities to learn directly from the people who keep Oaxaca's rich cultural heritage alive. This once-in-a-lifetime educational travel experience is brought to you through a partnership between Global Exchange, Community Education at Las Positas College, and the Las Positas College Spanish Department.
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Information Session Slide Deck
Day 1 – Welcome to Oaxaca
Arrive in Oaxaca, settle into your accomodations, meet your fellow travelers, and enjoy a welcome dinner as we prepare for an incredible week together.
Day 2 – Discover Historic Oaxaca
Explore Oaxaca City's UNESCO World Heritage historic center on guided walking and sightseeing tours. Learn about the city's rich history, architecture, and vibrant culture before enjoying free time to explore on your own.
Day 3 – Indigenous Art & Day of the Dead Traditions
Visit renowned artisan communities, meet master alebrije artists, and explore the Museum of Folk Art. In the evening, participate in traditional Day of the Dead celebrations, including a community dinner, cemetery vigil, and local cultural presentations.
Day 4 – Zapotec Traditions & Community Celebrations
Meet Zapotec women weavers, learn about natural dyeing techniques, visit the legendary Tule Tree, and experience an authentic Comparsa—a lively Day of the Dead community parade filled with music, costumes, and celebration.
Day 5 – Monte Albán & Oaxacan Culture
Tour the spectacular Monte Albán archaeological site before enjoying an evening featuring contemporary Indigenous art, traditional music, ancestral mezcal tasting, and authentic Oaxacan cuisine.
Day 6 – Indigenous Perspectives & Free Time
Gain insight into Indigenous women's leadership and human rights through a special presentation, enjoy free time for shopping or exploring Oaxaca, and celebrate the journey together at a farewell dinner.
Day 7 – Farewell Oaxaca
Enjoy one last breakfast together before heading to the airport with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca's people, culture, and traditions.
*Itinerary is subject to change.
What’s Included in the Trip Cost?
- Accommodations in Oaxaca City.
- Some meals.
- Private, air-conditioned transportation for scheduled activities and appropriate group airport transfers.
- English-speaking tour guide(s) accompanying the group throughout the scheduled touring program.
- Admission to museums, cultural sites, and scheduled program activities.
- Special presentations, talks, demonstrations, and experiences with local artists, artisans, speakers, and community members, including speaker honoraria.
- One to two bottles of water per day.
- Preparatory materials to help participants get ready for the experience.
What is not included?
- Round-trip airfare to/from Oaxaca
- Visa costs, if applicable
- Required travel insurance and strongly encouraged purcase of cancellation insurance
- Some meals and additional food/beverages
- Personal expenses, room service, medical expenses, and excess baggage charges
- A 3% processing fee if paying by credit card; the contract recommends ACH/EFT or other accepted non-credit-card payment methods to avoid this fee.
The cost of the Oaxaca trip is based on the final number of participants. The more travelers who join, the lower the cost per person.
| Number of Travelers | Double Occupancy | Single Occupancy |
|---|---|---|
| 6 travelers | $3,379.00 |
$3,993.00 |
| 7 travelers |
$3,062.00 |
$3,616.00 |
| 8 travelers | $2,825.00 | $3,379.00 |
| 9 travelers | $2,640.00 | $3,195.00 |
| 10 travelers | $2,493.00 | $3,048.00 |
These prices are land-only and do not include airfare. Double occupancy means sharing a room with another traveler. Travelers who prefer their own room may select the single-occupancy option at the higher rate
Cancellation & Refund Policy
Participants who need to cancel must submit their cancellation in writing. Cancellations become effective on the date the written notice is received.
- The $350 participant deposit is refundable through 11:59 p.m. on September 17, 2026 and is non-transferable. *3% processing fee is non refundable.
- By 9:00 pm September 26, 2026, 100% of the total trip cost is due an is nonrefundable, although Global Exchange may consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
- If Global Exchange cancels the tour because participant or staff safety is jeopardized or because circumstances outside its control prevent the trip from operating, Global Exchange will refund payments it has received from participants. However, it cannot assume responsibility for other losses travelers may incur, such as airfare or other independently purchased travel arrangements.
- Reminder* Travel insurance is required by the college, and we strongly recommend selecting coverage that includes trip cancellation protection.
Ready to Reserve Your Space?
Step 1:
Complete your Reality Tour Application with Global Exchange. The application will request the tour title, desitnation country, and depature date.
Title: Dia de los Muertos in Oaxaca
Desitnation Country: Mexico
Departure Date: 10/29/2026
Step 2:
After your registration application is received, you will receive a confirmation email from Global Exchange with next steps, including required forms, an orientation packet, payment instructions, and the payment schedule.
A $350 deposit is required to secure your space. Please do not submit payment before completing your registration so that Global Exchange can correctly match your payment with your application. Steps for collecting the deposit will be sent to you via email.
3% processing fee is non refundale.
Global Exchange is an international human rights organization that has worked for nearly 40 years to advance social, economic, and environmental justice.
Through education, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections, Global Exchange helps participants better understand global issues, local communities, and diverse perspectives.
Their Reality Tours are designed to provide meaningful travel experiences that connect visitors with local people, cultures, and grassroots organizations.
Presented in partnership with:
