Oaxaca is one of the most important destinations in Mexico due to its cultural, artistic, and culinary heritage. A walk through its historical center, designated as a World Heritage Site, will captivate you with its quaint streets, colonial architecture, markets, and restaurants. The Guelaguetza Festival is the major cultural event of Oaxaca, which takes place each July and has a nearly 100-year history. You will see the importance of this festival reflected in Oaxaca’s crafts, markets and art.

Oaxaca is located in the southern part of Mexico, lying in the Oaxaca Valley, in the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains. Oaxaca's famous archaeological zones, such as the Ruins at Monte Alban and Mitla, and the spectacular surrounding landscapes are a must-see. Oaxaca is the land from which magueys (agave) originates and where the world's best Mezcal is produced.

While you are coming here to race GFNY, there are so many activities to enjoy during your stay. Whether you like adventure, history, nature, colonial architecture, or you are a food lover, you will fall in love with Oaxaca!

The race starts at the Gimnasio Ricardo Flores Magón and finishes at the Polideportivo Venustiano Carranza. The first 5km will take you thru the colonial, colorful streets of downtown Oaxaca. The flat start and old-world city views will provide you for a scenic warm up before taking you out onto the Pan-American Highway and to the Mezcal region.

With its rolling hills and curving roads, this will be a fun ride while taking in the beautiful mountain views. Upon arriving in the Mezcal zone, the route will pass the magical town of Mitla, where the Zapotec culture once prospered. Enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the Sierra Madre Sur Mountains and Tiacolula Valleys as you take on the rolling hills.

Get your climbing legs ready to race up Carretera Antigua Spirito Santo. The 4.8km climb averages 4.5%. At the top, views of the entire Mezcal valley will reveal themselves. This will be the turn-around point. From here, medium route riders will head for the finish line back in the city of Oaxaca.

The long route races will make a right turn by the famous Benito Juarez monument to take on the final and toughest climb on the race. With a total length of 15km, maximum incline of 19%, and average of 6%, this will be a great challenge to enjoy while overlooking the beautiful forest and alpine mountain views. This is where the race will be decided. After reaching the highest point of the course at 2590m altitude, you will race back into the city of Oaxaca, back to where it started at the Oaxaca Convention Center.

Once you cross the finish line, you’ll be awarded the GFNY Oaxaca finisher medal, refreshing drinks, and a yummy pasta meal. From then you can relax and enjoy the entertainment at the finish area with live bands, DJ’s, massages, and of course the podium awards ceremony where we’ll be giving away some amazing prizes.