Oaxaca with 70-year old mother
 

She's adventurous and very curious (an Elderhostel type). I am curious whether someone who has minor mobility issues (not a wheelchair or a walker, just a little arthritis) would enjoy the town. Is it a lot of walking up and down hills?

Oaxaca city is an almost flat area and most of the interesting places in the city are very much near each other. So, she can just go around and if tired.. seat down for a while in a garden or the zocalo would be a lot of fun. If you want to visit arcaeological places then take a private tour and adjust your visits to the time she feels comfortable. One reference for a private guide is [email protected] but there are others too.

Thanks so much

Another thing I found taxis inexpensive in Oaxaca and safe. But this should be double checked with your hotel. When we were in Oaxaca in 2001 we flagged any taxi in the street and it turned out just fine.

I just returned from twelve days in Oaxaca and loved it. I, too was wondering about taking my parents, 79 and 80, who are world travellers and have no serious health issues. My husband and I walked everywhere and climbed all the ruins at Monte Alban.
One big problem for our parents, I believe would be the terrible sidewalks and streets. They are VERY rough and broken up with holes, as well as a lot of cobblestone. We saw one tourist (not really elderly) take a bad fall. It is not impossible, but you need to watch your step constantly and especially at night,when you can't see the problems as well. Taxis, though, are very cheap and safe. You'll love it!