Visit All Nacho Libre Filming Locations in Oaxaca, Mexico
A Self-Guided Google Map Tour from Villa de Etla to Oaxaca Centro
Contrary to popular belief, Nacho Libre (2006) was not entirely filmed in Oaxaca, Mexico. While many exteriors were filmed in and around Oaxaca Centro, most interior scenes unfolded within the sound stages of Universal Studios Hollywood backlot. With the primary storyline of the movie taking place in the Sanctuary of Las Peñitas in the outskirts of the Municipality of Villa de Etla.
Click on each location name to open the Google map pin on a separate browser tab.
Screenshots of the movie Nacho Libre are property of Paramount and Universal Pictures.
Exterior Locations in The Municipality of Villa de Etla
The Sanctuary of Las Peñitas or “The Nacho Libre Church” as it’s often referred as, stands on a rocky hill overlooking the region of Etla, Oaxaca. Locals believe God himself took rest here after creating the Earth, leaving a footprint and a knee impression on what is now a boulder formation that welcomes you at the foothill by the side of the road.
However, this sleepy town is surprisingly considered a fly over town despite its heavy influence and deeply embedded roots in Oaxaca’s ancient history. Perhaps it’s why it was chosen as the main filming location for the 2006 comedy Nacho Libre.
To get here via public transportation you can hop in a taxi foreáno in La Central or a bus, either will drop you off near the town square a block away from the Mercado Municipal. Take note that if you arrive via public transportation, you will have to walk to Las Peñitas or you catch a Mototaxi in front of the Bodega Aurrerá a short walk from the town square. Just remember to tell the Mototaxi driver to come back and get you after an hour.
The exterior of the Mercado Municipal de Villa de Etla, formerly known as Mercado Municipal Porfirio Díaz, served as a backdrop for a handful scenes in the movie.
However, if you plan to visit on Wednesdays during the bustling outdoor market, tracing those specific scenes might prove challenging.
Interestingly, Wednesdays were historically significant as the days when the ancient Zapotecs would also set up their vibrant outdoor market. Fortunately, the Mercado is conveniently located just a short walk away from where the taxi drops you off.
Exterior Locations in Oaxaca Centro
Arena Oaxaca
The fighting arena known as Arena Oaxaca in the movie does not exist. It is a large warehouse/public parking space which I’m told intermittently hosts lucha libre tournaments at random times.
For a few seconds you can see the fortified walls of Templo de San Agustín, a short walk south of El Zocalo. Note, the northeast side of the church was used in this scene.
Heartbreaking to learn that this beautiful home has been torn down to make space for, of all things, a Starbucks. Sadly, nothing remains of the former governor's residence. However, the water fountain in the middle of the roundabout still stands as a nostalgic reminder of what once was. Fortunately, the house behind the Fuente de la Lágrima is still there, with the same wooden door that appeared in the movie.
Just a short stroll north from Santo Domingo in Plaza Cruz de Piedra, you'll discover the remnants of the ancient aqueduct that gracefully flows from Barrio de Xochimilco.
As you venture a few feet further north, parallel to the aqueduct, you'll encounter a charming alley known as Calle de Nacho, where Steven famously swipes the chips.
While exploring this picturesque spot, please be mindful of the neighbors as this is a residential area. Also, note the signs (in Spanish) prohibiting photography. However, I have personally captured several photos here without encountering any issues.
The final scene of Nacho Libre was captured in the breathtaking ancient city of Monte Albán, a must-visit destination. You can conveniently reach this remarkable location by taking a taxi or bus directly from Oaxaca Centro, or you can opt for a guided tour offered by Las Bugambilias.
It's important to note that there is a nominal fee of to enter the archaeological site, but on Sundays, entrance is free for Mexican citizens upon presenting a valid ID at the ticket office.
Exterior Locations in Universal Studios Hollywood Backlot
As I stated earlier, most interior scenes as well as a handful of exterior scenes were filmed in Universal Studios Hollywood, specifically the Mexican Street (flash flood) area of the backlot.
Is Nacho Libre Inspired by A True Story?
In a way, yes. Nacho Libre draws inspiration from the remarkable life of Sergio Gutiérrez Benítez, also known as "Fray Tormenta." Born in 1945, Sergio had a troubled youth and battled addiction. After an addict died in his arms, he swore to always help the destitute, leading him to create an orphanage. He later became a secular priest in the Diocese of Texcoco, just outside of Mexico City.
In 1976, Sergio established the shelter, but funding became a concern. Inspired by a movie he had seen years ago, titled "El Señor Tormenta" (Mister Storm), where a priest becomes a wrestler to support his orphanage, Sergio adopted the persona of Fray Tormenta and ventured into the world of wrestling. Using his newfound fame and earnings to fund his noble cause for over two decades.
While Nacho Libre takes creative liberties and fictionalizes certain aspects, the film celebrates the resilience, determination, and unorthodox choices made by Fray Tormenta, offering a heartwarming and entertaining narrative inspired by his extraordinary life.
From Film to Reality: Share Your Nacho Libre Adventure
If you visit any or all of the Nacho Libre filming locations on your next trip to Oaxaca using this post as your guide, share your experiences in the comments below. And if we find ourselves in Oaxaca at the same time, I’ll be delighted to accompany you on the adventure and document it on 35mm film too.
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