Oaxaca (wah-HAH-kah) is Mexico's fifth largest state. Situated on the Pacific coast with a mile high plateau valley encircled by the Sierra Madre del Sur mountain range, Oaxaca graces its inhabitants with fertile soil and a mild climate. It has the largest concentration of Indian communities in the country. Nearly all who live here are descendants from the ancient Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations. Their pre-Hispanic culture still exercises influence as evidenced by the numerous dialects. Many speak Spanish as a second language. Additionally, this is one of the most unreached areas of Mexico.