day trip to xochimilco

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The Complete Guide to Visiting Xochimilco | Mexico City

A trip to Xochimilco can go one of two ways. Xochimilco can be a boring tourist trap where you sit on a boat in the hot sun for a few hours. On the other hand, it can be an amazing day spent with friends boozing and cruising along an ancient Aztec waterway. I’ve had both experiences at Xochimilco. When you get it right, Xochimilco is an absolutely roaring good time. It’s one of my favorite ways to spend a day in Mexico City. Day drinking, floating lazily on the river, and surrounded by vibrant music, good vibes, and people having fun. What more do you need?!

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Things To Know Before Going to Xochimilco

There are a few essentials you need to have before heading to Xochimilco. The most important is a squad. Each boat can fit between 12 to 15 people. You’ll want to have as close to that number as possible. When you’re on a boat for several hours, a variety of human energy is absolutely necessary so things stay lively and spiced up. Next up, booze and cash. It’s a lot more fun if people are pitching in for mariachi bands and shots of tequila along the way. Xochimilco is cash only. Make sure to have plenty on hand.

Xochimilco is also one of the few things that I’d recommend going when it’s most touristy. The weekends are prime time for a day out on the river. Tourist crowds can be annoying, but the energy at Xochimilco is electric and palpable on the weekends. The more people there are, the better.

Sunscreen, a hat, and lots of water are also essential in case you get a particularly hot day. There’s always shade on the boat, but basking in that sizzling Mexican sun hits different when you’re a little buzzed.

There’s not much else that you need to know before going. The routes are basically pre-set, so you can do a circuit of around two hours all the way up to around six hours if you want to make it to the Island of the Dolls. There’s not much customization otherwise. The boat captains know what they’re doing, so just trust them and go along for the ride.

Related: The Ultimate Mexico City Bucket List

How To Get To Xochimilco

The easiest way to get to Xochimilco from downtown Mexico City is by Uber. If you’ve squadded up like I’ve suggested, then the cost shouldn’t be too bad. On average, it cost about $200 pesos (about $10 USD) for the ride from downtown Mexico City. Split four ways, that’s $2.50 USD each. Another option is to book a tour to Xochimilco. If you don’t have your own group, it might be worth booking a tour. You might actually end up saving money as opposed to booking all your own transportation and a boat for yourself. If you plan on going solo, then going with a tour guarantees you’ll already have people to share the fun with. Here are a few Xochimilco tour options from GetYourGuide.

Oh, and before you take to the canals, make sure to have good travel insurance handy while you’re off adventuring across the world. I use SafetyWing to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $40 a month.

How Much Does A Trip to Xochimilco Cost?

The standard rate for renting a boat and hiring captain in Xochimilco is 500 pesos per hour, or about $25 USD. Luckily, that’s for the entire boat. The more people that you get on board, the lower the costs go per person. The first time I went to Xochimilco, there were just four of us. We only booked the boat for two hours because we didn’t want to spend a lot of money, and it worked out to 250 pesos ($12.50 USD) per person, not including the tip to the driver at the end. The second time I went, I wrangled together a group of 10 people, and then picked up two more local Mexicans once we arrived to the port.

We reserved the boat for five hours, splitting the 2500 peso cost 12 ways. For five hours on the boat, it worked out to be cheaper than my first visit to Xochimilco. This is why having a squad is crucial. It makes it a lot more fun and also a lot cheaper. You’ll have more money to go towards important things like beer and tequila.

You can bring your own booze on the boat to further save money. However, if you don’t, never fear. There are dozens of smaller boats floating through the canals with beer, tequila, cocktails, food, and more. Of course, it’ll be a little pricier than if you were to buy it at an Oxxo, but it’s still not too expensive.

The only other thing you could possibly spend money on at Xochimilco is mariachis. On average, a song will cost you 150 Mexican pesos. That’s about 10-20 pesos per person on your boat if you split the costs. Asking for multiple songs might also bring down the cost per song. This is Mexico. Bargaining is always possible. Bring cash because obviously none of the boat vendors or mariachis take card.

How To Have A Good F’in Time

Now that you’ve got a squad, a boat, a captain, and lots of booze, you are ready for an excellent day at Xochimilco. Bring the energy and be open to whatever surprises await along the canals of Xochimilco. Keep those feet dancin’ and the Coronas flowing. You have to be actively trying to be boring if you’re not having a good time at Xochimilco. Disfruta la vida weyyy!

Buy Me A Beer!

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

Also, be sure to check out my complete itinerary for backpacking in Mexico with 77 jam-packed pages covering over 33 different destinations in this amazing country!

My Complete Mexico Backpacking Itinerary

By popular demand… Here is the complete itinerary for one of my favorite countries in the world, Mexico. In this 77-page guidebook, I cover 30 of my favorite Mexican destinations, including how to get to each city, where to stay, and the best things to do in each city. I also include tidbits of useful information like things to know before going to Mexico, as well as my favorite party destina…

Where To Stay in Mexico City

Mexico City has a ton of amazing hostels to choose from, but these are a few of my favorites.

Hostel Suites DF
Massiosare El Hostel
Viajero CDMX
Hostal Mundo Joven Cathedral

Spending a Fun Day at Xochimilco on a Boat – The Trajinera

traveller Supriya

Xochimilco day trip simply cannot be excluded from your trip to Mexico City. It is the perfect way to step closer to the festive, and local life of Mexico.

On a Xochimilco day trip, you will traverse through canals in a traditional Mexican boat. Brace yourselves, because this will be no ordinary boating experience. There’s a reason why Xochimilco is a tourist hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In case you’re wondering, the name Xochimilco is a combination of the Nahuatl (Aztec) words xochitl and milli , meaning “where the flowers grow.”

Xochimilcan Day Trip Planner: Essential Facts to Know

After spending a couple of days exploring Mexico City , I was excited to see more places nearby. Xochimilco was one of the places that were suggested to me by some locals, so I decided to head out here for a day trip.

A Xochimilco day trip is the perfect way of spending a day on the outskirts of Mexico City. Following is a quick crash course on the things you must know before heading there:

Xochimilco is known for its canals. A ride through these canals was one of the favourite experiences of my Mexico Trip. However, other than canals, there are also a few other things that can be experienced on a day trip to Xochimilco.

5 Unmissable Xochimilco Day Trip Experiences on a ride through the Canals

Xochimilco is one hell of a place. A number of people claim that it’s highly touristy, commercialized, and overrated. However, I did not think so. You simply need to know the nitty-gritty of visiting this town, and you’ll have a great day.

When in Xochimilco, I recommend you don’t miss out on these 6 wonderful experiences on your ride through the Canals:

Although you just have a day here, I assure you it is going to become the highlight of your Mexico visit. Let me now delve deeper into each of the Xochimilco experiences

Xochimilco is a wonderful mix between the canals of Venice and the floating markets of Thailand. It is also a wonderful blend of festive and eerie. Visited by both locals and foreigners, Xochimilco makes for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City.

Navigate through the Canals and Chinampas on a Trajinera on Xochimilco Day Trip

In case you’re wondering what all these Spanish words mean, I’m here to help you out.

A chinampa is a Mesoamerican form of agriculture, which used small pieces of land on shallow lakes for growing crops.
A trajinera is a boat that was born in the 19 th Century. In Spanish, the verb ‘trajinar’ means ‘to carry goods from one side to another.’ Fortunately, this trajineras are still found in Mexico, and it doesn’t just end there. You can take your own sweet time, and explore the canals of Xochimilco in one.

Interestingly, every boat has a unique feminine name written on floral arches. On asking, I found out that these are traditional Mexican names, generally written to honour one of the owner’s family members.

However, in recent times, some of these trajineras have celebrity names. I assumed that’s to cater to the tourists.

These boats have a roof and are made entirely of wood. They’re hand-painted with bright neon colours and are extensively decorated with flowers.

Enjoying your ride on a Trajinera

Now, you really don’t need a guidebook for once you’re on a trajinera. Simply sit back, pop open a bottle of beer or two, and keep snacking away.

You will row past other parked trajineras that are equally eye-catching. It’s almost amazing how it is close to impossible to find two boats with the same name.

Coming to my boatman – I must say he was really adorable. He kept trying to converse with me in broken English, and I couldn’t help but smile. He wanted to know everything – where I was from, what I love about Mexico, what I do and so on.

My trajinera passing through the canal. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, you will also find quiet parts in the middle. I could hear the birds chirping, and the calming sound of the water. It was such a serene sight, that no photograph can do justice to it.

Snack at Trajinera on your day visit to Xochimilco

What’s a good party without good food and good drinks?

Now, there are two options when it comes to catering to your hunger pangs:

Buying food on the ride – While you’re traversing through the canals, plenty of boats and canoes will pass you by. They’re filled with vendors selling all sorts of local Mexican snacks. Now, obviously, these are way overpriced – you’re being served fresh food in the comforts of your boat.
Stocking up before your ride – If you want to enjoy a Xochimilco day trip with a tighter budget, stock up in advance. A number of convenience shops mark the town, and they sell quite literally all sorts of snacks and drinks. Additionally, you’ll find plenty of street food being sold at the stalls around Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas. You could also visit Xochimilco Market and pick from a wide variety of local delicacies.

Personally, I stuck to buying food beforehand. However, it might get a little difficult to control your temptations if you spend a considerable amount of time on the boat.

You’ll find vendors selling all things delicious – grilled hot corn with a creamy and spicy dressing, fresh soft tortillas brimming with beans, sauce, and cheese, and some really cool alcoholic beverages. The best part is that these are served to you fresh and hot.

Try some local drinks on your Trajinera Ride at Xochimilco

You could stock up on a few beers before you get going with the Mexican party on a trajinera. Do not worry about your beers warming up – the trajineras are well-equipped. You can store all your drinks in the cooler and get the party started.

I mean, imagine watching life passing by on the canal while enjoying a cold beer or two.

Note: In case you were planning to drive down to Mexico, remember that Xochimilco offers some really delicious and innovative alcoholic beverages. If you’re going to want to try them, stick to coming by metro, or Uber.

Get ready for an Eerie Experience in Xochimilco at the Island of Dolls

Would it be weird if I told you that on my Xochimilco day trip, there were also things that were plain spooky, mysterious, and just a little creepy?

The Island of Dolls is just that!

Just when you are settled into the rhythm of the boat ride and think all are going well, something creepy will come your way. It’s almost like you’re part of a dramatic horror movie.

A sudden appearance of severed dolls hanging creepily on trees will send chills down your spine. This island is called Isla de las Muñecas (a.k.a. The Island of the Dolls). This creepy sight will more than awaken your senses, despite it being seen in broad daylight.

Now, even local travellers have started hanging hundreds of old and spooky dolls. They have severed hands and heads, with gouged out eyes. I couldn’t get myself to get comfortable with this. After spending a happy one hour in the trajinera, this came as a contrast

The Legend Behind the Island of Dolls

Legend has it that once upon a time there was a little girl, who drowned here under mysterious circumstances. A man by the name of Don Julian Santana Barrera found the dead body and a doll next to her.

Apparently, he believed that he was haunted by her spirits. To get rid of them, he hung the doll on a tree and started adding more and more dolls.

This is certainly not a sight I anticipated in a vibrant and cheerful place like Xochimilco. It suddenly made sense as to why people think this place is haunted.

Enjoy some Music & Dance on Xochimilco Day Trip at a Boat Party

As your trajinera slowly passes this creepy island, you move towards the central area of the canal system. Here, the energy levels begin to rise and a true festive spirit dominates.

You will definitely notice three sights here

Vendors selling a myriad of things on their little boat row closer to your trajinera . It could be anything – tacos, roasted corn cobs, boiled corn, beer, fruit salad and even souvenirs.
Amidst floating vendors, the band of mariachi singers dressed traditionally in gold, silver, yellow or purple hues is picturesque.
There are also Xylophonists and brass bands playing classic Mexican tunes, as well as modern chart numbers

These musicians and singers charge anywhere around MXN 300 (INR 1000) to treat you to a few songs. Without any doubt, it is tempting to hire them for a live concert where they will hop onto your boat and sing personally for you.

If you’re a music and dance buff, you can dance to the tunes of the Mariachi singers on the boat’s open platform.

However, it is up to you if want to pay that amount. If you are on a budget, you can hear their loud and energetic music from neighbouring boats as you row past them.

All this raucousness at a point in the canal where the business is at its peak is a sight to behold.

Lastly, your boatman will stop near a chinampa selling a variety of native and decorative plants.

I found out that Mexicans have a tradition of buying flowers and plants. Here, you’ll find some of the largest flower markets in Mexico City. Most of them are native plants and a number of locals were busy making purchases. It was an absolute visual delight.

Capture the Locale on your day trip to Xochimilco

Now, if you think riding on a trajinera only entails watching chinampas and other canoes pass by, you’re fortunately mistaken. A Xochimilco day trip is truly a multi-sensory experience.

Local families picnicking, rowdy teenagers dancing their way through the ride, fragrant Mexican snacks, lively Mariachi singers, and a curious bunch of travellers light up the scene at Xochimilco every single day.

As you must know by now, this place is a visual delight. You can generously click as many pictures as you want.

However, if you want to click a picture of a vendor or a boatman, it would be respectful to ask for their permission. Sometimes, they expect you to buy something from them in exchange for a picture. So, to avoid being stuck in an unpleasant situation, clarify in advance.

Also, your boatman would be more than happy to click a few pictures of you. Do so without hesitance, for it’s great to have some photographs of yourself from this utopian, happy place.

Once you near the end of your trajinera trip, thank your boatmen. Your Xochimilco boat party is, unfortunately, coming to an end.

Later, you can head outside and wander around to see what a typical Mexican town looks like.

3 Wonderful Places to Visit on your Xochimilco Day trip (Outside the Canals)

You can continue your Xochimilco day trip by exploring the rest of the town. Contrary to what a lot of people think, Xochimilco is much more than canals.

1. Don’t miss out on the Museums on your Xochimilco Day Trip

Take a short cab ride from the canals to this area in a town called La Noria. If museums interest you, visit the Dolores Olmedo Patiño Museum . It houses one of the finest collections of artwork by Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo – two of Mexico’s finest artists.

Beautiful peacocks mark the green law on the outside of the museum. Also, a wide variety of plants and flowers grow in the spacious gardens. I loved my visit to the Dolores Olmedo Patiño Museum , not just for the beautiful artwork, but for how pretty the setting was.

2. Visit a ‘Pulqueria’ on your day trip to Mexico

Pulquerias are basically a Mexican joint serving a variety of cocktails, with snacks and nibbles to munch on. However, they’re most popular for selling ‘Pulque,’ an iconic and traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage made from fermented agave.

You can visit Pulqueria el Templo de Diana in Xochimilco. It is mostly visited by locals after a few hours spent at the canal, but travellers are equally welcome.

Pulque is definitely not the most aesthetically pleasing beverage, but it’s still worth a try.

Tip: It’s quite strong in terms of its effects, so do not overdo it especially if it’s your first time.

3. Churches of Xochimilco

Later, you can head to the 16th-century San Bernardino de Siena church, about 3 kilometres from the museum. It is a church that features simple architecture – a high roof and a courtyard within the church complex.

Fun Fact: Back in time, part of this church complex was used to educate Indians for about two whole centuries.

How to Choose a Trajinera for your Xochimilco Day Trip and What’s a Good Price?

Now, as you might have guessed, there are many boats to choose from at the Embarcadero. Before settling for one, try to bargain as much as possible. However, there’s generally a set rate by the local government body, and you won’t pay anywhere less than that.

The current rate is 500 MXN for a one-hour ride in the boat. (as of July 2019)

By the way, you can save a lot of money if you team up with other people. You do not have to miss out on a trajinera ride if you’re travelling solo and cannot afford it all by yourself. Remember that there are going to be many like you, and they’d be more than willing to share the ride.

Tip: Try and befriend another group outside the entrance and not in front of the boatmen .

Taking Private Day Tours to Xochimilco- Is it worth it?

A number of companies offer day tours to Xochimilco. If private tours that have it all organised for you are something you want, you can certainly opt for them. Most of them start from Mexico City, and you will also be offered pick-up and drop services.

Although this is generally more expensive than going independently, it does have its perks. They are generally coupled with a visit to Coyoacan. A live guided tour (offered both in Spanish and English) will offer you insights into the history, culture and life of Xochimilco . Additionally, it’s an easy way to meet like-minded travellers and make some new friends.

Tip: Instead of simply making a booking for a tour online, inquire about your place of stay in Mexico City. Also, clarify what’s included in the plan.

This is a photograph of the colourful trajineras parked at the embarcaderos. Nuevo Nativitas is where the parking lot and the main boat launch are. This is where the real hustle is, and also the place to get the best deal. Make sure you make your way here.

Taking a Day trip to Xochimilco from Mexico City- 2 Travel Options

Most non-Mexicans visit Xochimilco on a guided tour. Many of these tours also include visits to other attractions in the canal-town. If this works for you, go for it.

However, I personally believe it’s super easy to visit Xochimilco by yourself. Also, the perks of independent travel are many – most importantly, you have the freedom and leeway to do whatever you want, whenever you want.

So, if this type of travel pleases you, the best way to reach Xochimilco would be by metro.

1. The Most Affordable Commute Option from Mexico to Xochimilco– Metro

To start with, head to the closest local metro station. Then, take the blue metro line to the last station called Tasqueña. At Tasqueña, you’ll find a train (Tren Ligero) that exclusively takes you to Xochimilco. The journey is about an hour long and quite crowded on weekends.

Tip: Download ‘Mexico City Metro App & Route Planner’ on your smartphone. It will help ease your metro trips in the city.

Tren Ligero (light Train)

The last station on the Tren Ligero is Xochimilco, so that’s pretty convenient. Once you’re off the train, you can either walk or take a 10-minute taxi ride to Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas. An embarcadero basically means a pier in Spanish.

Remember that there are thousands of signs and boards scattered around the station. All of these will try to direct you to different embarcaderos. However, the smaller ones are generally quieter (not the good quiet), and more expensive.

2. Take a comfortable Uber ride from Mexico City to Xochimilco

Although this is not a frequently chosen option, I’ll lay down the details. If you’re someone that simply cannot handle public transit, you might want to explore the taxi scene. The thing is, road travel in Mexico City is highly unpredictable in terms of both traffic and fares.

Be prepared to shell out at least 300 pesos one-way. Chances are that fares will be even higher on your way back – thanks to the unending traffic.

So, as advice, try stepping out of your comfort zone. Hop on to a metro – it really isn’t all the scary.

When’s the Best Time to take a Xochimilco Day Tour?

Xochimilco is completely different on weekends and weekdays. As per me, the best day for Xochimilco is Sunday, but it depends on your preferences. Here’s how Xochimilco on weekends and weekdays is different:

Note: Xochimilco hours of operation are from 9 AM-6 PM every day.

A Xochimilco Day Trip During Easter

If you visit during Easter celebrations in the month of March, you can witness the annual Fiesta de la Flor Mas Bella del Ejido (Festival of the most beautiful flower of the land).

This festival is considered to be a Cultural Heritage of Humanity and can be dated back to pre-Hispanic times. Girls dressed in traditional attires and floral headgear worship Xochiquetzal , the goddess of flower, love and beauty.

Every year, a young woman is crowned La Flor Mas Bella del Ejido (the most beautiful flower in the land). She then presides over colourful parades on flower-decorated barges along Xochimilco’s famed canals.

Know a little about Xochimilco’s Mind-Boggling History before your visit

When I visited Xochimilco, I was faced with a lot of questions. Some of them were “how?” and “why?” After doing some asking around and some reading up, I found out about the interesting past of Xochimilco.

In case you did not know, all of Mexico City is built on a vast lake. As you might have guessed by now, so is Xochimilco. Xochimilco was originally set up on the southern shore of Lake Xochimilco during the days of the Aztecs.

How was Xochimilco built?

Back in time, the Aztecs introduced a large-scale traditional cultivation method called chinampa . This technique involved artificially interweaving reeds to form islands.

Next, soil and vegetation that was to be grown, were added on top of these reeds to form tiny floating islands. So, although these islands are man-made, they’re built from 100% natural resources.

Finally, channels were created between these chinampa s to form canals wide enough for canoes to pass. As time passed, the water level in the lake receded. With further pumping of underground water in the 20 th century, all that is left of this glorious lake now, are the canals that we see in Xochimilco today.

Returning from Xochimilco Day Trip with Memories

At the end of this memorable day, you can walk back from the church to Terminal Xochimilco at San Pedro, and take the TrenLigero back to Mexico City. I spent my time on the train reminiscing about my colourful day and going through the endless stream of photographs. It was almost like I could still hear the Mariachi bands, still, taste the crispy tortilla chips, and still feel the gentle breeze against my face. What a day.

I hope this Xochimilco day trip guide provides all the necessary guidance for you to have a hassle-free experience. Feel free to drop in the comments below if you have any questions.

Happy wayfaring 🙂

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

Introduction

Welcome to Xochimilco, a vibrant neighborhood located in the southern part of Mexico City. Known for its iconic canals and floating gardens called chinampas, Xochimilco offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Mexico. This article will take you on a virtual day trip to Xochimilco, providing insights into its fascinating history, traditional agriculture, diverse wildlife, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural activities.

Xochimilco dates back to pre-Hispanic times, when it was an essential part of the Aztec empire. The area was once covered by a vast system of canals and lakes, which provided fertile ground for agriculture. Over time, the Aztecs developed an innovative farming technique called chinampas, which involved creating floating gardens on the lakebeds. These chinampas became the backbone of Xochimilco’s agricultural system, enabling the Aztecs to grow a wide variety of crops to feed their population.

Today, Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Its canals and chinampas have managed to withstand the test of time, offering visitors a glimpse into the ancient ways of life still practiced in the area. Riding on colorful trajineras (traditional Mexican boats), you can meander through the canals, marveling at the floating gardens and immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

Xochimilco is not just about agriculture and canals; it is also home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife and vegetation. The canals provide a sanctuary for numerous bird species, including herons, ducks, and even the iconic Mexican axolotl, a critically endangered amphibian. Exploring Xochimilco’s natural wonders allows you to connect with nature and appreciate the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems.

Moreover, Xochimilco offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional cuisine. From tasting fresh seafood delicacies to indulging in colorful tamales and sipping on refreshing pulque, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the maguey plant, there is something to satisfy every palate. You can even visit the local food markets to sample a variety of local produce and traditional dishes.

But Xochimilco is not just a place for natural and culinary enthusiasts; it is also a hub of cultural activities and events. Traditional music, dance performances, and festivals are frequent occurrences, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Mexico. You can witness traditional Mariachi bands serenading visitors, colorful papier-mâché dolls parading the streets during Carnival, or even join in the lively celebrations of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

As you explore Xochimilco, it’s essential to keep in mind the importance of sustainable tourism. The area’s fragile ecosystem requires responsible and respectful visitors who appreciate the delicate balance between conservation and tourism. By supporting local businesses, engaging in eco-friendly activities, and respecting the local customs and traditions, you can contribute to the preservation of Xochimilco’s unique cultural and natural heritage.

So get ready for an authentic day trip to the chinampas of Xochimilco, where you can immerse yourself in the fascinating history, enjoy the natural beauty, savor the traditional cuisine, and embrace the vibrant cultural experiences that this UNESCO World Heritage Site has to offer.

Historical background of Xochimilco

Xochimilco has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. The name “Xochimilco” is derived from the Nahuatl words “Xochitl,” which means flower, and “milli,” which means field or plantation. This name perfectly captures the essence of the area, known for its vibrant and blooming gardens.

During pre-Hispanic times, Xochimilco was an essential part of the Aztec empire. The area was characterized by a network of lakes, canals, and artificial islands known as chinampas. The Aztecs ingeniously constructed these chinampas by layering mud and vegetation on mats made of woven reeds. These floating gardens provided fertile grounds for agriculture and allowed the Aztecs to grow a wide variety of crops, including maize, beans, squash, and flowers.

With its fertile land and abundant water supply, Xochimilco became a vital agricultural center and a major food source for the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan (present-day Mexico City ). The chinampas allowed the Aztecs to cultivate enough food to sustain their growing population, making Xochimilco a crucial contributor to the empire’s prosperity.

However, with the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century, the landscape of Xochimilco underwent significant changes. The Spanish drained many of the lakes and canals to make way for new urban settlements and to combat frequent flooding. The destruction of natural waterways disrupted the delicate balance of the ecosystems and had a lasting impact on the area’s agriculture and biodiversity.

Despite the changes brought about by the Spanish colonization, Xochimilco managed to preserve its cultural and agricultural traditions. The chinampas, though scarcer, have continued to be cultivated by local farmers, using traditional methods passed down through generations.

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, Xochimilco was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. The designation highlights the importance of preserving and promoting the unique cultural practices and natural features that make Xochimilco a remarkable destination.

Today, Xochimilco serves not only as a living testament to Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past but also as a thriving neighborhood where locals maintain a deep connection to their heritage. Visitors can explore Xochimilco’s canals, learn about the ancient farming techniques still in use, and experience the rich cultural traditions that have remained intact over the centuries.

What are chinampas?

Chinampas are floating gardens that have been a defining feature of Xochimilco for centuries. These man-made islands are an ingenious farming technique developed by the Aztecs and are still in use today.

Constructed on the shallow waters of Xochimilco’s lakebeds, chinampas consist of rectangular or oval-shaped plots of land, typically measuring about 30 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. They are created by layering mud, organic matter, and aquatic plants on a base of woven reeds. The result is a floating garden that has a spongy and fertile soil structure.

To create a chinampa, a wooden frame is anchored to the lakebed by driving long poles into the ground. This frame is then filled with mud and vegetation. The plants used in constructing chinampas, such as willows and reeds, have root systems that help anchor the structure and prevent it from drifting away.

Once established, chinampas are used for cultivating a variety of crops. The nutrient-rich soil, combined with the constant supply of water from the canals, allows for year-round cultivation and multiple harvests. The Aztecs used these floating gardens to grow staple crops such as maize, beans, squash, and amaranth.

Chinampas offer several advantages over traditional farming methods. The buoyancy of the chinampa structure helps prevent soil erosion caused by heavy rains or floods. Additionally, the fertile soil and constant access to water ensure optimal growing conditions, resulting in high crop yields.

Another benefit of chinampas is their efficient use of space. By cultivating crops on the water’s surface, the Aztecs could maximize the available land and meet the food demands of a growing population.

Besides their agricultural significance, chinampas also contribute to the preservation of Xochimilco’s ecosystems. The roots of the vegetation on the chinampas help filter and purify the water, improving its quality and providing a habitat for a wide range of aquatic plants and animals.

Visiting Xochimilco and experiencing the chinampas firsthand is a unique opportunity to witness this remarkable farming technique that has stood the test of time. Today, you can take a trajinera (a colorful wooden boat) ride through the canals, passing by an array of chinampas, and even have the chance to visit local farmers who continue to cultivate these floating gardens using traditional methods.

Getting to Xochimilco

Xochimilco is located in the southern part of Mexico City, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. There are several convenient ways to reach this vibrant neighborhood and immerse yourself in the cultural and natural wonders it has to offer.

One of the most popular ways to get to Xochimilco is by taking the Metro. The nearest Metro station to Xochimilco is Tasqueña, which is on line 2 (blue line). From there, you can take the light rail train, known as the Tren Ligero, which will take you directly to Xochimilco. The journey takes about 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the city as you approach the canals.

If you prefer a more leisurely journey, you can also opt to take a taxi or an Uber to Xochimilco. Taxis are widely available throughout Mexico City, and using a ride-sharing app like Uber can provide a convenient and hassle-free experience. Just keep in mind that traffic in Mexico City can be heavy, especially during peak hours, so plan your trip accordingly.

For those who prefer organized tours, many tour operators offer day trips to Xochimilco. These tours often include a visit to the chinampas, a leisurely trajinera ride through the canals, and the opportunity to indulge in traditional Mexican cuisine and live music. These tours typically pick up participants from central locations in Mexico City and provide round-trip transportation.

Once you arrive in Xochimilco, the main point of access to the canals and chinampas is the Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas. This is where you can rent a trajinera and begin your journey through the canals. The Embarcadero is easily identifiable by its colorful boats lined up along the shore.

Whether you choose to explore Xochimilco independently or join a guided tour, it’s worth noting that the best time to visit is during weekdays or early mornings on weekends. Xochimilco can be crowded with tourists and locals enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, especially on weekends and holidays.

As for transportation within Xochimilco, trajineras are the primary mode of transportation for navigating the canals. These long and narrow wooden boats are manned by experienced boatmen who will guide you through the waterways and share interesting facts about the area. You can negotiate the price and duration of your trajinera ride with the boatman before embarking on your journey.

Getting to Xochimilco is an exciting adventure in itself, offering glimpses of Mexico City’s urban landscape as you make your way to this cultural and natural oasis. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, once you arrive, you’ll find yourself captivated by the beauty and tranquility of Xochimilco’s canals and chinampas.

Exploring the chinampas

One of the highlights of visiting Xochimilco is the opportunity to explore the fascinating chinampas, the floating gardens that have been a defining feature of the area for centuries. Stepping onto a colorful trajinera (traditional Mexican boat), you can embark on a memorable journey through the canals, immersing yourself in the unique beauty and cultural significance of the chinampas.

As you navigate the canals, you will be surrounded by a picturesque landscape of lush vegetation, vibrant flowers, and the tranquility of the water. The trajineras are handcrafted wooden boats adorned with bright colors and often named after popular Mexican singers, actors, or historical figures. Each boat is operated by an experienced boatman who serves as your guide, providing insightful information about the area and its history.

The chinampas themselves are a sight to behold. These floating gardens, created by layering mud, organic matter, and aquatic plants on a base of woven reeds, are a testament to the innovative and sustainable agricultural techniques of the Aztecs. You can marvel at the intricate network of chinampas, each one carefully tended by local farmers who continue to practice traditional cultivation methods.

During your journey, you may have the opportunity to step off the trajinera and explore the chinampas up close. Walking on these floating islands gives you a unique perspective on the innovative farming practices and the harmonious coexistence between nature and agriculture. You can witness farmers at work, tending to their crops and maintaining the delicate balance required to sustain the chinampas.

While on the chinampas, you will notice a wide variety of crops being grown. Maize (corn), beans, squash, and various types of flowers are the traditional staples. The farmers take great pride in their produce, and you may have the chance to taste some fresh fruits or vegetables straight from the chinampas.

Exploring the chinampas is not just about witnessing the agricultural practices; it’s also a chance to connect with the rich cultural heritage of Xochimilco. The boatmen often entertain visitors with traditional Mexican songs, enhancing the joyful and festive atmosphere. You can sit back and relax, enjoying the melodies and absorbing the beauty of your surroundings.

As you immerse yourself in the experience, take a moment to appreciate the significance of the chinampas in preserving the environment and supporting local communities. These floating gardens contribute to the ecological balance of the region, acting as natural water filters and providing habitats for various plant and animal species.

Exploring the chinampas in Xochimilco is not just a visual treat; it’s an opportunity to understand and appreciate the centuries-old farming techniques that continue to thrive in this unique part of Mexico City. So, get ready to step aboard a trajinera, set sail on the canals, and embark on a journey through the captivating world of the chinampas.

Traditional agriculture in Xochimilco

Traditional agriculture plays a vital role in the cultural heritage and sustainability of Xochimilco. The area’s unique farming practices, rooted in ancient Aztec techniques, have been preserved and passed down through generations, contributing to the preservation of the chinampas and the surrounding ecosystem.

At the heart of traditional agriculture in Xochimilco are the iconic chinampas, the floating gardens that serve as the foundation for cultivation. These man-made islands, made from a combination of mud, organic matter, and aquatic plants, provide a fertile bed for a variety of crops. By utilizing the chinampas, local farmers are able to grow an array of traditional staples such as maize (corn), beans, squash, and amaranth.

The cultivation methods used in Xochimilco’s traditional agriculture are based on principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship. The farmers follow an agroecological approach, which emphasizes the conservation and preservation of natural resources. They prioritize organic techniques and avoid the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, promoting the health of the soil and the overall ecosystem.

A key element of traditional agriculture in Xochimilco is the practice of companion planting. In this method, different crops are interplanted in a way that benefits each other. For example, maize provides a natural trellis for climbing beans, while beans enrich the soil with nitrogen, benefiting the growth of other plants. This symbiotic relationship allows for effective pest control and nutrient cycling.

Another important aspect of traditional agriculture in Xochimilco is the preservation of native plant varieties. Local farmers prioritize the cultivation of heirloom crops, which are traditional plant varieties that have been grown for generations without significant genetic modification. By preserving these native varieties, farmers contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and help maintain the region’s agricultural heritage.

The farmers of Xochimilco continue to use traditional tools and techniques in their daily work. Many still rely on hand labor, using wooden tools and traditional agricultural practices passed down through their families. This commitment to traditional methods not only preserves cultural heritage but also ensures a connection to the land and a deep understanding of the local ecosystem.

Traditional agriculture in Xochimilco is not just about farming; it is deeply intertwined with the social fabric of the community. Local farmers often collaborate and share knowledge, passing down traditions and fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the maintenance and preservation of the chinampas. This collaborative spirit is reflected in the community’s organization of agricultural fairs and festivals, where farmers come together to celebrate their heritage and showcase their harvests.

Visiting Xochimilco provides a unique opportunity to witness and support traditional agriculture. Exploring the chinampas, engaging with local farmers, and learning about their sustainable practices allows visitors to appreciate the deep-rooted connection between culture, agriculture, and the environment. By supporting the preservation of traditional agriculture in Xochimilco, we contribute not only to the local economy but also to the conservation of a unique agricultural system that has sustained communities for centuries.

Wildlife and biodiversity in Xochimilco

Xochimilco is not only a cultural and historical treasure but also a haven for wildlife and biodiversity. The canals and chinampas of Xochimilco provide a unique ecosystem that supports a remarkable array of plant and animal species.

One of the iconic species found in Xochimilco is the Mexican axolotl. This critically endangered amphibian is native to the region and is considered a living fossil. Known for its unique ability to regrow body parts, including limbs and even parts of its brain and heart, the axolotl symbolizes the resilience of Xochimilco’s natural environment. Efforts are underway to protect and restore the axolotl population and its habitat in Xochimilco.

The canals and wetlands of Xochimilco also provide a habitat for numerous bird species. You can spot a variety of avian wildlife, including herons, ducks, egrets, and various migratory birds. Xochimilco is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Moreover, Xochimilco’s waters support a diverse array of aquatic life. In addition to the axolotl, you may encounter fish, turtles, and various amphibious creatures as you journey through the canals. These aquatic ecosystems play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of Xochimilco’s biodiversity.

The preservation of the chinampas and their associated flora and fauna is an ongoing effort in Xochimilco. Local farmers and environmental organizations have collaborated to protect and restore these habitats, ensuring the survival of unique plant species that have adapted to the wet and fertile conditions of the region. By supporting sustainable tourism and responsible practices, visitors can contribute to the conservation efforts in Xochimilco and help safeguard its wildlife and biodiversity.

Exploring the wildlife and biodiversity of Xochimilco not only offers a glimpse into the natural wonders of the area but also highlights the importance of preserving these delicate ecosystems. By promoting conservation and sustainable practices, Xochimilco can continue to be a thriving habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species for future generations to enjoy.

Traditional cuisine and food markets

One of the highlights of visiting Xochimilco is the opportunity to indulge in the rich and delightful traditional cuisine of the region. From mouthwatering street food to vibrant marketplaces, Xochimilco is a haven for food lovers.

Exploring the local food markets in Xochimilco is a sensory experience like no other. The markets are filled with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and a bustling atmosphere. Here, you can find a wide variety of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Some of the most popular markets to visit include Mercado Xochimilco and Mercado de Plantas Medicinales, where you can immerse yourself in the local food culture and interact with friendly vendors.

At these markets, you can also sample a range of traditional Mexican dishes prepared right before your eyes. Tamales, filled with savory meats or sweet fillings like pineapple or chocolate, are a must-try specialty. Other delicious treats include tlacoyos (thick corn tortillas stuffed with beans and topped with various ingredients), quesadillas, and sopes. Don’t forget to complement your meal with refreshing aguas frescas, fruit-flavored drinks, or indulge in a cup of pulque, a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of the maguey plant.

For seafood enthusiasts, Xochimilco is renowned for its freshwater delicacies. Charales, a type of small fish, are often deep-fried and served as a popular street food snack. You can also savor delicious dishes featuring freshwater shrimp, catfish, and carp, prepared with traditional techniques and flavorful spices.

When visiting Xochimilco, be sure to experience a traditional comida (midday meal) at one of the local restaurants. These establishments serve authentic Mexican dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. From spicy mole sauces to slow-cooked barbacoa (marinated meat) and nourishing caldos (soups), the traditional flavors of Xochimilco will tantalize your taste buds.

Food tours and cooking classes are another fantastic way to explore and learn about traditional cuisine in Xochimilco. These experiences allow you to go beyond tasting the dishes and delve into the cooking techniques and cultural significance behind each preparation. You can join knowledgeable guides who will take you to hidden gems and teach you the secrets of making traditional Mexican dishes.

Traditional cuisine in Xochimilco not only offers a delectable culinary experience but also provides a window into the region’s rich cultural heritage. By indulging in the traditional dishes and supporting local food vendors and markets, you contribute to the preservation of these culinary traditions and the livelihoods of the people who bring these flavors to life.

So, whether you’re exploring the bustling food markets or dining in a cozy restaurant, Xochimilco offers a gastronomic journey that will leave you savoring the authentic flavors of Mexico.

Cultural activities and events in Xochimilco

Immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural scene of Xochimilco is an essential part of the experience when visiting this fascinating neighborhood. Throughout the year, Xochimilco hosts a variety of cultural activities and events that showcase the rich traditions and heritage of the local community.

Music is intrinsic to the cultural fabric of Xochimilco, and you can often hear the sounds of traditional Mariachi bands echoing through the streets. These skilled musicians serenade visitors and locals alike, adding to the lively and festive atmosphere of the area. Listening to a mariachi performance while cruising through the canals on a trajinera is a memorable and immersive experience.

Throughout the year, Xochimilco also hosts a range of traditional dance performances and festivals. One of the most celebrated events is Carnival, which takes place in February or March. The streets come alive with colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and traditional music as participants dance and celebrate in honor of this vibrant festival. Another significant cultural event is Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a holiday dedicated to honoring and remembering deceased loved ones. During this time, Xochimilco transforms into a magical setting with beautifully decorated altars and candle-lit trajineras floating along the canals.

Artisans play a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the local culture of Xochimilco. You can explore the works of local craftsmen by visiting the various art galleries and workshops in the area. From vibrant ceramics and intricate woodcarvings to colorful textile creations, the craftsmanship found in Xochimilco reflects the traditions and artistic expressions of the community.

Visiting Xochimilco during the weekends provides an opportunity to experience the lively and bustling atmosphere of the local tianguis (street markets). Here, you can browse an array of handmade crafts, traditional clothing, and local products. From colorful embroidered garments to delicious street food snacks, these markets offer a sensory experience that highlights the vibrant culture of Xochimilco.

In addition to the regular cultural activities, Xochimilco also hosts special events and exhibitions throughout the year. These events may include art installations, live music performances, theater productions, and more. Checking the local event listings will ensure that you don’t miss out on any unique cultural experiences during your visit.

By participating in these cultural activities and events, visitors have the opportunity to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of Xochimilco. These experiences not only provide a deeper understanding of the local community but also contribute to the preservation and promotion of the area’s identity and traditions.

So, whether you’re joining in the lively festivities of a traditional festival or admiring the craftsmanship of local artisans, cultural activities and events in Xochimilco offer a captivating and enriching experience that celebrates the vibrant traditions and heritage of Mexico.

Sustainable tourism in Xochimilco

Sustainable tourism practices are crucial for preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Xochimilco. As a visitor to this unique neighborhood, it is essential to engage in responsible and sustainable activities that minimize negative impacts and contribute to the long-term preservation of this exceptional destination.

One of the most significant ways to practice sustainable tourism in Xochimilco is to support local businesses and communities. This includes staying in locally owned accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and purchasing crafts and products from local artisans and vendors. By directly supporting the local economy, you contribute to the well-being of the community and ensure that tourism benefits the residents of Xochimilco.

Respecting the natural environment is another crucial aspect of sustainable tourism in Xochimilco. When navigating the canals, be mindful of the wildlife and fragile ecosystems. Avoid littering or polluting the water, and follow the instructions provided by boatmen and guides to minimize disturbances to the flora and fauna. It is also essential to stay on designated paths and respect any protected areas to preserve the natural habitats.

Water conservation is of utmost importance in Xochimilco. The region faces ongoing challenges with water scarcity, and the delicate balance of the chinampas relies on a steady supply of water. As a visitor, be conscious of your water consumption, and follow any guidelines provided to minimize wastage. Additionally, consider supporting initiatives that focus on water conservation and sustainable water management in the area.

Another way to practice sustainable tourism is to engage in cultural activities and experiences that respect and celebrate the local traditions and heritage. This includes attending cultural events and festivals, visiting community-run initiatives, and engaging with local artisans and craftsmen. By actively participating in and appreciating the cultural aspects of Xochimilco, you contribute to the preservation and promotion of its unique cultural identity.

Education and awareness are key components of sustainable tourism. Take the time to learn about the history, cultural significance, and environmental challenges of Xochimilco. Understand the importance of the chinampas, the role of traditional agriculture, and the conservation efforts being made. This knowledge will deepen your appreciation for the area and inspire you to take responsible actions during your visit.

Consider joining eco-friendly tours or participating in activities that promote sustainable practices. Eco-tours may focus on educational experiences, environmental conservation, or supporting local community projects. These initiatives often prioritize low-impact activities and offer opportunities to learn about and contribute to the preservation of Xochimilco’s natural and cultural heritage.

Ultimately, sustainable tourism in Xochimilco relies on the collective efforts of visitors, residents, and businesses to protect and sustain this unique destination for future generations. By embracing responsible travel practices, you can help ensure that Xochimilco’s natural beauty, cultural traditions, and vibrant ecosystem continue to thrive for years to come.

Xochimilco, with its captivating canals, floating gardens, rich cultural heritage, and diverse ecosystem, offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. This article has explored the historical background, the significance of the chinampas, and the traditional practices that sustain the agricultural and cultural traditions of Xochimilco. We’ve also delved into the wildlife and biodiversity that call this unique ecosystem home, the delightful traditional cuisine, and the exciting cultural activities and events that bring the neighborhood to life.

As you navigate through the canals on a colorful trajinera, you can’t help but be immersed in the beauty of the chinampas, which harken back to ancient Aztec times. Exploring the traditional agriculture of Xochimilco reveals a sustainable approach to farming that continues to thrive, fostering a connection between culture, agriculture, and the environment.

Xochimilco’s ecosystem is not just home to fascinating wildlife and lush vegetation but also plays an integral role in promoting biodiversity and supporting the delicate balance between nature and agriculture. Preserving and appreciating the local flora and fauna is key to sustaining the incredible ecological heritage of the region.

The culinary experiences in Xochimilco provide a sensory journey through traditional Mexican flavors and delights. From the bustling food markets to the exquisite dishes prepared with local ingredients, the traditional cuisine of Xochimilco is a testament to the rich cultural heritage that thrives in the neighborhood.

Cultural activities and events in Xochimilco offer opportunities to embrace the vibrant traditions and customs of the local community. Whether you’re dancing to the lively tunes of a Mariachi band or immersing yourself in the festivities of Carnival or Día de los Muertos, the cultural experiences in Xochimilco create lasting memories and deepen your understanding of Mexican traditions.

Embracing sustainable tourism practices is crucial to protecting Xochimilco’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and way of life. Supporting local businesses, respecting the environment, and engaging in responsible activities contribute to the long-term preservation of this remarkable neighborhood.

In conclusion, a visit to Xochimilco is a journey into the heart of Mexico’s history, culture, and natural wonders. From the ancient farming techniques of the chinampas to the dazzling biodiversity and vibrant cultural scene, Xochimilco offers an immersive and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring the canals, savoring traditional cuisine, participating in cultural activities, or practicing sustainable tourism, Xochimilco will leave an indelible impression on your heart and mind.

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Xochimilco Without a Tour: A Day of Trajineras, Boats and Mariachis

The Xochimilco cannal with its colorful boats is one of the best day trips to take from Mexico City. Here’s an article detailing how to visit Xochimilco without a tour. Enjoy my friends!

If you’re visiting Mexico City (check out my Mexico City’s Best Day Trips Article for more details), a Xochimilco day trip is definitely a good idea. Located one hour away from the city center, this beautiful area contains the last remnants of the canals that once surrounded the ancient city of Tenochtitlan.

Today, the canal is fairly small but you can still fully enjoy it by taking a ride in a Trajinera and enjoy the Mexican folklore that will soon delight your senses.

Wait, what? A Trajiwhat? A Trajinera is a wooden boat painted in colorful colors and that has a traditional Mexican name to honor a family member of the owner. Although in recent times, it is quite common to find Trajineras named after celebrities such as Beyoncé.

Shocking, uh? You can hire one for you and your friends or join a shared one to explore the canals. If you’re on a Xochimilco day trip, hiring your own might seem the best idea since it’s not that expensive.

Xochimilico Day Trip Without a Tour

A Xochimilco day trip is a very good way to be fully immersed in the fascinating Mexican culture and folklore. From Mariachis to souvenirs salesmen, there is definitely something for everyone’s taste.

The best thing to do? Enjoy the music of Mariachis. At a price of 100 pesos (7 USD) per song this might sound very expensive but if you’re in a big group, it’s not a big deal.

Just sit back and enjoy this Mexican tradition. There’s nothing like exploring the canal at the tune of “México Lindo y Querido”.

Alternatively, you could just download traditional Mexican music to your iPhone and play it along the ride. Warning: Mariachis will hate you for it!

If you’re in the mood for horror stories, ask your boat captain to tell you the story of the Island of the Dolls (La Isla de las Muñecas).

Who said that your Xochimilco day trip had to be expensive? Goin to Xochimilco without a tour sure is refreshing since you won’t have a tour guide pressuring you into buying anything.

Yes, I could tell you all about right now but I really don’t want to give you any nightmares tonight. Let’s just say that the photos can literally speak for themselves. I literally couldn’t sleep for days afterwards! I kid you not!

Similar to the ones found at Thailand, these floating vendors cook the food inside their small boats and approach you in case you signal them.

The Trajineras of Xochimilco : Restaurants, Bar and Transportation All in One

If you’re hungry during your Xochimilco without a tour visit, how about eating from a floating restaurant?

I don’t know if it was the hunger or the low price, but the Elotes (corn on the cob) of Xochimilco are definitely some of the best ones that can be found in all of Mexico! Of course, you can also bring your own food…and booze!

Last but certainly not least in your Xochimilco self made tour, you can visit the Invernadero (GreenHouse) of Xochimilco to see a vast array of pretty flowers, river turtles and, if you’re lucky, the rare and endangered Mexican Axolotl (no photos here, sorry) , one of the weirdest salamanders in the world!

Can you believe that some people eat this ugly guy as an aphrodisiac?

How to Get to Xochimilco from Mexico City

The average Xochimilco day trip involves a tourist agency overcharging you (100 USD ? No way, José!) and wasting at least four hours of your time in the traffic of Mexico City.

My best advice? Ditch them in order to visit Xochimilco without a tour and take the subway (Metro) up to the Tasqueña station (end of the blue line) and from there take the light train all the way to the last stop.

It shouldn’t take you more than one hour and you’ll end up spending only 10 pesos (less than 1 USD in total) in transportation. Just be on the watch for pickpockets and you’ll be totally fine.

The Mexico City metro ain’t scary at all!

Once you’re in Xochimilco, you can take a cheap taxi to the main Embarcadero or walk 10 minutes to reach the nearest one. Official prices are the same but there’s a very common scam taking place in the Embarcadero that is near the exit of the light train:

A young boy in a bicycle will offer to escort you to the Embarcadero , claiming that you don’t have to pay him since he works on commission (this is true).

However, he will lead you to an alternative entrance in order to stop you from taking a look at the board with the official prices. His friend , the boat captain, will then try to overcharge you for a Trajinera ride and split the illegal extra profit between him and the young boy.

Just quote the official prices and if he’s still pushing it, walk away until you find the official board. As of 2018, the hourly price is 350 pesos per Trajinera, regardless of the number of persons boarding it.

When I pointed it out, the boat captain became so frustrated! But of course, at the end of the ride he still had the nerve to ask for a tip! You know what I did? I gave him 50 cents of a peso. Yes, let that sink in for a moment.

Where to stay in Mexico City

To say that Mexico City is HUGE would be an understatement and for sight seeing purposes, your best bet is to find an hotel that is near a metro station in order to avoid being stuck in traffic for hours.

Luckily, there are many properties that are not only convenient but also very luxury such as the Holiday Inn Mexico Buenavista , a beautiful property with a gym and a heated swimming pool located just 5 minutes away on foot from the Buenavista Metro.

You can make a booking for this and more properties via our Booking.com Affiliate Link of Wonders ! Same price for you and a small pocket money commission for this website of yours. Sweet deal, uh?

Holiday Inn Buenavista as seen from the Drone of Wonders Xochimilco Without a Tour

I hope you have enjoyed this article about the best things to do in Xochimilco. Don’t forget to subscribe in order to get more awesome updates and tips straight to your e-mail!

Have you ever visited Xochimilco without a tour? Would you like to? Share your thoughts and let me know what you think?

Until next time, my friends!!!

Things to do in Xochimilco #Mexico #Travel #CentralAmerica

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City

Are you looking to visit Xochimilco? This is one darn enthralling corner of Mexico City . Visitors come to see the remnants of elaborate Aztec canal systems that once connected the peoples of the Valley of Mexico.

They come to see strange agricultural islands that sprout flowers and local crops just as they have done for centuries. Or they come to see haunting art installations like the curious Isla de las Munecas.

This guide will run through all of the ins and outs of a trip to Xochimilco in Mexico City. As I used to live in Mexico City I’ve been to Xochimilco a million times, as it’s where the young locals throw celebratory parties.

My guide will reveal the enthralling history of this corner of CDMX and list some of the must-see attractions it has up its sleeve. There’ll also be some in-the-know tips on how to travel to Xochimilco by public transport and where to eat when you get there. Enjoy…

Where is Xochimilco?

Xochimilco is one of the 16 municipal districts of Mexico City . It’s the southernmost of the lot, too, sitting nearly 10 miles directly south of the famous Plaza de la Constitucion in the heart of the capital.

The fertile slopes of the Volcan Teuhtli roll away on the other side of the district, which is situated directly on top of the ancient site of pre-Columbian Xochimilco and what remains of Lake Xochimilco.

How to Get to Xochimilco

There are a few ways you can make the trip to the enthralling UNESCO area of Xochimilco from downtown CDMX.

The most popular is by metro and then light rail . First, aim for Tasqueña station in the area of Campestre Churubusco. That’s the end of the Blue Line , but also the starting point for the Tren Ligero , which is the railway that will whisk you all the way down to Xochimilco itself.

The total cost for this trip will be 5 MXN for the metro and 3 MXN for the Tren Ligero. The ride from Tasqueña takes around 30-35 minutes.

A direct Uber is probably the comfier and more convenient choice because you’ll get a pickup right outside your hotel door and a drop-off in the center of Xochimilco, close to the attractions. However, you’re looking at paying at least 190 MXN ($10) just for the ride. What’s more, traffic can be a nightmare in CDMX, so a transfer like this might take a whole load longer than the train!

Tips for Visiting Xochimilco

Before you set off to Xochimilco, be sure to check out my top tips. They should help your excursion run nicely and smoothly.

Know what to expect

First, make sure you know what to expect. Most locals go to Xochimilco to party, so their boats with have music, drinks, many people and it will look very fun.

Tourists, on the other hand usually get a more quiet experience with a guy just rowing your boat. It can be peaceful or party-like, depending on how you want it to be.

Haggle for the price of a trajinera

There are supposed to be upper limits on the amounts that the trajinera drivers can charge. From what I’ve seen, they are routinely ignored. It’s all a bit Wild West when it comes to settling on a price. If you speak Spanish you can pay less, if you don’t then you might overpay. Do not to accept anything over 1000 MXN an hour!

Be sure you get the right Isla de las Munecas

Many people want to get to Isla de las Munecas, but it’s not so easy. There are two Isla de las Munecases these days. Only one is the real one and the other one is a replica built on the tourist route.

Trip to the real one takes around 1.5 hours each way to the island from the boarding point and it’s not something you can arrange on the spot as it’s privately owned, fenced up, and requires a permit.

If you don’t care, the replica on the “party tourist route” is just as creepy.

Take a picnic

A day out on the Xochimilco canals is seen as a chill-out session by the locals. Feel free to pack a big picnic and plenty of ice-cold beer to take with you to get into the same spirit. The boats are well-equipped for big groups and dining on the water!

Don’t miss the surrounding area

Xochimilco isn’t just about the ancient canals and the spooky Island of the Dolls. It’s also a living, breathing corner of Mexico City, with some enchanting churches and a buzzing marketplace. It’s a good idea to leave some time to explore all that too!

Tours of Xochimilco

Visiting Xochimilco is one of the best things to do in Mexico City so there are plenty of tour options if you want a stress-free day exploring the area.

Choosing a tour is another easy option for visiting Xochimilco. Doing this means you won’t have to deal with the crowds and stress of the Mexico City metro network , because you’ll be collected from your hotel in the morning and dropped back there at the end of the day.

Typical Xochimilco tours include transfers, a ride on one of the traditional trajineras boats (more on those later), and a stop at the replica of the spooky Isla de las Munecas (again, more on that later).

You can also fit Xochimilco into a multi-day tour of CDMX that includes other enthralling sites like the pyramids at Teotihuacan. Single-day outings start at around $30 per person but below is a list of the top tours to Xochimilco.

Recommended Tours:

Xochimilco, Coyoacán and Frida Kahlo Museum Tour – This group tour from Mexico City is a great choice if you want to see all that the area has to offer and are interested in learning more about Frida Kahlo.
Xochimilco: Boat ride and Mexican Party – If you mostly want to experience a fun afternoon on the trajinera boats, this is the tour for you. Enjoy partying with your fellow participants on one of these colorful floating boats, just like the locals.
Private City Tour in Frida Kahlo, Coyoacan, and Xochimilco – Prefer to have a guide and boat all to yourself? Book a private tour just for you and your friends or family.
Mexico City Tour and Xochimilco Canal Boat Ride – This tour is a great choice if you are short on time as you can combine a tour of the whole of Mexico City with a ride on a trajinera in the interesting canals.

History of Xochimilco

The area now called Xochimilco has been inhabited by humans since anyone can remember. Hunter-gatherer nomads were the first to come, but they were replaced sometime around the 9 th century AD by Nahua tribes who moved into the fertile Valley of Mexico from elsewhere in Mesoamerica.

The Nahua were the ones who began the tradition of building artificial islands to cultivate crops . Known as chinampa, they completely changed the geography of Xochimilco, converting it into an ancient breadbasket that produced everything from chili peppers to maize.

This innovative form of agriculture helped Xochimilco rise as one of the great powers of the region in pre-Columbian times until eventually being subsumed into the Aztec Empire.

By the time the Spanish arrived in the 1500s, there were countless chinampa gardens in Xochimilco, along with a vast and intricate web of canals that linked all the main commerce centers in the Valley of Mexico.

They continued to be used throughout the colonial era for both food production and transportation. However, the 20 th century saw a huge explosion in the size of Mexico City , and the urban sprawl began to take its toll.

By the 1970s, vast swathes of the Aztec canal system and its chinampa gardens had been gobbled up by the encroaching barrios. The decision was made to protect the ones in Xochimilco for posterity.

The whole area was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 . It’s now one of the most-visited outer districts of the capital, offering a unique glimpse of the ancient way of life of the pre-Columbian peoples of Mexico .

Things to Do in Xochimilco, Mexico City

This corner of CDMX is riddled with intriguing sights and activities, from cruisy water trips to eerie islets you won’t want to linger on too long…

Take a trip on a trajinera

The lazy ride on a trajinera boat is the highlight of Xochimilco . These colorful wooden skiffs will be your ticket to the pre-Aztec canal systems that filter through the historic Chinampa farms and into the heart of the ancient city.

They’re known for their lush vegetation and the smells of the flowers that waft over from the market gardens.

The boats themselves are a joy to be on. Most come with tables and wooden seats so you can enjoy a taco picnic as you go .

It’s really important to haggle and haggle hard when you come to board the trajinera. The CDMX authorities officially limit the price to 500 MXN per hour , but most visitors end up paying far more than that.

Special trajinera trips to spots like the Isla de las Munecas can be as much as 2000 MXN.

See Isla de las Munecas

The Isla de las Munecas is one of the stranger sights to see amid the waterways of Xochimilco.

The name in English means ‘The Island of the Dolls’, and the place doesn’t disappoint with its countless effigies of plastic children’s toys strewn in the trees, the mud, and on rickety wooden walls .

The story goes that the place was once the home of one Julian Santana Barrera, who came here to become a hermit but discovered the body of a dead girl floating in the nearby waters. The dolls were his way to ward off her spirit and keep her soul from haunting his new home.

Be warned that the Isla de las Munecas is now such a favorite among dark tourists that there’s even a copycat island doing the rounds. The real one lies around 1.5 hours by trajinera, very deep in the waterways of Xochimilco.

To ensure you get the right place, head to the port at Embarcadero Celada to catch the water taxi. It’s the closest of all to the official Isla de las Munecas. Expect to pay at least 2,000 MXN to get there and back.

Oh, and keep an eye out for the fake isla as you go – it’s much closer to the port and covered in black mesh fences that hold the dolls.

The chinampa

Keep watch for the age-old chinampa gardens as you sail through the waterways of Xochimilco.

There are only an estimated 5,000 or so left in the area, down from tens of thousands at the peak of the Aztec Empire.

Crafted from sunken reed boats laden with peat and mud , they’re manmade islets topped by uber-fertile growing land that was historically used to cultivate maize and pulses to feed the ancient Xochimilco peoples.

Today, they are known for their flower blooms and will smell darn fantastic if you catch them at the right time of the year.

Museo Dolores Olmedo

Just outside the waterways of the ancient archaeological and eco parks where you’ll sail and see the lush islands, the Museo Dolores Olmedo offers a taste of more modern Mexican culture.

It’s housed in a traditional hacienda estate that oozes Latin charm. The collections within include pieces by Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera. There’s also a stunning Spanish-styled hermitage building on the grounds.

Cuahilama

If you’ve got a little extra time to spare on your day trip to Xochimilco, you could hop in a taxi and head out to Cuahilama.

It’s a strange archaeological site , dotted with a few mystical Aztec and Nahuatl shrines that are covered in religious relief carvings and petroglyphs.

Sadly, the place is very poorly managed by the local authorities and there’s really no infrastructure. We also can’t vouch for the safety of the surrounding area, so be sure to have your wits about you if you decide to tack it onto the itinerary.

How Much Will a Day in Xochimilco Cost?

This day outing from Mexico City should cost less if you decide to skip a planned tour of Xochimilco and organize things yourself.

You’re basically looking at paying the 8 MXN ($0.40 USD) for the public transport there, double for a return, and about 500 MXN for a boat trip on one of the trajineras.

That adds up to less than $26 for the whole day , although it doesn’t include any food and drink you purchase along the way.

Alternatively, you can pay about $40 for a tour that goes to Xochimilco. They’ll usually include a one-hour trajinera trip, along with pickup and a drop off at your hotel. Trips to other spots like the spine-tingling Isla de las Munecas will add more to that total.

Where to Eat in Xochimilco

Some tours of Xochimilco will include a packed lunch, and you might want to dine onboard the trajinera boats like most of the locals do. Or, you can pick some food up from a food boat passing by…

If not, how about trying…

Xochimilco Market – This sprawling bazaar is the best place to stock up on takeaway tacos, tropical fruits, popcorn, and all manner of Mexican street food before you board the boats. It’s also super cheap and all very local.
Las Vaqueras – Conveniently located right by where you board the trajinera boats, Las Vaqueras is hailed as the home of Mexico City’s best michelada cocktails, which mix beer and lime juice, and spices in a salt-rimmed glass. Don’t knock it until you try it!
Tacos “Los Jefes & Pantera” – You could ask your taxi driver to make a pit stop at this wonderful taqueria on the way to Xochimilco. It’s a few blocks to the west of the waterways but is highly rated for its spicy corn tortillas. There’s a very casual vibe and takeaway is possible if you’re planning a water-top picnic!

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How to Visit Xochimilco (Mexico City): The Ultimate Guide

Xochimilco (Mexico City): Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Mexico may evoke images of bright colors, mariachis and cacti in your mind.

Is that a stereotype? Not exactly!

These are all elements of the Mexican culture that you can find in Xochimilco , a must-see destination in Mexico City !

In this post, I will share with you My Complete Guide to Visiting Xochimilco with everything you need to know to plan your trajinera ride along the canals, choosing the best dock depending on the experience you want, whether it’s partying with the mariachis or exploring nature.

I will also give you my tips and practical information to discover the other attractions of Xochimilco, which are much less crowded.

So, are you ready to see what Xochimilco has to offer?

Book your boat ride in Xochimilco

What to see in the canals, which dock to choose, how much do tours in xochimilco cost, frequently asked questions about trajineras, 2. discovering the heart of xochimilco, 3. eating at the xochimilco market, 4. drinking a good pulque, 5. visit the flower market, 6. horseback riding, how far is xochimilco from mexico city, take a tour to xochimilco, go to xochimilco on your own, when to go to xochimilco, how much time is necessary to visit xochimilco, where to stay in mexico city, want to rent a car in mexico, book your plane ticket at the best price, tourist map of xochimilco, xochimilco from the sky, you’re traveling in mexico these articles will help you, 1. take a trajinera ride.

A trajinera ride in Xochimilco is a must-do activity in Mexico City.

Xochimilco is famous for its chinampas , a large network of islands and canals that were built in pre-Hispanic times, and are recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO .

Back then, the valley of Mexico was filled with five big lakes and this clever system allowed them to grow corn and other crops. They developed a sustainable farming method that still produces five harvests a year!

Over the centuries, the lake of Xochimilco shrank to a few canals and today you can explore the floating gardens of Xochimilco by trajinera, a colorful wooden boat. That’s why it’s called the Venice of Mexico.

During the ride, you will encounter other boats that will offer you a variety of food, drinks, crafts, flowers and traditional Mexican music.

The mariachis from Xochimilco are the most famous, but you can also listen to norteño and marimba groups.

To make the most of your visit in Xochimilco, here are 3 different tours that you can chose from. To book it just click on the name of the tour you are most interested in!

The main thing to do in Xochimilco is to cruise through the canals in a trajinera, but there are also other places and activities to explore.

Actually, there are two different areas: the tourist canals and the natural reserve .

So what you will see will depend on the tour you choose, and also on the time and budget you have :

The agricultural greenhouses
Lake Xochimilco or lakes Xaltocán, Caltongo, del Toro.
The Island of the Dolls : this is one of Xochimilco’s most popular and mysterious attractions, located in the Teshuilo Lagoon. The island is filled with dolls that were collected and hung by its former owner, Julian Santana Barrera. It is a place unlike any other, and some might find it creepy.
Ajolotario : it is a conservation area for the axolotl , a salamander species that is endemic to Xochimilco , that has the amazing ability to regenerate its injured limbs. It is endangered and has become an symbol of Mexico (you can even see it on 50 peso bills).
The interactive Chinampa : this is an island in the Xochiquetzalli community, where you can learn about the traditional planting and farming methods of the locals
The National Museum of Axolotl : it is a museum located in a chinampa where a biologist explains the importance of the axolotl, and there are also snakes, tarantulas, frogs, etc.
Bird watching : the protected area of Xochimilco is home to many endemic and migratory species from Canada and the United States. There are specialized tours that leave early in the morning because it is the best time to see them.

Xochimilco has ten different docks to choose from, depending on what kind of experience you are looking for. You can either explore the tourist canals or the natural reserve.

1-The tourist canals

This is where you can enjoy a classic Xochimilco tour with mariachis and other musical groups, and join the festive atmosphere.

The tourist docks are : Nuevo Nativitas, Las Flores, Zacapa, Caltongo, Salitre, San Cristobal, Belem, and Belem de las Flores.

Nuevo Nativitas is the largest dock, with a craft market, a big parking lot, and several restaurants nearby.
Salitre, San Cristobal, Belem and Belem de las Flores are close to downtown Xochimilco and easy to access.
If you are into architecture, you can visit Los Manantiales restaurant on the Zacapa dock. It is a building shaped like a lotus flower, designed in 1957 by the famous architect Felix Candela

2-The natural reserve

This is where you can discover the Xochimilco ecological park , a 200-hectare reserve, where you can see different kinds of birds. You can also learn about the traditional farming methods that are still practiced in the chinampas.

These tours are much quieter and less crowded, and they are ideal for ecotourism in Xochimilco.

The docks are: Cuemanco, Fernando Celada and Puente de Urrutia.

Cuemanco is the main dock to access the Xochimilco reserve, but it is very calm because there are not many boats. There is no music or food here, to preserve the environment.

Cuemanco is also famous for its flower, cactus and succulent market, one of the biggest plant markets in Mexico City.

So, what is the best dock in Xochimilco?

It depends on what kind of tour you prefer.

If you want to experience the classic Xochimilco ride with music and party, you can go to Nativitas or Las Flores. If you want a more peaceful and natural ride, you can choose Cuemanco.

It is very important to understand that the price varies a lot depending on the tour you choose .

These are the prices for Xochimilco (keep in mind that they are approximate and may change):

Shared Trajinera (1h) – the cheapest option

There are shared boats (trajinera colectiva) that go back and forth between the Nativitas and Salitre docks.

The price of the shared trajinera is then 45 pesos (30min one way) or 90 pesos per person (1h round trip). If you are 2 or 3 people, this can be a good option to visit Xochimilco on a budget .

The traditional tour (1h, 2h, 3h)

This is the classic boat tour (with room for 18 people) through the canals of Xochimilco .

You can find boats that offer food and music, but you can also bring your own snacks and drinks (and save some money 🙃).

The 1 hour tour is round trip along the same route, so you don’t get to see much in 30 minutes. That’s why I suggest you take a 2 or 3 hour tour , which lets you explore the canals better, and have a great time with your family or friends!

Ecological route (4 to 5h30 hours)

The tour goes through the ecological zone of Xochimilco , which is much more serene. You can observe the many birds, visit the greenhouses, lakes (depending on where you start) and see some attractions: Ajolotario, Interactive Chinampa, the Axolotl Museum or the Island of the Dolls.

You have to pay approximately 1800 pesos per boat for 4h30, or 2000 pesos for 5h, 2200 pesos for 5h30.

Other prices to keep in mind

Although these stops are included in your tour, the entrance fee must be paid separately:

Ajolotario (adults 100 pesos, minors 50 pesos)
Interactive Chinampa (50 pesos per person)
Island of the Dolls (50 pesos per person)
Axolotl Museum (50 pesos per person)

You can also customize your trajinera by requesting it in advance: 500 pesos for the name painted on the front or 2000 pesos with flowers.

Can I bring my own food?

Yes, you can bring any food you want . You can also buy it at the dock, or from one of the many vendors who come with their boats. Some packages include food as well.

Can I bring my own drinks?

Yes, you can bring any drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) without any extra cost. You can also buy beers, michelada, pulque, etc. at the dock or during the tour.

Are there restrooms?

Yes, there are some at the docks for about 5 pesos, and also on the tour (ask the guy who drives the trajinera, he knows 😉)

How much do mariachis cost in Xochimilco?

A mariachi song costs 150 pesos, but they often offer packages like 4 songs for 520 pesos. Marimba is cheaper, usually 70 pesos per song or 4 songs for 200 pesos.

What is the schedule in Xochimilco?

The trajineras are usually available from 7 am to 7 pm. You can also take a night tour between 7 pm and midnight, but you need to book it ahead of time.

Xochimilco is more than just the canals, though. It also has a charming local life that you shouldn’t miss.

In the main square of Xochimilco , you can see the Cathedral and Ex-Convent of San Bernardino de Siena (16th century). It is a stunning building and I have heard that its altarpiece is amazing but… it was closed when I visited because of the damage from the 2017 earthquake.

By the way, if you also like churches (for their architecture), there are several beautiful ones, tucked away in the streets of Xochimilco.

For example, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary (18th century) which I find interesting with its tiles. It is right across from the Xochimilco market.

Capilla De La Virgen Del Rosario en Xochimilco

The best way to experience local life in Mexico is to visit the market. It is a colorful and lively place filled with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, meat, herbs and piñatas.

It is the perfect place to discover the variety of local products, and also to enjoy delicious and affordable food in Xochimilco.

I had a tlacoyo , a typical Mexican dish. It is a thick corn tortilla, stuffed with beans and topped with nopales, cheese, onion and spicy sauce – a very satisfying snack for only 20 pesos!

A pulqueria is the place where they sell pulque , a fermented Mexican drink (with about 6 to 8 % alcohol).

I love the pulquerias in Mexico City for their unique atmosphere, where you can meet all kinds of people, from colleagues to families to friends.

For me, there is no better place to discover the soul of a neighborhood and yet, tourists rarely visit pulquerias (except maybe in Roma Norte) What a shame!

So of course, I had to go to the Pulqueria el Templo de Diana which is the most famous in Xochimilco. It is a true institution that has been around for 4 generations.

Personally I don’t like the natural pulque , as it is a bit sour and thick, but luckily the Templo de Diana has an amazing list of cured pulques with different flavors.

By the way, I have never seen a pulqueria with so many flavors of cured pulque: chocolate, lemon cake, grape, beet, cherry, pistachio, almond, walnut, guava, apple, chia, mango, coconut, oreo, you name it.

A small glass costs between 50-70 pesos and a large one 60-90 pesos, depending on the flavor. I suggest starting with the small glass as it is quite big.

We ordered two small glasses, one of marzipan and another one of peanut.

Templo de Diana: Av 5 de Mayo 65, Santa Crucita, Xochimilco (1 block from the plaza and market)

Xochimilco is famous for its flowers and plants.

There are four markets in Xochimilco: Madre Selva, Mercado Acuexcomatl, Palacio de la Flor and Cuemanco.

They say the most interesting ones are Cuemanco and Madre Selva. I chose the latter, located at the entrance of the Bosque de Nativitas, because Xochimilco is very big and I wanted to make sure I could walk back to the center.

Here you can find all kinds of flowers, plants, succulents and cacti in amazing shapes that I had never seen before. Mexico is truly the land of cacti!

The Madre Selva Market is at the entrance of the Bosque Nativitas , a park of more than 17 hectares that attracts families on weekends.

Here you can enjoy horseback riding, or ponies for the little ones.

The official rate is 80 pesos for 30 minutes or 160 pesos for 1 hour.

Xochimilco is located in the south of Mexico City, about 12 miles (20 km) away from downtown and other tourist areas.

The travel time to get there can vary a lot depending on your mode of transportation and the traffic conditions.

You can choose to go by car or public transportation, but be prepared for some delays in the busy capital!

How to get to Xochimilco?

Here I explain how to get to Xochimilco on your own or with a tour:

Avoid traffic and hassle by booking a tour that picks you up from your hotel , takes you to the boat ride in Xochimilco, and visits the Frida Kahlo museum.

Boat ride in Xochimilco + Frida Kahlo Museum (shared)
Boat ride in Xochimilco + Frida Kahlo Museum (private tour)

By public transport – the cheapest way to get there

Take the metro to Tasqueña , the last station of the blue line 2 (1h30 from downtown, ticket 5 pesos).
Then take the light train to Xochimilco station (40 min, ticket 3 pesos but you need to have the 20 pesos electronic card which includes 1 ticket)
It is about 25 min walk to the Nativitas pier or 1 hour to Cuemanco.

You can book this boat ride that includes illimited alcohol, mariachi music and lunch on a floatting island!

Taking an Uber – faster and more comfortable

These are estimated fares (one way), as they depend on the traffic: from Colonia Roma or Condesa 180-230 pesos, from Coyoacán 120-150 pesos, from downtown 420-450 pesos.

It depends on what kind of atmosphere you prefer : if you want a peaceful and relaxing ride , go during the week, from Monday to Thursday.

If you want to party in Xochimilco , with all the music and fun, you have to go on the weekend.

You can visit Xochimilco any time of the year, but keep in mind that during the rainy season in Mexico City, it usually rains in the afternoon (but rarely before 3 pm).

So if you go between June and September (July and August are the wettest months), I suggest going for a ride in the morning or early afternoon.

In any case, it is always better to go in the morning to avoid traffic in the canals when there are too many trajineras.

There are also several festivals in Xochimilco :

Candlemas Day (February 2): This is the most important religious holiday in Xochimilco. Here they worship the “Niñopa” , a sculpture of the baby Jesus that dates back to the 16th century and has about 5,000 outfits. On February 2, a big celebration is held in his honor with music, fireworks, dances and food.
Friday of Sorrows : From 9 am in Nativitas there is a big parade of trajineras, a very colorful spectacle! When they announce the winning boat -the most beautiful and flowery- the participants of the contest La Flor Más Bella (The Most Beautiful Flower) show up in their traditional costumes.
Festival Viva Mexico in Xochimilco (September 6th-8th): from 12 pm to 8 pm, it is a great craft and food fair.
La Llorona (early October to late November): this is a nightly play based on the legend of “La Llorona” that is performed on the island of Laguna Tilac. It combines modern and pre-Hispanic instruments, Nahuatl songs and theater. You can take a trajinera from the Cuemanco dock to get there. The show starts at 8 pm, but you should get there an hour earlier. Get your tickets here

It depends on what you book. The trajinera ride can take half a day (2h, 3h, 4h) or more if you take the ecotourism tour (5 hours).

I recommend that you visit Coyoacán in the afternoon .

If you want to eat something simple and cheap, eat in Xochimilco , otherwise go to Coyoacan where you can find several nice restaurants. They are two very different neighborhoods.

One of the most typical dishes in Xochimilco is tlapique . It is a mixture of fish, tomato, onion, nopal and epazote (a Mexican aromatic herb), which is slowly cooked in a corn husk. I found it at the Belen dock, but it is everywhere.

Hostel Mundo Joven Catedral (historic center): one of the best hostels in Mexico City . Clean dorms and rooms, amazing rooftop terrace with bar , great atmosphere and an exceptional view over the cathedral and the Zocalo, starting at 15$usd for a dorm and 32 $usd for a private room!
Hotel Villa Condesa (Condesa): if you are looking for a romantic hotel in Mexico City , this is a little oasis in the heart of La Condesa. It is an elegant house with small green terraces and tastefully decorated rooms. Rooms are spacious, breakfast is very good and the service is particularly attentive. Around 160$usd per night!
Casa Goliana (Roma Norte): high-end hotel with the best value for money in its category, located in an early 20th century house, typical of the Roma area. Rooftop terrace, comfortable rooms, very attentive staff, and good breakfasts. Around 190$usd per night
Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City (Juarez): this 5 star hotel is one of the best hotels in Mexico City , ideal for a business trip or a romantic stay . Located on Paseo de la Reforma between Colonia Juarez and Roma Norte. A large indoor garden, gym, swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar, Around 640$usd per night!

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Mexico City and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies , so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

do you want to go to Mexico? To get the best rate for your airline tickets , you can use our comparator, in collaboration with Skyscanner: It is the guarantee to get the best price for your international flight and flights within Mexico .

Here is the map with all the best attractions of Xochimilco that I mentioned in my guide:

And for you to see the extent of Xochimilco’s canals, here is a video taken with a drone!

Discover all my articles about Mexico : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

The 35 Best Things to Do in Mexico
Mexico City: The 31 Best things to Discover
1 Day in Mexico City – How to spend just 24h in the Mexican capital
2 Days in Mexico City – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
3 Days in Mexico City – The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay
4 Days in Mexico City – Your Four-Day Must-See Guide
Where to stay in Mexico City? – Best areas and hotels for all budgets!
Mexico City on a Budget: Guide + All my Best Tips to Save Money
The Definitive Guide to 40 Best Free Things to Do in Mexico City
Teotihuacan (Mexico City) : The Definitive Guide + Tips
Coyoacán (Mexico City) : the Best Things to Do in Frida Kahlo’s Neighborhood
40+ Wifi Cafes in Mexico City that Every Digital Nomad Should Know About
Muralism in Mexico City : The Essential Guide to the Best Murals
Itinerary : 8-10 days in Mexico – From Mexico City to Oaxaca
Itinerary : 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
Itinerary : 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
Itinerary : 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla , Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche , Yucatán and Riviera Maya
Itinerary : 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
Road trip in Mexico : The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
Itinerary : 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
Itinerary : 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
Itinerary : 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
Itinerary : 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
Itinerary : 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
Road trip in Yucatan : The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

I have created this blog to give you all my best tips to plan your next trip to Mexico, regardless of your budget. I share detailed itineraries, advice about places to visit as well as recommendations for transportation, hotels and restaurants. I hope I will also help you to discover amazing off the beaten path destinations in Mexico!

Mexico City on a Budget: Guide + All my Best Tips

Discovering Mexican Muralism: My Mexico City Tour Experience

Coyoacán (Mexico City): 20 Best Things to see and visit

Visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City: A Step by Step Guide

Picture of the Xochimilco canals in Mexico City. Includes a few vibrant boats on the canal water.

Visiting Xochimilco ranks among the ultimate must-dos when exploring Mexico City. Xochimilco is a “party village on water,” offering visitors the choice of local cuisine, music from mariachi bands, and an endless supply of authentic Mexican drinks such as Micheladas. If you want to experience something that’s not offered anywhere else in the world and have a great time, then Xochimilco is the place to do it.

I’ve visited Xochimilco twice within the past four years and have thoroughly enjoyed it each time. Through my experiences in Xochimilco, I’ve learned the best ways to get there, how to avoid popular tourist scams, the top things to do in Xochimilco, and how to barter for the best deals while there.

What is xochimilco in mexico city.

Xochimilco is a network of canals located in Mexico City. At Xochimilco, tourists can rent a boat that’s piloted by a local and enjoy the atmosphere. Along the canals, you’ll find local restaurants, activities, and vendors. Visitors can instruct the boat driver to stop anywhere they’d like along the canal – whether to sit down for a meal at a restaurant, participate in an activity, or purchase food from a vendor to take with them. In addition to vendors lining the sides of the canals, locals cruise around in boats offering food and drinks. You can also hire mariachi bands in the canals for as many private performances on your boat as you’d like.

How to Get to Xochimilco from Mexico City's Tourist Area

The two best places for tourists to stay in Mexico City are Roma and Condesa. This guide breaks down the best way to get to Xochimilco from those locations since it’s where most tourists stay.

The most convenient way to reach Xochimilco is by using Uber, which is readily available and safe in Mexico City. The journey from Roma and Condesa to Xochimilco by car takes approximately one hour and costs an average of MX$400 Pesos (or $20 USD) for a one-way trip, though prices may vary depending on the time of day and year.

While it is possible to reach Xochimilco using public transportation, such as the train, it is not recommended due to safety concerns and the potential challenges of navigating the train systems, especially for foreigners.

Ubers are also available for the return trip from Xochimilco to the main tourist areas of Mexico City. However, please keep in mind that the wait time for a returning Uber may be slightly longer than the journey there, as it’s a highly populated area with more tourists attempting to return home than there are available Ubers.

Is a Tour Required to Visit Xochimilco?

It’s entirely possible and relatively easy to visit Xochimilco without a tour; however, having a basic level of Spanish is advisable to avoid potential scams and ensure a smooth independent exploration of Xochimilco.

Opting for a guided tour to Xochimilco offers several advantages, including the convenience of transportation to and from the park, protection against common tourist scams, and ease of navigation in the bustling area upon arrival.

I’ve visited Xochimilco twice and opted for a tour-free experience each time. I had a fantastic solo adventure, although I do speak some Spanish which I believe helped me go it alone.

There are many tours to Xochimilco, like this one offered by Viator .

Xochimilco Tickets and Costs

Xochimilco is completely free to explore on foot. However, to fully experience the canals, you will need to rent a boat. The cost of renting a boat in Xochimilco is not fixed and must be negotiated with the boat drivers upon your arrival. On average, a boat rental costs around 500-600 pesos per hour (approximately $25-30 USD) for the entire boat. This means that whether you ride with 2 people or 5 people, the cost remains the same, and you can divide it among everyone on the boat with you. You can rent the boat for as many hours as you’d like; however, it is recommended to spend three to four hours to fully explore and enjoy.

The boat rental cost in Xochimilco can be negotiated when you arrive. Don’t accept the initial price they quote; always attempt to negotiate for a lower rate. For instance, if they initially quote 600 pesos, you can try to haggle it down to 500 pesos or less. Negotiating the cost is a common practice in Mexican culture, and the locals are accustomed to it.

Xochimilco Hours of Operation

Xochimilco is typically open daily, from early morning until late in the evening. The most crowded days to visit Xochimilco are on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) as it is a popular weekend activity for locals.

Although Xochimilco remains open in the evening, it is recommended to arrive with ample daylight remaining to fully enjoy the surroundings and take advantage of the active vendors during the day. Additionally, departing before nightfall is advisable, as it’s less safe at night.

Food and Drink Options at Xochimilco

There are numerous local food options available at Xochimilco. Along the canals, visitors can choose to either stop and dine at one of the many restaurants or purchase food from vendors who navigate the waters on boats. Typical food options that can be found at Xochimilco include:

Tacos: You can find a wide range of taco vendors serving various fillings such as carne asada (grilled beef) and al pastor (marinated pork).
Elotes and Esquites: These are delicious street corn dishes. Elotes are typically served on the cob, with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime. Esquites are similar but served in a cup.
Quesadillas: Enjoy stuffed tortillas filled with cheese.
Tamales: These are steamed corn wrappings, filled with various ingredients like meat and cheese and usually wrapped in banana leaves.
Sopes: Thick tortillas topped with beans, meat, lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
Pulque: This traditional Mexican fermented beverage is sold along the canals.
Fresh Fruit: You can often find vendors selling freshly cut fruit, such as watermelon, mango, pineapple, and more.
Snacks: Various snacks like chicharrones (fried pork rinds), tostadas, and flavored nuts are sold by vendors along the canal.
Tostadas: Crispy tortillas topped with beans, meat, lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
Churros: This traditional sweet/fried treat is sold by vendors in Xochimilco.

Alcoholic Beverages can also be purchased in the canals. The most commonly found beverages at Xochimilco are:

Beer : The most popular beers sold at Xochimilco are Mexican brands such as: Corona, Modelo, and Pacifico.
Tequila and Mezcal: Some vendors may offer shots of tequila or mezcal; two of the most popular drinks that Mexico is known for.
Micheladas: This Mexican beer consists of beer, lime juice, and hot sauces. It is a must-try when visiting Mexico and a very popular choice in Xochimilco.
Margaritas: These can be found all along the Xochimilco canals.
Mixed Drinks: While less common than the Mexican drinks listed above; some vendors and restaurants will sell mixed cocktails such as Vodka sodas, Tequila sodas, etc.

Note that you can bring your own food and drink to Xochimilco. So, if you’d like to save costs during your trip to Xochimilco, consider bringing your own food and drink on board. There are stores near the canals where you can purchase items before getting onto your boat if that’s preferable.

Scams to Avoid in Xochimilco

As Xochimilco is a tourist destination, there are a few scams that target tourists, and all visitors should be aware of them. The most common scam, which happened to me, targets tourists who choose to travel to Xochimilco by Uber. In this scam, locals dress in an “official uniform” and ride on a motorbike on the highway about 30 minutes before reaching Xochimilco. Uber drivers are aware of this scam but usually don’t intervene to stop it.

When this happened to my friend and I, a person who looked like an official approached our Uber and told the driver that Xochimilco was closed, and that we must go to another destination to ride the boats. We thankfully suspected that they were wrong, and continued on to our planned destination. If this happens to you, don’t fall for it! The alternative destination they try to redirect you to is both less exciting and more expensive.

Overall, keep your guard up when visiting Xochimilco as a tourist. Some people will try to take advantage of you if you don’t stand your ground.

Is Xochimilco Safe?

Xochimilco is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as is the case with any travel destination, it’s essential to exercise caution and maintain awareness of your surroundings. The most common safety incident reported at Xochimilco is pickpocketing. While Xochimilco is safe to visit, it is recommended to stay in an alternate neighborhood when visiting Mexico City and travel to Xochimilco for a day-long experience. Click here for a list of some of the best neighborhoods to stay in that are just a short car ride away from Xochimilco.

Visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City is a memorable adventure full of local cuisine, Mexican Mariachi bands, and Mexican beverages. My two visits in the past four years have equipped me with valuable insights for a seamless trip to Xochimilco, and I’d definitely return. Whether you opt for a solo excursion or a guided tour, the canals provide an exceptional experience and it’s one of the best things to do in Mexico City.

The 6 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Mexico City

Disclosure: Please note that some of the above are affiliate links, and I earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend companies that I’ve personally used and like, and the income supports this site.

Xochimilco Floating Gardens of Mexico City

Jorge Castro / TripSavvy

Just 45 minutes south of downtown Mexico City, you'll find Xochimilco, or the Venice of Mexico. Here, you can float down the canals on traditional trajinera boats or hire a mariachi to serenade you with local music. Xochimilco provides an experience that you would never expect to have in Mexico City and makes for a fun and interesting day trip.

Chinampas or "Floating Gardens"

Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-MIL-ko) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 17 miles (28 km) south of the capital's historical center. The name comes from Nahuatl (the language of the Aztecs) and means "flower garden." The canals of Xochimilco are a vestige of the Aztec agricultural technique of using "chinampas" to extend arable land in wetland areas.

Chinampas are raised agricultural fields between canals. They are formed by rooting rectangular cane frames to the lake floor and filling them with alternating layers of aquatic weeds, muck, and earth until they rise up about one meter above the surface of the water. Willow trees ( ahujotes ) are planted along the edges of the fields and their roots help to contain the chinampas. Although they're called "floating gardens," chinampas are in fact rooted to the lake bed. This agricultural technique shows the ingenuity of the Aztecs and their ability to adapt to their surroundings. Chinampas allowed for intensive farming of swampy areas and allowed the Aztec empire to sustain a large population.

Ride on a Trajinera

The brightly colored boats that transport passengers through the canals of Xochimilco are called trajineras (pronounced "tra-hee-nair-ahs"). They are flat-bottomed boats similar to gondolas. You can hire one to take you for a ride. This is most fun to do in a group; the boats seat about a dozen people. If you come with just a few people you may be able to join up with another group, or you can hire a boat just for your party. The cost is about 350 pesos per hour for the boat.

On your ride around the canals, you will come across other trajineras , some selling food, others offering musical entertainment like mariachis.

La Isla de Las Muñecas

One of Mexico's creepier attractions, La Isla de las Muñecas, or "The Island of the Dolls," is located in the Xochimilco canals. The legend behind this island is that many years ago its caretaker Don Julian Santana found the body of a girl who drowned in the canal. Shortly afterward he found a doll floating in the canal. He tied it to a tree as a way of showing respect to the drowned girl's spirit. Apparently, he was haunted by the girl and continued to hang old dolls in various states of disrepair on the trees of the small island as a way to appease her spirit. Don Julian died in 2001, but the dolls are still there and continue to deteriorate, getting even creepier over time.

How to Get There

Take Metro Line 2 (blue line) to Tasqueña (sometimes spelled Taxqueña). Outside the Tasqueña metro station, you can get the Tren Ligero (light rail). The light rail does not accept Metro tickets; you must buy separate tickets (around $3). Xochimilco is the last station on the Tren Ligero line, and the embarcaderos are just a short walk away. Follow the arrows on the small blue signs—they will lead you to the pier.

If your time is limited, don't bother trying to get there on public transport, just take a tour. A day trip to Xochimilco will often include stops at a few other sites such as Coyoacan where you can visit the Frida Kahlo House Museum or maybe the UNAM campus (Mexico's National Autonomous University), which is also a UNESCO site.

What to Know

Keep in mind that Xochimilco is a popular outing for Mexican families and friends on weekends and holidays, so it can be quite crowded. This can make for a fun experience, but if you would prefer a more tranquil visit, go during the week.

You can buy food and drinks from other passing trajineras , or to save money, buy some before you board the boat and take it with you.

You'll want to hire a trajinera for at least two hours to get far enough out to see some different scenery. Don't pay the boatman until the end of the ride, and it is customary to give a tip.

Xoximilco Park in Cancun

There's a park in Cancun that recreates the floating gardens experience of Xochimilco. Called " Xoximilco ," this park is run by Experiencias Xcaret, offers tours on trajineras , and serves Mexican dishes and drinks as the boats do a circuit and passengers enjoy various types of traditional Mexican music. Unlike the original Xochimilco, the park in Cancun is a nighttime experience.

Xochimilco Mexico City: How to get there and take a boat tour

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article.

Famous for colorful, flower-decked boats 🚣🏻‍♀️ floating down the narrow waterways, Xochimilco Mexico City has become one of the most popular places to visit in the country’s capital with many tourists making a stop here.

While Xochimilco’s Trajineras (the name of the colorful boats) grace many tourist guides and booklets, not many tourists know that Xochimilco is also the name of the surrounding area. In this article, I’m going to tell you all the reasons why you should visit this place.

👉 Spending a few days in Mexico City? Read my complete guide to best hotels in Mexico City to help you choose your accommodations 🏠

Is Xochimilco worth visiting?

Xochimilco aka the Venice of Mexico City is one of the best cultural experiences in the country’s capital. Whether you are looking to party or learn more about the history of Mexico City and the role that Xochimilco canals played in the Aztec Empire, this place is a great stop on your Mexico City itinerary 🗺

While Xochimilco is known for its party atmosphere as you can buy food and drinks and even hire a Mariachi band to perform a mini-concert for you, it is also a wonderful cultural experience.

Regardless of what you might have heard, Xochimilco is not just about partying and drinking .

This guide will cover all aspects of visiting Xochimilco, including how to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City, the best Xochimilco tours 🎒and what mistakes to avoid when visiting Xochimilco.

✅ Check the best hot air balloon tours in Mexico City

How much does a trajinera boat cost in Xochimilco?

The hourly cost of a boat ride in Xochimilco is between 350-500 Mexican Pesos 💰 for one hour for the entire boat. This price depends on the time of the year (low season or high season), and the day of the week. Since weekends tend to be busy with many locals coming here, it’s better to visit on a weekday.

👉 Remember that you need to pay in cash!

Xochimilco hours

The Xochimilco trajineras run between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ⏰ Most visitors spend about 2-3 hours in Xochimilco touring the canals and stopping at various points of interest. ✔️

Plan 2-4 hours for your trip to Xochimilco Mexico City, plus the time you spend on the commute to get there and back.

Xochimilco Mexico City is one of the most fun cultural experience for tourists in the country.

A brief history of Xochimilco

Xochimilco is a rural area south of Mexico City, that’s a major tourist magnet thanks to the colorful boats, called “Trajineras.” In 1987, Xochimilco became a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, because of its cultural contribution to the heritage of Mexico.

💛 The name Xochimilco means “flower field” in Nahuatl, and refers to the crops and flowers that were grown by the Aztecs here before the colonization. The canals that you see today were used by Aztecs for commercial purposes. The artificial floating gardens “chinampas” rooted to the lake bed provided crops to Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital.

Chinampas are a good example of the Aztec ingenuity, as the produce grown here sustained a big population in the capital.

👉 Today, you can still find floating gardens “or chinampas,” but they are mostly utilized to grow flowers and fruits. Xochimilco is the last remnant of the vast network of canals and manmade islands in the lake system before the Spanish built the modern Mexico City on the ruins of Tenochtitlan.

Exploring local coffee shops is one of the best things to do in Coyoacan, Mexico City

LET ME HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP TO MEXICO!

Besides being a travel blogger, I also create itineraries for my readers 😃 If you want me to plan your trip to Mexico, provide insider tips and do all the research for you, fill out the form below.

My custom itineraries include information on popular landmarks, restaurants, and hidden corners that most tourists miss. As part of my services, I also offer suggestions on flights, hotels and activities in Mexico City or any other destination that you choose.

Can’t wait to hear from you! 💛

Xochimilco Mexico City is one of the best day trips from the historic center if you don't want to be on the road for a couple of hours.

How far is Xochimilco from Mexico City?

Xochimilco is about 28 kilometers south of Mexico City. Xochimilco is often combined with a stop at Coyoacan, one of the most popular neighborhoods of Mexico City that is home to the famous Museo Frida Kahlo (Casa Azul), colorful markets, and a wonderful food scene.

When is the best time to go to Xochimilco?

The best time visit Xochimilco Mexico is depends on what type of experience you are looking for. If you want to enjoy the quiet canals, arrive by the opening time. This way, you can experience the Xochimilco canals before they get busy. If you want a more lively atmosphere, arrive any time after 12 p.m. when Xochimilco canals are busy with colorful trainers zipping around and you can enjoy drinks and the Mariachi music.

How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City

You can get to Xochimilco from Mexico City by metro, Uber, or car rental. You can also book one of guided tours of Xochimilco if you don’t want to deal with the logistics of planning your trip.

Taking Metro to Xochimilco from Mexico City

Taking metro to Xochimilco from Mexico City is the most economical option. Go to the nearest Metro station and figure out how to get to Xochimilco. A one-way Metro ticket costs only 5 pesos, which is great if you are traveling on a budget 💸

✅ Learn how to take Uber from Mexico City to Teotihuacan , one of the most popular day trips!

PRO TIP: Avoid pica hora (or rush hour) early morning on weekdays when everybody goes to work and from 4 p.m. until about 6 p.m. when everybody goes back home. This is the busiest time and it’s common to have pickpockets on trains during this time.

Xochimilco Mexico City is a great cultural adventure on your Mexico itinerary.

How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City by metro

Find your way to Tasquena station which is the final station on the Blue Line .

From Tasquena, take an overground metro line Train Ligero which begins in Tasquena and takes you to Xochimilco, a final stop on this line. You will need to get a rechargeable metro card, that you can pick up any train station in Mexico City. It can be used for your future trips on metro.

👉 Taking Metro to Xochimilco could take over one hour depending on where you are in Mexico City. Plan extra time for your trip.

From the Metro station, it’s a quick walk toward the Embarcadero or the pier from where Xochimilco tours depart. As you keep walking you will be greeted and approached by many people trying to give you directions or even sell you Xochimilco tours.

Be polite, but don’t feel obligated to buy anything, just say gracias (thank you), and keep walking.

Let me plan your Mexico trip, so you can save time and money!

GOOD TO KNOW: If you visit Xochimilco on your own, be prepared to negotiate a price 💵 with your boat driver. Xochimilco boats can fit in up to 10-12 people, and all the passengers typically split the price of the boat ride . If your boat is not full, you will need to pay the full amount, so the difference could be anywhere between 350 Mexican Pesos (if you are on your own) and 60 Mexican Pesos (if you are with a group).

Taking a guided tour of Xochimilco

A guided tour of Xochimilco is the best option if you are visiting for the first time and are not confident in your Spanish skills. When you take a guided tour, you will not have to negotiate prices and ask for directions to the boats, as your guide will organize everything for you.

Many Xochimilco tours combine a boat ride on the famous canals and Coyoacan where you can get a tour of the neighborhood and see some of the most famous landmarks such as the Museum of Frida Kahlo.

PRO TIP: Coyoacan is one of the most important areas of Mexico City that has its own identity and a wonderful charm, that’s why I recommend a tour that combines Xochimilco and Coyoacan .

Mexico City Xochimilco Tours

Taking uber to xochimilco from mexico city.

If you don’t want to take public transportation from Mexico City to Xochimilco, Uber is a great option 🚙 Uber in Mexico City is much cheaper than in the United States and Europe, and will typically cost around 200 Mexican Pesos for a one way trip (although prices can fluctuate depending on the time and day).

✅ If you take Uber to Xochimilco, ask your driver to drop you off at the Embarcadeo Nuevo Nativitas , one of the best spots for starting your Xochimilco tour. There are many different embarcaderos (docks) in Xochimilco, but Nuevo Nativitas is considered one of the best ones.

Renting a car for your trip to Xochimilco from Mexico City

If you have a car rental 🚘 you can drive to Xochimilco canals any time you want. Keep in mind that you will have to find a parking space and pay a fee if it’s private parking with security. The upside is that you can spend as much time as you want in Xochimilco without relying on public transportation.

How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City

Prices of Xochimilco tours

The hourly maximum for a boat ride in Xochimilco canals is between 350 and 500 Mexican Pesos, which covers the whole boat. Although there’s no specific time for a boat ride, most of them are between 1,5-2 hours. Negotiate the rate ahead of your tour. 💰

GOOD TO KNOW: The price you pay in Xochimilco covers the hourly ride, not the number of people on it . Your ride will be cheaper if you take it with a group of other travelers because you will all split the price. If you have friends or anybody who wants to come with you, bring them to Xochimilco canals!

Most boats can fit up to a dozen of people, so if you are traveling by yourself or in a couple, join up with other travelers to split the cost.

How to negotiate a price for Xochimilco boat tours

When trying to negotiate a boat ride, start with a low-ball offer and go from there. Do NOT start with a high amount like 700 Pesos, because it will be very difficult to get a competitive rate from that point. Begin with 500 Pesos for two hours and go down from there. If a boat captain wants to charge you more 500 Pesos, you should look for another ride.

✔️ If you are visiting Xochimilco without a guided tour, you need good haggling skills, and at least a basic level of Spanish. Otherwise your ride could be more expensive, especially if you are visiting Xochimilco canals on a weekend when there are a ton of tourists and boat drivers know that they can get a ride any time.

Taking a boat ride of Xochimilco: everything you need to know

When you get on a boat, all your need to do is relax and enjoy this festive cultural experience with hundreds of boats crowding the area.

You can buy food while taking a boat ride in Xochimilco

As you float down the canals, you will pass by many other Trajineras with tourists, as well as vendors trying to sell you food, drinks, arts and crafts like woven blankets and toys. It looks a bit like a floating market where you can buy food and trinkets during your ride.

There are also boat vendors who sell nieve, an equivalent of shaved ice that comes in a variety of exotic flavors.

… Or hire a Mariachi band

There are also boats with Mariachi bands, xylophone players and singers, and various other bands, who will approach you asking if you want to buy their music performance. If you decide to do so, they will attach their boat to yours, and play music as you float down the canal.

These boats will approach you and offer their services/goods, and you can get them right on the spot.

Ask your driver to take you to more remote canals

If you have more time, ask your boat driver, to take you to more remote canals where you can enjoy peaceful scenery away from the noise and crowds.

Things to do in Xochimilco Mexico City

Of course, everyone knows Xochimilco as the home of the famous canals and colorful Trajineras. But it’s not the only thing that you can find here. Let’s take a look at other things that you can do in Xochimilco, after taking a tour of the canals.

Isla De Las Munecas

One of the most unusual (and creepy) spots in Xochimilco is La Isla De Las Munecas (The Doll Island) which was supposed to be a tribute to a girl who drowned in the Xochimilco canal, but turned into a tourist attraction after a local man started decorating it with thousands of dolls. Today, Isla De Las Munecas is one of the top stops in Xochimilco, and as the hanging dolls deteriorate, they get creepier by the day.

Greenhouse

If you want to visit a less unsettling place, ask your boat driver to stop at a big greenhouse (or invernadero in Spanish) located in the middle of the canals. This place can’t be accessed on foot and you can step inside and explore the beautiful garden, as well as animals, and, if you get lucky, even, axolotl, the endangered amphibian.

Trying pulque

Pulque is an ancient Mesoamerican drink that has a pretty low alcoholic content and good nutritional value. Pulque is sold by many vendors floating down Xochimilco canals, and although it has an unappealing look and gooey texture to it, it’s one of those must-try drinks in Mexico.

A cup of pulque goes for about 20 Pesos ($1 USD), and since this drink can’t be exported, Xochimilco is a perfect place to try it.

Xochimilco Mexico City: tips for visiting

✅ leave jewelry and expensive clothing at home.

Leave your expensive clothing and jewelry at home. As a foreign tourist, you will also be thought of as a cash cow, because people working in the tourism industry will think that you are loaded with money and try to sell your stuff and charge more money for tours.

Avoid wearing expensive brands and jewelry when visiting Xochimilco canals. This will help you to get better prices and when haggling.

✅ Keep an eye on your belongings

Xochimilco can get busy. Always keep an eye on your belongings when you are on a boat and when you are walking the streets of pueblo from the train station.

✅ Learn Spanish

Even if you are taking a guided tour of Xochimilco Mexico City, learning some basic Spanish is a great idea. Locals will always treat you better if you can communicate with them in their language and show gratitude and courtesy.

✅ Leave a tip for your boat driver

Xochimilco boat drivers make low wages and typically depend on tips. Make sure to leave a gratuity at the end of your trip to help them out. Check my tips for Mexico travel if you want to know how much you need to leave in tips every time you go to a restaurant or take a guided tour.

✅ Come on a weekday

Weekends can be crazy busy in Xochimilco, that’s why I recommend visiting on a weekday.

If you have time constraints and have to visit on a weekend, come early morning. Some visitors come to Xochimilco specifically for its loud and festive atmosphere, and if you are one of them, then the weekend is the best time for your trip to Xochimilco Mexico City.

GOOD TO KNOW: Sunday is the best day to experience Xochimilco like a local and party Mexican style 🇲🇽 with many families making their way down here from Mexico City for a fun afternoon.

Is Xochimilco safe?

Xochimilco canals are perfectly safe to visit during the day, but better avoided at night when the tourism activity dies down. If you are finishing your trip by the time the area closes, you can get an Uber or walk to the metro station to make your way back before it gets dark.

Final thoughts on visiting Xochimilco Mexico City

Xochimilco is a wonderful cultural experience and one of the best things to do in Mexico City. While it can be crowded and chaotic at times, it’s well worth your time and money as it has a festive atmosphere and the friendliest people.

The increased tourism activity has been causing the deterioration of the canals of Xochimilco Mexico City. The area is also threatened by unsustainable urban growth, pollution, and over-pumping of water which has led to a decline in levels of water in the canals over years.

Consider donating some money to the Xochimilco restoration fund before your trip there.

Where to stay in Mexico City

Mexico City is huge and depending on where you plan, you should choose hotels based on your travel. Here are a couple of options for your stay in Mexico City:

📍 Budget : Hotel Templo Mayor – a great budget hotel in the heart of Mexico City

📍 Mid-range : Domingo Santo Boutique Hotel – a beautiful boutique stay near Templo Mayor and Zocalo

📍 Luxury : La Valise Mexico City – one of the most beautiful hotels in Mexico City in a quiet walkable neighborhood

More resources for planning your trip to Xochimilco Mexico City

Agoda.com – a great website for budget hotels in Mexico City.
WorldNomads – Great service for insurance coverage that will keep you safe on the road.
Safety Wing – Excellent insurance plan for long-term travelers that offers competitive rates is you are planning to stay on the road several weeks in a row.
iVisa – the best website for getting help with your Mexico visa.
DiscoverCars.com – Consider renting a car at Discover Cars if you want to day day trips from Mexico City including Xochimilco canals.
GetYourGuide.com – This is one of the best platforms for finding guided tours of Xochimilco Mexico City. Get Your Guide is my favorite platform that offers awesome tours and top-notch guides in many destinations in Mexico.
CheapoAir.com – One of the best platforms for saving money on flights within Mexico and beyond.
Booking.com – a popular website with tons and tons of options for accommodations of all sorts.

Xochimilco Mexico City: How to Get There and What to Do

By: Author James McAlister

Going to Xochimilco Mexico City is one of the trips that you just have to make when you’re in this part of the world.

When people talk about visiting Xochimilco, what they’re usually referring to is the network of canals known as The Floating Gardens of Xochimilco rather than the surrounding area.

The photogenic, brightly coloured gondolas, or Xochimilco Trajineras, that cruise up and down the waterways are what have made it so popular among both foreign and Mexican tourists alike.

Granted, Xochimilco has got a very mixed reputation, with some people absolutely loving it and others despising it with a passion.

And I’ve seen it variously described as the Mexican Venice, a cultural booze cruise, and even a youth club on water.

But here’s the thing – it’s impossible to know which camp you’ll fall into unless you go and experience it for yourself.

I can tell you that from personal experience – because I didn’t have very high expectations of our trip here.

But in the end we had a fantastic day out and discovered there’s a lot more to Xochimilco Mexico City than the canals.

Xochimilco Mexico City

This post will run through everything you need to know about planning a trip here.

We’ll cover how to get to Xochimilco by public transport. We’ll also go over some of the history of the Xochimilco canals, and what to expect on the Xochimilco boats plus other essential Xochimilco tips.

We’re also going to recommend the best Xochimilco tour to book – after all, Xochimilco is really far away from the centre of Mexico City .

So if you’re not confident using the public transport system or break out in a sweat at the idea of bartering (more on that below), a Xochimilco tour will be the best option.

How to Get to Xochimilco Mexico City

It’s relatively easy to get to Xochimilco Mexico City by your own on public transport.

And there’s much more to do here than just ride on the famous Xochimilco trajineras.

You can easily spend a whole day here, so if you’ve got the time to spare and are comfortable navigating Mexico City’s public transport then this is a great option.

How to get to Xochimilco by public transport obviously depends on where you’re starting from. But your first point of call is to get yourself to your local metro station.

If you’ve not used the metro system in Mexico City then don’t worry, it’s just the same as the metro anywhere in the world.

Yes it gets crowded at times, but it’s super convenient and extremely cheap.

We got told various bad stories about pickpocketing, but in truth you should be aware of this no matter which city’s metro you’re using.

Use your common sense, watch your things and you’ll be fine.

Mexico City to Xochimilco by Bus

The metro system in Mexico City is convenient, efficient and extremely cheap. At only $5 MXN pesos (around £0.22 GBP or $0.28 USD) per journey it’s well worth getting acquainted with.

You first need to buy a Metro card (Integrated Mobility Card) to use the system, but this handy card will allow you to use the Metro , Metrobús , and Ecobici . In fact it’s often the only way to use them.

You can buy a Metro Card at the ticket window of any Metro station, light rail ticket window or machines in any Metrobús station. They cost $15 MXN pesos (around £0.66 GBP or $0.84 USD).

Start by navigating your way to Tasqueña station which is at the very end of the Blue Line 2.

From Tasqueña there is a dedicated train called the Tren Ligero which starts in Tasqueña and finishes in Xochimilco. You can use your Metro card on this as well.

It’s basically an overground metro line which goes all the way there.

When you arrive, you’re in the heart of Xochimilco and can easily walk to all of the points of interest.

When you leave the station you’ll be confronted by lots of guys in official looking lanyards.

They’ll be pointing you in the direction of the embarcaderos or ports where the trajineras launch from.

They actually work for the different companies that run the trajineras so will try and get you to go to their particular launch point.

Don’t feel bullied or harassed into going with them, remember it’s always your choice where you spend your money.

The Best Xochimilco Tour

If the idea of heading to Xochimilco Mexico City by yourself doesn’t appeal for whatever reason, don’t worry.

There are some great Xochimilco tours that allow you to enjoy the magical waterways with none of the stress.

No navigating the Mexico City metro and no haggling for a better price on your boat.

Most of the Xochimilco tours combine a boat ride with visits to other attractions on the way.

There are two Xochimilco tours that we would highly recommend depending on what your interests are.

The first Xochimilco tour to consider is this awesome trip that includes a visit to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).

The campus is a UNESCO Heritage site, thanks in part to being decorated with murals by famous Mexican artists such as Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros.

The largest and most important university in Latin America, UNAM is pretty special in its own right.

Not only is it interesting to look at, but it boasts a fascinating history featuring esteemed academics, innovation and the seeds of revolution.

If you are simply after a stress free boat trip then the other Xochimilco tour we’d recommend is this one . It includes a traditional gondola tour with food and unlimited drinks included.

We’d suggest opting for this one if you haven’t already visited Coyoacan or it isn’t in your plans.

However Coyoacan is one of our favourite parts of CDMX so we don’t think it should be missed. It’s the birthplace of Frida Kahlo, and where the incredible museum dedicated to her is.

But more than that, it’s like a little individual town in its own right and totally different from the rest of Mexico City.

Uber to Xochimilco Mexico City

If you’re not interested in going by public transport or doing a Xochimilco tour, you have a third option to get there.

Getting an Uber to Xochimilco is easy and hassle free, just bear in mind that depending on the time of day, traffic in Mexico City can be bonkers.

Because of this, it may not be the quickest way to get there and back. And it certainly won’t be the cheapest.

An cost of an Uber to Xochimilco from the centre of Mexico City starts at around $185 MXN ($9.70USD, £7.45GBP).

That’s one way and can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic and demand.

The History of the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco

Incredibly, the whole of Mexico City is built on a vast lake, and Xochimilco is no exception.

However, the actual construction of the famous floating gardens of Xochimilco was slightly different.

The so called gardens are actually named chinampas, and far from floating. In fact they’re actually islands that remain permanently in situ.

They were constructed by the local population, way back in pre-hispanic times. They would pack mud and silt from the bottom of the lake high enough until it broke the surface.

They’re held together with the roots of trees, so though they’re man made, they’re created entirely from natural resources.

Thanks to the nutrient rich soil in the lakes and the year round abundance of water, these islands are ideal for farming.

The Aztecs used to cultivate huge amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables on the chinampas. And in part you can see that they’re still used for growing things and are covered in lush greenery.

Nowadays though, they’re largely maintained for their touristic value rather than for farming.

A Trip on the Xochimilco Boats or Trajineras

The first thing to know about a ride on the Xochimilco boats (or trajineras as they’re known locally) is that they’re not especially cheap.

In fact, if your negotiation and haggling skills aren’t up to scratch then they can work out to be pretty damned expensive.

There’s no fixed price as such (though there is a maximum hourly rate) so you have to barter for a good price depending on what you want.

You hire Xochimilco boats by the hour, and generally people tend to go for two hours at a minimum.

The hourly maximum rate is set by the local government body, this currently stands at $600 mexican pesos per hour.

This price is for the boat, not per person so obviously the more people you have the cheaper it becomes for each of you.

Be prepared for some extortionate quotes though, as the operators like to try their luck whenever possible.

We made a fatal error in our negotiations, as the guy we were speaking to caught us off guard with an offer of $1,900 MXN for a two hour ride.

Unfortunately my first counter was to tell him how ridiculous that was because we knew that the maximum rate was, at that time, $450 MXN per hour.

It didn’t leave us very much wiggle room, so when he reduced his rate to $900 it was pretty much impossible to barter down any more.

To avoid making the same mistake I’d suggest going in with a low ball offer and working from there.

If you’re not happy with the price then there are lots of operators so don’t be afraid to move on and try another one.

We were not really in the mood to trawl up and down for a cheaper price, so aware that we weren’t getting totally ripped off just went for this.

If you’re not confident negotiating in Spanish, don’t worry too much as most of the salespeople speak fluent English.

James and Sarah on a Xochimilco trajineras

Once you’re on the boat, all you need to do is kick back, relax and enjoy the carnival as you get ferried around the busy waterways.

The canals are crowded with hundreds of boats going up and down, particularly on the weekends, everyone enjoying a few drinks, a bite to eat and the music.

Many of the trajineras have full mariachi bands on, there are also xylophone players, singers and brass bands playing everything from Mexican classics to modern chart music.

For a small fee they will either attach their boat to yours, or even jump on for a few minutes and play a selection of tunes.

Xochimilco trajineras with mariachi bands

It’s a bit like a floating market in parts, as trajineras laden with all kinds of traditional Mexican arts and crafts work their way along the waterways.

There are also plenty of food stalls and drinks sellers, so there’s no need to worry if you’ve not brought anything on with you.

You can get everything from beer and pulque to water and fruit juices, BBQ corn and tacos to freshly cooked steaks, all right there on the water.

Xochimilco Hours

The Xochimilco hours of operation for the trajineras start at 9am. You can get a boat road anytime from then and they carry on all day, winding up at 6pm.

If you’re wondering how many hours to allocate for a trip to Xochimilco, that depends on what you plan on doing.

Boat rides can last anywhere from an hour to all day if that’s what you want!

At a minimum allow 3-4 hours to visit Xochimilco, more if you’re planning on seeing the town as well.

Bear in mind that Xochimilco is busiest on weekdays and extremely chocka during holidays.

If you want a more peaceful Xochimilco boat trip, head down during the week.

However, for many people, the lively atmosphere you’ll encounter on the weekend is the best part.

What Else to do in Xochimilco and top Xochimilco Tips

While a boat ride is obviously the main reason people come here, there are plenty of other things to do in Xochimilco Mexico City.

Here’s our selections of what not to miss on your visit plus our top Xochimilco tips for an amazing visit.

Xochimilco Market

Before you get on your Xochimilco trajinera, it’s a good idea to pick up some food and drinks for the excursion.

The cheapest and most interesting place to do this is at the market. Visiting Xochimilco Market is a great experience in itself.

The colorful, bustling, traditional Mexican market is principally housed in a vast colonial style building, but spills out freely onto the surrounding streets.

The sights and smells are enough to get you excited, and there are different sections for anything you might want.

There’s a large fresh produce area where the fruit and vegetables are beautifully laid out in immaculate, symmetrical piles.

There’s a whole aisle of taco makers where you can buy them by the kilo, freshly made and still warm.

Wandering around you’ll see everything from pet stores selling goldfish and hamsters, to little outlets selling chapulines (fried grasshoppers) and dried fruit and nuts.

You can also get all sorts of prepared foods like barbacoa (BBQ goat), nopales (cactus), mole (meat in a savoury chocolate sauce) and various other different Mexican dishes.

Check Out a Traditional Pulqueria

Just a couple of blocks away from the market on the corner of Avenue 5 de Mayo and Francisco I. Madero, you’ll find the truly incredible the Pulqueria el Templo de Diana .

If you have no idea what a pulqueria is, that’s because they’re a dying form of bar that specialises in a very traditional Mexican, alcoholic drink made by fermenting the sap of the agave plant.

Pulque is a hard drink to describe both in its taste and its effects. So I’m going to put in a quick disclaimer here that it’s not everybody’s bag and you may well hate the stuff!

It’s quite a thick, gloopy, white substance, so just the texture alone is off putting to some people.

It’s also extremely sour in a way that will make your face scrunch up the first time you try it.

Having said that, I personally really enjoy pulque as I’m not a big fan of sweet drinks, so it suits my taste buds perfectly.

But worry not, if you don’t like the natural variety, it also comes in an endless number of surprising and whacky flavours.

At Templo de Diana they range from fruity tastes like mango, tamarind and strawberry right through to a strange concoction called an Ostión.

The Ostión contains tomato juice, chile sauce and a healthy portion of oysters and prawns thrown in for good measure. It’s served with a side of crackers.

Clearly we had to try one, and though it sounds a bit bonkers, it was actually really tasty.

Drink in Xochimilco’s Fascinating Culture

There are a number of historic churches in Xochimilco that are worth taking a look at and are walking distance from the city centre.

San Bernardino de Siena is probably the most famous but there are a few dotted around, each with their own unique appearance and backstory.

Xochimilco is full of life and an exciting place to just wander around the backstreets between the market and the embarcaderos where the trajineras leave from.

There are lots of street food stalls, open fronted shops selling everything from trinkets to trainers, and we even saw a family riding through the streets on horseback.

Though the trajineras are undoubtedly the main attraction here, Xochimilco Mexico City is a really great place to spend a day.

You’ll get a totally different impression from many of the other main areas of Mexico City and get to enjoy some totally unique experiences at the same time.

At the very least, go so you can make your own mind up as to whether it’s a great cultural experience or a horrific, tacky tourist attraction.

Safety in Xochimilco

Xochimilco is completely safe to visit. That being said, it does get very busy at so use a common sense approach and look after your valuables. Especially when travelling on public transport.

Xochimilco FAQs

Is xochimilco worth visiting.

Xochimilco is absolutely worth a visit. That’s not to say that you will love it – not everyone does. But it’s certainly a unique experience that you simply can’t get elsewhere and makes for a fantastic day trip from CDMX.

Is Xochimilco a tourist trap?

Xochimilco is definitely a tourist trap on the weekends, particularly Sunday afternoons. But on weekdays it’s relatively quiet. Bear in mind that for many, part of the fun is the buzzing atmosphere, so choose when to go accordingly.

What is Xochimilco known for?

Xochimilco is known for its network of canals that flow through a series of amazing floating gardens (chinampas) built by the Aztecs. Then there’s its colourful gondolas (trajineras) that traverse the waterways. And don’t forget the haunted Island of the Dolls.

How long is the Xochimilco boat ride?

Xochimilco boat rides can last as long as you want, but the average time people tend to spend on the water in a trajineras is 2 hours.

How much should I pay for Xochimilco?

The standardised rate for a boat trip in Xochimilco currently stands at mx$600 per hour and that’s per boat (trajinera) not per person. This is a fixed rate.

Have you got any questions about your upcoming trip to Xochimilco? Let us know in the comments below!

Pin Me For Later…

Travel lover, professional writer and football (soccer) obsessive, James loves nothing more than getting outside and exploring little known corners of the globe. He’s also very partial to a drop of Guinness.

Sunday 15th of May 2022

This was really helpful!! Thank you so much. Heading there today. Apparently todays the busiest day. How are they with just 2 people on the boat?

Wednesday 29th of December 2021

I’ve been following on Igram for awhile now. We finally have had enough with covid and got on a plane to CDMX. I googled how to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City and your wonderful article came up. It felt like meeting an old friend. Thank you for all the valuable information.

Sarah McAlister

Friday 25th of March 2022

Hi Eileen! Ah so happy we could help. We'd love to get back to Mexico soon. Have an incredible time :-)

lynn aparicio

Saturday 21st of August 2021

I am so happy to come across your website , it has been so helpful. I will be staying in Mexico for few days then heading to Guanajuato. My question i do want to visit Taxco is it worth it, have you been there?

Hi Lynn, so glad you've found our information helpful. We haven't made it to Taxco however so we can't help there! Have an awesome trip!

Monday 20th of August 2018

This is so helpful, thank you! Wondering how long the aboveground metro trip takes? We're staying in Condesa.

Wednesday 5th of September 2018

Ah love Condesa! I can't remember specifically but I'm guessing somewhere between 30-45mins...Have an awesome time Megan!

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The Gringos Guide to Xochimilco Boats in Mexico City

Posted by Di Minardi | Last updated Nov 6, 2022

This post contains affiliate links.

Have you ever dreamed of floating down canals built by the ancient Aztecs?

What about getting day drunk on the water under the sun?

Combine the two experiences and you’ve got yourself a day out in Xochimilco.

These canals in southern Mexico City were once used for transport because the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan was built on a lake. Now, Mexico City is built on top of Tenochititlan on top of that lake and a few of the canals still remain.

They’re no longer used for serious transport but they’re full of traditional trajinera boats – your whimsical ride to a day full of fun. If you’re ready to go, this Xochimilco guide will cover:

How to get to Xochimilco

How much do the Xochimilco boats cost?

How much does a day trip to xochimilco cost.

How to rent a boat at the Xochimilco canals
The best time to visit Xochimilco (and when to avoid it)
What to do in Xochimilco
Food and alcohol at Xochimilco
What to pack for a day trip to Xochimilco
Xochimilco travel tips
And so much more!

If eating, drinking, dancing, and listening to live mariachi bands on the water sounds like your idea of a perfect weekend afternoon, this Xochimilco guide has absolutely everything you need to know to make it happen!

How to Get to Xochimilco

Surprise, surprise, the Xochimilco canals are located in the Xochimilco neighborhood.

It’s in southern Mexico City about 45 minutes to an hour by Uber from the popular tourist neighborhoods of Roma, Condesa, and Centro Historico.

You can take the metro there – just plug the destination into Google maps and it’ll give you a step by step guide to get to Xochimilco by public transport – but I don’t recommend it because it’ll take over an hour.

Hop in an Uber instead and save your valuable time!

In Mexico City Uber is still really affordable and the trip from Condesa to the Xochimilco canals on a Saturday morning only cost us 226 mxn / 11.50 usd. It took about 45 minutes and we chose to get dropped at the Embarcadeo Nuevo Nativitas.

There are many different embarcaderos (docks) so you might not know which one is the best to go to, but Nuevo Nativitas is widely regarded by my Mexican friends as the best and busiest in Xochimilco.

If you don’t want to do it on your own, you can book guided group tours to Xochimilco on Airbnb to go with a group instead!

Xochimilco docks at Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas

Dan ready to board the boats at Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas… but which one is ours?!

Well, that depends on your bargaining skills, but the price in 2019 is around 400 to 500 mxn / 20 to 25 usd per hour.

We were with a group of locals so we were able to snag a boat at the 400 mxn rate, but paying a little more isn’t really that big of a deal. Just know that 500 is the ceiling and if the captain starts throwing out crazy numbers like 600 or 700 pesos per hour you should walk away and find another.

So, what’s included with a Xochimilco boat rental?

Again, you’ll have to ask your specific captain when you’re bargaining but it should come with room for about 20 people (remember, you’re paying per hour and not per person, so the more friends you can gather up the cheaper the ride will be) and include a cooler for your beer (more on that later) and a speaker for music.

Remember the boats – and almost everything else you may want at the canals – is cash only!

You can’t see it, but this is the start of en epic sunburn on my back. Sorry, mom.

I’ll break down my personal expenses on the trip to give you an idea of what to budget for your day trip to Xochimilco.

Uber from Condesa to Xochimilco – 225 pesos, shared with Dan
Four-hour boat ride with seven people – 228 pesos per person
Two songs from a mariachi band – 21 pesos per person
A 12-pack of beer – about 120 pesos, shared with Dan
Limes, chips, sandwiches, ice – about 150 pesos for two
Uber Xochimilco to Condesa (with evening traffic) – about 300 pesos, shared with Dan

So, in total, Dan and I paid about 1,293 mxn / 65 usd for a Xochimilco day trip for two, so this isn’t a budget-friendly outing in Mexico City.

This Xochimilco budget is also a pretty rough estimate and the numbers will change a lot based on how many people you share the Uber with, where you’re coming from, how many share the boat, and more. Going with a guided tour is a little pricier than creating your own group, but would probably come out to about the same price you’re planning to just go on your own or as a couple.

Do you need to tip at Xochimilco?

I was with locals and they said it wasn’t common to tip, so we didn’t. However, the boats have signs asking for tips and if it had been just me and Dan, we probably would have tipped 100 or 200 pesos… this one is up to you.

How to Get a Boat at Xochimilco

As you can see from the photos, there’s no shortage of boat rentals available at Xochimilco. I don’t think it’s possible for the boats to fill up completely.

So, go to Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas and walk through the main gates (they’re impossible to miss) and up to the water where you’ll see 50 million boats lined up and captains will start asking if you want a ride.

Obviously, the answer is yes.

Negotiate the length of your ride with your captain (I recommend three or four hours) and negotiate the price. It typically won’t go down if you get a longer ride, but you can always ask.

I recommend having your ice, beer, and food ready to go before you find your ride so you can just follow the captain and jump on board. If you have to leave to buy everything, it’ll be hard to find them again in the crowded maze of colorful boats and people.

Day drinking with a couple thousand of of my closest friends

When is the best time to go to Xochimilco?

This depends on what kind of experience you’re interested in.

The mornings are quiet and the docks and canals don’t get busy until around 11 or 12 pm. If you show up before then it may be more difficult to hail a ride but quite peaceful on the uncrowded waters.

Later in the afternoon around 12 or 1 pm, the vibe is lively and fun.

If you’ve ever gone day drinking with friends or family before you know it’s very different than drinking at night.

The sun is shining, everyone is drinking beer and tequila, people are eating and dancing, and it’s just really, really, nice. It’s a super cheerful atmosphere that I enjoyed despite the painful sunburn I earned.

In the evenings the Xochimilco canals turn into a discoteca (that’s a night club for all you gringos out there). It has much more of a party/club vibe and is much less family-friendly.

If you’re going with kids or your family and don’t plan to drink a lot or don’t want to be around people drinking a lot, it’s better to time your trip in the late morning or early afternoon. I also recommend going during the day because the colorful boats and pretty canals and overhanging trees are all more beautiful and photogenic in the sunlight.

What’s the best day to visit Xochimilco?

The weekends, for sure.

Saturday is super lively and based on past experiences in Mexico I can only assume that Sunday is twice as crowded. If you go on a weekday all the locals and expats in the city are working, so it’ll only be you and a few other straggling tourists.

Unlike pretty much every other tourist attraction in the country, this one is much better on Saturday or Sunday than it is during the week.

If you have enough beer your boat will magically become a salsa club as well.

6 Things to do in Xochimilco

There’s a lot to do on the canals, but these six things to do in Xochimilco are the most popular and the most enjoyable!

There’s a store across the parking lot that sells beer, liquor, soda, ice, and snacks. Stock up here.

People sell food on the water but I recommend packing your lunch and snacks to save money and also because water tacos just aren’t appetizing to me.

Don’t forget to prepare some playlists on your phone because data and cell service is spotty on the Xochimilco canals. Mariachi bands roam the canals in their own boats and you can invite them on board to play a song or two. We payed 150 mxn / 7.50 usd for two songs.

Wait, what? Vendors will come by your boat with souvenirs and popular flower headbands. There are also lots of greenhouses along the water where you can buy some plants because, why not?

5. Visit the Island of the Dolls .

This island requires a four-hour round trip but comes with its own handful of problems.

Basically, other blog posts have talked about getting ripped off when they tried to visit or even being taken to a fake Island of the Dolls instead of the real thing. It’s also not always accessible from every embarcadero because the connecting platforms between the canals seem to break somewhat often.

We passed the fake one on our journey and that was good enough for me. If you’re dead set on seeing the real Island of the Dolls keep in mind you’ll have to pay an entrance fee to see it on top of the price of your boat trip.

6. Enjoy the sun and companionship of others.

Pretty straight forward, huh?

No cell service means you can’t check your email or social media if you wanted to so you have to relax, unwind, and get away from it all whether you want to or not 😉

The mariachi band was definitely a highlight of the trip and I recommend buying one or two songs just for the experience

Can I buy food and alcohol at Xochimilco?

Yes, there are a bunch of restaurants near the docks and markets selling snacks, alcohol, and ice.

I recommend buying it in Mexico City because you’ll have a better selection but mostly because you can just hop out of your Uber and onto a boat without adding extra steps to your to-do list before setting sail.

But if this is a spur the moment thing, then yes, rest assured that you can buy food and alcohol at Xochimilco for your boat trip.

Even after you board your boat, vendors selling michelada beers and tacos and anything else you could want will pass by on the water and stop to sell you anything your heart might fancy.

What to Pack for Xochimilco

You could show up in Xochimilco barefoot and empty-handed and still have a good time, but why not go prepared with this handy Xochimilco day trip packing list?

Beer and sliced limes
Chips, peanuts, or popcorn (or all three) to snack on
Downloaded playlists on your phone
A sandwich or something else to eat for lunch and soak up the alcohol
Sunscreen (the boats are covered, but the sun will still come in the sides)

I’m a stock photo! Pin me!

Extra Xochimilco Travel Tips

I touched on some of these above but I just want to reiterate some Xochimilco travel tips that’ll make sure your trip goes extra smooth.

There are no bathrooms on the boats, and with plans to drink a lot of light beer, this can be a concern.

Enterprising locals have made a business of this oversight and there are houses and shops all along the canals with bathrooms that cost five or six pesos to use, so all you have to do when you need to pee is ask your captain to make a quick stop.

You can go to the Xochimilco canals with your significant other but I highly recommend going with a large group.

Dan and I travel alone but I organized our outing through the Spanglish Meetup group I’m a part of (if you’re going to be in the city for awhile, I highly recommend joining it). If you’re traveling alone or as a couple, I recommend joining a group tour to Xochimilco instead of going on your own.

The more the merrier has never been truer when it comes to day drinking on the boats in the Xochimilco canals, so I recommend cobbling a group together through Facebook groups, Reddit threads, meetup, or even joining a tour as a last resort. Plus, the more people you convince to go the cheaper the outing will be for you.

These boats are cash only, so please don’t. forget. to. b ring. cash!

Plus, you can always add more time on to your boat ride at the end so you don’t need to decide exactly how much you want at the beginning. If you’re on the fence between two or three or four hours, go out for a few and ask your captain for more if you’re not done with the experience quite yet when you return to the docks.

Ready to go?

Explore unique stays on Airbnb – like these light-filled lofts in Roma and Condesa, my favorite neighborhoods in Mexico City – or the top-rated hotels on Booking.com for a perfect night, weekend, or long-term stay in the city.

Then, browse more food, nature, and cultural experiences on Airbnb to round out your itinerary. Or, book a multi-day Mexico tour with Intrepid to finish your travel planning in one click!

This article is part of the Miscellaneous Mexico City series. Read the rest below:

Mexico City Travel Guide: What to Do in Mexico City

12 Things to do in Mexico City at Night (On Any Budget)

14 Best Day Trips from Mexico City

8 Best Places to Live in Mexico: Ranked

How to See the Monarch Butterfly Migration in Mexico

29 Best Instagram Spots Around Mexico City + Map

Or, check out the complete Mexico Series for 40+ more articles on what to see, eat, drink, do, and discover in the country.

Did you know every time you read an article on Slight North, you're also planting trees for the monarchs in Mexico? Start here to learn more about our mission and how to get the most out of the site!

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Xochimilco Mexico City Complete Guide 2023 UPDATE

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: June 13, 2023

Xochimilco Mexico City Complete Guide 2023 UPDATE

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Xochimilco Mexico City is one of the best things you can do when you visit this mega city.

Xochimilco is the Venice of Mexico and whether you’re looking to party with the locals or escape the crowds and learn about the history of this ancient network of canals, it’s all waiting for you here.

Xochimilco is a huge network of canals and one of the most naturally beautiful places I’ve been to in this part of the country.

It’s also a peek back at the former glory of Mexico City. Before the Spanish arrived, much of Mexico City was made up of canals. It was filled in by the colonists, and Xochimilco is all that remains as a reminder.

As a first time visitor to Xochimilco, it’s important to know what the deal is. It’s a massive tourist trap and you don’t want to end up paying through the nose only to hang out in an empty canal.

The History of Xochimilco Mexico

The Xochimilecos or the people who come from Xochimilco, have been here longer than the Aztecs. In fact, when the Aztecs showed up in the Valley of Mexico, they came to the Xochimilecos to learn how to build their city.

You see, the downtown area of Mexico City used to be a lake. An enormous Lake called Lake Taxco. That’s why when you go into the Mexico City Cathedral and walk to the middle of the church, you’ll see a big pendulum hanging from the ceiling.

This pendulum shows you how much the city is sinking every year (roughly 2cm per year!).

I digress.

Xochimilco is also built on a lake. So while it looks like canals, it’s actually land masses that have been built on top of a lake. And every year, the locals need to continue to maintain their islands. If they don’t they slowly erode back into the lake.

How to get to Xochimilco Mexico City

While getting to Xochimilco is quite simple by metro, since December 2022, there have been quite a few accidents on the metro in Mexico City. I currently DO NOT recommend taking the metro in Mexico City, especially all the way to Xochimilco.

I have left the directions for using the metro if at some point in 2023, you feel it is safer than it was at the start of the year, but for the time being, I highly recommend only getting to Xochimilco by car. You can get an Uber from the city center to Xochimilco for about 300 Pesos ($15 USD) depending on the time of day. It’s easy to get one back to the city as well as long as you don’t try to leave it too late.

If you are having trouble getting an Uber back to Mexico City, there are always taxis waiting in the parking lot at Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas.

If you do want to take the metro, take it to the station called to Tasqueña . It’s the end of the blue line (line 2).

From that same station follow the signs for the Tren Ligero – the train line that will take you straight to Xochimilco. It’s the last stop on that line.

Once you get to the station in Xochimilco you can either walk or take a quick taxi ride to Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas . Make sure you ask for this specific spot – this is where the main parking lot and boat launch is.

There are tons of signs that will try to lead you from the station to a different entrance. There are people on bicycles touting for your business, but these smaller embarcaderos are much more expensive (and much quieter).

Nuevo Nativitas has tons of food stalls and in my experience, it is one of the cheapest places to get a boat from. It’s where all the locals head, so it’s busy (in a good way). This is where the party starts.

There is one other embarcadero that is worth checking out. Embarcadero Cuemanco is a good option, especially on the weekends. This doesn’t tend to get as busy with the party boats as Nuevo Nativas.

This is one of the best embarcaderos to come to during Day of the Dead. There are tours that leave from here. You’ll see Day of the Dead -themed boats. This is also where the famous La Llorona show takes place in October.

How Much Does a Trajinera Cost at Xochimilco Mexico City?

There are two types of boats in Xochimilco. Tons of signs that say 20 Pesos per person. This is for a TAXI boat.

It will drop you off at a different location. If you’ve come to experience the canals, I don’t recommend taking this one . You can pay 40 pesos for a return trip, but it will simply go up and down the canal without any stops.

The other option is to hire your own boat. These boats have tables and chairs (the other taxi boat only has benches). If you’ve come to Xochimilco to party with your pals, this is definitely the best option.

You will pay 500-600 pesos (about $25-30 USD) for one hour for the entire boat, regardless of how many people are on the boat.

So the more people you bring, the cheaper is will be. We stayed on the boat for two hours (it went by SO quickly) and we paid 600 pesos. That was for four of us to ride up and around the canals for two whole hours.

What Can I Bring on a Trajinera at Xochimilco in Mexico City?

Bring everything. Bring waters, bring beers, bring bottles of wine, bring snacks, pack a whole damn cooler full of goodies.

I always thought that there were tons of vendors selling food from their boats, and there are, but it is WAY overpriced. Stop at one of the convenience stores along the way and pick up beers and snacks before you go on the boat.

Just outside of the entrance there are a few shops that sell beers and snacks. If you come early enough then there will be plenty, but if you don’t arrive until around 5 or 6pm, then they may have sold out of most things, so plan accordingly.

When you get to Nuevo Nativitas, you’ll be able to have a few beers and plenty of street food – tacos, gorditas, tlacoyos, quesadillas, for really cheap. Definitely get yourself some cecina while you’re there (salted/dried beef in a taco).

You have to try the cecina tacos. They’re magical.

What is Xochimilco Famous For?

It’s all about the boat ride at Xochimilco Mexico City. We went just before sunset and as you head down the narrow passages you’ll be surrounded by greenery.

It feels miles away from the skyscrapers of downtown Mexico City. You can see the mountains and even a few stars after dark.

There are tons of greenhouses around Xochimilco’s canals. You can ask the driver to stop and check out the different plants, and even buy one if you fancy it.

The other strange thing in Xochimilco is Isla de las Muñecas, or doll island .

While the original doll island is a few hours away (you can go for about 1500 pesos), there is a replica doll island a few minutes from Nueva Nativitas. Legend has it that a young girl drowned in the canal near the island.

The owner of the island wanted to keep her company, wanted to help her ghost which he claimed to have both seen and heard.

Some say that now, the dolls house her spirit. It’s become widely known as a haunted spot. Whichever way you slice it, it’s kind of creepy and also quite fascinating.

One of the best things to do is to simply enjoy riding past all the colorfully decorated trajineras (boats). Bring a speaker for your music (or you can rent one while you’re here) and say salud to all the people that pass by.

Mariachi bands will come onto your boat as you move through the canals and serenade you with Mexican classics. Of course, you’ll have to pay for it, but it’s really fun and the guys have a great sense of humor.

What’s Xochimilco Like Once You’re on the Boat?

Once you’re out on the water, you’ll be slowly moving through the canal.

The person who is steering your boat is using only one very thick, very long stick. Ask nicely and he’ll let you give it a try. Just don’t drop it, something that many a tourist has done in the past.

The canal is usually very busy with boats, especially on weekends.

Don’t come to Xochimilco expecting to take a tour of all of the canal networks. The two hours that most people spend on the boat takes you less than a mile away from the port because you’re moving so slowly.

If you didn’t bring your own music, you’ll be able to listen to everyone else’s. Or invite the mariachis onboard.

There are a few boats with mariachi bands on them and if you want them to play you a few songs, they’ll pull up, climb onto your boat and serenade away. Just remember that you have to actually pay them for this, they’re not doing it for free.

There are also women who push small boats around with beers and snacks. Some have full-on barbecues on their boats where they’ll heat you up a fresh quesadilla or some tacos. Others just have buckets of chapulines (crickets) and salted peanuts to purchase.

Be sure to have small coins for the bathroom.

There are plenty of places for the boat to pull over where you can use the toilet. Most of the houses along the canal in Xochimilco have bathrooms, but you’ll have to pay 5 Pesos per person. If you have a bit more cash you can also buy some cute plants from them.

Spending some time exploring the chinampas in Mexico City, meeting amazing people and enjoying some peace and quiet!

Take a Tour of Xochimilco, Mexico City

If you don’t feel totally comfortable navigating the metro and train systems, you can take a tour of Xochimilco from Mexico City.

I highly recommend Ubish from Mexico Underground (he was recently featured on the Netflix show Taco Chronicles!). He is a fantastic tour guide and knows this area of the city very well. His tours are private, so you’ll be going with just your group.

I also love the Xochimilco tours offered by Devoured . This company is not only Mexican-run but also completely female-run. They do a wonderful food and cultural tour that takes you beyond the party-boat scene and out into the real side of Xochimilco.

There’s music playing, you can drink beers and micheladas and eat tacos and chapulines. It’s not something you want to do by yourself since there is no boat sharing. You would be coming and booking your own boat and it may not be the most fun.

See Another Side of Xochimilco Mexico City

While the touristy side with the colorful boats is definitely worth a visit, there’s another side to Xochimilco that I think people should also see. This is the side that started it all – the farmers, the families, the axolotl.

I recently took a tour with Ubish from Mexico Underground, watch the full video here to get a taste of what it’s all about. I also took a similar tour with Devoured during Day of the Dead which you can watch here .

We explored a very quiet side of the canal.

We learned all about what this small group of farmers is doing to help clean the city’s air, to bring local Mexican produce to restaurants around the city, and how they are trying to save the little ancient salamander that is older than the Aztecs.

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Visit Xochimilco Mexico City - everything you need to know about visiting Xochimilco mexico city - a complete guide on how to get to Xochimilco, what to see in Xochimilco, and whether or not you should take a tour of Xochimilco

Saturday 29th of July 2023

Thank you for the helpful guide and the tip on the bicycle scams! They told our Uber driver that Nuevo Nativitas was closed and he had to drop off at their entrance (not an officially marked entrance and down an odd alley!). He ended the ride and left us there. We were super uncomfortable and the situation was pretty tense. They tried to charge us $4500 pesos for a 2 hour ride! Thanks to your guide, we saw this scam and walked away. We found a lovely boat company at the next official entrance with a fair price and a very kind boat driver. Word to the wise, tell your Uber driver to ignore the guys on bikes too! Otherwise, 10/10 recommend this day trip.

Monday 12th of June 2023

Make sure your UPDATE include the updated price - 600 MXN per hour.

Wednesday 6th of December 2023

@Marcelo, also the doll island is not a few minutes from Nativitas - that's a decoy one lol

The Best Mexico City Neighborhoods to Explore - Bobo and ChiChi

Monday 8th of November 2021

[…] followed the wonderful guide for Xochimilco by Eternal Expat and this Xochimilco guide by Journey of […]

Saturday 21st of December 2019

We have no idea how much the Private boat ride will be for 3 people. We were on an Uber and was led by a young man on a bicycle who was instructing the driver short cuts to avoid traffic. It was heavy traffic today, perhaps because it is a Saturday and close to Christmas Day. Things happened fast when we alighted the car in front of the docking station where boats are lined up. We were met by someone that offered the boat for 4000 MX pesos. Without any idea how much is the cost, we agreed to pay 3000 pesos for 3 people, plus 200 pesos tip. That’s more than $150 USD ! I came across this article right after we got off from the boat and needed to find out if we paid the right amount. No review or article on the Internet says anything about cost, other than tour rates. I felt something isn’t right by not doing my due diligence in planning this trip. It’s such a waste of money. We were also charged 50 pesos per bottle of water. We didn’t know this was something we have to pay for as it was offered to us. Moral of the story is to research in depth costs beforehand and maybe some incidentals so as not to walk away being ripped off big time.

Wednesday 23rd of January 2019

I think it should be noted to do it during the day versus sunset. I was disappointed with the experience. First off the docks are empty and they aren't that many people doing it as in the daytime. The only conductor that would take me just by myself and charged me 500 MEX for 1 hour but really seemed like half an hour. None of the food vendors and mariachi bands were part of the experience. Sure they were other boats navigating but it became too dark to see anything let alone the things in the tour like the fake doll island.

Laura Bronner

Thursday 24th of January 2019

Sorry, you didn't enjoy your experience - it's not the best if you're going it alone unfortunately, it's definitely something to do with a larger group. The weekends are really the best time to go if you want to experience a really busy place with lots of the mariachi bands and food vendors. Hopefully if you come back to Mexico City you can visit again with a group and see it on a busy Sunday afternoon.

Xochimilco Day Trip: Farmland Food and Hop on a Trajinera

The Xochimilco Day Trip from Mexico City promises a unique blend of culture and natural splendor. Visitors can expect to embark on a captivating boat ride along the tranquil canals, surrounded by the lush chinampas – the ancient Aztec floating gardens. Beyond the scenic voyage, the tour offers a hands-on culinary experience , where participants can learn traditional cooking techniques and savor locally-sourced ingredients. The adventure also includes a visit to an aquarium, shining a spotlight on the endangered axolotl and the importance of conservation efforts. With round-trip transportation and a multilingual guide, this day trip is designed to provide a memorable and educational experience for travelers seeking to uncover the rich cultural heritage of Xochimilco.

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A cultural and scenic day trip from Mexico City exploring the Xochimilco region, including a boat ride on a traditional trajinera and a hands-on cooking class.
Opportunity to learn about sustainable Aztec farming techniques through a guided visit to a chinampa (floating garden) and an aquarium showcasing the endangered axolotl.
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later policy to secure spots without upfront payment.
Multilingual local guide provides comprehensive commentary and ensures a hassle-free experience with round-trip transportation from Mexico City.
Tour combines outdoor activities, culture, and culinary experiences, offering a blend of history, nature, and local traditions.

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Overview and Pricing

This Xochimilco Day Trip offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.

The tour is priced from $231.00 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy , allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, the tour features a reserve now and pay later option, enabling guests to secure their spot without upfront payment.

Whether you’re seeking an enriching cultural experience or simply want to enjoy the picturesque scenery, this Xochimilco Day Trip provides a well-rounded and engaging adventure.

Itinerary and Activities

The Xochimilco Day Trip offers a varied itinerary, catering to diverse interests. Depending on the selected option, the tour begins with a car ride from Mexico City to Xochimilco, taking around an hour.

Travelers will then embark on a scenic long-tail boat ride on a trajinera, seeing the natural beauty of the region.

Next, they’ll enjoy a hands-on cooking class and food tasting , learning about ancient Aztec farming techniques and sustainable practices.

The itinerary also includes a kayaking excursion and a visit to an aquarium to learn about the axolotl, an endangered salamander with ecological significance.

Highlights and Experiences

What makes the Xochimilco Day Trip so captivating ? The itinerary immerses visitors in the natural beauty of Xochimilco, an ancient Aztec farming region.

Highlights include:

Learning about sustainable farming techniques dating back centuries
Exploring the daily lives and practices of a local farming community
Cooking a delicious lunch using handpicked fresh produce in a guided cooking class
Encountering the axolotl, an endangered salamander with ecological significance
Enjoying a scenic long-tail boat ride on a trajinera, a traditional flat-bottomed boat

These experiences offer a unique opportunity to disconnect from the city and connect with the rich cultural and environmental heritage of this remarkable destination.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Xochimilco Day Trip package includes a range of services to ensure a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Visitors will enjoy the services of a multilingual local guide , round-trip transportation from Mexico City, and the opportunity to savor local food and drinks during the tour.

The package also covers the guided visit to a chinampa (a floating garden), a hands-on cooking class, a kayak ride, and a stop at an axolotl refuge.

However, personal expenses , travel insurance, and tips aren’t included in the package price.

It’s important to note that this tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.

Important Information and Requirements

Mobility impairments may make this Xochimilco Day Trip unsuitable for some visitors. To prepare, guests should bring comfortable shoes , a hat, sunscreen, and loose clothing.

Travelers must also provide a valid contact number for pickup coordination and travel insurance or an ID card (copies accepted). Plus, it’s important to confirm availability if booking less than 48 hours prior, as this tour may sell out quickly.

Guests should also note that:

This trip isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues
Comfortable clothing and proper sun protection are essential
Having a valid contact number is required for pickup
Availability should be confirmed for last-minute bookings
Travel insurance or ID is needed to participate

Booking and Cancellation Policy

To book the Xochimilco Day Trip, visitors can reserve their spot with no upfront payment. The tour has a free cancellation policy, allowing guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, the option to reserve now and pay later provides flexibility in planning the trip.

Confirming availability is crucial if booking less than 48 hours prior to the tour date. Providing a valid contact phone number ensures smooth pickup coordination.

Multilingual Guide and Transportation

As part of the Xochimilco Day Trip, a multilingual local guide accompanies participants throughout the excursion.

They provide comprehensive commentary on the sights and activities, ensuring a rich and informative experience.

The tour includes round-trip transportation from Mexico City, making it convenient for travelers.

Additional highlights include:

Knowledgeable guide fluent in multiple languages
Comfortable and reliable transportation to and from the destination
Seamless coordination of the various activities included in the itinerary
Opportunity to learn from a local expert about the history and culture of the region
Hassle-free logistics , allowing participants to fully enjoy the experience.

Sustainable Farming and Endangered Species

The Xochimilco Day Trip offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient Aztec farming techniques and learn about the endangered axolotl, a remarkable salamander found in the region’s waterways.

Visitors will tour a local chinampa, or floating garden , and discover how these sustainable farming methods have been used for centuries.

They’ll also visit an axolotl refuge to observe these unique creatures up close and learn about conservation efforts to protect this ecologically significant species.

Through hands-on activities and expert guidance, the tour provides a deep appreciation for Xochimilco’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring my own food and drinks on the boat.

Bringing your own food and drinks on the boat is generally not allowed. The tour includes local food and drink tastings as part of the experience. Guests are encouraged to fully participate in the culinary activities provided.

Is There an Age Limit or Minimum Age for the Tour?

There’s no minimum age for the tour, but it’s not suitable for young children. The tour operator recommends it for ages 8 and up who can participate in the activities comfortably.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Dietary Needs Accommodated?

The tour accommodates various dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. Guests should inform the tour operator of any special dietary requirements at the time of booking to ensure their needs are met.

Can I Take Photographs or Videos During the Activities?

Yes, participants can take photographs and videos during the activities. However, they should be mindful of not disrupting the experience or infringing on the privacy of others. Photography is generally permitted, but guests should use discretion.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add More Activities?

Yes, customers can extend the tour duration or add more activities. The tour operator offers flexible options to customize the experience based on individual preferences and interests, subject to availability and additional fees.

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The Xochimilco Day Trip offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Mexico. Participants will embark on a scenic boat ride , explore ancient farming techniques, and engage in a hands-on cooking experience , all while learning about the importance of conservation. With round-trip transportation and a multilingual guide, this adventure promises a memorable and educational day for travelers.

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Xochimilco Day Trip: Know a Farmland Food and Hop on a Trajinera (8h)

Mexico Tours Mexico City Tours Xochimilco Xochimilco Day Trip: Know a Farmland Food and Hop on a Trajinera (8h)

Hop on a Xochimilco Day Trip and let your senses be alive! From sailing along the peaceful canals on a traditional trajinera , as the sweet scents of flowers fill the air, to tasting the flavors of chinampa harvested produce, prepared with love by local hosts. Admire the vibrant colors that paint the floating gardens while you immerse in this magical experience, where everyday life blends with natural beauty.

Get amazed by a beautiful natural landscape and its silent atmosphere in the middle of a lake.
Visit a traditional chinampa to learn about its heritage which dates back to the Aztec times.
Learn the basics about Mexican gastronomy and its social aspects in the local culture.
Pick up fresh ingredients from the chinampa and prepare your own lunch in a traditional Mexican way, for instance, quesadillas, salsa, or tacos!
Paddle your own kayak and discover the UNESCO-listed canals of Xochimilco, protected since 1987.
Visit the famous Mexican salamander axolotl in an aquarium and discover why it is important for the locals.

Begin your Xochimilco Day Trip by meeting your guide and venture into the enchanting world of Xochimilco, a true natural town in Mexico City.

Hop aboard a colorful trajinera and let the magic unfold as you sail the serene canals of Xochimilco. Enjoy the tranquility and be captivated by the natural surroundings. Along the way, admire the ancient chinampas, remarkable rectangular fields created centuries ago by the Aztecs. These UNESCO World Heritage sites have played a vital role in local agriculture, nurturing a variety of vegetables and aromatic flowers.

Later, get in touch with a local community as you step foot on a chinampa and learn about their daily lives and sustainable farming practices. Handpick fresh produce and let your taste buds dance as you cook up a delicious lunch, guided by the culinary wisdom of your hosts.

Feel the thrill of paddling a trajinera , flowing through the canals adorned with floating gardens. Dive into the fascinating world of Xochimilco’s ecosystem as you visit an aquarium and encounter the axolotl , an endangered salamander that holds great ecological significance for the Xochimilco ecosystem.

As the day comes to an end, relax as we take you back to your accommodation, cherishing the memories of this captivating experience in Xochimilco.

How is this tour different?

Authentic how this tour provides an actual image of the destination, life, and practices of the host community..

We do our best to make our trips educative and fulfilling, in which travelers can interact with local populations, learn about their traditions, and culture, and connect with their core values.

A tour with impact ? How this tour positively affects the destination and local communities on economic, socio-cultural, and environmental dimensions.

We support the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours are aligned with SDG 8 and 12, focusing on empowering local communities and promoting sustainable consumption and production practices. We take tourists to underdeveloped regions, creating opportunities for economic growth while respecting local traditions and educating communities on sustainable approaches.

Other ? Other advantages this tour offers to travelers.

We will spend the time of the tour purely on activities and sightseeing: no visits to souvenir shops or restaurants (unless you ask).
An ideal choice for small groups: the price of the tour is fixed and varies just slightly depending on the size of your group.
We are flexible: we can adjust the program and route to your interests while the duration of the tour can always be extended for an extra fee.
This tour is private : only your group will participate.
The price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group (please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar ➡️ to see the final price).

Local Expert Guides

Service of a multilingual local guide:

Small-group tour: English & Spanish (our guides are bilingual).
Private tour: Spanish & English + other languages (e.g. French, German, Italian, Portuguese) upon prior request (based on availability).

Transportation

Round transportation from Mexico City:

Small-group tour: shared (with other participants in the group tour) pickup from a defined location.
Private tour: private (just for your group) pickup from your accommodation or another place of choice in Mexico City.

The type of vehicle depends on the size of the group and may include a car, 7-seater, or minivan.

Local food and drinks tastings

Guided visit to a chinampa, cooking class, kayak ride, and a visit to an axolotl refuge.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not included: find the one exactly for you.

Personal expenses

Flights are not included: check our partner deals .

Travel insurance is not included: find insurance tailored for you.

Customization ? The way how tour organizer can customize this tour for you

We can do the following customizations on your request (subject to availability and needs to be confirmed before the tour): 1. Adjust the starting time of the tour. 2. Adjust the time you spend at each destination of the tour. 3. Add extra places of your choice (e.g. attractions, restaurants, etc.) to the itinerary on a complimentary basis if those visits. (1) fit the default duration of the tour, (2) don’t involve a significant change of the route and extra fees (e.g. entrance tickets, tolls, parking, etc.). Changes other than those will involve an extra fee and must be communicated to the tour organizer at least 72h before the tour (e.g. in the “Special Requirements” field during the booking or via email).

Cancellations

This and most of our 1-day tours can be canceled up to 48 hours before the departure (see cancellation policy for more info).

Frequently asked questions:

How to book.

To reserve the tour, please choose the date and complete the booking form. Once finished, you will receive a booking confirmation in your email.

How can I contact the tour organizer?

You can find the contact phone number and email of the tour organizer in the confirmation email.

Can I talk to someone?

Except for the information on this page, you can see full terms & conditions from each tour organizer before completing your booking.

About Vibe Adventures

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the tour and activity providers (“Organizers”) listed on vibeadventures.com are independent third parties and are not agents or affiliates of Vibe Adventures. Therefore, Vibe Adventures shall not be held liable for any injuries, sickness, accidents, delays, neglect, fraud, poor weather conditions, negative consequences, or expenses arising from or associated with the Organizers, their tours and activities, or those of their affiliates. If the tour does not include insurance, the travelers are responsible for obtaining travel insurance, as well as passports, appropriate visas, and necessary vaccinations.

Cancellations & Modifications

To cancel or modify your booking, please contact the Organizer directly using the email or phone number provided in the booking confirmation. Cancellations and modifications are subject to availability and the approval of the Organizer in accordance with their booking terms and conditions, which are made available to you during the booking process.

If you have any other questions please contact us .

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Xochimilco Floating Gardens: Day Trip From Mexico City

Last Updated on December 5, 2023

The Xochimilco floating gardens are a lovely day trip from Mexico City.

Xochimilco is a neighborhood of Mexico City, but it has a small town feel. That’s because it actually used to be a small town. Mexico City was once a quiet valley inhabited by several different Indigenous groups .

When my partner and I decided to visit Xochimilco, we went with no expectations. We’d heard mixed reviews from other tourists as well as some locals. Some found the canals crowded, others said Xochimilco was very touristy, and on the verge of overtourism .

Travel experiences and perspectives tend to vary between people, so we wanted to check Xochimilco out ourselves before drawing any conclusions.

We decided to make the trip there by taking public transport rather than a tour. We went first thing in the morning and spent a full day exploring the town, enjoying street food, and taking a boat ride through the floating gardens.

While yes, the canals especially are very touristy, we enjoyed our visit.

If you’re headed to Mexico City and considering a visit to Xochimilco, read on! And while you’re at it, read my Essential guide to 5 days in Mexico City and my guide to Visiting the Pyramids of Teotihuacan .

Xochimilco Gardens: A Quick History

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Over time, the region developed into a populous city. The city underwent a Spanish colonial period (1535-1821), which positioned it as one of the most important cities in the Americas.

When Spanish colonialism ended, Mexico’s Distrito Federal (Federal District, also known as Mexico D.F.) was created in 1824. The district originally encompassed Mexico City and several other municipalities. Since then, the city has rapidly expanded.

With its fast growth, Mexico City has swallowed up boroughs that were once considered their own towns, and that’s what happened to Xochimilco. Xochimilco is a district of Mexico City in the Valley of Mexico.

The name Xochimilco means “where the flowers grow” which is fitting, because Xochimilco is famous for its floating gardens.

A woman enjoying a beer on a a trajinera boat ride

Despite being part of Mexico City, Xochimilco has a small town feel. And that’s exactly why a day trip to this neighborhood is so popular for visitors to Mexico City . We enjoyed Xochimilco’s relaxed vibe, and found that it was a nice spot for a break from the bustling centre of Mexico City.

There’s plenty to do in Xochimilco, from a trajinera boat ride (don’t worry, I’ll cover this in detail later in this guide) to exploring the nearby markets, and visiting local museums. While alot of tourists head there specifically to take a boat ride on the canals, I do recommend dedicating a whole day to the area so that you can explore more than just the floating gardens.

Riding a trajinera through the Xochimilco floating gardens is a great day trip from Mexico City

To understand what the Xochimilco floating gardens are, lets start with some history. The region of Xochimilco was once a pre-Columbian town, settled by the Xochimilca people around the 9th century.

At the time, the area was entirely lake and wetlands. The Xochimilca could see that the region was fertile, and so they wanted to make use of the area for farming. Traditional farming methods would not work because of the lake. And that’s why they engineered a creative solution : Chinampas.

Chinampas is a type of Mesoamerican agriculture which used small, rectangular areas of fertile land to grow crops on the shallow lake beds in the Valley of Mexico. The Xochimilca created the chinampas by constructed rafts out of reeds so that they could float on the water.

They then covered them with mud pulled from the bottom of the lake, and used that fertile mud to grow fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Over time, the rafts took root and became human-made islands, which also formed the canals that Xochimilco is famous for today. The floating gardens refers to the chinampas which continue to be used for farming, even today.

A trajinera is a traditional Mexican boat. They are typically made of wood, flat-bottomed, and colorfully painted and decorated. Each trajinera has it’s own name, which can be read from the top of the iron frame at the front of the boat.

According to Blog Xcaret , the Spanish verb “trajinar” means “to carry goods from one side to another,” and that’s how these traditional boats earned their name. While at one point in history they were used for transport (and they still are today), over time evolved to have a second purpose.

In Xochimilco specifically, trajineras became a way to give scenic and comfortable tours of the floating gardens. A classic trajinera ride includes a meal, drinks, and music. This is exactly why most of the boats are outfitted with a long table down the centre and chairs.

Views of the Xochimilco Floating Gardens as you float down the Xochimilco canals in a trajinera.

How to Visit Xochimilco Floating Gardens

There are two ways to visit the Xochimilco Floating Gardens as a day trip from Mexico City: independently, or by tour. The rest of this guide covers how to visit the town, and go on a trajinera ride, without a guide. This is easily done, and doing it independently will cost less than a tour.

Going with a tour will make for an easier day. Logistics are taken care of, and you won’t need to navigate Mexico City’s public transport system. Most tours to Xochimilco include a trajinera ride, as well as stops at other places of interest around Mexico City, like Coyoacán. Below, I’m sharing a highly rated, well reviewed tour that you can book if you prefer to go that route over making the daytrip on your own.

RATING: 4.4 out of 5 stars | TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours.

On this Xochimilco, Coyoacan, and University City Tour you’ll enjoy a guided tour to Coyoacan and Xochimilco. You’ll ride a trajinera through the Xochimilco Canals, and before indulging in local food and Mexican music. You also have the option to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum on this tour.

This tour includes pick up and drop off in Mexico City, a tour guide, transport to all sites, and a 1 hour trajinera ride.

BOOK: Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacán and University City Tour

A trajinera ride is definitely a touristy experience. You’ll notice lots of vendors selling classic souvenirs, both at the embarkation spot and on the canals as well. If you book to go for a longer trajinera ride, you’ll be able to ride further out into the expansive canal system, which gives you a bit of a less touristy glimpse of the gardens. The canal system is very expansive, but most tourists just see the area near the embarkation spots.

Despite how touristy it was, we had a great time! We enjoyed drifting down the canals, watching the scenery go by. All around you are smaller boats floating around, selling tacos, empanadas, hats, beers, and more. Other trajineras will be packed with mariachi bands that hop from boat to boat playing their music for smiles and tips.

There are so many bands, you can always hear the faint sound of mariachi, regardless of if you’re near one of the floating bands.You can hire the band to come aboard your boat for a private concert, or just do as I did and listen from afar.

We noticed that the canal trips are very popular with local and visiting Mexicans. There were many boats on the canals filled with students and families having a lively fiesta.

As you float down the canals, there are also opportunities to pull off to the side and explore the gardens. Just let your captain know you’d like to stop, and they’ll pull over. We didn’t opt to make any stops because we were enjoying the views from our trajinera.

The Xochimilco Canals busy with tons of trajineras floating through the gardens

We’d heard about an eerie island that is on the Xochimilco canal system, called the Island of Dolls. The island is apparently home to hundreds of old, and sometimes scary looking dolls. According to local lore , the caretaker of the island tied a doll he’d found to a tree to pay homage to a young child who’d died.

My partner and I decided not to commit to visiting the island because the trip there and back by trajinera is over four hours long. Because we did not go, I can’t comment on what the island is like or if it is worth visiting.

To visit the Island of Dolls you’ll need to ask your trajinera guide to take you there. Expect to pay more for your boat ride because of the distance. Some tourists report that there is a fake Island of Dolls that people are brought to rather than the real one, because it is closer to the embarkation spot. So, if you plan to visit the Island of Dolls, be sure to pin the island’s location on your Google Maps app (or another GPS app on your phone). This way, you can make sure you’re headed to the legitimate island.

Tips For Visiting the Xochimilco Canals

Tips to keep in mind for your trajinera ride down the Xochimilco Canals:

Brings lots of cash in case you would like to buy food, drinks, or hire a band while on the boat. Beware that because of the touristy nature of the canals, the prices on the water are higher than the typical on-land prices for food and drinks.

It can be very crowded on the canals, especially on the weekend, and during holidays. We loved how busy the boats were. It made for a vibrant and energetic experience. If you’d like your trajinera ride to be more tranquil, I recommend going to Xochimilco on a weekday morning.

A one hour trip is rather short. I recommend taking a 3 hour (or more!) trip. This takes you further into the gardens, giving you a better sense of the region. It also allows you to escape the touristic nature of the canals that are near the embarkation spots.

The cost for a boat ride is per hour, per boat. If you’d like to save on your budget, you can team up with other travelers or visiting groups to hire a boat together. The price is around 500 pesos per boat, per hour. I would verify this price by checking signage before hiring a boat. Signage showing pricing was very clearly displayed at Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas.

There are about 11 different embarkation spots from which you can hire a trajinera in Xochimilco. The most common one is called Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas, this is the one that is recommended for tourists.

A tortilla shop in the town of Xochimilco, near Mexico City

Other Things to See in Xochimilco

A daytrip to Xochimilco is worth doing for more than just the canals. On our trip, we really enjoyed walking all around the town. It’s a lovely place to discover on foot, and you’ll find yourself stumbling upon cute restaurants and busy markets.

Our favourite spot was the Mercado de Xochimilco. Yes, there are tons of markets to discover in the centre of Mexico City, but we found Xochimilco Market had a more authentic feel to it. There we saw locals shopping for their groceries and examining goods. We also found unique souvenirs to take home with us, and, enjoyed delicious tacos and tortas (sandwiches!)

Here are a couple other spots worth checking out in Xochimilco:

The Museo Dolores Olmeda is one of Mexico City’s great art museums. There you’ll see some lesser known works by the famous Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, as well as a pretty big collection of pre-Hispanic pieces. Admission is about 5 USD, with another small fee on top of that if you’d like to take photos. It’s free to visit on Tuesdays, but you can expect more crowds that day.

San Bernardino de Siena church. This 16th-century church includes a former monastery complex. The last Indian governor of Xochimilco, Apoxquiyohuatzin, is buried here, and in the church you’ll see a main altar, a skull from a pre-Hispanic skull rack, and other beautiful architectural aspects.

An old VW bus on the street in Xochimilco, Mexico

How to get to Xochimilco from Mexico City

It is also possible to visit Xochimilco on your own, which is what my parter and I did. It’s simple and efficient to get around on Mexico City’s public transport system, and Xochimilco was no problem to explore on foot. For those reasons, we decided visiting without a tour was the right choice for us. This gave us the added benefit of taking our time exploring Xochimilco. Here’s how to reach Xochimilco:

Getting to Xochimilco by public transport is simple and costs very little! Take the metro from the Centro Historico station to Tasqueña Station and then switch to the TL-1 train to Xochimilco. The trip will cost 8 pesos each way.

If you have any trouble finding your way during the trip, ask an attendant in the metro for help. You’ll also notice there are many signs indicating where to go if you’re headed to Xochimilco, they are easy to spot because they’re intended for tourists. The trip takes about 90 minutes total from Centro Historico. It’s a long trip, but we really enjoyed our adventure on local transport!

If you are heading straight to the canals, from Xochimilco station you can walk to “Embarcadero Nuevo Nativitas,” the main embarkation spot for the boats. The walk to the embarcadero is about 20 minutes. Most of the sites in Xochimilco are walkable, but if you prefer, you can get around by bus or Uber.

When my partner and I took our day trip to Xochimilco, we decided to Uber home. It’s safe and reliable, and Uber trips are very affordable in Mexico City. After a long day of exploring Xochimilco, it was nice to relax in the back of an Uber for the trip back to our hostel .

I recommend picking up a SIM card for your trip to Mexico City so that you can use mobile data for navigation and calling Ubers. Tourists aren’t recommended to use public taxis in Mexico City, Uber is considered safer. For instructions on how to purchase a SIM card and how to stay safe while in Mexico City, read my Essential guide to 5 days in Mexico City .

Is it safe to visit Xochimilco?

I don’t believe in fully designating a place as completely “safe” or “unsafe.” Everywhere you go in the world, including your own hometown, there are risks. As with traveling anywhere, do your research, understand the unique risks that a particular place might pose, and prepare for them. The key to traveling in Mexico City is awareness. Here are a couple things you should know to keep your trip to Xochimilco, and Mexico City, safe and enjoyable.

Our hostel advised us to avoid being in Xochimilco at night, and so we were sure to head back to the centre of Mexico City before the sun began to set. There’s plenty of time to visit Xochimilco during daylight hours, just be sure to keep an eye on the time.

Like in many cities, petty theft and pickpocketing does happen in Xochimilco and Mexico City. As long as you keep an eye on your things and keep aware of what is happening around you, you should have no problems. Hot tip: Always be sure to have your bag zipped shut. I always keep my bag on my front, and if it’s on my back, I lock it shut with a small travel lock. This might be safety overkill, but it keeps me feeling secure, especially when I choose to wear my backpack on my back instead of front.

Cabs in Mexico City are plentiful, and it’s difficult as a foreigner to identify whether they are “legit” or not. As a result, it’s recommended to use an app like Uber or Cabify when ordering a car for getting around Mexico City. This removes the need for agreeing on a price, it ensures your drive is logged online and your driver is identified and registered.

My partner and I heeded the safety advice from fellow travelers and our hostel while in Mexico, and we had a positive experience. We had no problems taking public transport from the city centre to Xochimilco, and then taking an Uber back. Overall, we felt safe.

There are tons of tours available to take you to Xochimilco from Mexico City. There are different combinations available, for example, some just bring you on a trajinera to tour the canals, and others combine more stops around Xochimilco or other tourist sites in Mexico City.

For example, it is possible to take a full day tour that combines a couple sites like the Frida Kahlo house and the canals of Xochimilco (as well as round trip transportation). Tours range from 30 USD to over 100 USD.

Because we didn’t use a tour ourselves, I won’t recommend any specific companies (I don’t want to recommend something I haven’t tried!). If you’re planning to take a tour, you can call ahead to your hostel or hotel to have them arrange one for you.

A woman sitting on the front of a trajinera boat going down the Xochimilco Canals

Whenever I travel, I try to keep responsible tourism in mind. I think it’s important to always approach travel with respect for the places, people and culture that we visit, and for the planet itself.

This is important because as amazing as travel is, it can sometimes do damage to local communities. For example, overtourism has been a growing concern around the world, including in Xochimilco. To learn more about the importance of responsible tourism read my guide, 10 ways to be a responsible tourist .

While exploring Mexico City and Xochimilco there are a few things you can do to reduce your impact and be a responsible tourist! Here are some tips to get you started.

Try all of the amazing street food in Mexico City and Xochimilco. You can bring your own zero-waste kit to reduce the amount of litter you leave behind when grabbing some of this street food. Instead of having your taco in a paper tray, ask the vendor to pop your meal into one of your reusable containers instead. Bring your reusable cutlery if you don’t want to use your hands!

Use Mexico City’s public transport system . Public transport in Mexico City is efficient and affordable. By using it, you help to reduce the amount of car traffic on the streets.

Make your visit to Mexico, and Xochimilco, an educational one! Putting effort into learning about the regions we visit is a great way to show respect for the local culture and traditions. Learning could mean watching a documentary, reading a book, reading online articles, visiting museums, or hiring a tour guide.

Heading to Mexico City? Read my Mexico guides:

Essential Guide to 4 Days in Mexico City
Visiting the Pyramids of Teotihuacan, Without a Guide
Your Guide to Celebrating Day of the Dead in Mexico City
What Not to Do in Puerto Vallarta: 20 Essential Tips

Day Trip to the Xochimilco Floating Gardens, a Day Trip From Mexico City

Erin has been traveling for over a decade, both solo, and with her partner. She’s now traveled to countries across 6 continents, and has lived in 2 countries abroad. Erin also hosts the travel podcast, Curious Tourism , where she interviews travel industry thought leaders and experts about responsible tourism. Learn more about Erin, and get in touch with her, here .

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18 thoughts on “xochimilco floating gardens: day trip from mexico city”.

The canals look so lovely. I had no idea anything like this existed in Mexico city.

What a cool place! I love the colors and photos and this will definitely be on our bucket list. Thanks for sharing!

I traveled here over 6 years ago and loved it! I would love to go back and experience it as a more wise traveler. I was on a tour at the time and felt very rushed but I was a "young" traveler so I didn’t know any different. Mexico City is sure a unique city.

Thanks to your post I have learnt a little bit about language. I have known the word Xochimilco since I was 8 (still uncertain on how to pronounce it) but I never knew its meaning. The reason I am acquainted with this word is that it is a clue on morse code for letter X (-..-) o’s stand for dashes and the rest of the vowels stand for dots. Now I know it’s a town in Mexico! The other word is "trajinera". I didn’t know this world per see, but in Spain, we say "quÃ© trajÃn", which means that somebody is moving a lot or doing a lot of things. I am sure it is related to the trajineras, which for sure involved a lot of movement to transport stuff up and down.

I love that this post taught you a little something unexpected! So awesome. I had trouble figuring out how to pronounce Xochimilco as well, especially since my Spanish is admittedly bad. In our hostel in Mexico City though, they told us to pronounce it: so-chee-meel-koh

Oh my, this looks like so much fun! Thanks for sharing this amazing experience.

Nice post! I live that you included a brief history so we could understand. I enjoyed reading this and looking forward for more.

The floating gardens sound amazing! I hear you, I’m always wary of overtourism when I’m travelling. I sure hope both the locals and tourists take care of a place as beautiful as this!

I have never even heard of these! they look like so much fun!

I’ve never heard of Xochimilco before! This looks like an amazing day trip from Mexico City. I love the background information on how the canals were formed and what they are used for. This looks like a really fun day and it’s great that its possible to either visit Xochimilco alone or with a group!

Xochimilco floating garden sounds awesome to visit from Mexico City, I love your tips to travel responsibly at Xochimilco!

Such a great post, would love to visit Mexico one day

Well… This article is quite a fantacy story, I live in Mexico City and I can assure anybody that the whater ways of Xochimilco are not at all what they used to be long ago, they are actually called here Cochimilco (filthy milco), the water is incredibly filthy and contaminated with sewage, garbage and are super stinky, most of the islands have fabelas style settlements and a lot of poverty, the "town" is way over populated and congested, not clean and chaotic. It dows have a cute main plaza and typical central market, other tjan thay, the place is a dump, I would never recommend anyone to visit it.

I’m sorry to hear about the contamination and poverty in the Xochimilco region. I find that as a visitor it’s sometimes difficult to get a full picture of a place, especially because experiences like the Xochimilco canals are often specifically curated to be positive for tourists. When I visited last November, I didn’t personally witness garbage or find the canals smelly. But, I absolutely believe your description. Thanks so much for sharing your experience of Xochimilco with me.

That’s sad to read this too. I am from Mexico city too and from Xochimilco. Of course, the place is not as it used to be 100 years ago. My abuelita used to tell me lot of beautiful things about it. I still see some of them. I will invite you to come to have another experience where the ecological zone is and where almost nontourists visit, it is beautiful.

I would love to visit this area…especially love those floating gardens. This is such a comprehensive guide! I’ve been to Mexico 27x and have not spent any substantial time in Mexico City…you’ve inspired me to do that in the future!

Hello Pina! I came across your blog because I am looking for some responsible tourist information and perspectives 🙂 and someone else suggested me to take a look to your blog.

I am from Xochimilco, it was so nice to find my hometown here. It is true that is a touristic place, but I think it also represents mexico’s culture, gastronomy, party, and some of the real life in Mexico because when tourist are only in the city center, I can tell they didn’t see at all Mexico City.

I wish I read this before or know you were coming, because I’d have definitely offered my help to guide you and show you the nontouristic part of Xochimilco that is even more beautiful.

Thanks again again for writing about Xochimilco 🙂

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Rays wrap grueling road trip: 'We were in every one of those games'

Henry Palattella

CLEVELAND -- It’s finally over.

After 10 days, 2,708 total pitches, four wins and two suspensions , the Rays’ grueling road trip against three straight division leaders is complete.

And it came with countless learning experiences for a team that has one of the youngest rosters in the Majors.

Sunday afternoon’s series finale against Cleveland was no different, as Tampa Bay mustered only four hits and got just one runner past second base in its 2-0 loss at Progressive Field .

The loss closed out a 4-6 road trip that was highlighted by a series win over the Orioles last week and a series split against the Guardians this weekend, with a sweep at the hands of the Phillies in between. It marked the first time in MLB history that a team faced off against three straight division leaders on a road trip in September.

“We’ve been in a situation for a month where we’ve needed to win every series and win some of these tight games,” manager Kevin Cash said. “We haven’t, but I feel like the intensity has been there.”

One of the young players whom the Rays will rely on in the future is Taj Bradley , who allowed two runs over 4 1/3 innings in his start against the Guardians on Sunday.

After looking like one of the best pitchers in baseball in the middle of the summer (he had an 0.82 ERA across a nine-start span from June 8 to July 25), Bradley came back down to earth with a 10.41 ERA in five August starts.

“The month of August was a learning experience with bumps and bruises,” Bradley said. “Everyone has them. It’s all about how you bounce back, and I think I took positives from it.”

Sunday’s start against the Guardians was another learning experience, as Bradley limited Cleveland’s potent lineup to just one run on three hits in the first four innings before getting chased in the fifth after giving up knocks to Angel Martínez and José Ramírez.

“I don’t think he had the best feel for his stuff,” Cash said. “But it’s a good sign when you don’t have your best stuff and you’re able to compete and limit a team like that.”

After Mason Montgomery relieved Bradley, Martínez scored from third when Ramírez was caught stealing at second.

“We wanted to take the out there,” catcher Ben Rortvedt said.

Bradley relied heavily on his splitter (34 percent usage) and fastball (30 percent), which is around his season usage (27 and 41 percent, respectively). He had six strikeouts and generated eight whiffs with his splitter.

“His fastball command got better as the game went on,” Rortvedt said. “He had some misfires, but those could set us up for things later in the game. I thought he did a great job.”

The Rays had a chance to break through against Guardians starter Ben Lively in the first inning when they had runners on first and third with two out, but Lively got Dylan Carlson to ground into a forceout.

Lively stymied Tampa Bay’s lineup in the middle innings before Yandy Díaz and Brandon Lowe opened the sixth with back-to-back singles, which led to Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt going to his bullpen.

Cade Smith shut down the Rays’ threat by getting Junior Caminero and Carlson to strike out and Jonathan Aranda to pop out. Tampa Bay was unable to get a baserunner against Cleveland’s bullpen.

“[Smith] has a good mix of pitches, and [he and the bullpen] were able to not only locate their pitches but also take away some of the momentum, which was huge,” Carlson said. “We weren’t able to capitalize. They made some pitches and we took our best at-bats, it just didn’t pay off.”

Not only are the Rays (73-77) almost guaranteed to miss out on the postseason for the first time since 2018, but they’re also in danger of recording their first losing season since ‘17. After Sunday’s loss, they’ll need to go 9-3 over their last 12 games to secure a winning record.

“It really feels like we were in every one of those games [on the road trip],” Cash said. “I don’t know if that’s great to say since our goal is to win games, but we’re doing some good things for some of these players who are getting their first opportunity or getting acclimated with our club.

“That’s something we can feel good about going into the offseason.”

IMAGES

11 Tips When Visiting Xochimilco
An authentic day trip to the chinampas of Xochimilco, Mexico City
Mexico City's Floating Gardens of Xochimilco Reopen to Tourists
Helpful Tips for Visiting Xochimilco, Mexico Without a Tour
Xochimilco and Coyoacan Day Trip from Mexico City
A Complete Guide to the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco: How to Get

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COMMENTS

The Complete Guide to Visiting Xochimilco
How To Get To Xochimilco. The easiest way to get to Xochimilco from downtown Mexico City is by Uber. If you've squadded up like I've suggested, then the cost shouldn't be too bad. On average, it cost about $200 pesos (about $10 USD) for the ride from downtown Mexico City. Split four ways, that's $2.50 USD each.
Xochimilco Day Trip: Of Vibrant Trajineras and Soulful Mariachis
One hour by metro, longer by car - depending on the traffic. Things to do in Xochimilco day trip. Enjoy a ride through the canals on a trajinera. Visit the churches and Museums in Xochimilco. Price of a boat ride. Roughly 500 MXN per boat. Xochimilco is known for its canals.
An Authentic Day Trip To The Chinampas Of Xochimilco, Mexico City
This article will take you on a virtual day trip to Xochimilco, providing insights into its fascinating history, traditional agriculture, diverse wildlife, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cultural activities. Xochimilco dates back to pre-Hispanic times, when it was an essential part of the Aztec empire. The area was once covered by a vast system ...
Helpful Tips for Visiting Xochimilco, Mexico Without a Tour
Xochimilco Day Trip from Mexico City. Xochimilco lies about 30 kilometres south of Mexico City and, with a bit of patience and planning, this day trip can be done without booking a tour. If you don't have a full day to spare, we recommend combining this with a visit to Coyoacan which is about halfway between the city centre and Xochimilco.
Xochimilco Without a Tour: A Day of Trajineras, Boats and Mariachis
A Xochimilco day trip is a very good way to be fully immersed in the fascinating Mexican culture and folklore. From Mariachis to souvenirs salesmen, there is definitely something for everyone's taste. The best thing to do? Enjoy the music of Mariachis. At a price of 100 pesos (7 USD) per song this might sound very expensive but if you're in ...
Top 15 Things To Do In Xochimilco, Mexico
1. Be beguiled by the mysterious Island of the Dolls. Isla de las Munecas, or more commonly known as Island of the Dolls, is a popular yet mysterious tourist destination in Mexico. Nestled between the canals of Xochimilco, this place was named as such because of the urban legend behind it.
Ultimate Guide to Visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City
Tours of Xochimilco. Visiting Xochimilco is one of the best things to do in Mexico City so there are plenty of tour options if you want a stress-free day exploring the area.. Choosing a tour is another easy option for visiting Xochimilco. Doing this means you won't have to deal with the crowds and stress of the Mexico City metro network, because you'll be collected from your hotel in the ...
Xochimilco (Mexico City): The Definitive Guide (2024)
The price of the shared trajinera is then 45 pesos (30min one way) or 90 pesos per person (1h round trip). If you are 2 or 3 people, this can be a good option to visit Xochimilco on a budget. The traditional tour (1h, 2h, 3h) This is the classic boat tour (with room for 18 people) through the canals of Xochimilco.
Visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City: A Step by Step Guide
The most convenient way to reach Xochimilco is by using Uber, which is readily available and safe in Mexico City. The journey from Roma and Condesa to Xochimilco by car takes approximately one hour and costs an average of MX$400 Pesos (or $20 USD) for a one-way trip, though prices may vary depending on the time of day and year.
Xochimilco Day Trip: Farmland Food and Hop on a Trajinera
From $250 per person. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today. Product ID: 623293. Discover the natural beauty of Xochimilco on a day trip from Mexico City. Enjoy a boat ride on a trajinera, visit an aquarium, and learn about the ancient Aztec farming techniques.
A Complete Guide to Visiting Mexico City's Xochimilco
These tours are the easiest way to experience Xochimilco, but if you'd like to design your own day, here's what you need to know. Top Picks for You Travel Tips
11 Tips When Visiting Xochimilco
Food and socializing are the main priorities. ". Floating gardens called chinampas line the waterways. The Xochimilco canals are some of the only remaining features from Aztec times. 2. Learn a bit about its history before you go. The Xochimilco canals are a vestige of the ancient Aztec Empire and still provide much-needed water to Mexico City.
Xochimilco: Visiting the Floating Gardens of Mexico City
Xochimilco floating gardens is an easy day trip from Mexico City. Explore our guide for the best way to get to Xochimilco using public transportation. ... Whether by metro, tour, or taxi, you can visit Xochimilco on a day trip. Book a Tour to Xochimilco. If you're traveling solo or prefer to have everything taken care of, you should book one ...
Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo & UNAM
Day trip Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo & UNAM. Certified by GetYourGuide. Activity provider:Amigo Tours LATAM. 4.3 / 5 1829 reviews. Float down the canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO site, and stroll around the colonial district of Coyoacan on this full-day tour that also explores the world of Frida Kahlo (if option is selected).
Xochimilco Floating Gardens of Mexico City
Xochimilco provides an experience that you would never expect to have in Mexico City and makes for a fun and interesting day trip. Chinampas or "Floating Gardens" Xochimilco (pronounced so-chee-MIL-ko) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 17 miles (28 km) south of the capital's historical center.
Xochimilco Mexico City: How to get there and take a boat tour
Xochimilco hours. The Xochimilco trajineras run between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ⏰ Most visitors spend about 2-3 hours in Xochimilco touring the canals and stopping at various points of interest. ️. Plan 2-4 hours for your trip to Xochimilco Mexico City, plus the time you spend on the commute to get there and back.
Xochimilco Mexico City: How to Get There and What to Do
Because of this, it may not be the quickest way to get there and back. And it certainly won't be the cheapest. An cost of an Uber to Xochimilco from the centre of Mexico City starts at around $185 MXN ($9.70USD, £7.45GBP). That's one way and can fluctuate significantly depending on traffic and demand.
The Gringos Guide to Xochimilco Boats in Mexico City
Four-hour boat ride with seven people - 228 pesos per person. Two songs from a mariachi band - 21 pesos per person. A 12-pack of beer - about 120 pesos, shared with Dan. Limes, chips, sandwiches, ice - about 150 pesos for two. Uber Xochimilco to Condesa (with evening traffic) - about 300 pesos, shared with Dan.
Xochimilco Mexico City Complete Guide 2023 UPDATE
I also love the Xochimilco tours offered by Devoured. This company is not only Mexican-run but also completely female-run. ... Otherwise, 10/10 recommend this day trip. Marcelo. Monday 12th of June 2023. Make sure your UPDATE include the updated price - 600 MXN per hour. Lynda. Wednesday 6th of December 2023 @Marcelo, also the doll island is ...
The BEST Xochimilco Tours and Things to Do in 2024
The best tours in Xochimilco are: Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacan, Frida Kahlo & UNAM. Mexico City: Xochimilco Boat Tour with Meal and Drinks. Mexico City: Hop-on Hop-off City Tour by Turibus 1-Day Pass. Mexico City: Xochimilco, Coyoacán and University City Tour. Mexico City: Xochimilco, Casa Azul, Coyoacán & UNAM Tour.
Xochimilco Day Trip: Farmland Food and Hop on a Trajinera
The Xochimilco Day Trip from Mexico City promises a unique blend of culture and natural splendor. Visitors can expect to embark on a captivating boat ride along the tranquil canals, surrounded by the lush chinampas - the ancient Aztec floating gardens. Beyond the scenic voyage, the tour offers a hands-on culinary experience, where participants can learn traditional cooking techniques and ...
Xochimilco Day Trip: Know a Farmland Food and Hop on a Trajinera (8h)
Overview. Hop on a Xochimilco Day Trip and let your senses be alive! From sailing along the peaceful canals on a traditional trajinera, as the sweet scents of flowers fill the air, to tasting the flavors of chinampa harvested produce, prepared with love by local hosts. Admire the vibrant colors that paint the floating gardens while you immerse in this magical experience, where everyday life ...
Xochimilco Floating Gardens: Day Trip From Mexico City
There are two ways to visit the Xochimilco Floating Gardens as a day trip from Mexico City: independently, or by tour. The rest of this guide covers how to visit the town, and go on a trajinera ride, without a guide. This is easily done, and doing it independently will cost less than a tour. Going with a tour will make for an easier day.
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Rays fall to Guardians to wrap tough 10-game road trip
CLEVELAND -- It's finally over. After 10 days, 2,708 total pitches, four wins and two suspensions, the Rays' grueling road trip against three straight division leaders is complete. And it came with countless learning experiences for a team that has one of the youngest rosters in the Majors. Sunday afternoon's

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The Complete Guide to Visiting Xochimilco | Mexico City

Things To Know Before Going to Xochimilco

How To Get To Xochimilco

How Much Does A Trip to Xochimilco Cost?

How To Have A Good F’in Time

Buy Me A Beer!

My Complete Mexico Backpacking Itinerary

Where To Stay in Mexico City

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Spending a Fun Day at Xochimilco on a Boat – The Trajinera

traveller Supriya

5 Unmissable Xochimilco Day Trip Experiences on a ride through the Canals

Navigate through the Canals and Chinampas on a Trajinera on Xochimilco Day Trip

Snack at Trajinera on your day visit to Xochimilco

Try some local drinks on your Trajinera Ride at Xochimilco

Get ready for an Eerie Experience in Xochimilco at the Island of Dolls

Enjoy some Music & Dance on Xochimilco Day Trip at a Boat Party

Capture the Locale on your day trip to Xochimilco

3 Wonderful Places to Visit on your Xochimilco Day trip (Outside the Canals)

1. Don’t miss out on the Museums on your Xochimilco Day Trip

2. Visit a ‘Pulqueria’ on your day trip to Mexico

3. Churches of Xochimilco

How to Choose a Trajinera for your Xochimilco Day Trip and What’s a Good Price?

Taking Private Day Tours to Xochimilco- Is it worth it?

Taking a Day trip to Xochimilco from Mexico City- 2 Travel Options

1. The Most Affordable Commute Option from Mexico to Xochimilco– Metro

2. Take a comfortable Uber ride from Mexico City to Xochimilco

When’s the Best Time to take a Xochimilco Day Tour?

A Xochimilco Day Trip During Easter

Know a little about Xochimilco’s Mind-Boggling History before your visit

Returning from Xochimilco Day Trip with Memories

Introduction

Historical background of Xochimilco

What are chinampas?

Getting to Xochimilco

Exploring the chinampas

Traditional agriculture in Xochimilco

Wildlife and biodiversity in Xochimilco

Traditional cuisine and food markets

Cultural activities and events in Xochimilco

Sustainable tourism in Xochimilco

Xochimilco Without a Tour: A Day of Trajineras, Boats and Mariachis

Xochimilico Day Trip Without a Tour

The Trajineras of Xochimilco : Restaurants, Bar and Transportation All in One

How to Get to Xochimilco from Mexico City

Where to stay in Mexico City

Ultimate Guide to Visiting Xochimilco in Mexico City

Where is Xochimilco?

How to Get to Xochimilco

Tips for Visiting Xochimilco

Tours of Xochimilco

History of Xochimilco

Things to Do in Xochimilco, Mexico City

Take a trip on a trajinera

See Isla de las Munecas

The chinampa

Museo Dolores Olmedo

Cuahilama

How Much Will a Day in Xochimilco Cost?

Where to Eat in Xochimilco

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