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Xochimilco, located in the southern part of Mexico City, Mexico, is a unique destination that offers an amazing experience. The floating gardens of Xochimilco, along with its rich culture and beautiful colors, attract visitors from around the world. In this comprehensive guide to Xochimilco, we will provide you with all the essential information to make the most of your trip. Discover the origin of Xochimilco, the best time to visit, what to do, where to stay, and other tips for having a great experience. Get ready to immerse yourself in this cultural treasure of Mexico City!
Table of Contents
What is Xochimilco?
Xochimilco is a neighborhood in southeastern Mexico City that is built on the southern shore of Lake Xochimilco.
Why is Xochimilco famous?
Xochimilco is famous for its canals and waterways as the main form of transportation among residents. These canals are remnants of a vast transportation system dating back to the Aztec Empire during the 1400s.
Floating gardens of Xochimilco
As the population of the Aztec Empire grew, they needed to find more sustainable ways of growing crops. They did this by creating artificial islands in the shallow waters of Lake Xochimilco. These islands, or chinampas, were made by piling layers of mud and plant material to use as a foundation. Crops were then planted in the nutrient-rich soil. The canals provided irrigation and a means of transportation around these floating gardens. These chinampas can still be seen today, and are know as the floating gardens of Xochimilco.
Natural habitat of the axolotl
The axolotl is a unique creature endemic to Xochimilco. Its original Nahuatl name, which translates to water monster, is a testament to this amphibian’s unique qualities. Although it has legs, axolotls spend their entire lives in the water, and can even regenerate lost limbs and organs such as their heart and brain!
What does Xochimilco mean?
Like many other places in Mexico, the name Xochimilco comes from Nahuatl, which is the language of the Aztecs. Roughly translated, it means the place of flower fields. This refers to the chinampas, or floating gardens, that the Aztecs created on the lake.
How do you pronounce Xochimilco?
Xochimilco is pronounced sho-chee-meel-ko.
Where is Xochimilco?
Xochimilco is in Mexico City, Mexico. It is located in the southeastern part of the city.
How to Get to Xochimilco
Mexico City to Xochimilco by public transportation
Metro
Take the Metro Line 2 to the Tasqueña station. Once there, transfer to the light rail. Xochimilco is the last stop. Total cost: 5 pesos ($0.30 USD).
Bus
There are several buses that can take you to Xochimilco from Mexico City. However, I recommend using the Metro, as it is much more convenient.
Mexico City to Xochimilco by car
Route
Take Calzada de Tlalpan southbound and continue until you reach Xochimilco.
Parking options
Xochimilco has designated parking for all visitors.
What to Do in Xochimilco
While there is plenty to see and do in Xochimilco, here are our recommended top 5!
Go on a trajinera boat ride
You can’t visit Xochimilco without taking a trajinera, or wooden boat, out to see the canals. Depending on how well you negotiate, a private trajinera could cost between 300-600 pesos ($17-34 USD) per hour. If you go on a weekend, you can take a shared trajinera for about 50-100 pesos ($3-6 USD). Enjoy the floating gardens of Xochimilco, the bright colors, and the peaceful atmosphere as you drift down the canals.
Visit an axolotl exhibit
While you pass through the canals in Xochimilco, you will see various stores on the banks that sell everything from food to carnivorous plants! There are also several businesses that have axolotl exhibits. For a small fee, you can go inside and learn about the different types of axolotl and witness the conservation efforts trying to save them from extinction. I learned a lot about axolotls and I highly recommend you take this opportunity to see them in their natural environments.
Check out the Island of the Dolls
You may be shocked to hundreds of decomposing dolls hanging up around a certain part of Xochimilco. These can look creepy, and numerous stories about how the dolls are possessed have been spread. However, the reality is much sadder. Many years ago, a man found a young girl who was drowning, and was not able to save her. In honor of her, he began collecting dolls and hanging them up. Over time, the sun and water have caused the dolls to break down, leading to their eerie appearance. You can check out the Island of the Dolls for only 50 pesos ($3 USD).
Listen to traditional Mexican music on the trajinera
One of my favorite parts of the trajinera boat ride is hearing the different types of Mexican music that is performed. Mariachis ride in boats and will pull up beside you, asking you to request a song. There were even Cumbia and Norteño bands who performed on boats as well. Bring some extra money and request your favorite song!
Eat traditional Mexican food at the markets
After you finish your boat ride, you should head to the markets just a few blocks away. There are several different markets that offer every kind of fruit, vegetable, and meat that you can think of. I stopped by Mercado Guadalupe Ramirez and was able to get some blue tacos made by hand! These are made from blue corn, which gives it a unique flavor.
Best Time to Visit Xochimilco
The best time to visit Xochimilco is during the spring months, from March to May. The weather is mild and pleasant during this time. During this time, you’ll be able to witness the colorful flowers and blooming plants along the canals and chinampas. Try to avoid the rainy season from June to September, as heavy rainfall can affect boat rides and outdoor activities.
Whenever you do decide to visit Xochimilco, I recommend visiting on a weekday. The canals are much less crowded, and you will be able to negotiate a much cheaper price than the posted 600 pesos/hour.
What to Wear to Xochimilco
When visiting the floating gardens of Xochimilco, you are free to wear anything you want. However, I have a few recommendations.
- Wear non-slip shoes: The trajineras can get slippery. Especially if you are sipping on some pulques, you don’t want to slip and fall
- Wear jeans or long pants: This is less about modesty and more for the unpredictable weather that you may experience while on the boat ride.
- Wear something that looks good: Chances are, you will be traveling with friends or family and will want to take lots of photos. You could rock an undershirt and shorts if you want, but I think you’d rather look good for the photos.
- Wear something comfortable enough to move around in: Once you get a few drinks in you, you may want to get up and dance. Make sure you can move around in your outfit.
Where to Stay in Xochimilco
There are a few different options to choose from when deciding where to stay in Xochimilco. What you choose will depend on your budget, desired level of luxury, and what kind of experiences you wish to have.
Located just minutes away from Lake Xochimilco, Motel Caban is a great option for budget travelers. This hotel is conveniently located near the embarcaderos, so you will easily be able to arrive early in the morning for your boat tour. This hotel goes for about $22 USD/night.
Hotel Amala is also located close to Lake Xochimilco. This hotel is in the northern part of Xochimilco, and is an ideal spot for couples. Its comfortable accommodations and peaceful atmosphere make it a nice getaway from city life. Prices go for about $40 USD/night.
For a truly “home away from home” experience, check out Residence Xochimilco CDMX. This apartment is also located near the shores of Lake Xochimilco, making it very convenient for those who want to beat the crowd. This is the perfect spot if you decide to spend a few days exploring Xochimilco.
Xochimilco Mexico: FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Xochimilco.
1. What time does Xochimilco open?
The trajineras are available for rent every day, from 9 AM to 6 PM.
2. Is it safe to go to Xochimilco, Mexico?
Yes, it is safe. However, if you are going to stay in Xochimilco overnight, you shouldn’t wander around at night, as certain areas can be dangerous.
3. Can you see axolotls in Lake Xochimilco?
There are very few wild axolotls left in Lake Xochimilco due to pollution. However, there are several exhibitions in Xochimilco where you can see axolotls in aquariums. This will be your best bet for seeing axolotls.
4. Is Xochimilco a tourist trap?
A lot of tourists go to Xochimilco, but I do not consider it a tourist trap. This area has centuries’ worth of history and cultural importance to both Mexico and the Aztec Empire. In addition, Xochimilco is a calm and beautiful destination away from the stress of urban life. There is a good reason why people want to visit.
5. Do you need tickets for Xochimilco?
No, just show up. There are several different embarcaderos, or piers, where you will find hundreds of trajineras waiting to take you through the canals.
I’ve been to Mexico many times but have never visited Xochimilco. Thanks for highlighting this great place for a future visit!
Glad you enjoyed reading it!
Great blog post about Xochimilco and it looks amazing! I’ve always wanted to visit Mexico City and now I’m even more excited. I love the idea of exploring the canals on a trajinera and taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.
Thank you very much! I hope you are able to experience Xochimilco and Mexico City soon.