Xochimilco Tour + Pre-Hispanic Canoe Ride

During this Xochimilco excursion, participants will immerse themselves in the vibrant colonial architecture, bustling market life, and the unique chinampa farming system, all while traversing the waters in a pre-Hispanic canoe.

Activity Overview

At the scheduled meeting time, our gathering point will be in front of the Chapel of San Juan Bautista. From this location, we will commence our exploration of Xochimilco, where water and urban life have been intertwined for centuries.

Initially, we will wander through the historic core of Xochimilco. This area is characterized by its unique layout and serene ambiance. A stop will be made to admire an ahuehuete tree, a magnificent specimen estimated to be over 500 years old.

Next, we will proceed past several colonial-era churches from the 16th century, exemplifying the New Spanish architectural style, where discussions on religious syncretism will enrich our understanding. This segment of our journey will conclude after approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes at the Xochimilco Market, an essential spot for witnessing daily local life. Here, attendees will have around 20 minutes to explore, accompanied by the opportunity to sample a tlacoyo, which is a corn tortilla filled with cheese, beans, salsa, and cactus.

Following our market visit, we will take a bicitaxi for a brief 10-minute ride to the scenic lake region of Xochimilco. Upon reaching the dock, participants will board an acalli, the traditional pre-Hispanic canoe. Our 45-minute journey through the canals will reveal remnants of the ancient Mesoamerican hydraulic system, culminating at an active chinampa.

In this agricultural setting, we will spend 30 minutes delving into pre-Hispanic agricultural methods and searching for axolotls, a distinctive species indigenous to the Valley of Mexico.

At the same chinampa, participants will enjoy 45 minutes for a leisurely lunch featuring quesadillas, tacos, and soft drinks.

To conclude our adventure, we will navigate back for approximately 20 minutes to the Cuemanco pier, where farewells will be exchanged after a fulfilling 4.5-hour experience.