Xochimilco: Market, Food and Nature ¡All included! Tour
Chinampas, Mexico
Uncover the heart and soul of México through Xochimilco’s markets, native food, and beautiful canals while buying all the ingredients to prepare a traditional tamal called Tlapique.
Experience Xochimilco’s markets, canals, and cooking class with local guides from Condesa in Mexico City.
This tour starts with a pick-up from Condesa to downtown Xochimilco, scheduled around 9:00 am. You will be welcomed at Dalia Restaurant, a women’s cultural collective, with traditional coffee and toast. The tour combines a visit to local markets, a boat trip through the Xochimilco canals, and a cooking class featuring a traditional tamal.
The Journey
The experience has two main parts: shopping for fresh, local ingredients and a cooking class on a boat ride through the chinampas, the floating gardens of Xochimilco. After arriving, the group visits the market where all greens come directly from the chinampas. You’ll purchase fresh cheese, vegetables, and handmade tortillas to prepare a regional dish called Tlapique.
The Boat Trip
Next, a bike taxi transports you from the market area to Fernando Celada pier, a gateway to the natural reserve. From there, board a trajinera, a traditional colorful boat, to explore the canals and the surrounding flora and fauna.
Cooking Class and Cultural Insights
While cruising the canals, you will prepare and then enjoy Tlapique, a pre-Hispanic tamal. The guide, dressed in traditional clothing, shares stories about the attire’s history and symbolism, along with regional legends and traditions.
Axolotl Sanctuary Visit
Before concluding, the tour includes a stop at the Axolotl Sanctuary to learn about these endangered endemic salamanders native to Xochimilco, known for their regenerative abilities and scientific significance.
Ending the Experience
The tour wraps up at Dalia Restaurant around 1:30 pm with a toast of “Toritos,” a fruit juice mixed with mezcal. From there, you can wait for your return ride or continue exploring Xochimilco.
Included
- Private one-way transportation to Xochimilco
- Coffee break at Dalia Restaurant (Xochimilco center)
- Shopping in the local markets
- Bilingual guide
- Traditional cooking class preparing the tamal Tlapique
- Bottle of water
- Shot of Torito (fruit juice with mezcal)
- Tickets to the Axolotl Sanctuary
Not Included
- Return transportation
- Souvenirs
- Beer
- Additional drinks
Important Information
- Pick-up is from your accommodation or a nearby meeting point if there are multiple guests in the same area. Vehicle type (car or van) depends on group size.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your spot. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection. Morning departures are recommended for the best market experience and weather.
