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 floating gardens with a market tour and cooking class, ideal for culture and nature enthusiasts visiting Mexico City.
This experience consists of two main parts: a shopping trip in local markets and a cooking class aboard a boat navigating Xochimilco’s chinampas (floating gardens).
The Journey
Pick-up is offered from Condesa to downtown Xochimilco, usually around 9:00 am. On arrival at Dalia Restaurant, a women’s cultural collective selling artisanal products, you will be welcomed with traditional hot coffee and toast.
The Markets
Explore a vibrant Mexican market where all greens are freshly harvested from the chinampas. You will purchase fresh cheese, vegetables, handmade tortillas, and other ingredients for lunch preparation.
The Boat Trip
From the markets, a bike taxi transports you to Fernando Celada pier, providing access to the natural reserve. Here you board a colorful Trajinera (traditional boat) to explore the canals and observe local flora and fauna.
The Cooking Class
While cruising between ancient chinampas, you will prepare and then eat a traditional tamal called Tlapique. The guide, dressed in traditional clothing, will share the history, symbolism, and regional legends related to the dress and local culture.
The Sanctuary
The tour includes a visit to an Axolotl sanctuary. Axolotls are endemic salamanders of Xochimilco, endangered but significant in scientific research for their regenerative abilities.
Conclusion
The experience ends with a toast of ‘Toritos’ (fruit juice mixed with mezcal) and concludes around 1:30 pm at Dalia Restaurant. From there, guests can await their ride or continue exploring the Xochimilco area.
Highlights
- Authentic cultural experience away from crowded tourist areas
- Included in UNESCO’s catalog of experiences for Mexico City
- Supports local families, projects, and producers
Includes
- One-way private transportation to Xochimilco
- Coffee break at Dalia Restaurant (Xochimilco center)
- Guided shopping in local markets
- Bilingual guide
- Traditional cooking class preparing pre-Hispanic tamal Tlapique
- Bottle of water
- Taste of Torito (fruit juice and mezcal)
- Admission to Axolotl Sanctuary
Excludes
- Return transportation
- Souvenirs
- Beer
- Additional drinks
Important Information
- Pick-up occurs at your accommodation or a nearby central location if multiple travelers share the same area. Transport may be by car or van depending on group size.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection. Morning tours offer cooler weather and less crowds. Booking in advance is recommended due to limited group size.
