Mexico city: Hiking tour to Desierto de los leones

This guided hiking experience offers a refreshing escape from the hustle of Mexico City, taking you into the heart of Desierto de los Leones National Park. Designed for those who want a mix of nature, history, and authentic local flavor, the tour promises a memorable day exploring the forest, an ancient monastery, and local cuisine—all with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the inclusive transportation means you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking. Second, the small group size (limited to six participants) ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of opportunities to ask questions. Lastly, the combination of scenic walking and cultural discovery makes it ideal for travelers craving a balanced outdoor adventure with historical insights.

One thing to keep in mind is that the hiking route is beginner-friendly, so those with minimal fitness levels will find it accessible. However, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to pay for your own lunch, so bringing cash is essential. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful day trip away from the city’s noise.

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Key Points

Convenient transportation from Mexico City makes for a stress-free day.
Guided walks provide insights into the history, myths, and legends of the area.
All entrance fees, snacks, and photos are included, adding value and ease.
Small group size ensures personalized attention from your guide.
Beginner-level hike suitable for most fitness levels, with a focus on enjoying nature.
Lunch and local drinks are optional but highly recommended for a full experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

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Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with a pickup from your lodging in Mexico City. Once onboard, your guide will offer a water bottle and a snack for the journey, setting you up for the day ahead. Expect about one to two hours of scenic drive, during which you can relax, ask questions, or catch up on some rest—it’s a good opportunity to settle in and get excited for the adventure.

The Drive and Introduction

The ride itself offers glimpses of Mexico City’s outskirts and natural scenery, giving you a taste of the landscape you’ll explore. Your guide, who typically speaks both Spanish and English, will share interesting tidbits about the park, the monastery, and the myths surrounding the area. It’s a relaxed way to become familiar with the setting before stepping into the forest.

The Forest Hike and Guide Insights

Once at Desierto de los Leones, the warm-up session is key to avoiding injuries and preparing your muscles for the walk. The hike lasts about 1.5 hours, during which your guide will lead you through shaded trails, sharing stories about the history of the former monastery, legendary tales, and the reason this serene spot was chosen for such a structure.

Yaakov, a recent reviewer, noted: “The hike was great, not exactly easy but not too steep either. The trail ends at a former convent with several restaurants around with amazing and very affordable food.” That’s a common sentiment—while the trail is accessible for most, it offers enough variation to keep it interesting without being overwhelming.

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Exploring the Monastery

Arriving at the ex convent, you’ll get a guided tour of its spaces and gardens. The site, once a significant religious sanctuary, now offers a tranquil atmosphere filled with stories of its past. Walking through its corridors and gardens, you’ll understand why such a peaceful retreat was built in the wilderness.

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Local Cuisine and Optional Drinks

After exploring the monastery, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at nearby restaurants. The tour doesn’t include this meal, but you’ll find options serving traditional Mexican food at affordable prices. If you’re adventurous, try the local pulque, a traditional fermented drink made from agave, which adds a cultural twist to your experience.

The Return Journey

Post-lunch, the group retraces the forest trail back to the transportation. The drive back to Mexico City lasts another one to two hours, offering a perfect chance to rest or review photos taken during the hike. Your guide may share additional stories or answer questions, making this a comfortable wind-down to a fulfilling day.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The $140 per person fee covers much more than just the walking; it includes transportation, a tour guide, entrance fees, water, and snacks. This all-in-one package means less planning on your part and a smoother experience overall. Plus, the small group setting enhances the chance for genuine engagement with your guide and fellow travelers.

The Plus: Authentic Insights and Stunning Views

The knowledgeable guides are a highlight, often sharing stories and legends that bring the site to life. From the history of the monastery to local myths, their insights add depth to the walk. Also, the scenery is a delight—expect lush forests, peaceful gardens, and panoramic views from the monastery grounds.

The Drawback: Lunch is Not Included

While the tour provides snacks and a lot of information, the lunch cost is separate. Travelers should be prepared with cash for this part of the day. The restaurants near the monastery are praised for their affordability and quality, making it a worthwhile expense to taste authentic local flavors.

Practicalities and Tips

Comfortable shoes and clothes that can get dirty are a must, as the trails are natural and unpaved.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent—the forest environment means you’ll want protection.
The tour is not suitable for children under 8 or for individuals with certain medical conditions like back or heart problems.
The small group size ensures a more intimate experience but also means spots can fill quickly—booking ahead is recommended.

A Typical Day with the Tour

Expect a well-paced, relaxed day that balances outdoor activity with cultural exploration. The views, stories, and fresh air make it a perfect escape, especially if you’re craving a break from urban life. And with the option to reserve now & pay later, flexibility is added to your travel planning.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle hikes and cultural sites. It’s ideal for those wanting to discover a lesser-known side of Mexico City’s natural and historic landscape without strenuous trekking. The inclusion of guide insights makes it educational and engaging, especially for history or mythology enthusiasts.

It’s also a great choice for small groups or couples looking for a personalized experience, as the limited participants allow for more interaction and tailored conversation. However, it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues or certain health concerns, given the nature of the hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your lodging and transportation to and from Desierto de los Leones.

How long is the drive? The journey takes approximately one to two hours each way, giving you time to relax or chat with your guide.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, clothes that can get dirty, a charged smartphone, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and if you want to enjoy local drinks, some cash for those too.

Is the route suitable for beginners? Yes, the route is beginner-friendly with a moderate pace, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

Are meals included? No, lunch isn’t included but is available nearby at additional cost. Snacks and water are provided during the tour.

Can children join this tour? It’s not suitable for children under 8 years old, mainly due to walking and safety considerations.

Are there any physical restrictions? The tour is not recommended for pregnant women or people with back, heart, or medical issues.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Can I take photos? Absolutely! Photos are encouraged, and the guide may even take some for you during the tour.

Is alcohol allowed? While tasting pulque is part of the experience if available, alcohol consumption during the walk isn’t officially part of the tour.

Final Thoughts

This guided hike to Desierto de los Leones offers a wonderful blend of nature, history, and local culture. It’s a fantastic way to escape the city’s bustle, breathe fresh air, and learn about a fascinating site with the help of expert guides. The inclusion of transportation and snacks ensures a hassle-free day, making it a good choice for those who prefer a curated experience.

If you’re after a relaxed, small-group adventure that combines scenic trails with cultural stories, this tour ticks all those boxes. Plus, the affordability relative to the value—especially with the guide’s knowledge and the scenic beauty—makes it a worthwhile addition to your Mexico City itinerary.

For anyone interested in a moderate outdoor activity that’s more about discovery and enjoyment than intense physical exertion, this outing will likely leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and a little more connected to Mexico’s natural and historical landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: