Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge

What you'll do

You’ll visit the floating flower gardens of Xochimilco with one of our Mexico City hosts, who also happens to be an archaeologist! The islands you’ll discover here are the last vestige of the ancient Aztec agricultural system - fascinating stuff. The canals, known as chinampas, were used to create an intricate system of irrigation waterways. 

This promises to be an experience for the senses, as you visit the vibrant market of Xochimilco, feast on pre-hispanic cuisine (the recipes, not ingredients - don’t worry), and float along the flower-perfumed canals aboard a brilliantly colorful trajinera - the traditional flat-bottomed boats of Mexico. 

Once you’ve had your fill of this fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s time to go beyond what most visitors see and discover a grassroots community project where locals are protecting their cultural heritage and preserving endangered species of native aquatic life. You’ll round off your day in a local barrio, exploring Bernardino de Siena Church and sampling authentic Aztec delicacies.

  • Private & 100% personalized tour

  • 5 hours

  • Matched to your ideal host

  • Walking Tour

  • Hosted in English (On request: French, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Portuguese, Spanish)

  • Meet at your accommodation or a central location

Experience outline

  • Join your archeologist host and discover the history and culture surrounding Xochimilco, the floating gardens and agricultural waterways which date back to the times of the Aztec people
  • Enjoy a ride on a traditional trajinera boat along the ancient canals
  • See the hundreds of native species of birds, animals and aquatic life in a nature reserve
  • Visit the local barrio of Xochimilco and explore its vibrant markets and landmarks
  • Taste delicious and authentic pre-Hispanic food and drinks which your local recommends
  • Visit a grassroots community project where locals are fighting to save endangered native species
  • Learn about the history of these ancient farming waterways, soak up the culture and enjoy the atmosphere with you knowledgeable host by your side

Things to know

What’s included

  • Private and personalized experience
  • 5 hours with a host
  • Uber to and from Xochimilco
  • 2 hours ride on a trajinera
  • Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options
  • Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

What’s not included

  • Food & drinks
  • Entry to additional ticketed attractions
  • Gratuities (optional)

Cancellation

  • Cancel 7 days before the experience for a full refund
  • Worry-free cancellation terms: book with peace of mind knowing that you can cancel for free up to a day before the experience and receive a full refund.

Photos taken by our hosts and guests

City Unscripted guests photos

Reviews

    We had the best day with Roberto at Xochimilco! Everything went smoothly and we really enjoyed the tour. Roberto was so great with our 4 year old daughter and just overall a super friendly and awesome guy. Would definitely recommend!

    March 2022

    Becky H

    We had a great time with Roberto, he has a wealth of knowledge about the surrounding area. Roberto also pointed out an incredible seafood restaurant that we had the best meal during our stay.

    October 2021

    Alan P

    Roberto was a fantastic guide. He is extremely knowledgeable and very personable. He made our tour memorable and special! Could not recommend him enough!

    July 2021

    Will H

    Holly & David are awesome people, we are like minded as they have minds hungry for knowledge, all the way to Xochimilco we talk about the development of the city and the characteristics of the population of CDMX. We arrived in Xochimilco and start the Trajinera trip. We tasted some Mezcales and enjoy the nature in Xochimilco, talk about the history of the lakes, the agricultural ancient systems, and the balance of the city and the nature in modern times. Just around the corner we have the Day of the Dead celebration so all the fields were covered with Zepasuchitl flowers, so we also had an extended conversation about this celebration.

    October 2020

    Roberto V

See more reviews

Meet our local hosts in Mexico City. One of them will tailor this experience to your wishes!

We’ll expertly match you to your best suited host based on your interests, personality and the experience vibe you’re after.

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