When I booked my trip to Mexico City through TourRadar, I wasn’t just looking for a typical urban getaway. I wanted to dive deep into the natural beauty that surrounds and flourishes within this bustling metropolis. Though the city is often recognized for its historical landmarks, colorful markets, and vibrant culture, it also offers numerous green spaces and nature trails where you can breathe fresh air and momentarily escape the urban pace.
I was thrilled when TourRadar’s itinerary included some of the city’s best parks and nature trails. What follows is a detailed guide to the parks I visited, along with my firsthand experiences, so that you too can experience the natural side of Mexico City.
Chapultepec Park: The Lungs of Mexico City
Located in the heart of Mexico City, Chapultepec Park, or Bosque de Chapultepec, is one of the largest city parks in the world, and I couldn’t wait to explore it. With more than 1,600 acres of lush green spaces, it’s often referred to as the “lungs of the city,” providing a much-needed escape from the city’s hustle.
How to Get There:
The park is centrally located and easily accessible via public transport. I took the metro to the Chapultepec Station on Line 1, and from there, it’s just a short walk to the park entrance. You can also reach it by bus or taxi, depending on where you’re staying.
What to Do:
Chapultepec Park is divided into four sections, but most of the action is in the first section. As I walked through the park, I marveled at the impressive Chapultepec Castle, which sits atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. The castle itself is worth a visit, housing the National Museum of History.
But I wasn’t here just for the history—I was here for nature. I rented a paddleboat on the park’s large lake, Lago de Chapultepec, where locals were enjoying the sunny weather. If you’re looking for a relaxing stroll, the park has countless winding paths through groves of towering trees, with plenty of benches for a quiet moment of reflection.
For nature enthusiasts like me, the Botanical Garden was a highlight. This well-maintained area showcases Mexico’s diverse plant life, from desert cacti to tropical flowers. It’s an oasis within an oasis. As I wandered, I felt completely immersed in the serenity of the place.
Insider Tip:
Visit on a weekday if possible. Weekends are crowded with locals, and though the atmosphere is lively, it might not be ideal if you’re seeking tranquility. There are also food vendors scattered around the park, so I indulged in a few street snacks while sitting by the lake.
Desierto de los Leones National Park: A Hidden Mountain Escape
Next on my TourRadar itinerary was a trip to the Desierto de los Leones National Park. Despite the name, there are no lions here, but this “desert” is actually a mountainous, forested area offering some of the best hiking trails near Mexico City.
How to Get There:
Located about an hour’s drive from the city center, this park is best reached by car. TourRadar arranged transportation, but if you’re visiting on your own, I’d recommend renting a car. Alternatively, there are buses that run from the city to the park, though they can be a bit slow.
What to Do:
The park itself is vast and filled with towering pine and oak trees, giving it a peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere. The cool, crisp mountain air was a welcome change from the heat of the city. I decided to hike one of the popular trails, which led me through dense forests and eventually to a spectacular view of the valley below.
One of the most intriguing spots in the park is the Ex-Convento del Desierto de los Leones, a centuries-old monastery that now stands in ruins. Walking through the old stone walls, I felt as if I had stepped back in time. The area around the convent is perfect for picnicking, and there are plenty of open spaces to stretch out after a long hike.
There’s also an abundance of wildlife in the park—keep your eyes peeled for squirrels, birds, and even the occasional deer. The peaceful sounds of nature, from rustling leaves to birdsong, made this one of my favorite places in Mexico City.
Insider Tip:
Pack a picnic! There are designated areas for picnicking, and I found a quiet spot near a stream where I enjoyed lunch. Also, bring layers—it can get chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco: For the Adventurous Traveler
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park is the place to be. This park, which lies on the slopes of the Ajusco volcano, is the highest point in Mexico City, and it offers breathtaking views for those willing to climb.
How to Get There:
Much like Desierto de los Leones, this park is best accessed by car. TourRadar arranged our transportation, but you can also hire a taxi or Uber to take you to the trailhead. Be sure to agree on a price with your driver beforehand if taking a taxi.
What to Do:
Cumbres del Ajusco is ideal for adventurous travelers. The most popular activity here is hiking up to the summit of Pico del Águila, which stands at over 12,500 feet. The trail is moderately difficult, but the views are worth every step. I started early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, and as I reached the summit, I was rewarded with sweeping views of the city and the surrounding valleys.
If you’re not up for the full climb, there are also gentler trails and picnic areas throughout the park. Horseback riding is another popular activity here, and I saw several groups trotting along the lower paths as I descended.
Insider Tip:
Be prepared for the altitude. It’s significantly higher than the city itself, and I found myself short of breath at times. Drink plenty of water and take breaks as needed. Also, consider hiring a guide if you’re unfamiliar with high-altitude hiking.
Parque La Mexicana: A Modern Green Space in the City
Finally, I visited Parque La Mexicana, a relatively new park located in the upscale Santa Fe district. Unlike the other parks, this one is much more urban and modern, but it’s still a fantastic place to experience nature without leaving the city.
How to Get There:
Parque La Mexicana is easy to reach by car or public transport. I took a taxi from my hotel, which was a quick ride. The park is located in the heart of Santa Fe, and it’s surrounded by shops, restaurants, and luxury apartments.
What to Do:
Parque La Mexicana is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking and biking paths, and even a lake. I spent some time strolling through the park, enjoying the modern design and the contrast between the green spaces and the towering buildings around it.
There’s also a wide range of dining options within the park itself. I grabbed lunch at a food truck that served delicious tacos al pastor, and I couldn’t resist stopping for an ice cream afterward. The park is also pet-friendly, so expect to see plenty of locals walking their dogs.
Insider Tip:
Parque La Mexicana is the perfect place to catch a sunset. I stayed until dusk, and the views of the city skyline bathed in golden light were absolutely stunning. If you’re visiting on a weekend, the park can get busy, but it never felt overcrowded.
Planning Your Own TourRadar Adventure in Mexico City
Exploring these parks was an eye-opening experience that showed me a side of Mexico City I hadn’t expected. Whether you’re into hiking, picnicking, or simply strolling through beautifully landscaped areas, Mexico City’s parks offer something for everyone.
If you’re planning your own adventure, I highly recommend booking through TourRadar. They took care of all the logistics, from transportation to guided hikes, making it easy for me to focus on enjoying my trip. Be sure to pack appropriately for each park—comfortable walking shoes, plenty of water, and, for the higher-altitude parks, a jacket.
And don’t forget to take some time to relax and appreciate the city’s natural beauty. Mexico City is more than just a bustling urban center—it’s a place where nature and culture coexist in perfect harmony.
