Discover Hiking Trails and a Convent in Desierto de los Leones

This guided tour promises an escape into Mexico City’s green heart, offering a mix of nature, history, and authentic local flavors. While it’s a manageable 7-hour experience, it packs in enough scenery and culture to satisfy both nature lovers and history buffs alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guided hike through stunning landscapes makes navigating the area’s trails easy and informative. Second, the visit to the ancient Convent of Desierto de los Leones offers a glimpse into Mexico’s spiritual past, beautifully preserved. Lastly, the inclusion of a pulque tasting adds a local, slightly quirky touch that’s both tasty and unique.

A possible consideration? The moderate physical activity involved may not suit those with mobility challenges or very young children. Also, as a group activity, it’s best for travelers who enjoy guided experiences rather than independent exploration.

This tour suits those craving a balance of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and local flavor — perfect for curious travelers wanting a day away from Mexico City’s busy streets.

Good To Know

• Inclusive guided hike with plenty of scenic views and history
• Transportation from Mexico City included, easing logistics
• Authentic pulque tasting and snacks enrich the experience
• Visit to the historic Ex Convent provides cultural depth
• Small-group setting enhances intimacy and personalized attention
• Free cancellation offers flexibility in planning

An Authentic Day in Desierto de los Leones

This tour offers a well-rounded day out. From the moment you’re picked up in Mexico City, the journey to Desierto de los Leones feels smooth, with round-trip transportation included, removing the hassle of organizing your own travel. The meeting point at Ángel de la Independencia is a recognizable landmark, making it straightforward to find your guide.

The Journey and First Impressions

The drive through the outskirts of Mexico City is a pleasant start, giving you a glimpse of urban life before the scenery shifts to lush greenery. The guide is typically multilingual, which helps if you’re a non-Spanish speaker, and adds context to what you’re about to see.

Once you arrive, the first stop is the Ex Convento Desierto de los Leones. The restored convent is a striking reminder of Mexico’s spiritual past. As one reviewer noted, “The convent is very well preserved and gives you a real sense of history.” Expect to walk through beautiful cloisters, chapels, and courtyards that tell stories of religious life centuries ago.

The Guided Hike: Nature and Views

The core of the tour is a guided hike lasting around five hours. The trail is set in a dense, green landscape, perfect for escaping the city’s noise. This is not a strenuous climb, but moderate physical fitness is recommended; the terrain includes forest paths and gentle inclines.

You’ll pass by Lago de los Gansos, a peaceful spot for photos and reflection. The lake’s calm surface and surrounding trees create a perfect backdrop for a quiet moment. The trail offers plenty of opportunities for photos, with reviewers mentioning “stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.”

Authentic Local Flavors: Pulque and Snacks

After the hike, everyone can look forward to a pulque tasting — a traditional Mexican fermented beverage made from agave sap. The tasting is usually complemented by some snacks, providing a chance to savor local flavors in a relaxed setting. Several travelers have appreciated this detail, calling it “a fun and tasty way to end the outdoor part of the day.”

Returning to Mexico City

The journey back is a brief one, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Many describe feeling refreshed and recharged, with “hearts full of adventure.” The tour concludes at the same meeting point, making logistics simple.

What We Love About This Experience

The combination of history, nature, and local flavor makes this tour stand out. The scenic trails are a highlight, especially for those who enjoy walking through forests with views that often appear in travel photos. The visit to the historic convent offers a tangible link to Mexico’s past, and the pulque tasting adds a unique, authentic touch you can’t find everywhere.

The small-group setting allows for more personalized attention from guides, who often share interesting stories and insights based on their knowledge. Several reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and ability to make the experience engaging.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, it does involve moderate physical activity. If you’re not comfortable walking for several hours on uneven terrain, this might not be ideal. Also, the experience is focused on activities and sightseeing — there’s no stop at tourist shops or restaurants, which could be a downside if you prefer a more retail-focused outing.

Weather can impact the day — the tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling if poor weather cancels the activity. That said, it’s best to check the forecast before booking.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Stop 1: Mexico City to Desierto de los Leones

The tour kicks off with a pickup from a central, easy-to-find location in Mexico City. The one-hour transfer is a good time to get excited or to chat with your guide about what to expect. Since no admission fee is charged at this stage, it’s just a comfortable start.

Stop 2: Exploring the Convent and Hiking

Once on-site, the focus shifts to the Ex Convento Desierto de los Leones. Visitors love how well-preserved the site is, with detailed descriptions from guides helping to bring the history alive. The guided hike then begins, taking you through dense woods, past scenic lakes, and along well-trodden paths.

The hike is the star of the tour, offering both stunning vistas and a peaceful retreat. Reviewers have shared that the trail is manageable yet scenic, with “beautiful, lush landscapes” and “serene spots perfect for photos.”

Stop 3: Return to Mexico City

After about five hours of exploring, hiking, and tasting, the group heads back. The return trip is a good time to relax and chat, with many noting they leave feeling energized and grateful for the experience.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At $128.25 per person, the price covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, a guided hike, and pulque tasting. Considering the full day of activity packed into this price, it’s quite competitive — especially when you factor in the quality of the experience.

The inclusion of local flavors and culturally significant sights enhances the value, making it more than just a walk in the woods. It’s an opportunity to see a hidden gem outside the city with ease and comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts looking for a relaxed way to explore Mexico’s wilderness and cultural sites. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate guided walks and want a balanced day of activity and relaxation.

It’s also suited for those who prefer small, private groups for a more personalized experience, and for anyone interested in tasting authentic Mexican beverages like pulque.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated escape from urban Mexico City, blending natural beauty, cultural history, and local flavors all in one day. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting an authentic, active, and educational experience without the fuss of complicated planning.

While it involves physical activity, the manageable pace and scenic rewards make it accessible for most adventurers. The inclusion of transportation, guided instruction, and tasting experiences ensures you get a well-rounded glimpse of this lesser-known natural and historical treasure.

In short, if you’re looking for a meaningful day outdoors with a touch of history and local culture, this tour delivers exactly that — with plenty of stunning views along the way.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Mexico City is included, making it easy to focus on enjoying the day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ángel de la Independencia and concludes back at the same point, simplifying logistics.

How long is the guided hike?
The hike lasts about five hours, involving a moderate walk through lush landscapes and scenic spots.

What is the main attraction of this tour?
The main attractions are the guided hike through beautiful terrain, the visit to the historic Ex Convent, and the pulque tasting.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Because it involves moderate physical activity, it’s best suited for those with good mobility and moderate fitness levels.

Do I need to bring anything?
The tour provides all the essentials, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and it can be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to poor weather.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses, travel insurance, and tips are not included. No shopping or restaurant visits are part of the itinerary.

What makes this experience unique?
The combination of scenic hiking, cultural site visits, and authentic pulque tasting provides a well-rounded, engaging day out.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private activity, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a more intimate experience.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic way to see a different side of Mexico City — one filled with natural beauty, historical charm, and local flavors — perfect for those wanting a meaningful escape into the countryside with convenience and comfort.