Mexico City: Desierto de los Leones Hike & Ex-Convent Tour

Introducing the Experience

Imagine escaping the urban chaos of Mexico City for a day in nature that’s both scenic and steeped in history. This tour offers just that—a chance to walk through the lush trails of Desierto de los Leones, Mexico’s first national park, and visit an ancient convent that whispers stories of centuries past.

We love that this experience combines outdoor adventure with cultural insights, making it perfect for those wanting a well-rounded day out. The guided hike promises stunning views and peaceful forests, while the visit to the ex-convent adds a historical layer. Plus, the chance to sample pulque, a drink often called the “drink of the gods,” offers a taste of authentic Mexican tradition.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves about 5-6 hours of hiking with some elevation gain, so it’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level. If you’re not accustomed to walking or climbing, it could be a bit tiring.

This trip is ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, history, and local flavors—especially if you want to get outside the city and see a different side of Mexico.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Nature and history combined: Hike through Mexico’s first national park and explore an old convent.
• Breathtaking views: Expect scenic landscapes, lakes, and panoramic viewpoints.
• Authentic local experience: Taste pulque, a traditional beverage, and enjoy some local street food.
• Comfortable transportation: Round-trip transport from central Mexico City makes it hassle-free.
• Small group setting: Limited to 15 participants, offering a more personalized experience.
• Physical activity level: Moderate hiking with some elevation, suitable for most physically active travelers.

The Allure of Desierto de los Leones and the Ex-Convent

This tour captures the magic of escaping Mexico City’s hustle and enjoying a landscape filled with history and natural beauty. You’ll start with a convenient pickup at the designated meeting point near the Angel of Independence, setting the stage for a day that promises both adventure and learning.

Once at Desierto de los Leones, the guide will lead you on a guided trek through lush forests. The trail, which lasts around four hours, is designed to showcase the park’s diverse flora and fauna. The park itself holds significance as Mexico’s first national park, and the serenity of its woodlands offers a stark contrast to the city’s bustle.

As you walk, you’ll encounter photo-worthy vistas that capture the rugged beauty of the terrain. Your guide—who is multilingual and well-versed in the park’s history—will share stories about the area’s past as a monastic retreat and its significance in Mexican heritage.

Visiting the Old Convent

The highlight for many is the ex-convent of Desierto de los Leones, a stone structure that dates back centuries. Administered by the Discalced Carmelite nuns, it’s a place where you can appreciate both architectural resilience and a sense of peace. Visitors often comment on how the convent’s quiet corridors and cloisters evoke a contemplative atmosphere.

Lakes and Viewpoints

After exploring the convent, you’ll walk towards Lago de los Gansos—a picturesque lake surrounded by forest. This spot offers a perfect backdrop for photos and a chance to relax amid nature. If you still have energy, the guide might take you to a nearby viewpoint with sweeping views over the park, providing an excellent photo opportunity.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tasting Pulque and Local Flavors

Post-hike, you’ll return to the starting point and have the chance to try pulque, a traditional Mexican beverage made from fermented agave. Described as the “drink of the gods,” pulque has a thick, slightly tangy flavor that’s quite different from more common drinks like tequila or mezcal. Many reviewers have appreciated this chance to sample something authentically local, often mentioning that the tasting adds a memorable flavor to the day.

Alongside pulque, you can enjoy local street food—a simple but delicious way to absorb the regional cuisine. The inclusion of this tasting component makes the tour feel complete, connecting you with Mexican culture in a flavorful way.

The Practicalities: What to Expect and Tips

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes round transportation from Mexico City, which means you won’t need to worry about navigating or arranging your own transport. The vehicle used depends on your group size but will comfortably accommodate all participants, including the option for a minivan or larger vehicle if needed.

Duration and Timing

The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with most of that time dedicated to hiking, sightseeing, and tasting. The start times vary, so you’ll want to check availability and plan accordingly.

Physical Considerations

Keep in mind, the hike involves around 5-6 hours of walking with an elevation gain of up to 700 meters. The park reaches heights of over 4400 meters, so if you’re coming from lower altitudes, a day or two of rest in Mexico City before the tour is recommended to avoid altitude sickness.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must—think sturdy hiking footwear—as well as sunglasses, sunscreen, and light, weather-appropriate clothes. Cash is handy for any personal expenses or additional snacks, and don’t forget your passport or ID card for registration purposes.

Accessibility and Fitness

Since the terrain can involve some moderate climbing, travelers should be in moderate physical condition. If you’re used to walking or hiking regularly, you’ll find this manageable. Review your fitness level before booking, especially if you’re concerned about altitude or longer walks.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of $119 per person offers good value for a day packed with diverse activities. Included are a multilingual guide, transportation, entrance tickets to the convent, a guided hike, pulque tasting, and snacks.

However, expenses like personal items, additional food or drinks, and travel insurance are not covered. It’s wise to carry some extra cash or cards for souvenirs or additional snacks.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

Based on traveler reviews, the guides are highly praised for their knowledgeability and friendly approach. Their insights help you understand the significance of the historic convent and the park’s natural features. Travelers consistently mention the stunning views and the informative commentary as highlights.

Many appreciate the small group format, which makes the experience more intimate and engaging. The guided nature walk is relaxed enough for most fitness levels, and the pace allows for plenty of photo breaks and conversations.

Summary of the Experience

This tour offers an excellent blend of outdoor activity and cultural discovery in a manageable day trip from Mexico City. You’ll love the peaceful forests, historic convent, and spectacular vistas, all led by knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with stories and local insights.

The inclusion of pulque tasting adds a unique flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere, making the overall outing both memorable and authentic. If you’re seeking a nature-focused escape that also touches on Mexico’s spiritual and cultural roots, this tour hits the mark.

While the physical activity level requires some effort, most travelers with a moderate fitness level will find this very doable and rewarding. It’s particularly suited for those who want a balance of adventure, history, and local flavor—whether you’re visiting Mexico City for a short time or want a meaningful day trip outside the city.

The Sum Up

The Mexico City: Desierto de los Leones Hike & Ex-Convent Tour offers a well-rounded experience that combines nature, history, and authentic local flavors. Its inclusion of a guided hike, historical site visit, and pulque tasting makes it a compelling choice for travelers looking to explore beyond the usual city sights.

The trip’s affordable price point packs in a lot of value—especially considering the transportation, guided commentary, and entrance fees included. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Mexico’s natural beauty while learning about its cultural heritage.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who appreciate scenic walks, historical sites, and tasting traditional Mexican drinks. It’s also ideal for those wanting a small-group experience with personalized attention and a knowledgeable guide.

If you’re in Mexico City and craving a day of fresh air, stunning views, and cultural insights, this tour will meet, if not exceed, your expectations.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from Mexico City, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What is the meeting point?
You will meet your guide outside the Hotel City Express Plus by Marriott, near the Angel of Independence. Please do not enter the hotel.

How long is the hike?
The guided hike lasts approximately 4 hours, covering trails in Desierto de los Leones with some elevation gain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, cash, and your ID or passport are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s designed for most with moderate physical condition, but those with mobility concerns or low stamina might find the elevation or duration challenging.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in different languages?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German.

Is the tour accessible for people with altitude sensitivity?
Since the elevation can reach over 4400 meters, travelers coming from lower altitudes should plan to rest in Mexico City for 1-2 days beforehand.

This tour stands out as a fantastic way to combine outdoor adventure with cultural exploration, all while enjoying some authentic flavors of Mexico. It’s a day well spent for those looking to deepen their understanding of Mexico’s natural landscapes and historical treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here: