Xochimilco’s Wild Side: Mezcal, Insects & Culture

Planning a visit to Mexico City and looking for something beyond the usual tourist spots? This Xochimilco tour promises a daring, fun-filled, and truly authentic experience that combines delicious mezcal, quirky snacks, and lively local stories. It’s a perfect choice for curious travelers eager to explore Mexico’s lesser-known, vibrant traditions.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the expert guidance that makes the tasting both educational and entertaining, the chance to try unusual Mexican snacks like edible insects, and the gorgeous scenery along the canals. The price point is reasonable given the inclusions — unlimited drinks, a boat ride, and a memorable souvenir.

One consideration to keep in mind: this tour is packed with activities, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, it’s worth planning accordingly. Otherwise, it’s ideal for those wanting a fun, cultural, and interactive adventure that mixes history, flavors, and local folklore.

This tour is particularly suited for adventurous food lovers, curious travelers eager to learn about Mexican traditions, and anyone wanting a lively day on the water with plenty of laughs and new discoveries.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Guided by local experts, blending culture, stories, and tasting.
• Unique Flavors: Includes artisanal mezcals and surprising edible insects.
• Fun & Interactive: Games, activities, and lively guides make the tour memorable.
• Affordable Value: For just $27, you get a comprehensive, entertaining 2.5-hour outing.
• Picturesque Setting: Sail through the colorful canals of Xochimilco and stop at a chinampa for photos.
• Souvenir & Recommendations: Take home a custom mezcal cup and personalized tips for further adventures in CDMX.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Overview of the Tour

This experience, offered by MEZCALICIOUS.MX, takes you on a 2.5-hour voyage through the iconic canals of Xochimilco. It’s more than just a boat ride — it’s a lively, cultural celebration that dives into Mexico’s traditions of mezcal and culinary daring, all set against the backdrop of one of the city’s most scenic areas.

You’ll start at Embarcadero Las Flores, a charming spot marked by a purple arch that’s easy to spot. The group then boards a traditional trajinera, a colorful flat-bottomed boat, which serves as your floating platform for the adventure. The tour is led by a local guide, who keeps the atmosphere lively with engaging stories, Mexican slang, and fun games, making sure everyone stays entertained and informed.

The Canal Journey & Scenic Stops

The canal cruise lasts around 25 minutes, offering scenic views of the natural beauty and bustling waterside life. You’ll have a chance to snap photos at a charming chinampa, the floating gardens that illustrate ancient agricultural practices. This stop is perfect for breathing in the peaceful surroundings, resting, or making small purchases of traditional Mexican snacks or drinks.

The boat ride is complemented by stops on land, including a 40-minute segment where you’ll take a walking tour, learn about local activities, and participate in cultural activities. Several reviewers mention that the views and atmosphere on this part of the tour are genuinely captivating, especially with the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape.

Mezcal Tasting & Cultural Stories

The heart of this tour is undoubtedly the mezcal tasting. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll sample a variety of artisanal mezcals, including young, reposado, and flavored versions. Many reviews highlight the guides’ ability to tell captivating stories, explaining the process of making mezcal, its cultural significance, and the magic behind each sip.

The unlimited drinks (mezcal, beer, sodas, water) ensure you never go thirsty, and the tasting experience is designed to surprise even seasoned connoisseurs. One reviewer praised Irlanda and Ruben as “phenomenal” hosts who kept everyone engaged, with a great mix of education and humor.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Insect Challenge & Mexican Snacks

Here’s where the experience gets truly memorable. You’ll be invited to try some local edible insects — from the familiar chapulines (grasshoppers) to some of the rarest varieties. The guide won’t reveal what you’re about to taste until it’s in front of you, adding an element of surprise.

Many reviews mention how surprisingly tasty and crunchy these snacks are, with some travelers describing the experience as “wild” but worth trying. Reviewers like Meg from the UK appreciated how the guide, Irlanda, made the insect tasting make perfect sense and added humor to the experience.

Surprises, Games & Local Folklore

The tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s about connecting with Mexican culture. Expect lively games, traditional activities, and opportunities to learn some Mexican slang. The guides actively create a festive atmosphere, making it easy to laugh, participate, and make new friends.

The Chinampa Stop & Final Touches

A short 25-minute stop at a chinampa gives you time to breathe in the scenery, take photos, and relax before heading back. During this break, you can also purchase additional food or drinks if you like, or simply soak in the serenity of Xochimilco’s natural beauty.

As the tour wraps up back at MEZCALICIOUS.MX, you’ll receive a special souvenir — a custom shot glass and some surprise gifts, symbolizing the fun and authenticity of the experience.

Price & Value

At $27 per person, this tour offers great value. For a little over two hours, you enjoy a full sensory experience: scenic boat rides, unlimited artisanal mezcal, surprises like insects, engaging storytelling, and fun activities. Many reviewers, including Kevin from Costa Rica, called it a “fantastic experience” that was “so worth it” for the price.

The inclusions, especially the local guide’s insights and the souvenirs, elevate this beyond typical boat tours. The price also covers the full meal with pulque tasting, ensuring a satisfying and well-rounded outing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers who enjoy trying new flavors and engaging with local culture. It suits young adults, groups of friends, and couples looking for a memorable day filled with laughter, learning, and authentic Mexican flavors. If you’re open to tasting insects and want more than just a scenic boat ride, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Practicalities & Tips

• Arrive at least 10 minutes early at Embarcadero Las Flores for a smooth start.
• Wear comfortable clothes and sunscreen — it’s outdoors and can get sunny.
• Bring cash for any additional purchases at the chinampa or souvenirs.
• This tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most travelers.
• If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, inform the guides beforehand.
• The tour runs in light rain, but extreme weather could reschedule or refund.
• Kids can participate in non-alcoholic activities, making it family-friendly.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including boat rides, stops, and tasting sessions.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is Embarcadero Las Flores, marked by a purple arch. The guide will send a photo and contact details via WhatsApp or email.

What is included in the price?
You get unlimited artisanal mezcal, local guide, games and activities, a chinampa stop, a souvenir shot glass, full meal with pulque, and additional drinks like beer and soda.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, non-alcoholic options like soft drinks and water are available, and kids can join in all the non-drinking activities.

Are there dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, just let the guides know in advance. They are open to personalized recommendations.

Is it suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible and designed to be inclusive, but it’s best to inform the provider beforehand.

What if the weather is bad?
Light rain won’t stop the tour, but in case of extreme weather, it will be rescheduled or refunded.

Final Thoughts

This Xochimilco tour offers a lively, immersive experience that combines culture, adventure, and fun. For just $27, you’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride, tasting of artisanal mezcals, and a chance to try unexpected Mexican snacks — some of which are edible insects. Guided by charismatic locals, you’ll gain insight into traditions that aren’t always on the tourist radar.

It’s especially perfect for adventurous souls eager to add a bit of daring to their Mexico City trip, or those who love interactive cultural experiences. The combination of stunning scenery, authentic flavors, and playful guides makes it a unique outing that won’t soon be forgotten.

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and delicious way to explore Mexico’s hidden side, this tour is a compelling choice. Just bring your curiosity — and perhaps an appetite for the unexpected.

Source: GetYourGuide

You can check if your dates are available here: