Mexico city: Hiking tour to Desierto de los leones

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle of Mexico City and connect with nature, this guided hike to Desierto de los Leones offers a wonderful balance of fresh air, scenery, and stories. It’s a well-rounded experience that blends outdoor activity with cultural intrigue, making it perfect for travelers who want more than just a walk in the park—though the park itself is quite a treasure.

What we really like about this tour is how it thoughtfully includes transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide, so you can focus on the experience without worrying about logistics or hidden costs. Plus, the chance to visit an ancient monastery nestled in the forest adds a special historical element.

That said, it’s worth noting that the walk is quite accessible, but not suited for the very young or those with certain health issues. It’s best for those with a basic level of physical condition who appreciate scenic, educational outings in nature.

This tour would suit those who want a balanced outdoor experience combined with cultural insight, especially if you’re keen to learn about Mexico’s past, mythologies, and regional traditions. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer small groups for a more intimate feel, and those eager to explore a stunning, less crowded spot just outside the city limits.

This experience made our article of Top 15 Hiking And Trekking Tours In Mexico City.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, tickets, guide, snacks, and photos are included, offering great value.
• Accessible for Beginners: The route is beginner-friendly, requiring only a basic level of physical fitness.
• Cultural and Natural Blend: Learn about the history, myths, and legends of the area while enjoying scenic forest walks.
• Local Flavors: You’ll have the chance to taste regional foods and, if available, pulque, the traditional drink.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to just six participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Time Efficient: It’s a full 7-hour day that combines outdoor activity with cultural exploration, perfect for a day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting with Smooth Logistics

The tour kicks off with a pickup at your lodging in Mexico City. This is a major plus—it removes the guesswork of figuring out where to meet. Once on board, you’re greeted with a water bottle and a snack to keep your energy up. The drive to Desierto de los Leones takes around one to two hours, during which you can relax, ask questions, or simply enjoy the scenery. We appreciate this setup because it makes the entire experience seamless and stress-free.

The Forest Walk and Guided Insights

Arriving at the park, the guide leads you through a warm-up session—a smart move to prevent injuries—and then into the forest. The walk lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll traverse well-maintained trails amid towering trees and tranquil surroundings. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories about the history, myths, and legends of the area, adding depth to your walk.

What stands out here is how the guide’s stories make the experience more than just a hike—they turn it into a journey through Mexico’s cultural landscape. As one reviewer noted, “the hike was great, not exactly easy but not too steep either,” which means it’s suitable for most people with a basic level of fitness.

The Monastery and Its Gardens

Reaching the ex convent is the highlight for many. The old monastery, still well-preserved, offers a glimpse into Mexico’s religious history and architectural style. You’ll be able to explore its various spaces and gardens, which are often filled with local flora and offer great photo opportunities.

After the visit, the group leaves with a sense of connection to the past. The guide explains why such a monastery exists in this remote spot, giving you insight into how spirituality and nature intertwined in Mexico’s history.

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Food, Refreshments, and Local Flavors

Post-tour, you’ll have time for lunch—although it’s not included in the price, so you’ll need cash or card for your meal. The area around the monastery is dotted with small restaurants serving regional dishes. Travelers have enjoyed tasting local specialties and, if available, trying pulque, a traditional regional drink.

The guide might also take the opportunity to introduce you to other regional foods, making this a flavorful cultural extension of your day. The relaxed lunch break also offers a chance to reflect on the morning’s adventures.

The Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a forest walk back to the vehicle—another 1.5-hour trek through scenic surroundings. Once back in the car, it’s another one to two hours of driving back to Mexico City, giving you time to rest, review photos, or ask last-minute questions. The small group size and attentive guide mean you’ll feel well cared for throughout.

Why This Tour Shines

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touch

The reviews highlight how guides bring stories alive, sharing not only facts but also legends and local tales. This adds an authentic layer to the experience that you won’t get with larger, less personalized tours. As one traveler from the US put it, “the hike was great, not exactly easy but not too steep either,” underscoring the manageable, enjoyable pace.

Stunning Natural and Historic Sights

Travelers love the scenery of Desierto de los Leones, describing it as a “beautiful forest” that feels worlds away from the city. The monastery, with its gardens and architecture, provides a tangible link to Mexico’s past, making the experience meaningful and memorable.

Practical and Value-Oriented

The all-inclusive nature—covering transportation, tickets, snacks, and photos—means you pay a fair price for a day packed with activities. At $163, it’s an investment in a well-organized, enriching outing. Compared to trying to arrange all these details independently, this tour saves you time and potential confusion.

Small Group Dynamics

Limiting participation to six people creates an intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and you can savor the experience without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. This is especially valuable in a setting where storytelling and personal attention enhance the visit.

What Might Be Considered

While many praise the experience, some should consider that the hiking route is beginner-level, so if you’re looking for a strenuous trek or specialized adventure, this might not satisfy. Also, the cost might seem high for some travelers, but factoring in transportation, entrance fees, and guide services, the value remains sound.

Participants should also be prepared to pay for their own meals, as food is not included. That said, the surrounding area offers affordable options, and tasting regional dishes is part of the experience.

The tour is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with certain medical conditions—the physical aspects and walking pace are designed for generally healthy participants.

Practical Details & Recommendations

• Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, as the terrain involves walking on trails that can get muddy or dusty.
• Use biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent to protect yourself and respect nature.
• Carry cash, since there are no ATMs nearby and card payments are not accepted at the food stops.
• Charge your smartphone for photos and navigation.
• Prepare for a beginner-level hike, but don’t forget to listen to your body and take breaks if needed.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who appreciates learning about local stories and legends while enjoying a walk through nature, this tour offers excellent value. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a personalized experience, ideal for those who want to dig a little deeper into Mexico’s cultural and natural landscape. It’s especially suited for travelers who are comfortable with light hikes and eager to explore a historic monastery amid lush forests.

This outing provides a perfect blend of outdoor activity, cultural insight, and regional flavors, making it a memorable day outside the busy city. The mixture of scenic views, educational storytelling, and authentic food tasting makes it more than just a walk—it’s a chance to see a different side of Mexico City’s surroundings.

For travelers who value authentic experiences in accessible locations and want a guided, well-organized day trip, this hike to Desierto de los Leones checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pickup from your lodging in Mexico City and round-trip transport to Desierto de los Leones.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including travel, hiking, visiting the monastery, and lunch.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking in nature are recommended. Closed-toe shoes, biodegradable insect repellent, and sunscreen are also advised.

Are the trails difficult? No, the route is beginner-level, requiring only a basic physical condition. The hike is not steep or overly challenging.

Can I bring my camera? Absolutely. The scenery and historic sites are great for photos.

Is food included? No, food is not included, but there are local restaurants nearby where you can enjoy regional dishes and possibly pulque.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 6 participants, providing an intimate experience with plenty of personal attention.

Is it suitable for children? Not for children under 8 years old, due to the walking involved and the nature of the excursion.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexible planning.

This tour offers a thoughtfully curated outing that combines outdoor fun with cultural discovery. Perfect for those looking to stretch their legs, learn some local stories, and find a peaceful retreat from city life—all in one engaging day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby