Urban Orchard in Desierto de los Leones in Mexico City

If you’re looking to add a touch of green to your Mexico City visit, the Urban Orchard tour offered by Huerto Benque is a wonderful option. Though I haven’t experienced it myself, the glowing reviews and comprehensive descriptions suggest it offers a genuine, hands-on connection to nature right within the city’s outskirts.

This 5-hour excursion stands out for its focus on native Mexican plants, sustainable gardening techniques, and the chance to get your hands a little dirty—literally.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the knowledgeable guides, who bring plants and gardening alive with stories and insights, and the interactive experience that involves foraging for seasonal produce. A possible consideration is the drive time—roughly 45 minutes to an hour each way—and the fact that the tour is most suitable for those willing to get a bit messy and curious about plants.

If you’re a plant lover, an eco-conscious traveler, or simply someone eager to understand how urban gardening can bring biodiversity and flavor into city life, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s a great choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group eager for an authentic, nature-filled experience.

Key Points

• Focus on native plants: Over 200 different species, primarily Mexican, offering rich botanical diversity.
• Hands-on foraging: The chance to gather seasonal vegetables, herbs, fruits, or even flowers directly from the garden.
• Educational yet fun: Guides share stories and techniques for caring for the orchard and its inhabitants, including chickens.
• Accessible and intimate: A private tour that feels personalized, with small group or individual attention.
• Value for money: At $75 per person, the experience includes transportation, snacks, and beverages, making it a well-rounded outing.
• Connections to food and biodiversity: The orchard supports local wildlife and shows how we can bridge the gap between ourselves and our food through urban gardening.

The Journey Begins: From Mexico City to the Orchard

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive from the meeting point on Avenida Chapultepec, a lively hub in the Roma neighborhood, to Desierto de los Leones. Expect a ride of about 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic; it’s a small price to pay for escaping the city’s hustle and stepping into a lush, green environment. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the transfer—a thoughtful touch for Mexico City’s sometimes warm climate.

Once you arrive, the real magic begins. The orchard, carefully cultivated and bursting with plant life, is a testament to sustainable urban gardening. Ruben and David, the hosts, are described as excellent storytellers and passionate gardeners. They guide you through the space, revealing the techniques they’ve developed, such as fruit tree guilds, hügelkulturs (a type of raised bed), and diverse garden beds.

Guests often comment on how the guides’ expertise makes the experience particularly engaging. As one reviewer put it, Ruben’s storytelling is “very welcoming and a great story teller,” making the learning feel personal and approachable.

Exploring the Garden’s Rich Plant Life

The orchard boasts an impressive collection of over 200 plant species, most of them native to Mexico. You’ll get to recognize and smell herbs, seasonal vegetables like Swiss chard, and perhaps even taste some directly from the garden. The emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce is a highlight—there’s nothing quite like biting into a crispy leaf or a sweet fruit that was just picked moments before.

We loved the way the tour allows you to connect with the subtle interactions within the ecosystem, from the chirping of visiting birds to the buzzing of insects. As one reviewer noted, “you’ll also hear the sounds of various birds and insects visiting throughout the day,” giving you a full sensory experience.

The guides encourage guests to use all their senses—crushing leaves to release fragrances or tasting herbs to explore flavors—making the experience lively and educational. This approach helps demystify gardening techniques and makes plant identification accessible.

Foraging and Creating Culinary Memories

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is foraging among the garden’s offerings. You’ll search for delicious, nutrient-rich vegetables and fruits, which you may then use to imagine simple, tasty dishes with the guides’ help. This isn’t just about looking—it’s about tasting, smelling, and touching your way into understanding how food grows.

Reviewers frequently mention how this section feels personal and memorable. As one said, “the experience feels personal,” and another described it as “an extraordinary experience,” emphasizing that you leave with more than just knowledge—you leave with a new appreciation for the biodiversity and resilience of urban green spaces.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $75 per person, which covers transportation, snacks, and drinks—mainly coffee or tea. Considering the personalized nature, knowledgeable guides, and hands-on activities, this price offers good value. The tour lasts approximately five hours, making it an ideal half-day activity for those seeking a meaningful outdoor experience without the full commitment of a longer tour.

The activity is private, meaning your group has exclusive access, and only your group participates. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and runs Monday through Saturday from 9:30 AM to 4 PM.

Weather can impact the experience—since it’s outdoors, poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but the organizers offer a full refund if that happens.

Authenticity and Reviews: The Words of Past Participants

Guests consistently praise the guides for their depth of knowledge and warm hospitality. Many describe the orchard as a beautiful, thriving space that fosters a sense of calm and connection. One reviewer mentioned, “Rubén and David’s love for their garden shines through,” and others highlight how much they learned about both edible and ornamental plants.

The reviews also emphasize how accessible and fun the experience is, even for those new to gardening. “It was so easy and fun,” remarked one participant, illustrating that you don’t need prior experience to enjoy the day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for plant enthusiasts, urban gardeners, and nature lovers eager for an authentic connection to Mexican flora. It suits curious travelers who enjoy hands-on learning and want to see how urban spaces can support biodiversity. It’s also a lovely option for families or groups interested in sustainability and food origins.

However, those seeking a fast-paced or highly physical activity might find the pace a bit gentle. It’s best for those with a genuine interest in plants and a willingness to get a little dirty.

The Sum Up

The Urban Orchard tour in Desierto de los Leones offers a unique blend of education, relaxation, and taste. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of native Mexican plants, gardening techniques, and the importance of biodiversity in urban settings. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach make every moment approachable and engaging.

This tour provides excellent value for a half-day escape into nature—an authentic experience that reconnects you with the land and your food. It’s ideal for plant lovers, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful, green oasis just outside Mexico City.

If you’re eager to see how a small urban space can support life and flavor, and if you love the idea of hands-on foraging, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, snacks, and coffee or tea are included. The experience is private, and only your group participates.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately five hours, including the drive and the orchard visit.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $75.00, which covers transportation, snacks, and the guided experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the hands-on, sensory nature suggests it’s suitable for most ages, especially those interested in plants and nature.

Do I need prior gardening knowledge?
No. The guides make it accessible for beginners and seasoned plant lovers alike.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, and consider bringing a hat and sunscreen.

What happens if it rains?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 11 days ahead, but availability may vary.

What makes this tour different from other botanical or garden visits?
It combines hands-on foraging, native plant focus, and personal storytelling—creating an engaging, memorable, and practical experience.