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

Mexico City: Desierto de los Leones Hike & Ex-Convent Tour
Location: Greater Mexico City, Mexico
Country: Mexico
Price: $119 per person
Provider: Vibe Adventures

A Quick Look at the Experience
Imagine stepping away from the city’s hustle and venturing into the peaceful embrace of Mexico’s first national park, Desierto de los Leones. For around eight hours, your guide (who’s usually multilingual and friendly—sometimes even funny) will take you on a scenic journey, combining nature, history, and local flavors. You’ll explore lush forests, walk among ancient convent ruins, and enjoy breathtaking views over lakes and valleys. All this for just a little over $100, which is quite reasonable given the depth of experience and small group setting.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour: first, the expert guidance, which ensures you gain insights into the area’s history and natural beauty without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Second, the opportunity to taste pulque, a drink often called “the drink of the gods,” giving you a genuine taste of local tradition.

One thing to keep in mind is the moderate physical activity involved—your hike includes around 5-6 hours with some elevation gains. This tour suits active travelers who enjoy being outdoors but might not be ideal for those with mobility issues or who prefer very relaxed sightseeing.

This tour suits those keen on combining outdoor adventure with cultural discovery—perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and curious foodies alike.

Key Points

• Historical & Natural Highlights: Visit the first national park in Mexico and the historic convent.
• Guided Hiking Experience: Well-paced trail with stunning vistas and lakes.
• Authentic Local Flavors: Enjoy a tasting of pulque and local snacks.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Personalized experience with limited participants.
• Transportation & Convenience: Round-trip transport from Mexico City included.
• Moderate Physical Effort: Approximately 5-6 hours of hiking with some elevation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Outskirts of Mexico City: An Authentic Nature & History Blend

If you’re in Mexico City and craving a break from urban life, the Desierto de los Leones Hike & Ex-Convent Tour offers a rewarding escape. It’s the kind of trip that balances adventure, history, and local flavor—a well-rounded experience that gives you a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

The Journey Begins: Pickup & Departure

Your day starts with a convenient pickup at the Hotel City Express Plus by Marriott near the Angel of Independence—a central and recognizable spot. This simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in or near the city center. The group is limited to around 15 people, ensuring you’ll get friendly attention from your guide, who will be fluent in your preferred language (English, Spanish, French, Italian, or German).

Once aboard the comfortable vehicle—likely a van or small bus depending on your group size—you’ll head out of the city toward the Desierto de los Leones National Park. The drive offers a chance to relax and maybe ask your guide questions about the area or Mexico City history.

The First Stop: Desierto de los Leones National Park

This park is a true gem—Mexico’s first national park, established to preserve the area’s lush forests and scenic lakes. As you arrive, expect a mixture of photo stops, walking, and a guided hike through trails that wind past ancient trees and peaceful waters.

The highlight is the walk to the historic ex-convent, which dates back to the 17th century. The ruins of the Desierto de los Leones Convent are surprisingly atmospheric—imagine what life was like for the Carmelite nuns who once lived here. Our guide, Carlos, (or whoever is leading) will share stories about the site, and you’ll gain a sense of the spiritual and historical importance of this place.

Many reviewers appreciated the expert guidance and the way Carlos explained the significance of the convent and the surrounding landscape. One comment described the hike as “a peaceful walk with plenty of stunning views,” emphasizing the scenic beauty of the forested trails and lakes.

Exploring the Lakes and Scenic Vistas

After about four hours of hiking, you’ll reach the Lago de los Gansos (Goose Lake), a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the tranquility. If you’re feeling energetic, there’s an option to trek further to a viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys—truly memorable.

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Tasting Pulque and Local Snacks

Post-hike, it’s time to unwind at a local food area. You’ll have the chance to sample pulque, an ancient Mexican fermented beverage made from maguey (agave). Known as “the drink of the gods,” pulque has a creamy texture and a slightly sour taste—an acquired flavor for some, but an authentic cultural experience worth trying.

Many travelers appreciate the tasting session as a way to connect with local tradition. As one reviewer put it, “The pulque was surprisingly good, and it’s not something you find everywhere.”

Alongside, you can enjoy some snacks—a chance to sample regional foods and mingle with your fellow travelers.

Wrapping Up & Returning to Mexico City

After a relaxed hour of enjoying local flavors, your group will head back to the starting point. The return journey is a good time to reflect on the day or ask your guide additional questions about Mexico’s natural parks or cultural sites.

The tour drops you off at El Ángel de la Independencia, a prominent landmark, or at your accommodation if you booked the optional pickup. The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, making it an ideal day trip that’s both full and manageable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the scenic hikes and historical ruins, the guides’ knowledge significantly enhances the experience. Several travelers highlighted guides who were friendly, well-informed, and eager to share stories, making the day more engaging.

The stunning views—from lush forests to panoramic vistas from viewpoints—are consistently praised. It’s a chance to connect with nature and appreciate Mexico’s diverse landscapes just outside the city.

The pulque tasting is a unique feature, offering an authentic taste of local traditions. For many, it was a highlight, providing cultural insight alongside physical activity.

Considering the Physical Effort

The tour involves approximately 5-6 hours of hiking, with some elevation gains of 400-700 meters. Travelers should be comfortable with moderate physical activity. If you’re not used to hiking or have mobility challenges, this might be a bit demanding.

Plus, since the tour reaches heights over 4,400 meters at some points, those coming from lower altitudes should be aware of potential altitude effects. Staying hydrated and having a rest day before can help.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is perfect if you enjoy outdoor activities combined with cultural exploration. It’s ideal for active travelers who appreciate scenic hikes, historical sites, and local flavors. Families with children who are comfortable with physical activity, or groups of friends looking for a day adventure, will find it rewarding.

However, if you prefer relaxed sightseeing or have mobility issues, you might find some of the hiking challenging. Also, those seeking a purely cultural or urban experience might want to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts: Value and Authenticity

At $119, this tour offers a remarkable blend of nature, history, and local culture. The small group size and guided format ensure that you’re not just tagging along but participating actively in a meaningful exploration.

The expert guidance and scenic beauty are what make this experience worthwhile. It’s a chance to see a different side of Mexico—one that combines peaceful forests, historic ruins, and traditional drinks—all within a day’s journey from the city.

If you’re eager to step outside Mexico City’s concrete jungle and experience the natural tranquility and historic charm of Desierto de los Leones, this tour fits the bill nicely. It’s a solid pick for travelers craving an authentic, immersive day trip that’s more than just sightseeing—it’s an adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including pickup, hiking, tasting, and return.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers round-trip transportation, a multilingual guide, entrance fees to the convent, a guided hike, pulque tasting, and snacks.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, expect around 5-6 hours of hiking with some elevation gain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.

Can I join if I don’t speak Spanish?
Absolutely. Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, and German.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, cash, ID or passport, and possibly a camera for the views.

Is food included?
Snacks and pulque are included, but you can buy additional local food at the start or end of the tour.

In summary, the Desierto de los Leones Hike & Ex-Convent Tour offers an authentic slice of Mexico’s natural and cultural heritage, delivered with expert guidance and thoughtful touches. It’s a meaningful way to connect with Mexico’s scenic landscapes and history—especially if you’re looking for more than just urban sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: