Xochimilco: Isla de las Muñecas Games and Drinks Tour

Xochimilco: Isla de las Muñecas Games and Drinks Tour
Location: Greater Mexico City, Mexico
Country: Mexico
Rating: 5/5 (43 reviews)
Duration: 2 hours
Provider: Xochitour
Price: Not specified, but excellent value considering included drinks, games, and guided tours
Starting Point: Liga de veteranos Xochimilco AC Puerta 3 (19.2798, -99.1037)

First Impressions
If you’re looking for a fun, slightly spooky, and genuinely authentic way to experience Xochimilco’s famous canals, this tour hits all the right notes. For around two hours, you’ll cruise the vibrant waterways, visit the infamous Island of the Dolls, and enjoy a lively mix of drinks, games, and storytelling with a knowledgeable guide—likely Alan or Adrian—who keeps the energy high.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to get away from the typical tourist-packed boat rides and explore low-key, local areas on your way to the island. Second, the blend of cultural insights and fun activities—from mezcal tastings to traditional games—makes it a well-rounded outing that appeals both to curious travelers and those just wanting a good time.

One possible consideration? It’s a short tour—just two hours—so if you’re after an in-depth exploration or a relaxing long afternoon, this might feel a bit brisk. But for most, the pace keeps things lively and engaging, not rushed.

Ideal for travelers who enjoy unique attractions with a mix of history, humor, and local flavor, especially those who appreciate guided storytelling and interactive fun.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Avoid the typical touristy boat rides by exploring less crowded, local parts of Xochimilco.
• Engaging Guides: Knowledgeable and jovial guides like Alan or Adrian make the experience lively and informative.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the Island of the Dolls, learn the intriguing story of Don Julián, and see the creepy yet captivating dolls’ sanctuary.
• Great for Socializing: Small groups (limited to 10 participants) foster a fun, intimate atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
• Food & Drinks: Enjoy delicious cocktails with tequila and mezcal, plus a tasting, making the tour a tasty journey as well as visual and cultural.
• Active & Interactive: Participate in traditional games, music, and even karaoke, adding a lively social element.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to the Xochimilco: Isla de las Muñecas Games and Drinks Tour

Navigating the Itinerary

This tour offers a smooth, well-organized journey through some of Xochimilco’s most intriguing sights, all wrapped within a lively two-hour window. It starts and ends at the Liga de veteranos Xochimilco AC Puerta 3, where you’ll meet your guides and hop onto a colorful river boat.

The boat ride itself lasts about 50 minutes round-trip, giving you ample time to relax and soak in the vibrant canal scenery—a lush, bustling waterway filled with floating gardens, traditional trajineras, and locals going about their day.

Next, you’ll visit the famous Isla de las Muñecas, where you’ll spend approximately an hour exploring this hauntingly captivating site. Your guide will share the story of Don Julián and his collection of dolls, which purportedly serve as a tribute to a childhood friend and as a spooky symbol of local folklore.

Finally, you’ll cruise back and return to your starting point, with plenty of time left for enjoying snacks, drinks, and games arranged by your guides.

The Island of the Dolls

This spot is what makes the tour stand out—an uncannily surreal place that combines history, legend, and a pinch of creepiness. Guides share the story of Don Julián, who supposedly hung dolls around the island after believing they would ward off evil spirits or perhaps to honor a lost child. The result is an eerie tableau—dolls hanging from trees and shrouded in overgrown vegetation—that’s both fascinating and unsettling.

Reviews consistently praise the guided tour here. As one traveler noted, “the experience in the house of dolls and the axolotl sanctuary exceeded my expectations,” emphasizing how much more meaningful the visit becomes with knowledgeable commentary. Many comment on how the dolls are more than just creepy—they are a reflection of local beliefs, superstitions, and the quirky charm of Xochimilco.

The Scenic Canal Ride

The cruise through Xochimilco’s canals is more than just transportation; it’s an immersive way to see a part of Mexico City that’s often overlooked. The waterways are lined with vibrant flora and floating houses, and as you drift, your guides will point out sights and share stories about the area’s history and ecology.

We loved the way the guides keep the vibe jovial, sharing fun facts and making sure everyone feels part of the experience. Plus, the small group size ensures plenty of interaction, making it feel more like a shared adventure than a stiff tour.

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Drinks, Games, and Cultural Fun

What sets this tour apart are the interactive elements:
– Cocktails with tequila and mezcal—crafted to satisfy your palate, often accompanied by a tasting to deepen your appreciation of these iconic Mexican spirits.
– Traditional games, like Lotería and karaoke, bring out the playful side, sometimes leading to hilarious moments as travelers get competitive or stage impromptu performances.
– Music fills the air, creating a lively atmosphere that encourages new friendships and shared laughs.

Reviewers rave about how well-planned these activities are. Rosie from the US said, “the drinks and games made the trip fly by. Our guide had a great sense of humor and kept everyone engaged.”

Practical Details and Value

For two hours, you get a full experience—guided storytelling, scenic cruising, the spooky doll island, plus drinks and games—all with friendly guides who make sure everyone feels included. The price seems to be well worth the fun, especially considering the mezcals tastings and small group size, which ensure personalized attention.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes and clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras. Remember, littering and fireworks are explicitly not allowed—respect for the environment and local customs is part of the experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy quirky attractions and social activities with a cultural twist. It appeals to travelers wanting a less touristy, more local feel of Xochimilco, with plenty of opportunities to chat, laugh, and learn. If you’re interested in Mexico City’s lesser-known stories or just want a lively, fun day out, this tour is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

The Xochimilco: Isla de las Muñecas Games and Drinks Tour offers a refreshing take on a popular destination. Its charm lies in its small-group intimacy, engaging guides, and the perfect mix of history, fun, and local flavor. You’ll enjoy a scenic boat ride that feels immersive rather than touristy, topped with a visit to the famously spooky doll island, and a lively social atmosphere with drinks and games.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who crave a cultural experience with a playful edge—whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends. It’s a great way to see a different side of Xochimilco, away from the crowds and commercialism, while still enjoying the best of what this unique area has to offer.

If you like stories with a dash of the strange, good laughs, and meaningful local encounters, this tour ticks all the boxes. Plus, it guarantees a memorable, fun-filled few hours that will add a vibrant, authentic chapter to your Mexico City adventure.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a boat cruise that starts from and returns to the designated meeting point.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts approximately 25 minutes each way, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery and relax.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, biodegradable sunscreen, cash, and biodegradable insect repellent are recommended.

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

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly stated, the playful nature of the activities suggests it could be fun for older children, especially those interested in the dolls and games.

What languages are available for the guides?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, delicious cocktails with tequila and mezcal are provided, along with a tasting.

How many people typically join the tour?
The tour is limited to small groups of up to 10 participants, fostering an intimate and friendly atmosphere.

Is this tour better than the more touristy boat rides?
Absolutely. Reviewers highlight that this tour takes you to less crowded, more local enclaves, making for a more authentic experience.

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