Xochimilco : Island of the dolls, tequila and mezcal CDMX

Experience the Authentic Island of the Dolls in Xochimilco with Easy, Direct Access

In Mexico City’s sprawling Xochimilco area, a tour that takes you straight to the Island of the Dolls offers a refreshingly off-the-beaten-path adventure. For just $60 per person, you’ll spend around two hours exploring this eerie, folklore-rich spot with a knowledgeable guide. Unlike typical tourist boat rides, this experience emphasizes direct transportation and a more intimate, authentic visit.

What we love about this tour? First, the personalized approach—you get to explore Doll Island with a relative of its founder, adding genuine stories and insights that you won’t find in generic tours. Second, the combination of creepy curiosity and local tradition, especially the chance to leave your own doll behind, making it a memorable, participatory experience.

A possible consideration? The tour is quite focused on the island itself and its history, so if you’re seeking a lively party atmosphere or large group fun, this might feel a bit subdued. It’s best suited for travelers who are genuinely curious about the story behind the dolls or looking for an authentic, less crowded experience.

This tour is perfect for those who love mystery, local legends, or simply want a unique story to tell. It’s suited for inquisitive travelers willing to venture beyond the usual party boats, eager to hear local stories and see one of Mexico City’s most unusual sights firsthand.

Key Points

• Direct access: No crowded tourist boats—your own transportation to the island.
• Authentic storytelling: Guided by a relative of the island’s creator, offering personal insights.
• Creepy charm: Explore the famous Dolls Island, known for its mysterious story and eerie figure collection.
• Cultural experience: Includes tequila and mezcal tastings, adding local flavor.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the option to reserve without upfront payment.
• Accessible: Suitable for wheelchair users and available in both English and Spanish.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Island of the Dolls: An In-Depth Review

The Experience Starts with Convenience and Personal Touch

This tour, operated by Visitenochtitlan, offers something that many other Xochimilco excursions don’t—a direct route straight to the Island of the Dolls. The meeting point is at a sports club called Liga de Veteranos Xochimilco AC, a quiet, easy-to-find location with soccer fields. While it might seem a little off the typical tourist trail—possibly appearing closed—one of the guides will be waiting for you, ensuring a smooth start.

The cost of $60 per person covers transportation, the entrance fee to the island, your guide, and of course, the tequila and mezcal tasting at the end. This price reflects a well-rounded experience, especially considering the personal stories and the chance to skip the hassle of crowded boat tours.

The trip runs for about two hours, usually in the morning or afternoon, giving enough time to absorb the stories and take in the sights without feeling rushed. The tour’s small-group focus makes for a more intimate experience—ideal for travelers who prefer quality over quantity.

The Journey Through Xochimilco’s Canals

Once onboard, you’ll sail through the canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO-listed site famous for its floating gardens and colorful boats. This early part of the trip is relaxing and scenic, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the lush surroundings and spot local wildlife. It’s a gentle reminder of the area’s agricultural roots, offering a peaceful contrast to the eerie stories ahead.

Visiting the Island of the Dolls

The highlight—the Isla de las Muñecas—is where the story gets truly intriguing. Unlike the more commercialized, party boat tours that often flood the island, this experience includes a guided walk with a relative of Julian, the man behind the dolls’ collection. This connection adds a layer of authenticity, as the guide shares personal tales and insights that deepen your understanding of the island’s backstory.

The legend of the dolls is as chilling as it is fascinating. The dolls’ creepy appearances and the stories of Julian’s years spent collecting them have turned this place into a mysterious legend. Visitors often feel a sense of spooky reverence when walking among the dolls, many hanging from trees and shrouded in moss.

One review described the experience as “full of interesting history”, highlighting how the guide, Alan, elevated the tour with his knowledge of the area’s ecology and history. You’ll have the chance to leave your own doll as an offering—an act that adds a personal touch to the mysterious atmosphere.

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What Else Is Included?

Beyond the spooky dolls, the tour offers a taste of local Mexico—a tequila and mezcal tasting that introduces you to Mexico’s famous spirits. The variety of drinks, along with traditional snacks like tacos and sopes, enrich the cultural experience. Many travelers mention that guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories about their homeland.

Authenticity and Unique Aspects

The tour’s emphasis on authenticity shines through in the opportunity to explore with someone who knows the island intimately. Multiple reviews praise guides like Alan for their great storytelling and ability to share local lore with humor and warmth. One reviewer called Alan’s tour “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” noting how his deep connections to the area made the stories more impactful.

The Value of This Tour

Compared to larger, crowded party boat tours, this experience offers a more meaningful connection with the story behind the dolls. It’s also a better value when you consider the personalized guiding, transportation, and tastings included in the price. Plus, the flexible booking options—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later—make it a low-risk choice.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers interested in Mexico’s local legends, quirky sights, and authentic experiences. It appeals to those who want to skip the crowded tourist traps and venture into a more personal, storytelling-focused visit. It’s also perfect for adventurous spirits who don’t mind the creepy factor—and even prefer it.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a rare glimpse into one of Mexico City’s most haunting and fascinating sites, combined with the warmth of local guides and authentic stories. If you’re intrigued by legends, enjoy learning about local customs, or simply want a more intimate experience than the typical tourist ride, this is a fantastic choice.

The value for money is strong, with included transportation, guide, drinks, and entrance fees, making it an accessible way to see something truly unique. It’s especially good if you’re not interested in party boat crowds but prefer a storytelling approach with genuine local insights.

For those who love quirky, atmospheric attractions and want to hear personal stories from local relatives, this tour offers a memorable, culturally rich adventure that’s well worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to the island?
Yes, the tour includes direct transportation from a designated meeting point in Xochimilco to the Doll Island, avoiding the usual crowded tourist boats.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience typically takes around two hours, including the boat ride, guided walk, and tastings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for more travelers.

What languages are available?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for a boat ride and walking, along with mosquito repellent, are recommended for your visit.

Can I bring my own doll to leave on the island?
Yes, you have the option to carry your doll and leave it as an offering, adding a personal touch to the experience.

To sum it up, this tour stands out for its authentic storytelling, personal connections, and less crowded approach to visiting the Island of the Dolls. It suits travelers with a taste for mystery, local legends, and a desire for meaningful, culturally rich experiences. If you’re looking for more than just a photo opportunity and want to hear the true stories behind Mexico City’s spooky icon, this is your ideal adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: