Desierto de los Leones National Park, Mexico City - Jungle
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Desierto de los Leones National Park Mexico City

4.4
·1k reviews·, Mexico

A tranquil woodland preserve near Mexico City, featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic convent ruins.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Desierto de los Leones National Park, Mexico City - Jungle

Desierto de los Leones National Park Mexico City

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil woodland preserve near Mexico City, featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic convent ruins.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"A perfect day trip from Mexico City, offering a refreshing and serene escape into nature."

Vertical photo
TIP

Plan Your Return Ride

Cell service is unreliable. Arrange a taxi or rideshare for pickup, or be prepared to walk to an area with reception. :iphone:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking! Sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the trails. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ex-Convento Ruins

Ex-Convento Ruins

Central area

Explore the atmospheric 17th-century convent ruins, a historical gem amidst the forest.

Hiking Trails

Hiking Trails

Throughout the park

Wander through lush woodlands on well-maintained trails, perfect for nature lovers.

La Hermita de San Miguel

La Hermita de San Miguel

Summit trail

Challenge yourself with a hike to this hermitage for rewarding views and a sense of accomplishment.

Waterfalls

Waterfalls

Various locations

Discover serene waterfalls that add to the park's natural beauty and tranquility.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Escape the city bustle by visiting Desierto de los Leones on weekdays, especially mornings, to avoid weekend crowds. While open daily, some areas might have limited access on Mondays. Plan your return transport carefully, as cell service is spotty.

Getting There & Around

Reaching Desierto de los Leones requires planning. Ride-sharing services can drop you off, but returning can be tricky due to limited cell reception. Consider a taxi or pre-arranged transport for your return journey.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Good for hiking before closing
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Busiest, but lively
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Que otro lugar me recomiendan visitar cerca de CDMX 👀 Pronto les subiré mi reseña con mi experiencia y que tal me pareció, toda la información 😮‍💨 📍Desierto de los Leones, CDMX. #hospedaje #cabañas #glamping #cdmx #mexicocity #dondeir
@niveckbritto
129.3K likes • 893.3K views

Plan Your Return Ride

Cell service is unreliable. Arrange a taxi or rideshare for pickup, or be prepared to walk to an area with reception. :iphone:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking! Sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the trails. :athletic_shoe:

Visita el Parque Nacional Desierto de los Leones, ubicado en la alcaldia Cuajimalpa,CDMX 🌲🦌#cdmx #desiertodelosleones #turismo #mexico #fyp
@danielin.vicuna
45K likes • 625.6K views
Plan de domingo: salir a caminar al bosque con la #GoProHERO13 y el lente macro 🌳🐚🦋 📸 @negritou8 #GoPro #GoProMX #Mexico #Outdoor
gopromx
497 likes • 0 views

Check Park Hours

While generally open, verify hours, especially for the convent, as they can vary. :clock1:

Bring Snacks & Water

Stay hydrated and energized on the trails. Limited food options inside the park. :water_wave:

Recorrido en el desierto de los leones #recorrido #desiertodelosleones #cdmx #leyendas
@fernandamugc
37K likes • 376.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Plan Your Return Ride

Cell service is unreliable. Arrange a taxi or rideshare for pickup, or be prepared to walk to an area with reception. :iphone:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of walking and hiking! Sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the trails. :athletic_shoe:

Check Park Hours

While generally open, verify hours, especially for the convent, as they can vary. :clock1:

Bring Snacks & Water

Stay hydrated and energized on the trails. Limited food options inside the park. :water_wave:

Pet-Friendly Exploration

Leashed pets are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends to enjoy nature. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Desierto de los Leones for its serene natural beauty, historical convent ruins, and refreshing escape from Mexico City. It's a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the outdoors, with many appreciating its pet-friendly atmosphere. However, some note that trails can be poorly marked, and transportation can be challenging due to limited cell service.

"Great hike up to La Hermita de San Miguel. 3,000' of elevation gain, 12,400' at the top. A few parts are not very well marked. Well worth a visit here as the other ruins are fascinating to see."

Erik Lackey

"If you're looking for a beautiful and quiet place to unwind and connect with nature, I highly recommend Desierto de los Leones. It’s a perfect day trip from Mexico City and offers a refreshing and serene escape."

Maria Duran

"Must see, nice walk down through thr park after visiting the convent. Uber/taxi up the hill. There is limited reception up top, walk around a little if you do want an uber home or reserve"

J Nadin

What People Like

Beautiful natural scenery
Historical convent ruins
Peaceful escape from city

What People Dislike

Poorly marked trails
Limited cell reception
Transportation difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Didi to the park entrance. Be aware that cell service is very limited within the park, making it difficult to book a return ride. Some suggest walking to an area with reception or arranging a taxi in advance. TikTokReddit

Public transport options are limited and can be time-consuming. While some buses might go nearby, most visitors opt for taxis or ride-sharing services for convenience, despite the cell service issues. Reddit

Yes, you can enter the park by foot or bicycle. Locals often use these methods to access the park. Sometimes, an entrance fee or tip might be requested, but it's generally accessible. Reddit

The most reliable way to get back is to pre-arrange a taxi or rideshare for a specific time. Alternatively, walk towards the park entrance or main roads where you might regain cell signal to book a ride. Reddit

Limited parking may be available near the main attractions like the convent, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's advisable to check local conditions or consider alternative transport. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is generally free for pedestrians and cyclists. However, there might be a small fee or a requested tip at certain entrances, particularly if arriving by vehicle. The Ex-Convento has a separate admission fee. Reddit

The park is typically open daily, but it's best to verify the exact hours, especially for the Ex-Convento and any specific facilities, as they can change. Reddit

Tickets are generally not required for park entry, but you will need to purchase admission if you wish to visit the Ex-Convento museum. It's usually possible to buy these on-site. Reddit

Reports vary, but the park is generally accessible on Mondays for walking and running. However, some facilities or specific areas might have reduced access or be closed. It's wise to confirm if you have specific plans. Reddit

While the park entry is often free, the Ex-Convento may have standard admission fees. Discounts for students or seniors are not widely advertised, so it's best to inquire on-site if applicable. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular trails include the hike to La Hermita de San Miguel, offering elevation gain and views, and the scenic walk down from the convent. Many trails are well-marked, but some can be less clear. Reddit

Yes, the ruins of the 17th-century Ex-Convento are a major attraction. You can explore the historical site and learn about its past. There is usually a separate admission fee for the museum portion. TikTok

Yes, there are restaurants located within the park, offering a place to eat after your explorations. It's also a good idea to bring your own snacks and water. TikTok

Absolutely! The park offers gentle trails, open spaces, and the allure of historical ruins, making it a great destination for families to enjoy nature and a bit of adventure. TikTok

You might spot various bird species, squirrels, and other small forest creatures. The park's natural environment supports a diverse range of local fauna. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The atmospheric convent ruins, lush forest paths, and scenic viewpoints offer fantastic photo opportunities. Capture the interplay of light and shadow in the woodlands. Instagram

Yes, with good lighting and composition, your phone can capture beautiful shots. Consider using a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a macro lens for nature details. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a golden glow. Midday can be harsh. Instagram

Drone usage in national parks is often restricted to protect wildlife and visitor experience. It's advisable to check park regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

A versatile camera with interchangeable lenses is ideal. Consider a wide-angle for landscapes, a telephoto for wildlife, and a macro lens for close-ups of flora and fauna. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Desierto de los Leones is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The park offers relatively easy hiking trails suitable for children, allowing them to explore nature and burn off energy. The historical convent ruins add an element of mystery and adventure that can capture young imaginations. TikTok

Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options within the park can be limited. Consider a picnic to make the most of the natural surroundings. Remember to dress children in comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for exploring. The fresh air and open spaces provide a healthy and engaging environment for a family day out. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

For solo travelers, Desierto de los Leones offers a peaceful retreat and a chance to connect with nature. The hiking trails provide a great opportunity for introspection and enjoying the tranquility of the forest. Instagram Be mindful of the transportation challenges; it's wise to inform someone of your plans and estimated return time. Reddit

Consider joining a guided tour if you prefer company or are concerned about navigation. However, many solo travelers find the park safe and enjoyable for independent exploration, especially during daylight hours. The historical sites also offer a solitary journey through time. TikTok

🐶 Pet Owners

Desierto de los Leones is a welcoming spot for your furry companions! The park is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your leashed dogs along for the adventure. Reddit They'll love exploring the trails and enjoying the fresh forest air alongside you. Reddit

Ensure your pet is on a leash at all times to respect other visitors and wildlife. Bring extra water for your pet, especially on warmer days or longer hikes. Cleaning up after your pet is essential to keep the park pristine for everyone. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historical Ex-Convento

The Ex-Convento del Desierto de los Leones is a significant historical landmark within the park. Founded in the 17th century by Carmelite friars, it served as a place of spiritual retreat and contemplation. Visitors can explore the remnants of the convent, including its cloisters, cells, and chapel, which offer a glimpse into monastic life centuries ago. The architecture, though weathered, still evokes a sense of peace and history. TikTok

While the convent itself is a draw, the surrounding area also holds historical significance. Nearby, you might find smaller hermitages or ruins that add to the park's layered past. The ruins are particularly atmospheric, especially when shrouded in the park's natural mist. TikTok

Remember that there is typically a separate admission fee to enter the museum portion of the Ex-Convento. It's a worthwhile experience for history buffs and those interested in the spiritual heritage of the region. Reddit

Navigating Transportation and Connectivity

Getting to and from Desierto de los Leones presents a unique challenge due to its remote location and limited cell phone reception. While ride-sharing services like Uber and Didi can drop you off at the park, securing a return ride can be difficult. Many visitors report being in a 'dead zone' once inside the park. Reddit

To mitigate this, consider pre-booking a taxi for your return journey or arranging a pick-up time with your ride-share driver before you lose signal. Some travelers suggest walking towards the park's main entrance or the roads leading out of the park to find areas with better reception. Reddit Alternatively, public telephones that accept coins are available, though their functionality may be unreliable. Reddit

For those who prefer to be on their own schedule, hiring a private taxi for the day or using a local service that understands the park's connectivity issues can be a good option. Reddit For active visitors, entering by foot or bicycle is also a viable and common method, bypassing some of the transportation complexities. Reddit

Embracing Nature: Hiking and Wildlife

Desierto de los Leones National Park is a haven for nature lovers, offering a refreshing escape from the urban sprawl of Mexico City. The park boasts a network of hiking trails that wind through dense pine and fir forests, providing opportunities for both leisurely strolls and more challenging treks. The air is crisp and clean, a welcome contrast to the city's atmosphere. Instagram

One of the most rewarding hikes is to La Hermita de San Miguel, a hermitage located at a higher elevation. This trail offers a good workout with significant elevation gain and rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Reddit Other trails lead to serene waterfalls and through picturesque woodland paths, making it an ideal destination for a day trip focused on outdoor activity. TikTok

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, though sightings often depend on luck and time of day. Keep an eye out for squirrels, various bird species, and other small forest creatures. The natural environment is well-preserved, allowing visitors to connect with Mexico's native flora and fauna. Instagram

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