Embark on an unforgettable journey through the iconic canals of Xochimilco in Mexico City. This 3-hour boat adventure immerses you in the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of the region, complete with unlimited servings of tequila and mezcal. As you glide along the tranquil waterways aboard a colorful trajinera, knowledgeable guides share captivating stories about the local history and traditions. With authentic Mexican snacks and a fresh-cooked meal included, this small-group experience promises a truly unique cultural encounter you won’t soon forget. The only question is: are you ready to dive into the magic of Xochimilco?
About Our Review: We hope you find our review helpful! Though we don’t operate tours, you can easily book this experience using the button at the bottom of this page. If you do make a booking, we will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Key Points
-
Immersive 3-hour boat journey through the iconic canals and floating gardens of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Mexico City.
-
Unlimited supply of premium tequila and mezcal, along with a variety of authentic Mexican snacks, during the adventure.
-
Option to hire Mariachi musicians for an additional fee to enhance the cultural experience.
-
Guided tour with insightful commentary on the history and traditions of Xochimilco, adding to the overall enjoyment.
-
Positive reviews highlighting the unique cultural engagement, lively group dynamics, and unforgettable memories made during the tour.
More tours and experiences nearby.
Overview of the Experience
The Xochimilco Magic: Tequila & Mezcal, 3-hour boat adventure in Xochimilco, Mexico City offers visitors a unique cultural experience filled with alcoholic beverages, Mexican snacks, a fresh-cooked meal, and optional mariachi entertainment.
This 3-hour boat ride takes guests through the iconic canals and floating gardens of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The activity is open to travelers aged 18 and above, as it includes the serving of tequila and mezcal throughout the journey.
With excellent reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this immersive experience provides a fun and engaging way to discover the vibrant culture and history of Mexico City.
Included Amenities and Activities
What makes this Xochimilco boat adventure a truly immersive experience are the included amenities and activities.
Throughout the 3-hour journey, guests can enjoy a steady supply of tequila and mezcal, as well as an array of authentic Mexican snacks.
On top of that, a fresh-cooked meal is provided, ensuring travelers are well-fed during their time on the water.
Beyond the food and drinks, the experience is enhanced by the option to hire Mariachi musicians, who’ll serenade the group with traditional Mexican songs for an additional 220 MXN per song.
The boat itself is equipped with an ice cooler and music speaker, allowing guests to create the perfect ambiance for their floating fiesta.
Costs and Additional Fees
While the core boat adventure package includes a wealth of amenities, travelers should be aware of a few additional costs and fees they may encounter during their Xochimilco experience. Accessing the onboard restrooms, for instance, requires a small payment of 5 MXN pesos each time. Plus, visitors wishing to view the iconic axolotes, or Mexican salamanders, must pay a 30 MXN peso ($2 USD) entrance fee.
The maximum group size for this activity is capped at 5 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. To further enhance the journey, guests can hire mariachi musicians at a rate of 220 MXN pesos per song, adding a lively cultural touch to their floating fiesta.
Cost | Amount |
---|---|
Restrooms | 5 MXN |
Axolotes | 30 MXN |
Mariachi | 220 MXN |
Max Group | 5 |
Meeting and End Points
Participants of the Xochimilco boat adventure will meet at the Trajineras Xochimilco – Embarcadero Cuemanco, located on Periférico Sur Adolfo Ruíz Cortines in Xochimilco, 16034, Mexico City.
The activity ends back at this same meeting point after the 3-hour boat ride.
The boat journey takes travelers through the iconic canals and floating gardens of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Guests can enjoy the vibrant mariachi music, tequila and mezcal, and a freshly-cooked Mexican meal throughout the river cruise.
At the conclusion of the tour, travelers will disembark at the original meeting point, having experienced a unique cultural adventure in the heart of Mexico City.
Ratings and Highlights
The Xochimilco boat adventure consistently earns an exceptional 5.0 rating across Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, reflecting travelers’ overwhelming satisfaction with the experience.
Highlights of the tour include the opportunity to mingle with fellow adventurers, the engaging and knowledgeable tour guides, the delicious food and drinks, and the unique culture through live mariachi music.
Reviewers praise the tour as the ‘most fun in CDMX’ and an ‘unforgettable experience,’ with guides described as ‘passionate’ and ‘knowledgeable.’
Solo travelers especially appreciate the positive group dynamic.
Positive Traveler Reviews
Travelers rave about the Xochimilco boat adventure, with many describing it as an ‘unforgettable experience‘ and the ‘most fun in CDMX.’
A Tripadvisor reviewer, Veronica_F, praised the positive group experience, saying it’s great for solo travelers. Another reviewer, Prakash_P, highly recommended the tour, highlighting the knowledgeable guide. IanLevenstein echoed this sentiment, noting that he learned about the area’s history while having a super fun time. Similarly, Anjali_P described the passionate guide, who helped make the experience truly memorable.
Preparing for the Adventure
To make the most of the Xochimilco boat adventure, visitors should arrive prepared. Knowing what to expect and how to navigate the experience can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey through this iconic Mexican waterway.
First, be sure to bring cash for the various fees, including the 5 MXN pesos for the bathroom and 30 MXN pesos for the axolote entrance fee.
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes, as the boats can be a bit unsteady. Bring a small backpack or purse to carry any personal items.
Plus, consider hiring a mariachi band to serenade your group, which adds to the lively atmosphere.
With a little preparation, travelers can immerse themselves fully in the Xochimilco magic.
What to Expect on the Tour
Upon embarking on the Xochimilco boat adventure, visitors can expect a truly immersive cultural experience filled with vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors.
Throughout the 3-hour journey, they’ll be treated to a bounty of traditional Mexican snacks and unlimited servings of premium tequila and mezcal.
The colorful trajinera boat provides the perfect vantage point to witness the iconic floating gardens and witness mariachi bands serenading the waterways.
Guides offer insightful commentary, sharing the rich history and tradition of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Whether enjoying a fresh-cooked lunch or dancing to lively music, this experience promises an unforgettable celebration of Mexican culture and hospitality.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Balloon Flight With Pick up in Mexico City + Breakfast in a Natural Cave
- The Emperor Route, Chapultepec & Paseo De La Reforma Historical Bike Tour
- Private Tour in Mexico City
- Frida Kahlos House, Coyoacan and Xochimilco – All Day Tour
- Polanco Food Tour in Mexico City
- Teotihuacan + Basilica of Guadalupe + Tlatelolco Tour!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?
No, you generally cannot bring your own alcoholic beverages to this type of organized activity. The included amenities cover the alcoholic drinks, and bringing outside beverages may not be permitted or could disrupt the experience.
Is the Mariachi Music Optional or Required?
The mariachi music is optional on this boat adventure. Travelers can enjoy the boat ride and alcoholic beverages without hiring the mariachi musicians, though they’re available at an additional cost if desired to enhance the cultural experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Boat Ride?
The activity has an age requirement of 18+ for the consumption of alcoholic beverages. However, the boat ride itself is open to all ages, though minors would not be able to partake in the tequila and mezcal tastings during the excursion.
Is It Possible to Take a Private Boat Tour?
Yes, it’s possible to take a private boat tour. The activity allows for a maximum of 5 travelers, so groups can opt for a private experience. Private tours offer more flexibility and personalization compared to shared group tours.
Can I Purchase Additional Souvenirs on the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase additional souvenirs during the tour. The boat ride offers a variety of Mexican handicrafts, trinkets, and local products that travelers can browse and buy as mementos of their experience.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Mysteries of Teotihucana Engineering Tour With Food Included
- Subterranean Theater Entrance Ticket in Teotihuacán With Food
- Mexico City: Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus City Tour
- Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Teotihuacan With Guided Tour And Cave
- TAXCO and CACAHUAMILPA CAVES From CDMX
- Mexico City (Coyoacan) Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
- Mexico City: Jewish Presence in Mexico, Conquistadors to WW2
- Atlixco De Las Flores and Val’quirico: Private & Small Groups
- Mexico City: Island of the Dolls Transport
- Pulque Tour in Tepotzotlán, Magical Town
- Private Mexican Cooking Class With Alda in Her Coyoacan Apartment
- Private Day Tour of Xochicalco Archaeological Site and Cuernavaca
- Visit to Xochimilco, Coyoacán, and University City
- Lucha Libre, Tacos and Dance
- Mexico City: Book A Local Host
Recap
The ‘Xochimilco Magic: Tequila & Mezcal, 3hr Boat Adventure!’ offers an immersive cultural experience through Mexico City’s iconic canals.
Guests can enjoy unlimited tequila and mezcal, authentic Mexican snacks, and a fresh-cooked meal while exploring the vibrant sights and sounds aboard a colorful trajinera boat.
With knowledgeable guides and a small group size, this unforgettable adventure promises a unique way to discover the local history and traditions of Xochimilco.