Located 28km south of Mexico City’s historic center, the Xochimilco Ecological Park was declared a biological reserve by the Mexican government in 1984 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. A day trip out to Xochimilco provides a unique glimpse into the ancient farming techniques used by the original Aztec inhabitants of Mexico City, some of which are still practiced in the region today, not to mention a relaxing escape from the crowds downtown.
From the World Heritage inscription:
Xochimilco lies 28 km south of Mexico City. With its network of canals and artificial islands, it testifies to the efforts of the Aztec people to build a habitat in the midst of an unfavourable environment. Its characteristic urban and rural structures, built since the 16th century and during the colonial period; have been preserved in an exceptional manner.
Xochimilco is one of just a few areas remaining in the Valley of Mexico with a significant number of chinampas, or artificial islands in the lake. This half-natural, half-artificial landscape situated on the edge of the residual lake of Xochimilco is now an ecological reserve. Many of these artificial islands, or floating gardens as they’re sometimes referred to, are used as both ecological reserves and farmland at the same time and in recent years an urban farming cooperative has formed in the area.
If you’re planning a visit to Mexico City you can easily book airline tickets from destinations throughout North America and Europe. Plan ahead and book early for the best chance of finding a cheap flight. A popular time to visit Mexico City, and the Xochimilco district in particular, is in late October around the Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, holiday. Rainy season has ended, temperatures are comfortable and with the holiday right around the corner there’s plenty to see and do.
Visitors to Mexico City can hire a colorful trajinera, or wooden gondola, to tour the canals and waterways. Read more about my recent visit to Xochimilco here.
