Exploring Xochimilco Floating Gardens with Kids
Looking for an unforgettable family adventure in Mexico City? Xochimilco Floating Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the perfect destination to explore with kids! The vibrant trajineras, floating food vendors, and lively mariachi music make it a one-of-a-kind experience that combines cultural charm with laid-back fun. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or older kids, exploring Xochimilco Floating Gardens offers something for everyone. Let me take you through our family’s journey and share tips to help you plan your own adventure.
A Brief History of Xochimilco
As we floated down the canals of Xochimilco, it’s crazy to think about the history beneath the water’s surface. Xochimilco is one of the last remaining traces of the chinampa agricultural system created by the Aztecs so long ago. These ingenious man-made islands were used to grow crops on the shallow lake waters, and is basically a testament to the resourcefulness of ancient civilizations.
Mexico City itself was once a giant lake, Lake Texcoco, with the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan at its center. Over centuries, the lake was drained to make way for urban development, which is now causing issues as the city is sinking every single year. While much of the original lake has disappeared, Xochimilco floating gardens remains a reminder of this watery past. The canals are more than just scenic—they are now a window into Mexico’s history and cultural heritage.
Planning Your Visit
How to Get to Xochimilco with Kids
Reaching Xochimilco floating gardens with kids is easier than it might seem. I know the map itself can be a little daunting when we first looked at it. We however, decided to take public transportation, which turned out to be easy and efficient even with the kids. From the Metro Blue #2 line at Tasqueña station, we transferred to the Tren Ligero (light rail) that takes you directly to Xochimilco station. The train ride itself was really pleasant and not as dark as it runs on top of the ground. The kids enjoyed watching the cityscape changed as we rode by.
Once you arrive at the Xochimilco station (the last stop), it’s about a 10-15 minute walk to the docks for Xochimilco. While a stroller might be manageable for this walk, we found our baby carrier much easier for navigating the uneven streets and the trajineras as well. It just a hassle to continue to pick up and move the stroller around frequently or to have to find stroller accessible walk ways.
Now if public transit is not for you or if you prefer more comfort, taxis or rideshares like Uber are great options, though traffic can make the journey a bit longer.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Xochimilco?
To fully enjoy Xochimilco floating gardens, timing is everything when it comes to traveling with kids. We recommend arriving early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler weather. Weekdays are generally quiter than weekends, and if you visit during the dry season (November to April), you’ll avoid unexpected rain showers. While the trajineras do have covers, the bright Mexican sun can still get you from the sides of the boats as well, so bring plenty of sunscreen and hats for the kids if needed.
What to Bring for a Stress-Free Family Outing
I always think that packing right can make or break your day with kids because they don’t care if you forgot something they want it now. Anyways, for our family, sunscreen and water bottles were absolute musts. The boats don’t provide life jackets, so if you’re traveling with younger children, consider this before arriving. We went without them as the boats went very slowly and the kids were seated directly next to us, so just be sure to do your risk assessment before going.
Snacks were also a lifesaver—while the floating vendors have delicious food offerings, having something familiar on hand kept our kids happy there and during transit.
Lastly, cash is king at Xochimilco, whether you’re tipping the boat operator or buying elotes (grilled corn) from a passing vendor as no one is going to be accepting credit cards here and please do not bring any of your home currency. Stop at an ATM and grab pesos.
Experiencing the Floating Gardens
We were so excited when we reached the boat dock as each boat or trajinera is decorated with colorful designs, and many have names written across the top. Our kids were in awe, immediately pointing out their favorite colors and decorations.
Booking a Trajinera Ride
Booking a trajinera is straightforward. Prices are clearly posted on the wall upon arrival—750 MXN pesos per hour per boat—and you pay for the boat, not per person. While vendors may try to upsell you, sticking to the posted price is key. We opted for a private boat to have some quiet family time, though shared rides are a budget-friendly alternative that we saw many people doing on the water. They seemed to be having a party and honestly it looked like a good time. Once you book the tour operator will guide you to your boat, just be sure to have a good handle on your kids to help guide them because you may have to navigate your kids around some. We nearly saw an older lady fall into the water too, so again just keep a hold of the kids.
Fun Activities for Kids on the Trajinera
Floating through the canals, there was no shortage of entertainment. Mariachi bands floated by, offering their services to serenade us. While it was seriously festive, the music can be quite loud, so we decided to simply enjoy the sounds from afar like the neighboring boats. Our kids were perfectly content watching the other boats pass by, pointing out decorations, and spotting floating vendors.
You can also bring along some small toys and coloring books, though we found that the changing scenery was more than enough to keep our kids entertained. And of course, we couldn’t resist taking a few family photos with the vibrant trajineras as our backdrop.
Food and Drinks on the Water
Eating on the trajinera was another highlight. Vendors are on the water selling tamales, quesadillas, and aguas frescas paddled up to offer their freshly made goods. We did not try any of the food as it was honestly our first time being exposed to street food and we weren’t sure how the kids would like it. If your kids are pickier eaters, bringing your own snacks is a smart move. Just don’t forget to have cash ready—the vendors will not card and likely not your home currency.
Cultural and Educational Highlights
Exploring the Chinampas: A Glimpse into History
One of the best parts of our visit was learning about the ancient chinampas before we went and seeing them firsthand. These floating gardens were not only an agricultural innovation but also a glimpse into Aztec life. While the trajinera rides aren’t guided tours, we had fun researching facts beforehand to share with our kids. Explaining how the Aztecs built these islands sparked their imaginations and made the trip feel more meaningful.
Spotting Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Along the way, you can spot herons and ducks, if you have children who love animals. Bringing a pair of binoculars if you have any can add an extra layer of excitement. The canals’ natural beauty and rich history made it a truly educational experience without feeling like a traditional lesson to the kids.
Practical Tips for Families
Safety Tips for Visiting with Small Children
Visiting Xochimilco with small children requires a little extra planning, but it’s well worth the effort. First, know that the trajineras are wide and stable, making them safe for kids of all ages. Our 2- and 5-year-olds loved the colorful boat, and we never felt unsafe with them onboard, but enforced them staying seated most of the time
Navigating the docks, however, can be a bit hectic depending on how busy it is when you visit. Vendors, other families, and the proximity to water mean you’ll want to keep a close eye on your little ones. We recommend keeping a hand on your kid, especially when boarding the boats.
Restrooms and Changing Areas: What Parents Need to Know
Restroom facilities are available at certain stops along the canals, though they typically cost about 10 pesos per use and its typically 5 or 6. Planning bathroom breaks before boarding can save you from interruptions during your ride.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Families
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Shared Rides: Share a trajinera with another family to split costs.
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Pack Snacks: Bringing your own food saves money and ensures you have kid-approved options.
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Free Entertainment: Enjoy the festive atmosphere and mariachi music without hiring a band.
Making the Most of Your Day
Suggested Itineraries for Families
For families with young kids, a half-day visit to Xochimilco is usually the perfect amount of time. Arriving early, enjoying a 1-2 hour boat ride, and then grabbing lunch at a nearby restaurant creates a balanced itinerary that avoids overtiring little ones.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider stopping by Isla de las Muñecas (Island of the Dolls). This eerie yet fascinating spot is filled with dolls hanging from trees and is a unique detour for families with older kids. However, it might be too spooky for younger children, so gauge your group’s interest beforehand.
After your boat ride, winding down with a stroll through Xochimilco’s main plaza or visiting nearby attractions like the Frida Kahlo Museum can round out your day nicely just be sure you have tickets ahead of time for the museum.
Insider Tips for a Memorable Visit
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Unique Stops: Consider visiting Isla de las Muñecas (Island of the Dolls) for a quirky adventure. Note: It may be spooky for younger kids.
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Choose Your Dock Wisely: Some docks are less crowded and better suited for families. Research options beforehand.
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Avoid Peak Times: Early mornings and weekdays provide a calmer, more family-friendly atmosphere.
Conclusion
A visit to Xochimilco Floating Gardens is more than just a boat ride—it’s a vibrant, cultural experience that your family will treasure. From the colorful trajineras to the delicious food and festive music, it’s an outing that perfectly blends fun and education. Plan your trip today and make unforgettable memories with your little ones!
FAQs
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What is the cost of a trajinera ride in Xochimilco? Around 750 MXN pesos per hour per boat.
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Are there life jackets available for children? No, bringing your own is recommended.
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What foods are safe for kids to eat at Xochimilco? Elotes, tamales, quesadillas, and aguas frescas are great options.
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Can strollers be brought on the trajineras? Strollers can be folded and carried but aren’t ideal for the ride.
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Is Xochimilco suitable for babies and toddlers? Yes, with proper precautions like snacks, toys, and life jackets.
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