Front courtyard and garden of the former Convent of Desierto de los Leones with empty areas showing original 17th century monastery location in Desierto de los Leones National Park Mexico City

Desierto De Los Leones National Park

Desierto de los Leones National Park Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide – Mexico City

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled on the western edge of Mexico City, Desierto de los Leones National Park harmoniously blends natural beauty, rich history, and cultural significance, making it a premier destination for both locals and tourists. Despite its name—“Desert of the Lions”—the park is a lush, mountainous forest that once served as a reclusive Carmelite monastic retreat. Established as one of Mexico’s oldest national parks in 1917, it spans over 1,500 hectares and plays a crucial role in sustaining Mexico City’s environment, offering vital ecosystem services like aquifer recharge and air purification. This comprehensive guide details everything you need to plan your visit, from hours and ticket information to recommended trails, cultural highlights, and practical travel tips. For the latest updates and official information, consult MexicoCity.cdmx.gob.mx and DescubreANP.conanp.gob.mx.

Soledad Hermitage in forest near Convent of Desierto de los Leones in Mexico City

Introduction
Park Origins and Historical Significance
Architectural and Spiritual Highlights
National Park Status and Conservation
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility
Activities: Hiking, Biking, Guided Tours, Events
Park Facilities and Accessibility
Practical Travel Tips and Weather
Responsible Tourism
FAQ
Plan Your Visit
References

Park Origins and Historical Significance

Desierto de los Leones traces its roots to the early 1600s, when Discalced Carmelite monks established a remote monastery here. The term “Desierto” refers to the tradition of retreating for contemplation, while “Leones” likely honors the León family, early benefactors of the site (MexicoCity.cdmx.gob.mx). Completed in 1611, the monastic complex included a church, cloisters, hermitages, and underground passages, designed for solitude and devotion.

Over time, the monastery faced abandonment due to harsh climate, urban encroachment, and political struggles during Mexico’s independence. After being left in disrepair and used by outlaws, it was eventually restored and reimagined as a historical and cultural landmark (MexicoCityStreets.com).

Architectural and Spiritual Highlights

The monastery represents the Carmelite ideals of austerity and introspection. Its church, with a Latin cross design, is surrounded by chapels and gardens for meditation. The “Chapel of Secrets” is particularly notable, allowing worshippers to hear sermons in privacy. The atmospheric basements and catacombs provide insight into the monastic discipline of the era (MexicoCity.cdmx.gob.mx).

Today, the former monastery operates as a museum and cultural center, hosting art exhibits, concerts, and community events. Some areas are wheelchair accessible, though historic preservation limits access in certain sections.

National Park Status and Conservation

In 1917, Desierto de los Leones was designated Mexico’s first national park, protecting its forests and springs for future generations (descubreanp.conanp.gob.mx). The park’s 1,529 hectares are dominated by sacred firs (Abies religiosa) and pines (Pinus hartwegii), sheltering diverse wildlife such as deer, bobcats, coyotes, and over 100 bird species (descubreanp.conanp.gob.mx). These forests are vital for water infiltration, aquifer recharge, and maintaining urban air quality, earning the park the title “the lungs of Mexico City.”

Conservation challenges include air pollution, illegal logging, pests, and climate change. Local communities—especially San Mateo Tlaltenango—play a crucial role in stewardship and park management (MexicoCityStreets.com).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets, Accessibility

Hours

Park: Open daily, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry 30 minutes before closing).
Monastery: Open Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (TripSavvy).

Tickets and Fees

General Admission: Free.
Parking: Approx. 20 MXN.
Monastery or Guided Tours: Modest fees apply (typically under 50 MXN; bring cash).
Special Activities (ziplining, events): Fees vary by provider.

Accessibility

Main monastery area and gardens are accessible to visitors with limited mobility.
Most hiking trails are steep and uneven; not suitable for wheelchairs.
Contact park offices in advance for accessibility details or accommodations.

Activities: Hiking, Biking, Guided Tours, and Events

Hiking and Trekking

Desierto de los Leones offers a variety of trails for all experience levels, from forested walks to challenging ascents like Cerro San Miguel (3,770 meters). Trail maps are available at the entrance and online (Kitti Around the World). Notable routes include:

Cerro San Miguel: Panoramic views of the city and mountains.
Santa Rosa Xochiac to Monastery: Scenic and less crowded.
Cerro El Caballete: For experienced hikers seeking solitude.

Mountain Biking

Mountain bike routes range from easy to advanced, including a 55 km loop via Pantanos Station and Venados trail (Wikivoyage). Helmets and protection are strongly advised; ride during the dry season.

Guided Tours and Cultural Events

Spanish-language tours of the monastery and select trails are available, with some English guides by request. Weekends bring cultural events, food festivals, and popular trail races like ultra-marathons (Mexico City Official Site).

Ziplining and Adventure

Twelve zip lines totaling 2.1 km, with platforms up to 90 meters, offer thrilling adventure near the monastery. Advance booking is recommended (Wikivoyage).

Wildlife and Nature Observation

Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts can spot hawks, falcons, deer, rabbits, and more. Early mornings and quieter areas yield the best sightings (National Parks Association).

Park Facilities and Accessibility

Parking and Entrances: Public parking is available near the main entrance.
Restrooms: Located near the monastery and picnic areas (fee applies).
Food and Drink: Vendors and small restaurants serve local snacks—quesadillas, tamales, atole.
Picnic Areas: Designated spots throughout the park.
Camping: Allowed in specified zones with prior registration; bring your own equipment (Wikivoyage).
Family-Friendly: Open spaces and easy trails for children; educational opportunities at the convent.

Practical Travel Tips and Weather

Getting There:
- By Car/Uber: Recommended for convenience; about 30–60 minutes from central Mexico City (Slight North).
- By Public Transport: Bus or colectivo to Santa Rosa Xochiac, then taxi or walk to park entrance.
Weather:
- Cool and damp year-round (5–20°C). Mist and fog are common.
- Rainy season is June–September; bring waterproof gear.
- Dry season (November–April) is best for hiking (Wikipedia).
Altitude:
- Ranges from 2,600 to nearly 3,800 meters. Take it slow to avoid altitude sickness.
What to Bring:
- Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, water, sun/rain protection, cash, offline maps.

Responsible Tourism

Support conservation by:

Staying on marked trails.
Taking all trash with you.
Not feeding or disturbing wildlife.
Respecting historical structures and following posted rules (Wikipedia).

Local communities benefit from your responsible visit through park fees and stewardship initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are pets allowed in the park?
A: Yes, but they must be leashed at all times.

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Entry is free; tickets for tours or special activities are purchased on-site (cash recommended).

Q: Are guided tours offered in English?
A: Primarily in Spanish; some English tours available upon request.

Q: Is the park suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, with family-friendly trails and educational activities.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: Dry season (October to May), weekdays, and early mornings for fewer crowds.

Plan Your Visit

Experience the intersection of nature, history, and culture at Desierto de los Leones National Park. Download the Audiala app for offline maps, trail guides, and event updates. For more inspiration, explore our related articles and follow us on social media.

For a virtual visit, check out the interactive tour.

Summary and Call to Action

Desierto de los Leones National Park is a testament to Mexico City’s dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Visitors enjoy accessible trails, guided tours, and vibrant cultural events, all supported by active local stewardship. Plan your adventure today, respect park guidelines, and help sustain this urban oasis for generations to come. For further details and planning tools, download the Audiala app and consult MexicoCity.cdmx.gob.mx and National Parks Association.