3 Hours of Kayaking at the Ancient Canals of Xochimilco
Overview
Available languages
3 hours 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
We follow canals through the 800-900 year old chinampa system of agriculture, the last remnant of the original lake from prehispanic times. These lush water trails form a green maze of wildlife, mountain views, and still-functioning island farms unlike anywhere in the world. It is a calm paddle with plenty of time for pictures, birdwatching, and exploration.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
We'll leave from Embarcadero Cuemanco for a 3 hour calm kayak trip into the beautiful agricultural section of Xochimilco, taking lesser-known small canals full of bird and fish life and passing the still working island farms (chinampas) that have been here since the prehispanic period.
What‘s Included
Lifejacket
Kayaks
Dry Bag
Options
3 Hours of Kayaking at the Ancient Canals of Xochimilco
Reviews
23 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great day out on the...
Paul C,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great day out on the water with Grant. Perfect conditions with a knowledgeable and personable guide. Such a fantastic experience.
My group of 6 friends had...
caseysprague,Mar 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00My group of 6 friends had an excellent experience. This was a fantastic way to spend a morning outside of the city, learning about the nature and farming culture of the chinampas.
Sunrise, birds, history and more
151marens,Feb 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Kayaking before sunrise was a beautiful and unique experience outside busy Mexico City. We enjoyed learning about the history of the Xochimilco canals and people who created the floating islands thousands of years ago as well as modern farming practices. We saw birds, too! And sunrise! Grant was the ideal guide for this amazing kayak trip
Serenidad a Xochimilco
Barbara K,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We were looking for the opposite of the typical rowdy traijinera experience, and this fit the bill perfectly. We were 4 plus leader Grant, and with his deep knowledge of the canals he took us places that were tranquil and devoid of other people. Just us, the birds, the scenery and occasional passing encounters with others. We saw and heard evidence of a way of life that has been practiced in Xochimilco since before la conquista. We started before sunrise so this is not for early birds. But if you prefer to see Xochimilco without a tequila party, this is a great choice. One comment: Grant kept us out at least a half hour longer than advertised and probably more. Ordinarily that could be a plus, but it got cold and that was a bit tiring. We didn't have anything scheduled after, but if we had it would have made us late. It would have been good to be prepared for the actual length of time of he activity.
Wonderful kayaking morning
Sunshine06879843448,Feb 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lovely, peaceful paddle. The guide - Grant is very knowledgeable and we learned many things. The canals are very interesting. The small group size is wonderful.
Peaceful, personalized paddling
tofu dog,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had an excellent morning paddling around Xochimilco's canals with Grant. He is a one-person operation and a treasure trove of information about the past and present of the area -- human settlement and use, flora and fauna. This was a legitimate three-hour, 4.5-mile paddle, with no pit stops, so be prepared to work! One thing I really appreciated was the 7 a.m. start, which allowed us to get a bit more sleep in the night before. A lot of the other operators pick you up from the city center at 4:30 a.m., whereas for this operation we could just grab a Didi rideshare at around 6:20 a.m. and get to the docks in plenty of time. Group size is limited to 7 guests, so it's a very personalized, conversational experience. The canals are so peaceful and quiet in the early morning hours -- just a couple other kayaking groups and the local wildlife to share the water. Grant even threw in some excellent recommendations for local food spots! Highly recommend.
Must do in Mexico City
Rachel C,Jan 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Grant was an amazing guide. He was super chill and very knowledgeable! We learned so much on the tour and saw so many incredible flora and fauna. Dawn is the perfect time to go it was so beautiful.
Beautiful morning on the water
Monique F,Jan 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is an excellent way to see the Xochimilcos. I’m still in awe that this beautiful nature area exists within the city. Grant is so knowledgeable about the area, its history and current affairs. I can’t recommend this highly enough!
Beautiful Landscape, Informative Tour!
Stuart M,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This tour was a fun, peaceful, educational, and fascinating look at the natural world around Mexico City. Grant was an excellent guide, tailoring the tour to the interests and desires of our group. He shared abundant information about the history surrounding the canals, the use of the land for farming, and the past and present dynamics impacting the ways that the Mexican people interact with the waterways. We arrived early to begin our tour before the larger boats and groups of tourists entered the water. This early start was well worth it, as the canals were serene, wildlife (especially Herons) was abundant, and the temperature was comfortable throughout. Wear layers, and with care you will be comfortable and stay dry!
Greg Grant Gig
Jennifer H,Dec 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Grant is your guide. His love for the area and personal enjoyment of kayaking the waters shows, while he takes you through background and current issues affecting the islands and canals. Highly recommend.
From MX$1,200.00
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