Kayak to the Island of the dolls, Transport and breakfast

Planning a day that combines nature, culture, and a touch of the bizarre? This tour offers just that—starting early with a kayak trip through the colorful canals of Xochimilco, followed by a hearty Mexican breakfast, and culminating with a visit to the eerie Island of the Dolls. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want a blend of stunning scenery, local flavor, and a little spooky fun.

What we love about this experience is its combination of active outdoor time and cultural highlights. You’ll paddle through tranquil waters at dawn, capturing incredible photos with the sunrise illuminating the lush surroundings. Plus, the visit to the haunted Island of the Dolls is sure to be a memorable highlight, especially for those interested in offbeat attractions.

A possible consideration is that the tour requires moderate physical fitness—kayaking isn’t just a sightseeing ride, so stamina and comfort on the water are key. Also, since this experience is weather-dependent, poor weather can mean cancellations or rescheduling.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities, quirky local stories, and authentic Mexican breakfasts. It’s a well-rounded choice for travelers wanting a mix of adventure, culture, and a dash of eccentricity.

Key Points

• Active kayaking: Paddle through Xochimilco’s canals during a peaceful sunrise or sunset.
• Cultural immersion: Experience local traditions with a Mexican breakfast, including vegan options.
• Unique attractions: Visit the famously haunted Island of the Dolls, adding a spooky twist.
• Beautiful scenery: Enjoy views of endemic plants and flowers along the canal route.
• Value for money: The tour includes transportation, kayaks, admission tickets, and food.
• Weather considerations: The experience depends on good weather; cancellations are possible.

A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

This tour, priced at $95 per person, packs a surprising amount of adventure into roughly five hours. It’s organized by Curado Tours, a reputable provider, and personalized with pickup options, making it accessible even if you’re not staying right next to Xochimilco.

Starting Point: San Esteban in Xochimilco

The adventure begins early morning in San Esteban, a traditional neighborhood steeped in local character. We appreciate that the tour kicks off with a short safety briefing—important when handling kayaks and navigating the canals. It’s a peaceful time to start, with fewer crowds and the chance to see the canals in their most tranquil state.

Kayaking Through the Floating Gardens

Once equipped with your kayak, you’ll set out along the canals of Xochimilco. Paddleboarding here during sunrise or sunset offers a remarkable opportunity to capture photos of the stunning, vibrant scenery and observe endemic plants and flowers lining the waterways. The tour states that admission to the floating gardens is included, which means you can fully enjoy the environment without extra costs.

Traveling by kayak provides a more intimate connection to the landscape than motorboats. We loved the way the gentle water movements and early light transformed the area into something almost magical. The group size is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

Breakfast in the Green Fields

After about three hours on the water, you’ll arrive at a floating garden (chinampa), where a Mexican breakfast awaits. The meal is described as hearty and includes vegan options, which is appreciated for catering to different dietary needs. The breakfast setting offers a chance to warm up by a fire, roast marshmallows, and share stories with fellow travelers.

It’s worth noting that the food and drinks—including bottled water, a shot of mezcal, and alcoholic beverages—are all included, making this a convenient and cost-effective experience. We loved the relaxed vibe here, where you can rest and take in the peaceful surroundings.

The Haunted Island of the Dolls

The highlight that makes this tour truly stand out is the visit to the Island of the Dolls. Known as one of the most haunted places in the world, this island is filled with countless dolls hanging from trees and throughout the property, creating a spooky yet fascinating atmosphere.

The visit to this eerie site adds an element of local folklore and a little thrill to the day. We found that the haunting stories and the strange sights make for great conversation starters and memorable photos.

Returning by Kayak

The trip concludes with a kayak ride back along the canals, giving you one last chance to enjoy the scenery. As you paddle, you’ll pass fields full of endemic plants and flowers, providing a serene end to a busy day.

Practical Details

• The tour lasts about five hours, making it a manageable day trip.
• It includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is handy after a morning on the water.
• The group size is limited, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• The booking window is around 15 days in advance, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before.

The Overall Value

Given that the cost covers transportation, kayak rental, admission tickets, breakfast, and some drinks, this tour offers genuine value—especially when you consider the unique combination of activities. The focus on authentic scenery and local culture makes it stand out from more touristy boat tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor pursuits and are comfortable on a kayak. It appeals to those with a curiosity for quirky attractions and an appreciation for stunning natural scenery. If you’re looking for a day that mixes a bit of adventure with authentic Mexican culture, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also a good choice for travelers interested in offbeat sites, like the haunting Island of the Dolls, and those who enjoy photography—especially at sunrise or sunset.

Not ideal if…

You prefer a more relaxed, sedentary experience, or if you’re sensitive to weather disruptions. Since the tour is weather-dependent, uncertain conditions could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Final Thoughts

This kayak adventure in Xochimilco offers a rare glimpse into local life, nature, and a touch of the mysterious. You’ll enjoy stunning views along the canals, a delicious Mexican breakfast, and the thrill of visiting one of the most haunted sites on the planet. It’s a well-balanced day that combines physical activity, culture, and quirky sightseeing.

For those who love to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and enjoy outdoor fun, this tour is a memorable way to see a different side of Mexico City. The thoughtful inclusion of meals, transportation, and tickets makes it an excellent value for the price.

In summary, if you’re after an active day with plenty of visual and experiential highlights, this tour deserves a spot on your Mexico City itinerary.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You get transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a kayak for each person, bottled water, a Mexican breakfast with vegan options, a shot of mezcal and bottled water, travel insurance, and admission to the Island of the Dolls.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is roughly five hours, starting early in the morning, perfect for a half-day adventure.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Do I need special physical fitness to do this?
Yes, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended since kayaking involves some effort and comfort on the water.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning views.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical nature and focus on outdoor kayaking suggest it’s better suited for teens and adults.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How do I book this experience?
You can book about 15 days in advance through the provider’s website or Viator, with flexible cancellation options.

This tour offers a genuine slice of Mexico’s natural beauty, culture, and eccentric charm. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, local flavor, or a spooky story to tell, it presents an engaging and memorable day out in Mexico City.