Private tour to the spooky Island of the Dolls in Xochimilco

Introduction: Exploring Mexico City’s Most Mysterious Attraction

Our review of the private tour to the Island of the Dolls in Xochimilco promises to shed light on one of Mexico City’s most intriguing and spooky spots. This experience isn’t your typical sightseeing trip; it’s a journey into a place dripping with mystery, folklore, and a touch of the supernatural. What makes this tour especially appealing is the combination of a peaceful boat ride through the ecological reserve with a visit to a hauntingly decorated island, home to over 4,000 dolls.

We particularly love the intimate, private nature of the tour, which allows for a personalized experience. Also, the inclusion of Mexican snacks, drinks, and a bilingual guide adds genuine local flavor and ease for travelers. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the optional transportation fee—round-trip costs are not included, so if you’re not staying nearby, expect to budget extra.

This tour suits curious travelers who enjoy unusual sights, scenic boat rides, and a bit of spooky fun—perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, culture, and a hint of the macabre. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized experience that feels private and personal, this trip could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Exclusive Private Tour: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.
• Unique Setting: Explore the mysterious Island of the Dolls, home to thousands of eerie dolls.
• Scenic Boat Ride: Travel by trajinera through Xochimilco’s lush ecological reserve.
• Includes Local Flavors: Mexican snacks, tequila, beer, or pulque are all part of the experience.
• Bilingual Guide: English-speaking guide helps unravel the history and legends behind the dolls.
• Flexible and Convenient: Can be arranged with pickup options, though transportation is an extra charge.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: How the Day Unfolds

The tour begins at the Embarcadero Caltongo, where you board a traditional trajinera—the colorful, flat-bottomed boat typical of Xochimilco. As you glide across the tranquil waters, you’ll enjoy the lush views of the ecological reserve, a peaceful green escape from the city’s hustle. This part of the trip sets a relaxing tone, giving you a chance to soak in the scenery and chat with your guide about the history of Xochimilco and its floating gardens.

After about 30 minutes of this scenic boat ride, you reach the Island of the Dolls. Here, the atmosphere shifts—it’s quiet, slightly haunting, and undeniably fascinating. The island is decorated with thousands of dolls, some of foreign origin, left by visitors or the local caretaker. It’s a place that sparks curiosity and a little bit of unease, especially when you realize the dolls are often hanging from trees or rooftops, their glassy eyes staring silently at you.

According to reviews, “the spooky Island of the Dolls in Xochimilco is definitely a one-time experience only seen here,” and many find it to be a genuinely eerie and memorable sight. The guide provides insights into the legend of how the dolls came to be there, adding depth to the spooky ambiance.

After exploring at your own pace, you’ll return via trajinera, passing scenic views and perhaps sharing a laugh or two about the creepy dolls. The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a few hours of unusual adventure and scenic beauty.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The admission to the island is included, which is a bonus since many tours don’t include this key element. The experience is designed to be balanced—not just about the spooky sights, but also the tranquility of floating through Xochimilco’s lakes and enjoying authentic Mexican snacks and drinks.

Guests have praised the friendly and knowledgeable bilingual guide, saying they answered questions in English and helped make the experience approachable for non-Spanish speakers. The use of music and speaker system adds a lively touch, especially if you enjoy traditional tunes or just want to set a fun mood while cruising.

Value for Money and Additional Costs

At $94.65 per person, the experience offers good value considering the all-inclusive nature—snacks, drinks, boat ride, and entry. The only additional cost to keep in mind is the transportation fee of 500 pesos per extra person if you want to be picked up from central locations like the Angel of Independence. Without this, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.

Practicalities: Timing, Group Size, and Booking

The tour runs Monday through Thursday, from 10 AM to 2 PM, making it an ideal daytime activity—especially since the spooky ambiance is less intense in daylight, offering a more relaxed experience. Booking is generally done 12 days in advance, and a minimum group of six is needed unless you opt for a private booking.

The tour lasts roughly 3.5 to 4 hours, a perfect length to combine scenic tranquility with the thrill of exploring the island.

What Reviewers Say

One traveler described the adventure as “really fun” and appreciated the answering of questions in English. They also praised the top-notch tequila served on board and the brand-new transport options, highlighting the comfort and quality of the experience.

Others note the peaceful landscape and the intriguing atmosphere on the island, which is both captivating and slightly unsettling—ideal for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, local culture, and spooky stories. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something more memorable than just another museum or street food tour. The private setup makes it suitable for families, couples, or small groups who appreciate privacy and personalized attention.

If you’re into quirky attractions or mystical legends, this experience will definitely appeal. Keep in mind, it’s a daytime tour—if you’re looking for a truly eerie experience in the dark, this might not hit that mark.

For those with limited mobility, the boat ride is generally smooth, but the island involves some walking and navigating uneven terrain. Also, remember that transportation costs are additional unless you arrange for pickup.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For the curious, this tour offers a unique combination of scenic beauty, local culture, and a bit of macabre fun. The scenery on the trajinera is lovely, the snacks and drinks are a nice touch, and the guide’s insights help you understand the legends behind the dolls. It’s a well-organized, private experience that balances tranquil boat rides with the thrill of exploring a mysterious island.

If you’re after an authentic, offbeat adventure that’s suitable for most travelers and offers excellent value, this experience should definitely be on your list. The reviews highlight the stunning views and good value for money, making it a memorable addition to your Mexico City itinerary.

This trip is a fantastic choice for those seeking a quirky, scenic, and culturally rich outing—perfect for a daytime exploration that leaves you with stories to tell.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, so only your group will participate, providing a personalized atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes entry to the Island of the Dolls, a trajinera boat ride, bilingual guide in English, Mexican snacks, and drinks (tequila, beer, pulque).

Can I do this tour during the day?
Yes, the tour occurs during daylight hours—Monday to Thursday, from 10 AM to 2 PM.

Are transportation costs included?
No, transportation is an extra fee of 500 pesos per person if you want pickup from central locations like the Angel of Independence.

What if I want to be picked up?
Pickup can be arranged at the Angel of Independence monument, about an hour before the scheduled start, with the extra fee paid directly to the provider.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, perfect for a half-day activity.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility issues if you plan to walk around the island.

What are the opening hours?
The tour runs during specific hours: Monday through Thursday from 10 AM to 2 PM, between May 11, 2024, and July 7, 2026.

What do reviews say about this experience?
Travelers praise the fun adventure, the amazing views, and the good value, with some noting the eerie atmosphere of the island makes it a truly memorable outing.

Ready to explore one of Mexico City’s most unusual sites? This private tour combines scenic boat rides, authentic snacks, and a mysterious island—an experience that’s as fun as it is fascinating.