Urban Orchard in Desierto de los Leones in Mexico City

Our review takes you through a hands-on, plant-filled adventure that’s perfect for nature lovers, foodies, and curious explorers alike. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, the experience promises a lively mix of education, fresh produce, and engaging activities in a lush setting just outside the city.

What captures our interest most is how this tour combines native Mexican plants with practical conservation techniques, making it a real treat for those wanting to understand urban sustainability. We also appreciate the personal attention provided by knowledgeable guides Ruben and David, and the chance to taste garden-fresh vegetables and fruits that taste miles better than anything you’d find in a grocery store.

However, a word of caution: the journey involves about 45 minutes to an hour of travel, depending on traffic, so it’s worth planning accordingly. This experience is best suited for those who enjoy being outdoors, learning about plants, or for anyone dreaming of a peaceful escape into an edible, eco-friendly oasis.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: You’ll gain a real connection to native Mexican flora and plant care methods.
• Hands-on learning: Foraging and tasting fresh produce create memorable, sensory-rich moments.
• Personal guides: Ruben and David’s storytelling make the tour both educational and engaging.
• Beautiful setting: The lush garden and orchard offer a peaceful, photo-worthy backdrop.
• Value for money: At $75, this tour offers a full half-day of activities, transport, snacks, and drinks.
• Suitable for most: The tour is accessible, with a private group setting and close proximity to public transportation.

An In-Depth Look at the Urban Orchard Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at Avenida Chapultepec in Mexico City, a lively area well-connected by public transit. After meeting your guides, you’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for the 45-minute to one-hour drive to the orchard. This bit of travel provides a relaxed buffer before stepping into the greenery, and many reviews highlight the smooth, hassle-free transport as a major plus.

Arrival at the Orchard: First Impressions

Upon arrival, your senses are greeted by a burst of greenery and the subtle sounds of birds and insects. The orchard is described as a thriving, well-maintained space, where native plants and edible crops comfortably coexist. The hosts, Ruben and David, take pride in their work, and their enthusiasm is contagious. “The garden and orchard of Ruben and David were excellent hosts,” notes a visitor who was impressed by their storytelling and deep knowledge.

Exploring the Garden

The tour kicks off with a walk among the trees, vegetables, and flowers that make up this urban oasis. You’ll learn about techniques like biggelkulturs (a type of mound gardening) and composting methods they’ve developed or adapted. The focus on sustainability and local plant varieties helps you understand how urban environments can support biodiversity and food production.

Engaging Your Senses

This isn’t just about looking — it’s about feeling, smelling, and tasting. The guides encourage you to crush a leaf to release its fragrance, try some herbs or flowers, and appreciate the textures and flavors of the plants. One review highlights how the experience invites you to “know them through all of our senses,” making it a truly immersive journey that enhances understanding and appreciation.

Foraging and Hands-On Activities

The highlight for many is the chance to forage for seasonal fruits, vegetables, or seeds. You might gather Swiss chard, herbs, or even flowers—whatever the garden offers that day. The guides then help you think creatively about preparing a simple, tasty snack with your fresh finds, which leaves a lasting impression of connection to the land and your food.

Snacking and Refreshments

Included in the tour are coffee or tea, and snacks, all served in the tranquil setting of the orchard. These small touches elevate the experience, offering moments to relax and soak in the natural beauty while savoring homemade or garden-fresh flavors.

The Value of the Experience

At $75 per person, the tour delivers a lot of value. It’s about five hours of engaging activities, transportation, and refreshments—all personalized with just your group. Given the high praise from reviewers—who describe the guides as welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate—you’re paying for quality, not just a quick walk through a garden.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience attracts plant enthusiasts, food lovers, and those who enjoy learning about sustainable urban gardening. It’s also ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful, educational break from sightseeing. The private nature of the tour makes it flexible and intimate, perfect for small groups or families.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Guides Make the Difference

Reviewers consistently praise Ruben and David for their storytelling, welcoming attitude, and scientific expertise. Their passion for plants and sustainability shines through, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “Rubén is very welcoming and a great storyteller,” which keeps everyone engaged.

The Setting Is Truly Special

The orchard is described as a beautiful, thriving space that feels like an escape from the city’s hustle. Its lush greenery and birdsong create a calming atmosphere, ideal for nature lovers or anyone wanting a quiet moment surrounded by native Mexican plants.

Practical and Tasty

The combination of foraging and cooking makes this tour not just about observation—it’s about participation. You’ll get your hands dirty, taste fresh garden produce, and leave with a sense of accomplishment and new knowledge about how to grow and use local plants.

Flexibility and Accessibility

The tour runs Monday to Saturday, from 9:30am to 4pm, fitting well into most travel schedules. Since it’s private, your group can ask questions, take photos, or linger longer in parts you enjoy most.

Honest Feedback from Past Travelers

With a perfect rating of 5.0 from 9 reviews, travelers consistently praise the personalized attention and the delicious, fresh flavors. Many mention how approachable and engaging Ruben and David are, making the experience feel more like visiting friends than a formal tour.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This urban orchard tour offers a unique blend of nature, education, and delicious food, all within a lush setting outside Mexico City. It’s particularly well-suited for curious individuals who want to understand urban sustainability, taste local flavors, or simply escape into a verdant environment for a few hours.

The cost of $75 is reasonable given the duration and personalized nature of the experience. You get not only a guided walkthrough but also the chance to actively participate—something that many tours overlook. Plus, the included snacks and drinks add extra comfort and flavor.

If you’re a plant lover, a foodie, or an eco-conscious traveler looking for an authentic, hands-on experience, this tour will satisfy your curiosity while enriching your understanding of Mexican native plants and sustainable gardening.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts, culinary explorers, and those who value personal storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a calm, educational activity that’s different from the usual sightseeing. Families, small groups, and solo travelers can all enjoy the personalized attention, making it a worthwhile addition to your Mexico City itinerary.

FAQ About the Urban Orchard Tour

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be picked up at a meeting point on Avenida Chapultepec and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to the orchard.

How long is the drive?
The drive lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation, coffee and/or tea, and snacks.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is private, which helps accommodate different needs. However, it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What is the tour duration?
Approximately 5 hours, including transport, exploration, foraging, and tasting.

When does the tour operate?
Monday through Saturday, between 9:30AM and 4:00PM, from mid-July to early October 2026.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing and shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and possibly foraging.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a private experience tailored just for your group.

In essence, the Urban Orchard tour in Desierto de los Leones offers a rewarding mix of nature, sustainability, and local flavor, set in a peaceful, lush environment. It’s a perfect way to connect with Mexico’s native plants, learn eco-friendly gardening practices, and enjoy fresh, garden-grown produce—all just a short drive from the city’s hustle. For curious, nature-minded travelers, this is a memorable and worthwhile escape into Mexico City’s green side.