Aerial view of the parking and food areas.
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Lagunas de Zempoala National Park

4.5
·5k reviews·, Mexico

A tranquil national park with serene lagoons, home to the rare Axolotl, offering a rustic escape near Mexico City.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere, family fun

CrowdHigh
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Aerial view of the parking and food areas.

Lagunas de Zempoala National Park

Best Time

Weekends

Lively atmosphere, family fun

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil national park with serene lagoons, home to the rare Axolotl, offering a rustic escape near Mexico City.

4.5
(5k reviews)

"It's incredibly peaceful and a great escape from city life, especially on the other side of the lagoon."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

It gets chilly due to altitude & wind. Bring a jacket/sweater, even on warm days! :cloud:

💰 Cash is King

No electricity means no card payments. Bring enough cash for food, activities, and souvenirs. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Serene Lagoons

The Serene Lagoons

Various locations within the park

Four seasonal and three permanent lagoons offer peaceful waters, perfect for escaping the city bustle.

Reddit
Hidden Magical Trails

Hidden Magical Trails

Beyond the main gathering areas

Venture away from the crowds to discover incredibly quiet and almost magical spots on the other side of the lagoons.

Reddit
Axolotl Habitat

Axolotl Habitat

Specific lagoons (check locally)

Home to the rare Axolotl, this park is a crucial sanctuary for this unique amphibian.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Dress for the Altitude

Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is at a high altitude, so it gets surprisingly chilly, especially with the wind. Pack layers, including a warm jacket or sweater, even if it's hot in Mexico City. Locals advise bringing jeans too. Reddit+1

Embrace the Wild

This park is rustic and basic. Expect no electricity, limited phone signal, and cash-only transactions. Finding restrooms can be a challenge. Plan accordingly and come prepared for a true nature escape. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays
Why
Peaceful escape, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Year-round natural beauty
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

It gets chilly due to altitude & wind. Bring a jacket/sweater, even on warm days! Reddit+1 :cloud:

💰 Cash is King

No electricity means no card payments. Bring enough cash for food, activities, and souvenirs. Reddit :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond

The real magic is away from the main spots. Walk to the other side for tranquility. Reddit :hiking_boot:

🚗 Public Transport is Tough

Getting here by bus is difficult. Driving or arranging transport is recommended. Reddit :car:

Tips

from all over the internet

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

It gets chilly due to altitude & wind. Bring a jacket/sweater, even on warm days! Reddit+1 :cloud:

💰 Cash is King

No electricity means no card payments. Bring enough cash for food, activities, and souvenirs. Reddit :moneybag:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond

The real magic is away from the main spots. Walk to the other side for tranquility. Reddit :hiking_boot:

🚗 Public Transport is Tough

Getting here by bus is difficult. Driving or arranging transport is recommended. Reddit :car:

🎣 Fishing Sightings

Locals were seen fishing; check local regulations if you plan to try. Reddit :fishingpoleand_வத:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lagunas de Zempoala National Park for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, offering a welcome escape from Mexico City. Many appreciate the opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and horseback riding. However, the park's rustic nature means limited facilities, no electricity or phone signal, and a need for cash, which can be a drawback for some. Reddit+2

"One of the main advantages of this place is that it’s relatively close to Mexico City, which is always a plus considering how many people live there. However, if you’re a tourist visiting for a short time, I’d say skip this entirely. Locals probably already know everything about it anyway, but I’ll share my thoughts.

First, it’s extremely peaceful. Second, dress warmly—seriously. It was hot when I left Mexico City, but by the time I got to the lagoons, it was anything but. The wind is strong, and a jacket or at least a thick sweater is a good idea.

Be warned: this place is wild and very basic. Finding a toilet isn’t easy, there’s no electricity, no phone signal, and you can only pay in cash. Keep that in mind before heading out. That being said, you can get some good, inexpensive food. You’ll also be offered horseback rides about a hundred times—prices are reasonable if that’s your thing. I also saw some locals fishing, though I have no idea if it’s actually allowed.

So, why come here? Simply to escape city life for a while and enjoy nature. The best part isn’t where most people gather—it’s on the other side of the lagoon. I highly recommend walking there; it’s incredibly quiet and feels almost magical.

Public transport? Forget it. I doubt getting here by bus is even an option, so don’t waste your time checking."

Alex Klénin

"This was a beautiful park to visit. It was a bit chilly up there in the mountains, so I recommend bringing a jacket. There are small tiendas to get food and buy gifts such as kites, ponchos, etc. They also have horseback riding and ponies for the children. You can ride boats out on the lake and go hiking. It’s a nice place to take the family for a quick getaway."

Crea

"This is the place to go the views are breathtaking depending on the time of year I would take a sweater if your sensitive to the cold some jeans as well they have paddle boats and horses swings that are up in the mountains there's hiking and I mean hiking food and snacks to top it all off"

Aye yoo let's go

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Beautiful natural scenery
Outdoor activities available

What People Dislike

Limited facilities
No phone signal
Cash-only transactions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Public transport to Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is very difficult, with many suggesting it's not an option. Driving is the most recommended method. If you don't have a car, consider arranging private transport or a taxi from nearby towns. Reddit

According to traveler experiences, relying on public buses to reach Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is not advisable and likely not feasible. Reddit

Once inside, walking is a great way to explore and discover quieter spots. Horseback riding is also available for a different perspective. Reddit

Information on specific entrance fees can vary, but it's wise to have cash on hand for any potential charges and for purchases within the park. Reddit

The drive is generally straightforward from Mexico City, but be prepared for mountain roads and potentially cooler temperatures as you ascend. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There's no mention of advance ticket purchases being necessary. However, be prepared to pay in cash upon arrival or for any activities. Reddit

The park is a natural area, so it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to plan your visit to allow ample time for exploration before dusk. Reddit

While specific fee structures aren't always detailed, it's a good practice to carry cash as many services and potential entry points operate on a cash-only basis. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food for picnics and enjoy the clean air. Small 'tiendas' are also available for snacks and gifts. Reddit

As a national park, it's important to respect the natural environment. Avoid leaving trash and be mindful of wildlife. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, boating on the lagoons (paddle boats are available), picnicking, and simply relaxing in nature. Reddit+2

Finding restrooms can be challenging as the park is very basic and rustic. It's advisable to use facilities before entering or be prepared for limited options. Reddit

No, expect to have no phone signal or Wi-Fi within the park. It's a great place to disconnect and enjoy nature. Reddit

Yes, horseback riding is a popular activity offered within the park. Prices are generally considered reasonable. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a nice place for a family getaway with activities like horseback riding for children, boating, and hiking. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are small 'tiendas' selling food and snacks. You can also enjoy inexpensive local food options and are welcome to bring your own picnic for BBQs. Reddit+1

Yes, Lagunas de Zempoala is a great place for BBQs with friends and family, offering nice sites and clean air. Reddit

While not formal restaurants, small local vendors and 'tiendas' offer food and snacks. It's a good idea to bring cash for these purchases. Reddit

Expect simple, inexpensive local food and snacks. It's a good opportunity to try regional flavors in a natural setting. Reddit

Bringing your own food for a picnic or BBQ is a great option, especially if you have specific dietary needs. However, local options are available and affordable. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

The lagoons themselves offer beautiful reflections and serene landscapes. Explore the trails away from the main areas for unique, tranquil shots. The surrounding mountains also provide scenic backdrops. Reddit

Yes, the natural beauty of the lagoons, mountains, and diverse flora makes it an excellent location for landscape photography, especially during golden hours. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic opportunities. The views can be breathtaking depending on the season. Reddit+1

While the park is home to Axolotls, they are rare and live in the wild. Observing them in their natural habitat is a privilege, and photography should be done respectfully without disturbing them. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens might be useful for wildlife spotting, though sightings are not guaranteed. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is a great spot for a family day trip or a short getaway. Kids will enjoy the horseback riding and pony rides, offering them a chance to interact with animals in a natural setting. The paddle boats on the lagoons provide a fun and safe water activity. Reddit+1

Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are basic. The park's natural beauty and open spaces are perfect for letting children run around and explore. It's an excellent opportunity for families to disconnect from screens and reconnect with nature together. Reddit

🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love the outdoors, Lagunas de Zempoala offers a refreshing escape. The park is ideal for hiking with trails that wind through the mountainous terrain, providing beautiful vistas of the lagoons and surrounding landscapes. The clean air and natural environment are a significant draw for visitors seeking tranquility. Reddit

Beyond hiking, the park's ecological significance, particularly as a habitat for the rare Axolotl, makes it a compelling destination for nature lovers. Exploring the less-crowded areas can lead to moments of profound peace and connection with the natural world. TikTokReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers looking for an affordable escape. Activities like hiking and exploring the natural scenery are free. Horseback riding and boat rentals are available at reasonable prices, offering good value for money. Reddit

Bringing your own food for picnics or BBQs is a cost-effective way to dine, though inexpensive local food options are also available from vendors. The park's rustic nature means you won't be spending on expensive amenities, making it an ideal destination for those wanting to experience nature without breaking the bank. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Axolotl

Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is renowned for being a habitat for the Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum). This fascinating amphibian is critically endangered in the wild and is a symbol of Mexican biodiversity. Its presence in the park highlights the ecological importance of these lagoons. While sightings are rare and require luck and a keen eye, knowing you are in their natural environment adds a layer of wonder to the visit. TikTok

Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of the Axolotl. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the delicate ecosystem and avoid disturbing the natural habitat. The park's role in protecting this unique species makes it more than just a recreational spot; it's a vital sanctuary. Experiencing the tranquility of the lagoons while knowing you're in a place that supports such rare wildlife is a profound feeling.

Navigating the Rustic Charm

Visitors should be prepared for a truly rustic experience at Lagunas de Zempoala National Park. Unlike more developed tourist sites, this park embraces its natural, undeveloped state. This means no electricity, no phone signal, and a strict cash-only policy for any purchases. Finding facilities like restrooms can be a challenge, so planning ahead is essential. Reddit

This lack of modern amenities is precisely what draws many visitors seeking an escape from city life. It offers a chance to disconnect and immerse oneself in nature. Embrace the simplicity: bring your own supplies, enjoy the peace, and appreciate the raw beauty of the environment. The 'wild' nature of the park is part of its charm and appeal for those looking for an authentic outdoor adventure. Reddit

Activities for Every Explorer

Lagunas de Zempoala National Park offers a variety of activities for different interests. Hiking is a popular choice, with trails leading through the surrounding hills and offering scenic views of the lagoons. For a different perspective, horseback riding is widely available, allowing you to explore the park's natural beauty at a leisurely pace. Reddit+1

The lagoons themselves are central to the experience. You can enjoy boating, with paddle boats often available for rent, providing a relaxing way to spend time on the water. Picnicking is also a favored pastime, with many visitors bringing their own food to enjoy amidst the clean air and natural surroundings. For those interested in local traditions, you might observe locals fishing, though it's advisable to check local regulations if you wish to participate. Reddit+1

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