Ajusco (Pico del Águila), Mexico City - Volcanoes in the background (mexico city)
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Ajusco (Pico del Águila) Mexico City

4.8
·48 reviews·San Miguel Ajusco, Mexico

Conquer Pico del Águila, Mexico City's highest point, for breathtaking views and a challenging volcanic hike.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Best weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Ajusco (Pico del Águila), Mexico City - Volcanoes in the background (mexico city)

Ajusco (Pico del Águila) Mexico City

Best Time

Early mornings

Best weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Conquer Pico del Águila, Mexico City's highest point, for breathtaking views and a challenging volcanic hike.

4.8
(48 reviews)

"It has a very steep slope, totally worth it, and offers incredible views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking at Cabaña La Palapa

Park here and pay a small fee. If you eat, parking is often free. :car:

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential for the steep, rocky terrain. Sneakers are not recommended. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pico del Águila Summit

Pico del Águila Summit

Highest point in Ajusco

Reach the peak for breathtaking panoramic views of Mexico City and the surrounding landscape. A true accomplishment!

Instagram
Cruz del Marqués

Cruz del Marqués

Official Ajusco point

An additional trek from Águila Peak, offering a distinct viewpoint and a sense of completing the entire Ajusco experience.

Reddit
Cabaña La Palapa

Cabaña La Palapa

Starting point for many hikes

A popular basecamp with restaurants and parking. A great spot to refuel before or after your climb.

TikTok+1
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Planning Your Visit

Safety First: Go in Groups

Ajusco can be risky if you go alone. Many travelers and locals strongly advise hiking in groups or with a guide for safety. Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost in less friendly areas. Reddit

Altitude & Gear Up

The Pico del Águila is the highest point in Mexico City, so acclimatize first. Wear layers, sturdy hiking boots (not sneakers!), and bring a raincoat. Pack plenty of water and snacks. TikTokReddit+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Best weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (with caution)
Why
More groups, but busier
Crowd
Medium
When
Dry season (Nov-Apr)
Why
Less rain, clearer views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿CÓMO SUBIR EL AJUSCO?. Si estas pensando en subir el ajusco aquí te dejo una pequeña guía que espero te sirva. 📍6QF4+W8, Tlalpan, 14760 San Miguel Ajusco, CDMX 💵 100.00 MXN #senderismo #Hiking
@aldo_nadamas
18.6K likes • 310.6K views

🚗 Parking at Cabaña La Palapa

Park here and pay a small fee. If you eat, parking is often free. TikTok+1 :car:

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential for the steep, rocky terrain. Sneakers are not recommended. TikTokReddit :athletic_shoe:

Hike al Pico del Águila Checa esta ruta para un hike sabroso al Pico del Águila, definitivamente es un ascenso retador, para un aventurero con un algo de experiencia. ¡Hazla y cuentame como te fue! #hike #Hiking #hikingadventures #senderismo #montañismo #trekking #nature #naturaleza #naturelover #camping
@el_aventurero_novato
10.3K likes • 174.1K views
Este Sábado 27 de Julio ven a conocer el Pico del Águila, el punto más alto en la CDMX. ⛰️ 🦅 Aparta tu lugar por DM 📩 ✨Atrévete a intentarlo✨ #mexicocity #viajes #naturalezapura #naturaleza #montañismo #montañas #hike #atréveteaintentarlo #senderismo #hiking #picodelaguila
hiking_mountain_mx
106 likes • 0 views

💧 Hydration is Key

Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, plus electrolytes. TikTok+1 :droplet:

🧥 Dress in Layers

Mountain weather changes fast. Pack a raincoat and warm layers. TikTok+1 :cloud:

Un poco de la vista en la cima del pico del águila 🦅, el punto más alto de la CDMX! PRÓXIMAMENTE EN NUESTRO CATÁLOGO DE AVENTURAS!
viajemos_xd
43 likes • 3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking at Cabaña La Palapa

Park here and pay a small fee. If you eat, parking is often free. TikTok+1 :car:

👟 Sturdy Hiking Boots

Essential for the steep, rocky terrain. Sneakers are not recommended. TikTokReddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Hydration is Key

Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, plus electrolytes. TikTok+1 :droplet:

🧥 Dress in Layers

Mountain weather changes fast. Pack a raincoat and warm layers. TikTok+1 :cloud:

🐶 Dogs Welcome

Well-behaved dogs can join your hike, but keep them on a leash. TikTok :dog:

🗺️ Stick to Trails

Avoid shortcuts to prevent getting lost or damaging the environment. Reddit :compass:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(48 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Ajusco for its challenging yet rewarding climbs and stunning views, calling it a great experience to conquer a volcano. The trails are generally easy to follow, and the post-hike relaxation at the cabins is a highlight. However, some mention the steepness and the importance of proper footwear and preparation.

"Friendly place, bucolic. Either way you go up and down, expect to be scrambling a bit"

Daniel Chernowitz

"Very good experience to climb a volcano, we started from the watering hole cabin, from there we took 2.5 hours to Águila Peak, quite exciting to get to the end. If you still want to walk to the official point of Ajusco, which is the Cruz del Marquez, it is about an additional 30-45 minutes.
The paths are easy to follow, just don't take shortcuts or anything like that."

tavus medellin

"It has a very steep slope, totally worth it, and offers incredible views. It's recommended to wear boots, not sneakers."

Paulo Calderon

What People Like

Incredible summit views
Challenging volcano climb
Post-hike cabin relaxation

What People Dislike

Steep terrain
Need for good boots

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Many visitors take combis (shared vans) from Miguel Ángel de Quevedo metro station, often arranged by guides. Alternatively, you can drive and park at Cabaña La Palapa or similar points. TikTok+2

While driving is possible, some Reddit users advise caution due to potential safety concerns in the area, especially if traveling alone. Going in a group is recommended. Reddit

Cabaña La Palapa is a popular starting point with parking and amenities. Some trails also begin from the 'M' part of the road, forming a loop. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, combis from Miguel Ángel de Quevedo are a common and affordable option, especially if you join a guided group. TikTok

The drive or combi ride from central Mexico City to the Ajusco area typically takes around 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There isn't a formal entrance fee for the park itself, but parking at trailheads like Cabaña La Palapa usually incurs a small charge or requires consumption at their restaurant. TikTok

The hike itself is free. Costs are primarily for transportation, parking (around 30 MXN at Cabaña La Palapa), and any food or guide services you opt for. TikTok+1

The park doesn't have strict opening hours, but it's best to go during daylight. Early mornings are recommended for weather and safety. TikTok

Yes, many companies offer guided tours for Ajusco, which is highly recommended for safety and navigation, especially for first-timers. Reddit+1

No, there is no specific entrance fee for Pico del Águila. The costs are associated with getting there and parking. TikTok

🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience

It's considered a challenging hike, especially the first 35 minutes which are steep. It requires some hiking experience and good physical condition. TikTokReddit+1

The ascent to Pico del Águila typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, with the round trip around 3.5 to 5 hours depending on your pace and route. TikTokReddit

Pico del Águila is the highest point in Mexico City, reaching approximately 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) above sea level. TikTok

Expect steep, rocky, and sometimes loose terrain. Sturdy hiking boots are crucial. TikTokReddit

Basic facilities like restrooms and food are available at Cabaña La Palapa and similar cabins. Water refills might be possible there. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of Pico del Águila offers incredible panoramic views. The trails themselves also provide scenic backdrops of volcanic landscapes. Instagram

Yes, if you're into landscape photography, the expansive views and rugged terrain offer great opportunities. Just ensure it's protected from the elements. Instagram

Early mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds. Late afternoons can also offer beautiful golden hour light, but be mindful of descending before dark. TikTok

Drone regulations can be complex in national parks. It's best to check current local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Expect sweeping vistas of the Valley of Mexico, cloud formations, and the rugged volcanic landscape. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hiking Pico del Águila with children can be a rewarding experience, but requires careful planning. The steep initial climb can be tough for younger kids, so assess their stamina and hiking experience beforehand. TikTok+1 Going in a group is highly recommended for added safety and support. Ensure children have appropriate footwear, plenty of water, and snacks. TikTok Consider starting early to avoid the harshest sun and potential afternoon weather changes. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit can be a great motivator for kids. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Ajusco is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers. The main cost is transportation to the trailhead. Taking combis from Miguel Ángel de Quevedo metro station is very affordable. TikTok Parking at Cabaña La Palapa is also inexpensive, or free if you dine there. TikTok The hike itself is free, so packing your own water and snacks will save you money compared to buying them on-site. TikTok+1 This makes it an accessible adventure for those looking to experience Mexico City's natural beauty without breaking the bank.

🐶 Dog Owners

Ajusco is a fantastic destination for dog owners looking to explore nature with their furry friends. Many visitors bring their dogs along for the hike, and they are generally welcomed. TikTok It's crucial to ensure your dog is well-behaved and kept on a leash throughout the trek for their safety and the safety of other hikers. Remember to bring extra water specifically for your canine companion, as the altitude and exertion can be taxing. Be mindful of the rough, rocky terrain, which might be uncomfortable or even harmful to sensitive paws. The cooler mountain air can be very pleasant for dogs, but always monitor them for signs of fatigue or heat stress, especially during warmer months.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Safety and Navigation in Ajusco

Ajusco, particularly Pico del Águila, is a popular hiking destination, but safety is a recurring theme in traveler discussions. Many Reddit users strongly advise against hiking alone, citing potential risks of getting lost or encountering unwelcome individuals. Hiring a specialized company or joining a guided group is frequently recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Reddit+1 If you do venture out independently, sticking strictly to marked trails is crucial, as shortcuts can lead you into less friendly or confusing terrain. Reddit Some users suggest that even with a map, navigation can be tricky, and having a local guide significantly enhances safety and the overall experience.

For those who prefer to go solo, ensuring you have a fully charged phone and perhaps downloading offline maps is a good precaution. Some points along the route may offer assistance if needed, but it's always best to be self-sufficient. Reddit The altitude can also be a factor; it's wise to acclimatize in Mexico City for a few days before attempting the climb. Reddit Remember that weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, so being prepared for rain or sudden temperature drops is essential for a safe and enjoyable trek. TikTok

Essential Gear for Your Ajusco Hike

Preparing the right gear is key to a successful and comfortable hike up Pico del Águila. Footwear is paramount; sturdy hiking boots with good grip are non-negotiable due to the steep and often rocky terrain. Sneakers are strongly discouraged. TikTokReddit Clothing should be layered. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer for warmth, and always carry a waterproof and windproof jacket as mountain weather is unpredictable. TikTok+1 Comfortable hiking pants that allow for freedom of movement are also recommended. TikTok

Beyond clothing, hydration is critical. Bring at least 2 liters of water per person, and consider electrolyte drinks like Gatorade or Electrolit to help with rehydration. TikTok+1 Snacks are also essential for energy; pack sandwiches, energy bars, or fruit. TikTok+1 Other useful items include gloves for grip and warmth, a hat for sun protection, and sunscreen. TikTok Some hikers also bring trekking poles for added stability on the steep ascents and descents. TikTok

Understanding the Ajusco Trail System

The Ajusco area offers several routes, with the hike to Pico del Águila being the most popular. This trail is known for its challenging, steep ascent, particularly in the initial stages. TikTok+1 The climb to the summit typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a demanding but rewarding trek. TikTok For those seeking an extended challenge, continuing to the Cruz del Marqués, the official highest point of Ajusco, adds another 30-45 minutes of hiking. Reddit Some trails form a loop, starting from points like the 'M' on the road and touching both significant peaks, offering a varied experience. Reddit

While the main trails are generally considered straightforward, the terrain can be loose and rocky, requiring careful footing. Reddit It's important to stay on the designated paths to avoid getting lost or causing environmental damage. Reddit The starting point at Cabaña La Palapa is a common hub, offering parking and amenities, and serves as a gateway to various routes. TikTok+1 For those looking for alternatives or more challenging climbs, other peaks in the Cumbres del Ajusco National Park are also available, though Pico del Águila remains a primary draw for its accessibility and summit views. Reddit

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