Desierto de los Leones National Park

Mexico'S First National Park (1917), A Pine And Fir Forest On The Western Edge Of The Capital With A 17th Century Carmelite Convent Among The Trees, Cool Shady Trails, A Children'S Park And Weekend Picnics. A 'Desert' Only In The Sense Of A Solitary Retreat, Not Of Climate. An Easy Forest Escape Within The City Limits · Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México

Desierto de los Leones is Mexico's first national park, a pine and fir forest on the western edge of Mexico City, reached from Santa Fe or Cuajimalpa. The word desierto means a quiet religious retreat, not a dry landscape: in the 17th century Carmelite friars built a convent among the trees, and its cloisters, chapel and catacomb tunnels can be visited today. Around it run shady trails, picnic areas, cycle routes and a children's play area, so the park is a cool breathing space for city families, cyclists and walkers. It suits anyone who wants a forest within the city limits and a touch of history. It is worth the detour on a weekday morning; it is not worth it on a crowded Sunday, in heavy fog, or if you want wild country. It is cold and foggy more often than people expect. Park at the convent, keep to busier trails and go with companions, because the more remote paths are lonely and safety is better in a group.

Desierto de los Leones, a forested national park and former Carmelite monastery on the western edge of Mexico City, reached from Santa Fe or Cuajimalpa; coordinates approximate, Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México, Mexico

The park is generally open in daylight, roughly 8 am to 5 or 6 pm, and is CLOSED after dark. The former convent is usually open daily, often roughly 10 am to 5 pm, with a small fee, though visiting hours and the catacomb tunnels can change for events, weddings or repairs. Restaurants and food stalls open mainly on weekends and holidays, with fewer on weekdays. Walking the forest trails and picnic areas is FREE apart from any park entry charge, while parking at the convent is paid. Heavy rain or fog can lead to temporary closure of some paths. Confirm the days and the fee before travelling.

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