Xochimilco’s Wild Side: Mezcal, Insects & Culture

Exploring Mexico City often involves visiting iconic sites like Frida Kahlo’s house or the Zócalo, but sometimes the most memorable experiences are the unexpected ones. This tour through Xochimilco promises a lively mix of local flavors, daring tastes, and cultural surprises, all wrapped in a two-and-a-half-hour journey on traditional trajineras. We’ve seen enough traveler reviews to confidently say it offers a one-of-a-kind taste of Mexico’s bold spirit—literally and figuratively.

What really caught our attention are two standout features: the expertly guided mezcal tasting that showcases Mexico’s ancient drink with stories and culture, and the adventurous insect tasting that pushes your boundaries while connecting you to indigenous traditions. One possible caveat is the short duration—two and a half hours might leave some wanting more, especially if they’re eager to linger and absorb every detail. Still, this tour is perfect for those craving an authentic, slightly wild, fun-filled peek into Mexican culture—ideal for curious travelers, food adventurers, and anyone wanting a memorable story to bring home.

Key Points

• Authentic culture combining mezcal, traditional boats, and local stories
• Daring food experience with edible insects and unexpected flavors
• Guided by passionate, knowledgeable local guides who keep the vibe lively
• Great value for money at just $27 for a memorable, two-hour experience
• Beautiful scenery on Xochimilco’s canals, with photo stops and relaxing chinampa visits
• Inclusive drinks including unlimited mezcal, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and a full meal

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This tour is a genuine invitation to see a different side of Mexico City—one filled with color, tradition, and daring flavors. It’s not just a typical sightseeing trip; it’s a lively, taste-bud-tingling adventure designed to connect you with local customs through music, storytelling, and daring foods. We loved how the experience combines culture and fun in equal parts, with guides who know how to keep the energy high and the atmosphere authentic.

Two aspects particularly stand out: the artisanal mezcal tasting, led by local experts who share stories about this ancient drink’s roots, and the insect tasting, which, despite sounding brave, is rooted in centuries of indigenous tradition. The tour’s affordability makes it accessible for most travelers, and the small group setup promises a personal touch. The only downside? The duration might leave some wanting more time to soak in the scenery or explore the surroundings further—but that’s a small complaint for such a lively, memorable outing.

This experience suits curious, open-minded travelers eager to explore Mexican culture beyond the usual tourist spots, especially those with a taste for adventure and good storytelling. It’s also excellent for those who enjoy social, interactive activities and want a fun story to tell back home.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion on Xochimilco’s canals with local guides
• Unique tasting of artisanal mezcal with cultural insights
• Adventurous edible insects offering a rare taste of indigenous traditions
• Scenic boat ride with photo stops and natural surroundings
• Inclusive drinks and snacks ensure you won’t go hungry or thirsty
• Souvenir shot glass and gifts make for a memorable keepsake

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: MEZCALICIOUS.MX

Your journey begins at the colorful Embarcadero Las Flores, a lively spot marked by a purple arch. From here, the adventure kicks off with a short walk or ride to the dock, where your guide will meet you. Expect a friendly, approachable host ready to introduce you to the day’s fun.

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Xochimilco Canal Tour (35 minutes)

The first leg takes you onto a traditional trajinera—a flat-bottomed boat historically used for transporting produce and now a floating stage for culture and fun. As you glide through the canals, you’ll marvel at the lush greenery, the colorful boats, and the vibrant local life surrounding you. It’s a peaceful yet lively environment, and the views are surprisingly picturesque, especially with the traditional Mexican music that often accompanies these rides.

River Boat & Photo Stop (25 minutes)

The boat ride is a relaxed experience, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery and snap photos of the water, floating gardens (chinampas), and birds. Your guide might point out the importance of these chinampas, ancient floating farms that have sustained local communities for centuries. This stop also provides an opportunity for a quick restroom break and maybe to pick up some souvenirs from local vendors.

Cultural Walk and Class (40 minutes)

Back on land, the tour continues with a walk through Xochimilco’s charming alleys and a visit to a chinampa site. Here, you’ll learn about the history of these agricultural marvels and get a closer look at the natural surroundings. The guide enriches the experience with lively stories and insights about local traditions, adding depth to your visit.

The Main Event: Mezcal & Insect Tasting

The highlight is undoubtedly the mezcal tasting session—a lively, educational segment where local experts guide you through different types of artisanal mezcals, from clear joven to aged reposado, including some flavored versions. Expect to hear stories about the drink’s origins, distillation process, and cultural significance—an ideal way to deepen your appreciation for this iconic Mexican spirit.

But the surprise element is the edible insects. From well-known chapulines (grasshoppers) to some rarer varieties, you’ll be offered a taste of Mexico’s ancestral cuisine. The experience is playful and educational, and despite initial nerves, many find the flavors surprisingly enjoyable—crunchy, savory, and full of local character. Several reviews highlight how guides make this experience fun and accessible, with one reviewer praising Irlanda and Ruben for keeping everyone engaged and laughing.

Final Stop: Relaxation & Shopping

Before wrapping up, you’ll pause at a small chinampa where you can relax, take photos, or purchase additional snacks or drinks. This quiet moment allows you to reflect on your experience and enjoy the natural beauty of Xochimilco’s waterways.

End of Tour

Returning to the starting point, you’ll leave with a custom shot glass and surprises—a tangible memory of your adventure. The tour concludes by reconvening at MEZCALICIOUS.MX, leaving you with recommendations for further exploration in CDMX or tips to continue enjoying mezcal and local culture.

What’s Included & Why It Matters

For just $27, this tour packs in a lot of value. You get two hours on a traditional trajinera, unlimited mezcal tastings, and a full meal with pulque, Mexican snacks, and beer—meaning your only extra expenses might be souvenirs or additional drinks. The inclusion of a souvenir cup and gifts makes the experience not just fun but memorable.

The presence of a local guide who can answer questions and tell stories enhances the authenticity. Reviews consistently praise guides like Irlanda, Ruben, and Daniela for making the experience lively and engaging.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive at least 10 minutes early at Embarcadero Las Flores—being punctual ensures you don’t miss out on the fun.
• Bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and a light backpack for photos and personal items.
• Consider bringing cash for souvenirs or extra snacks.
• The tour continues rain or shine, so dress accordingly—light rain won’t spoil the fun.
• If you’re sensitive to alcohol or have allergies, inform the guides beforehand.
• Children can participate in non-alcoholic activities, making this suitable for families with older kids.
• For celebrating a special occasion, you can request decorations or personalized touches—just ask in advance.

The Value of This Experience

In just a couple of hours, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of culture, adventure, and social fun. The price tag of $27 is very reasonable considering the quality of the guides, the variety of tastings, and the scenic boat ride. The experience feels thoughtfully curated, balancing educational content with playful engagement.

Most reviewers highlight how much they enjoyed the knowledgeable guides and the authentic flavors. One reviewer from Canada called it “one of the coolest things I’ve done in CDMX,” emphasizing how the insects and mezcal made it a “fun + diff” experience. Others appreciated the beautiful views and how the tour fostered a sense of camaraderie among fellow travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour

If you’re a curious traveler eager to explore Mexico’s lesser-known traditions, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters willing to try insects and for anyone interested in authentic mezcal with a story. It also suits those wanting a social, lively experience that’s different from typical sightseeing. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a fun activity will all find plenty to enjoy here.

This tour is less suitable if you’re pressed for time or prefer a more relaxed, in-depth cultural experience—its emphasis on fun and daring flavors means it’s best enjoyed with an open mind and a sense of humor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate in the non-alcoholic activities and enjoy the scenery, though the tasting focuses on mezcal and insects for adults.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 2.5 hours, including boat rides, sightseeing, tastings, and activities.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, comfortable clothes, cash, a credit card for souvenirs, and a small daypack for personal items.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now with the option to pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What drinks are included?
Unlimited mezcal, beer, water, and sodas are included throughout the tour.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should inform about?
If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, notify the tour provider in advance—special accommodations can often be arranged.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
Meet at Embarcadero Las Flores, marked by a purple arch. The guide will wear a badge with the MEZCALICIOUS.MX logo, and contact details will be shared beforehand.

What makes this tour unique?
It combines scenic canal rides, an engaging mezcal story, daring insect tasting, and traditional activities—all led by passionate guides in a fun, friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

This tour through Xochimilco’s wild side offers a lively, taste-bud-tingling look into Mexico’s vibrant culture. It’s not just about drinking mezcal; it’s about understanding its place in local traditions, trying something new, and sharing laughs with fellow travelers. The combination of scenic views, engaging storytelling, and daring flavors makes it a superb choice for those craving a genuine and memorable Mexican experience.

If you’re open to adventure, enjoy good company, and want to taste Mexico’s traditional drinks and snacks in a fun setting, this tour will not disappoint. It’s affordable, authentic, and full of surprises—just what every curious traveler hopes to find when exploring Mexico City.

You can check availability for your dates here: