Xochimilco

Xochimilco is an administrative district in the southern part of Mexico City, recognized for its network of canals that wind through residential neighborhoods and farmland. The area sits at an elevation of around 2240 meters and features interconnected waterways that form a system stretching over a hundred kilometers, used daily by locals and visited by travelers seeking a different side of the city.

The Xochimilca people founded the settlement in the 10th century and developed a system of floating gardens to farm the swampy terrain. In the early 15th century the area was incorporated into the Aztec empire and maintained its agricultural importance through colonial times into modern Mexico.

The district maintains 422 annual festivals that combine Catholic and civic traditions, reflecting the strong community bonds among local inhabitants.

Visitors board flat-bottomed wooden boats at several docking points and travel through the canals past fields and villages. Mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded and offer a quieter experience on the water.

Small boats with musicians often drift past on the canals and play alongside tourist boats for a fee. Farmers still sell their fresh produce directly from boats to restaurants and markets across the city.

Location: Mexico City

Elevation above the sea: 2,238 m

Part of: Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco

Website: http://xochimilco.cdmx.gob.mx

GPS coordinates: 19.27500,-99.13889

Latest update: December 15, 2025 00:27