Xochimilco Boat Tour – Tasting Ancient Edible Insects Superfood

Set out on a captivating journey through the serene canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO-listed waterway in the heart of Mexico City. Glide along the floating gardens, or chinampas, and disembark on the island of Chinanpa to learn about the rich history and vibrant culture of this unique region. Savor the flavors of Mexico, from crunchy corn chips to a tasting of edible insects – a superfood with ancient roots. But the true adventure awaits as you delve deeper into the enduring traditions and lively spirit that make Xochimilco a truly unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• Guided boat tour through the iconic canals of Xochimilco, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Mexico City.
• Opportunity to disembark on an ancient Aztec-era island called chinanpa and learn about its rich history.
• Tasting of three popular edible insects: Maguey worm, Oaxacan ant, and grasshopper.
• Exploration of complex and enigmatic flavors of Mexican salts and a mezcal tasting.
• Lively game of Mexican lottery or bingo played on the boat, immersing guests in the country’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Tour Details

The Xochimilco Boat Tour is a captivating 2.5-hour guided journey through the iconic canals of Mexico City. Patrons embark on a gondola-style boat and explore the UNESCO-listed waterways, disembarking on an ancient island called chinanpa. Along the way, they’ll learn about the rich history and culture of this unique region.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and available for private groups. Snacks like Mexican candies and corn chips are provided, as well as a selection of tacos, salads, and unlimited drinks including water, soda, beer, tequila, and mezcal. This immersive experience promises an adventure filled with culinary discoveries and cultural insights.

Inclusions

As part of the Xochimilco Boat Tour, patrons can expect an array of delightful inclusions to enhance their experience. They’ll indulge in classic Mexican candies and crunchy corn chips as snacks.

For the main meal, they’ll savor either regular or vegetarian tacos, or a refreshing salad. To quench their thirst, unlimited beverages are provided, including water, soda, beer, tequila, and mezcal.

The highlight of the culinary journey is the tasting of three popular edible insects: the Maguey worm, Oaxacan ant, and grasshopper. Plus, they’ll explore the complex and enigmatic flavors of Mexican salts, such as orange, and three "surprise" varieties.

This truly immersive tour offers a tantalizing taste of Mexico’s vibrant culinary heritage.

Tasting Activities

Guests embark on a captivating tasting journey during the Xochimilco Boat Tour, sampling three of Mexico’s most popular edible insects. The adventure begins with the maguey worm, a delicacy found in the heart of the agave plant. Next, they’ll savor the Oaxacan ant, known for its tangy and citrusy flavor. The finale is the crunchy, toasted grasshopper, a beloved snack across Mexico.

Alongside the insect tasting, guests indulge in a Mezcal tasting, exploring the smoky, complex flavors of this iconic Mexican spirit. The tour also showcases a selection of mysterious Mexican salt flavors, from zesty orange to undisclosed surprises, adding depth and intrigue to the culinary experience.

Boat Ride Through Canals

Gently, the colorful gondolas glide along the tranquil canals of Xochimilco, transporting guests on a captivating journey through Mexico’s vibrant waterways. As the boat drifts, passengers marvel at the ancient floating gardens, or chinampas, that dot the landscape.

The guide shares the rich history and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site, sparking a sense of wonder. Guests disembark on one of the islands, where they can explore the lush environment and gain a deeper understanding of the traditions that have endured for centuries.

The boat ride offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to truly connect with the essence of Xochimilco.

Disembarking on Chinanpa Island

The boats gently come to a stop at the edge of the ancient Chinanpa island. As guests disembark, they’re greeted by a lush, verdant landscape that seems to have been untouched by time.

Four remarkable sights capture the attention:

1. Towering Aztec-era structures, their intricate carvings and weathered stone a testament to the island’s rich history.
2. Vibrant flowers and medicinal herbs thriving in the fertile soil, a testament to the island’s enduring agricultural tradition.
3. Locals tending to their chinampas, the floating garden plots that have sustained this community for centuries.
4. The faint echoes of laughter and music, a reminder of the island’s enduring cultural vitality.

History and Culture of Canals

The canals of Xochimilco have borne witness to centuries of captivating history and vibrant cultural traditions. Carved out by the ancient Aztecs, these waterways were the lifeblood of the region, facilitating trade, transportation, and agriculture.

Today, they remain a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the local community. As you glide along the canals, you’ll catch glimpses of the iconic chinampas – floating gardens where farmers cultivate a bounty of fresh produce. The air hums with the sounds of mariachi music and laughter, transporting you to a bygone era.

Enjoy this living museum, where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony.

Mexican Lottery and Bingo

As the boat glides along the tranquil canals, a new adventure awaits – the lively game of Mexican lottery or bingo. The guide hands out colorful cards, and the excitement builds as the group prepares to play. The rules are simple: watch for the numbers called out, and mark them off on the cards. The winners shout "¡Lotería!" or "¡Bingo!" as the traditional Mexican melodies fill the air.

The game is a beloved tradition, steeped in the country’s rich cultural heritage. Players eagerly anticipate the calling of iconic images like:

1. El Gallo (The Rooster)
2. La Rosa (The Rose)
3. El Sol (The Sun)
4. La Estrella (The Star)

The laughter and camaraderie create a truly immersive experience, transporting the group to the heart of Mexico’s vibrant culture.

Important Information

Xochimilco’s boat tour adventure begins at Canal 237 in San Jerónimo, Xochimilco, approximately 90 minutes from Mexico City’s heart. Visitors have a 15-minute tolerance window to arrive at the meeting point, as the tour operates rain or shine.

Once aboard the colorful gondola, explorers will enjoy the rich history and culture of the ancient canals. The boat ride provides a unique perspective, allowing guests to disembark on a chinanpa, an ancient floating island.

With an adventurous spirit, participants can expect to taste the mysterious flavors of Mexican salts, savor the smoky notes of mezcal, and discover the culinary delights of edible insects – all while embracing the vibrant traditions of this captivating region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Vegetarian/Vegan Menu Available for This Tour?

Yes, the tour offers a vegetarian or vegan menu option. Guests can enjoy regular or vegetarian tacos, salad, and a selection of Mexican candies and corn chips as part of the included food and snacks.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the boat, as the tour includes an array of included snacks, meals, and unlimited beverages. This allows everyone to fully enjoy the vibrant Xochimilco experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour has no minimum age requirement, allowing adventurous travelers of all ages to embark on this culinary and cultural journey through Xochimilco’s vibrant canals. Families and thrill-seekers alike can savor the unique flavors and experiences on this captivating tour.

Can I Purchase Additional Items During the Tour?

Absolutely! Guests can purchase additional items throughout the tour, from extra drinks and snacks to unique souvenirs and local crafts. The knowledgeable guides will happily point out the best spots to explore these optional add-ons.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?

Yes, there’s a 10% discount for booking the Xochimilco boat tour in advance. Secure your spot early and save, then get ready for an immersive adventure exploring Mexico City’s ancient canals and tasting exotic edible insects.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the vibrant world of Xochimilco, where ancient traditions and modern flavors collide. Drift through the iconic canals, savor the mysterious delights of edible insects, and uncover the rich heritage of this UNESCO-listed wonder. This captivating experience promises to transport you to a realm where the past and present coexist in harmonious wonder.