Desert of the Lions Travel Guide
Plan your visit to Desert of the Lions with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and more.
- Introduction to Desert of the Lions
- List of Places to Visit in Desert of the Lions
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Desert of the Lions
- Best Things to Do in Desert of the Lions: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Desert of the Lions
- Food and Drink Scene of Desert of the Lions
- Where to Stay in Desert of the Lions: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Desert of the Lions: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Desert of the Lions
- Best Time to Visit Desert of the Lions
- Do’s and Don’ts of Desert of the Lions
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Desert of the Lions: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Desert of the Lions
- Where to Go Next from Desert of the Lions: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Desert of the Lions
Desert of the Lions is a natural reserve located in Mexico City, in Central Mexico. Its name comes from the lion sculptures that were placed at the entrance of the park in the 19th century. Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Desert of the Lions is a unique getaway from the bustling city and is a must-visit attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.
List of Places to Visit in Desert of the Lions
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Desert of the Lions is rich in culture and history. Some of the must-visit places in the park include:
- Museo del Carmen - This museum is located within a former convent and displays works of art and religious paraphernalia dating back to the 16th century.
- Ex Hacienda San Miguel Regla - This 16th-century hacienda is a historical landmark in the region and offers guided tours.
- Ex Convento del Desierto de Los Leones - This former convent is a well-preserved example of colonial architecture.
Natural Attractions of Desert of the Lions: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Desert of the Lions boasts of stunning natural beauty, making it a popular destination for outdoor lovers. Some of the best places to visit include:
- La Marquesa National Park - This park offers panoramic views of the valley and is a great spot for hiking, biking, or just relaxing amidst the picturesque scenery.
- Malinalco - This charming town is dotted with ancient ruins, waterfalls, and natural pools, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Springtime in Desert of the Lions - The park is most beautiful during spring when flowers are in bloom, giving visitors a spectacular display of color and fragrance.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Desert of the Lions
Desert of the Lions is a paradise for hikers and bikers. The park offers many trails and routes of varying difficulty levels. Some of the popular hiking routes include:
- El Camino Real - This trail runs through the historic town of Malinalco and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Presa Madín - This trail is perfect for bird watchers and is a great place to spot various species that inhabit the region.
- Cerro de la Cruz - This trail takes you to the highest point of Desert of the Lions and offers stunning panoramic views of the region.
Best Things to Do in Desert of the Lions: Activities and Tours
Desert of the Lions offers a range of exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in the park include:
- Horseback Riding - This is a popular way to explore the park and its surroundings. There are numerous stables offering guided tours through the park.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride - Take a hot air balloon ride over the park and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the beautiful landscape.
- Zip-lining - Adventure seekers can zip through the park’s canopy on an exhilarating zip-line.
Week-Long Itinerary for Desert of the Lions
Day 1: Explore the cultural attractions of the park, including Museo del Carmen and Hacienda San Miguel Regla.
Day 2: Take a horseback ride or hike along El Camino Real to Malinalco, a town famous for its historic ruins.
Day 3: Zip through the park’s canopy and enjoy panoramic views of the region.
Day 4: Marvel at the spectacular floral display during springtime in Desert of the Lions.
Day 5: Go on a hot air balloon ride over the park.
Day 6: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along Presa Madín or Cerro de la Cruz.
Day 7: Take a day trip to the nearby town of Tepoztlán, famous for its ancient pyramid and vibrant market.
Food and Drink Scene of Desert of the Lions
Must-Try Dishes
The local cuisine of Desert of the Lions is a blend of traditional Mexican and colonial Spanish influence. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Tlayudas - A popular street food made with a large, crispy tortilla, topped with refried beans, carne asada, and cheese.
- Gorditas - A type of Mexican pastry filled with cheese, beans, or meat.
- Mole - A traditional Mexican sauce made with chili peppers, chocolate, and spices.
Local Beverages
Desert of the Lions offers a variety of refreshing drinks for visitors. Some of the local beverages include:
- Pulque - A fermented drink made from the sap of the maguey plant.
- Tequila - A traditional Mexican alcohol made from the blue agave plant.
- Agua de Tamarindo - A refreshing drink made from tamarind pods.
Where to Stay in Desert of the Lions: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Desert of the Lions offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some of the popular choices include:
- Hotel Maria Fernanda - A charming hotel located in the town of Tres Marias, just minutes away from the park.
- Hostal Real de los Leones - A budget-friendly hostel located within the park’s vicinity.
- Casa de Piedra - An elegant guesthouse located in the historic town of San Francisco.
What to Buy in Desert of the Lions: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Visitors to Desert of the Lions can take home a piece of Mexico’s culture and history. Some of the things to buy include:
- Handicrafts - Hand-woven textiles, pottery, and intricate woodcarvings are popular handicraft items sold within the park.
- Tequila and Mescal - The park’s proximity to tequila-producing areas means that visitors can buy authentic tequila and mescal.
- T-shirts - Commemorate your visit to Desert of the Lions with a stylish t-shirt depicting the park’s iconic lion sculptures.
Local Culture and Customs of Desert of the Lions
Desert of the Lions is rich in history and culture, and visitors should be aware of the following customs:
- Language - Spanish is the official language and is widely spoken in the park.
- Religion - Catholicism is the dominant religion, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- Holidays and Festivals - The park celebrates numerous religious and cultural festivals throughout the year, including Semana Santa and Dia de Los Muertos.
Best Time to Visit Desert of the Lions
The best time to visit Desert of the Lions is during the spring (March to June), when the park is in full bloom and the weather is mild. The park is also open throughout the year, allowing visitors to explore its beauty in all seasons.
Do’s and Don’ts of Desert of the Lions
Do:
- Dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking or biking.
- Carry insect repellent and sunscreen.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
Don’t:
- Litter in the park.
- Touch or disturb the wildlife.
- Enter restricted areas.
Safety and Health
Safety in Desert of the Lions
Desert of the Lions is generally safe for visitors, and the park has a good security system in place. However, visitors should:
- Be cautious when hiking or biking, especially on difficult terrain.
- Avoid walking alone at night.
Health in Desert of the Lions
Visitors to Desert of the Lions should drink bottled water and avoid eating food cooked in unhygienic conditions. Visitors should also carry a basic first aid kit and any necessary medication.
Getting to Desert of the Lions: Transportation Options and Logistics
Desert of the Lions is easily accessible by various means of transport.
Airports Near Desert of the Lions
The nearest airport is Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX), located in Mexico City.
Bus Stations Near Desert of the Lions
Several local and long-distance buses ply between Mexico City and Desert of the Lions. Some of the popular bus services include Primera Plus and ETN.
Other Options
Taxis are readily available in Mexico City and can take visitors to the park.
How to Get Around in Desert of the Lions
The best way to get around Desert of the Lions is on foot or by bike. The park’s many trails are well-marked, and visitors can also hire a guide for hiking or biking.
Where to Go Next from Desert of the Lions: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Desert of the Lions is located near several popular destinations, including:
- Tepoztlán - A charming town famous for its ancient pyramid and vibrant market.
- Cuernavaca - Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Cuernavaca boasts of beautiful gardens, colonial architecture, and a rich cultural heritage.
- Mexico City - The capital city of Mexico is a vibrant metropolis with world-renowned museums, restaurants, and landmarks.
Conclusion
Desert of the Lions is a must-visit attraction for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife, it offers visitors a unique experience that is both rejuvenating and educational. Plan your trip to Desert of the Lions today and discover the beauty of Mexico’s Central Region.
