Mexico City: Cable Car Tour, Pulque Tasting & Local Life

Summary

Ride the cable car above Mexico City’s hills for pulque & stories

You’ll ride Mexico City’s cable car above colorful barrios with a local guide, wander Cuautepec’s lively streets full of murals and history, hike through an ecological reserve known as the city’s “last lung,” and share fresh pulque at a hilltop pulquería. Expect moments that stick with you long after — small kindnesses, unexpected views.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we hopped on the cable car in Mexico City. One minute you’re in the thick of Centro, dodging traffic and street vendors, and then suddenly you’re gliding above a patchwork of rooftops — pinks, blues, all sorts of colors. Our guide, Luis, pointed out how each neighborhood had its own style. He laughed when I tried to pronounce “Cuautepec” (I definitely didn’t nail it). The air up there felt different — not exactly fresh, but lighter somehow, with that faint smell of corn tortillas drifting from below.

The barrio itself was buzzing. Kids chasing each other between houses stacked at impossible angles on the hillsides, old VW Beetles rattling past painted murals. Luis told us about the Chichimecas and Toltecs who lived here ages ago — he even showed us a spot where they’d found ancient artifacts. I liked how he didn’t rush; we just wandered, watching daily life unfold. There was this moment when an old man waved at us from his stoop and offered a piece of spicy tamarind candy. I still think about that small gesture.

After a short cab ride (the driver joked about his clutch surviving another day), we reached the edge of the ecological reserve — they call it Mexico City’s “last lung.” The climb wasn’t too tough, though my legs complained a bit near the top. Up there, everything went quiet except for wind in the trees and distant city sounds. We ended up at this pulquería that looked like someone’s living room — mismatched chairs, faded photos on the wall. The pulque itself was… well, odd at first. Kind of tangy and thick? But after a few sips (and some encouragement from Luis), it grew on me. There was laughter from a nearby table; families sharing pitchers like it was Sunday lunch.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cablecar ride and cultural exploration

• Ride cable bus to popular barrio
• Observe colorful neighborhoods and street art
• Explore Cuautepec's steep hills and streets
• Take cab up to natural reserve
• Enjoy views at Mexico City's last lung

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Mexico City cable car tour?

No, but public transportation options are available nearby.

How long is the hike in the ecological reserve?

The hike is short and suitable for all fitness levels.

Is pulque tasting included in this tour?

Yes, pulque tasting is included for guests aged 18 and over.

What neighborhoods does the cable car visit?

The tour visits Cuautepec barrio in northern Mexico City.

Are there vegetarian or non-alcoholic options during tastings?

The tour includes traditional Mexican candy; ask your guide about non-alcoholic options.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Pulque tasting is only for adults 18+, but other activities are family-friendly.

Will I see street art during this day trip?

Yes, you’ll see outstanding street art throughout Cuautepec barrio.

What’s included

Your day includes riding Mexico City’s cable car with a local guide through colorful neighborhoods, exploring Cuautepec’s historic streets and murals, hiking in an ecological reserve known as the city’s “last lung,” plus pulque tasting (for guests 18+) at a hilltop pulquería and traditional Mexican candy along the way.