Xochimilco: Trajinera Canal Party, Guacamole Contest & Drinks

Summary

Xochimilco canal ride with music guacamole contest unlimited drinks

You’ll float down Xochimilco’s canals on a bright trajinera with locals guiding you through music, laughter, and stories. Compete in a guacamole contest, snack on fresh fruit, and sip unlimited drinks while hearing legends about haunted islands. Expect spontaneous dancing and new friends—this is one of those days that sticks with you.

What’s the experience like?

“Try this one — more lime?” That’s what Rosa said as she handed me the bowl, her hands still sticky from mashing avocados. We’d barely pushed off from the dock in Xochimilco when the music started up — something cumbia-ish, but honestly I was too busy watching the colors of all those trajineras bumping along next to us. The air smelled like river water and cut limes. I didn’t expect to laugh so much just trying to pronounce ‘chapulines’ (Li laughed when I tried to say it in Mandarin — probably butchered it), but that’s how it goes here.

Our guide (I think her name was Mariana?) kept us stocked with cold beers and little plastic cups of mezcal. She told stories about the canals — how Xochimilco is like Mexico City’s lungs, or at least its party lungs. At one point we drifted past the Island of the Dolls. It looked even weirder than I’d imagined — faded plastic faces tangled in branches. Someone played a mariachi song on their phone and for a second everything felt both strange and familiar at once.

I got competitive about the guacamole contest (no shame), but honestly my version was way too salty. There were snacks everywhere — oranges, chips, even pulque if you wanted to try it. The sun kept shifting behind clouds and sometimes you’d get these bursts of warm light on your face, then back to shade. There were bathroom stops (thank god), and they had sunscreen and sanitizer if you forgot yours. It felt easy to just be there, floating along with people from all over, everyone sharing food and bad jokes.

By the end I was full of fruit and probably too much tequila, but mostly just happy-tired from talking with strangers who didn’t feel like strangers anymore. Sometimes I still hear that cumbia beat in my head when I’m back home doing dishes — kind of wish I could bottle that feeling.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Xochimilco trajinera ride and party

• Board trajinera boat
• Enjoy 2-hour canal ride
• Learn Xochimilco history and culture
• Sail past Island of the Dolls
• Join guacamole contest
• Enjoy unlimited drinks and snacks
• Dance and socialize with travelers

Top questions

How long does the Xochimilco canal tour last?

The trajinera ride lasts around 2 hours.

Are unlimited drinks included during the Xochimilco party?

Yes, unlimited beer, tequila, mezcal, sodas, juice, sparkling water, and bottled water are included during the tour.

Is there a guacamole contest during the tour?

Yes, travelers can join a guacamole-making contest using fresh ingredients provided on board.

Can dietary preferences be accommodated?

Yes, all dietary preferences can be accommodated—just let your guide know in advance.

Is transportation or pickup included?

The tour includes options for pickup; check details when booking.

Are bathroom stops available during the canal ride?

Yes, bathroom stops are included during the tour.

Is this Xochimilco tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible; there is a small step onto the trajinera.

What should I bring for the day trip to Xochimilco?

Wear comfortable clothes and non-slip shoes; bring some cash since there are no ATMs at Xochimilco.

What’s included

Your day includes snacks like fresh sliced fruit and chips; all ingredients for making your own guacamole; unlimited beer, tequila, mezcal (plus soft drinks); pulque tasting; use of speaker for music; sunscreen; hand sanitizer; bathroom stops; utensils; bottled water—and friendly local guides who keep things running smoothly from start to finish.