Park sights in Mexico
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A
Parque Ecológico de Xochimilco
Despite Xochimilco’s Unesco World Heritage status, encroaching urbanization and illegal settlement along the canals continue to strain this unique habitat. At least one endemic species of the zone, the axolotl (a fishlike salamander) is in danger of extinction. Thus in 1991 the Ecological Park of Xochimilco was established, about 3km northeast of downtown Xochimilco, both to recover the fragile ecosystem and to provide a retreat for stressed-out urbanites. Covering some 2 sq km, the protected area comprises a botanical garden and artificial lakes, home to a variety of waterbirds. Stroll the pleasant pathways, or rent a bicycle or a pedal boat for more extensive…
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B
Alameda Central
Created in the late 1500s by mandate of then-viceroy Luis de Velasco, the Alameda took its name from the ''álamos'' (poplars) planted over its rectangular expanse. By the late 19th century, the park was lit by gas lamps and graced with European-style statuary and a bandstand – it became the place to be seen for the city’s elite. Today the Alameda is a popular refuge, particularly on Sundays, when families stroll its broad pathways and gather for open-air concerts.
On the south side of the Alameda, facing Av Juárez, is the Hemiciclo a Juárez, a gleaming white semicircle of marble columns around a regally seated statue of Benito Juárez (1806–72). Born a poor Zapotec…
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Parque Ejidal San Nicolás Totolapan
A fine access to Sierra de Ajusco is the Parque Ejidal San Nicolás Totolapan, a forested area of 23 sq km between altitudes of 2700m and 3740m. Crisscrossed by more than 50km of trails carpeted with pine needles, the park is popular with local mountain-bikers and hikers. The ejidatarios (communal landowners) set up the parque ejidal in the late 1990s chiefly to derive some benefit from their land’s popularity. Though not an untouched wilderness, it is well-maintained and staff point out that it’s safe, meaning that guards keep an eye on activities within. Outside the park’s boundaries, they warn, it is not uncommon for hikers to be attacked by bandits.
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C
Viveros de Coyoacán
The Viveros de Coyoacán are the principal nurseries for Mexico City’s parks and gardens. The 390,000-sq-m swath of greenery, 1km west of central Coyoacán, is popular with joggers and great for a stroll, but watch out for belligerent squirrels! From metro Viveros, walk south (right, as you face the fence) along Avenida Universidad and take the first left, Avenida Progreso.
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D
Parque Nacional Fuentes Brotantes
A national park built around natural springs. At the top of the trail, about 1km southwest of Av Insurgentes, is a large reservoir inhabited by ducks.
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