Which volcano national park is located near Mexico City?

Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park is near Mexico City. It was established on November 8, 1935, and covers nearly 98,400 acres. The park is known for its iconic volcanoes, Iztaccíhuatl and Popocatépetl, offering stunning landscapes and hiking opportunities. It’s a great destination for nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore volcanic terrain close to the city.

Are any guided tours available in Mexico City’s national parks?

Yes, several national parks in Mexico City offer guided tours that provide insights into the park’s history, flora, and fauna. These tours are often led by knowledgeable guides who can enhance your visit with interesting facts and stories. It’s recommended to check in advance with the specific park or tour operators for availability and scheduling.

What activities can you do in Mexico City’s national parks?

Mexico City’s national parks offer a variety of activities for visitors. You can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking on well-marked trails. Some parks also have camping facilities and offer photography opportunities, especially in areas with scenic views and diverse wildlife. Each park may have unique activities, so it’s worth checking what each one offers before visiting.

How challenging is the hike at Nevado de Toluca?

The hike at Nevado de Toluca, an extinct volcano and Mexico’s fourth-highest peak, is quite challenging and best suited for experienced hikers. While the initial 3 kilometers are relatively easy and well-marked, the trail becomes demanding as it circles the crater at the summit.

11 incredible national parks in Mexico City

From volcano hikes and cave tours to high-altitude summits, find the best national parks in Mexico City for every type of traveler.

Chelsea Boyken

May 22, 2025·15 min read

11 incredible national parks in Mexico City

Surrounded by mountainous views, Mexico City is a paradise for outdoor lovers thanks to its easy access to numerous national parks. Discover volcanic craters in Nevado de Toluca or the majestic caves of Grutas de Cacahuamilpa. Ascend the iconic peaks of Iztaccihuatl-Popocatepetl or chase waterfalls in Desierto de los Leones.

With so many options, you might wonder, what national park is best in Mexico City? Whether you’re an avid hiker, archaeology enthusiast, or history buff, this guide rounds up the 11 best national parks in Mexico City to help you pick your next adventure.

1. Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park

See epic volcano views from Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park.

Best for: Volcano views and high-altitude hiking

This famous nature reserve is one of Mexico City’s top outdoor destinations, featuring everything from mighty volcanoes and rich biodiversity to world-renowned hiking trails. Just 2.5 hours from the city, its rugged Sierra Nevada mountain range makes the perfect day trip for hiking, off-roading, camping, ziplining, and more.

Address

Pl. de la Constitucion 9, Centro, 56900 Amecameca de Juárez, Méx

Opening hours

Tuesday–Friday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Saturday, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Sunday, 7:00 AM–4:00 PM

Mexico City: Guided Volcano Trek with Lunch

9 hours • Small group

From Mexico City: Hike Iztaccihuatl Volcano with an Alpinist

11 hours • Small group • Pickup available

Mexico City: 2-Day Iztaccihuatl Mountain Summit

2 days • Small group

Private Hike Near Popocatépetl Volcano from Mexico City

6 hours • Pickup available

New activity

2. Desierto de los Leones National Park

Photo: CC BY-SA 3.0

Discover a former monastery in Mexico City’s Desierto de los Leones Park.

Best for: A tranquil city escape

Located just 20 minutes south of Mexico City, Desierto de los Leones National Park is one of the oldest nature reserves in the region. Escape the bustling city center and venture deep into the densely wooded forests, where you can hike or bike along scenic trails. Chase waterfalls, uncover the ruins of a 17th-century convent, or admire one of the best views of Mexico City from 3,700 feet above sea level.

Address

Álvaro Obregón, Mexico City

Opening hours

Tuesday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Nevado De Toluca: Reach the Summit with Professionals

1 day • Small group

From Mexico City: 2-Day Pico de Orizaba Summit Trek

2 days • Small group

9 hours • Small group

Teotihuacan Pyramids Guided Walking Tour - 2 hours

2 hours • Small group

3. El Tepozteco National Park

4096px-Tepozteco_La_piramide_al_borde_del_barranco_entre_el_misterio_de_la_niebla-LOWRES.jpg

Photo: Ricardo Navarro

Visit Tepozteco Pyramid in El Tepozteco National Park near Mexico City.

Best for: Ancient ruins

Known for its diverse flora and fauna, ancient Aztec ruins, and hiking trails for all skill levels, El Tepozteco National Park is one of the best weekend getaways from Mexico City. Visit the majestic Tepoztlán Pyramid, perched on a mountainside at the Tepozteco Archaeological Zone, and enjoy sweeping views of the city below.

Address

Carretera Federal libre, Cuernavaca - Tepoztlan, 62520 Tepoztlán, Mor

Opening hours

Wednesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Nature Experience at Blue Hot Springs of Tolantongo Caves

14.5 hours • Small group

Tepoztlan: Las Estacas and Tepoztlan Tour

14 hours • Small group

Mexico City Private Tepoztlán Tour: Explore Ancient Ruins

8 hours • Pickup available

12 hours • Pickup available

4. La Marquesa National Park

Photo: Wikimedia

Explore La Marquesa National Park’s misty hills near Mexico City.

Best for: History buffs and avid walkers

Situated on the western edge of Mexico City, La Marquesa National Park encompasses the area between the Mexico and Toluca valleys. It offers a picturesque lake, a go-kart track, and the historic remains of the La Marquesa estate. With secluded areas for rock climbing, rappelling, and hiking, this national park is a must-visit for nature lovers and historians alike.

Address

México 15, Ciudad de México

Opening hours

Open daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM

1 day • Small group

From Mexico City: Full Day Volcano Crater and Lake Hike

1 day • Small group

Nevado de Toluca Hike: Volcano Hiking Tour and Temazcal

12 hours • Small group • Pickup available

From Mexico City: Private Hiking Tour at Nevado de Toluca

8 - 12 hours • Pickup available

5. La Malinche National Park

Photo: Luis Beltran

Enjoy panoramic vistas of La Malinche National Park’s volcanic peak.

Best for: Family-friendly hiking

Named after its towering volcano, La Malinche National Park is one of Mexico City’s most striking yet least-visited national parks. It’s an ideal starting point for adventurous travelers looking to acclimatize before tackling Mexico’s highest peaks. Despite being a hidden gem, La Malinche is a popular family-friendly day trip from Mexico City, thanks to its gentle slopes, accessible hiking trails, and the rich culture of the Tlaxcala region.

Address

90510 Huamantla, Tlaxcala

Opening hours

Open daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Puebla: Full-Day Malinche Summit Private Experience

12 hours • Pickup available

La Malinche Volcano: Hike to the Top and Explore Tlaxcala

14 hours • Small group

7 days • Small group

Mexico City: Hiking to la Malinche private day tour

14 hours • Skip the line • Pickup available

6. Nevado de Toluca National Park

Trek the scenic trails of Mexico City's Nevado de Toluca National Park.

Best for: Striking landscapes and summit treks

As the biggest national park in Mexico City, Nevado de Toluca National Park boasts postcard-worthy scenery, striking mountain peaks, and archeological sites. Drive up to Nevado de Toluca volcano, the country’s fourth highest peak, and discover two lagoons where pre-Hispanic ritual objects have been uncovered by divers. Explore the rugged volcanic terrain on a mountain biking tour or challenge yourself with a hike to Nevado de Toluca’s summit.

Address

Volcan Nevado de Toluca, 50259 Méx

Opening hours

Tuesday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM

1 day • Small group

1 day • Small group

Nevado to Ixtapan de la Sal: Epic Volcano DH

12 hours • Small group

New activity

12 hours • Small group • Pickup available

7. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park

Photo: Comisión Mexicana de Filmaciones

Discover Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park's vast cave system.

Best for: Spelunking and water activities

Discover one of the world’s largest cave systems at Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park, home to the famous Grutas de Cacahuamilpa Caverns. Take a guided tour through its narrow tunnels and expansive halls, or raft down the Amacuzac River. Whether exploring otherworldly caverns or chasing waterfalls, Grutas de Cacahuamilpa has something for everyone.

Address

Guerrero, Mexico

Opening hours

Open daily, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mexico City: Taxco and Cacahuamilpa Caves Day Trip

15 hours • Pickup available

Taxco: Discover the Cacahuamilpa Grottoes

4 hours

Taxco: Journey through Grutas de Cacahuamilpa

4.5 hours • Small group

Taxco, Cacahuamilpa Caves and Cuernavaca Full-Day Tour

1 day • Small group

8. Cumbres del Ajusco National Park

Catch breathtaking views of Mexico City from Cumbres del Ajusco National Park.

Best for: A mountain getaway from the city

The peaks of Cumbres del Ajusco National Park can be seen from almost anywhere in Mexico City, rising 12,895 feet above sea level at the highest point. Climb Ajusco, an extinct volcano, for one of the best views of the Valle de Mexico and Mexico City. With various hiking trails and a well-maintained dog park nestled in pristine forests and grasslands, it’s no wonder this national park is a popular escape for locals and tourists.

Address

Cerro Pico del Águila km 21 Col. Héroes de 1910, 14714 Ciudad de México, CDMX

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

CDMX: Teotihuacan Hot Air Balloon with Transfers & Breakfast

4.5 - 11 hours

Certified by GetYourGuide

Booked 9 times yesterday

Xochimilco: traditional boat tour, culture and fun.

2.5 hours • Skip the line

From Mexico City: Teotihuacan Pyramids w/ Private Transport

5.5 hours • Small group

Torre Latinoamericana Admission by MIRADOR

1 day • Skip the line

9. Lagunas de Zempoala National Park

Photo: Wikimedia

Camp overnight by the lagoon in Lagunas de Zempoala National Park.

Best for: Lagoon hikes and camping

With seven breathtaking lagoons, lush forests, and aromatic flora, Lagunas de Zempoala National Park in the Morelos region showcases the best of Mexico’s biodiversity. Take a boat ride across the crystal-clear lagoons or hike the emerald shores. Learn about local plant life, including rare herbs and mushrooms, at the visitor center or camp overnight in the park.

Address

Morelos, Mexico

Opening hours

Saturday–Sunday, 9:00 AM–6:00 PM

10. El Chico National Park

2048px-Parque_nacional_El_Chico_(Big_cross_boulder)-LOWRES.jpg

Photo: Rafael Saldaña

El Chico National Park is a top spot for rock climbing enthusiasts.

Best for: Rock climbing

Just two hours from Mexico City in Hidalgo, El Chico National Park is a renowned ecotourism destination with mountaineering, hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking excursions. Adventure seekers will find endless activities within the country’s oldest forest preserve. The nearby town of Mineral del Chico is the perfect base for exploring the park, with unbeatable views, a rich mining history, and authentic Mexican cuisine.

Address

Carretera 105 Pachuca -Tampico con Desviacion a Mineral del Chico Km 7.5, Mineral del Chico, Hgo

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

From Mexico City: Tolantongo Caves Small Group Tour

14 hours • Skip the line • Small group

Certified by GetYourGuide

Booked 3 times yesterday

CDMX to Grutas Tolantongo: Oasis of Hot Springs

13.5 hours • Small group • Pickup available

From CDMX: small group tour to the Tolantongo Caves.

14 hours • Pickup available

Mexico City: Tolantongo Caves, hot springs, and natural pools

14 hours • Small group • Pickup available

11. Bosencheve National Park

Photo: Ildeamitail

Enjoy the serene beauty of Bosencheve National Park's lake.

Best for: Biodiversity and nature walks

With its rich flora and fauna, cascading waterfalls, and towering coniferous forests, Bosencheve National Park is one of the best nature reserves in Mexico City for biodiversity. Straddling the border of Michoacán and Mexico State, the park is part of the monarch butterfly’s migratory route. Hikers and photographers will love the trails along the scenic shorelines of Bosencheve’s two lakes, Laguna Verde and Laguna Seca.

Address

State of Mexico, Mexico

Opening hours

Open 24 hours

From Mexico City: Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary El Rosario Tour

12 hours

Monarch Butterfly: Biosphere Reserve and Xmas Town

14 hours • Small group • Pickup available

Mexico City: Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Day Tour

1 day • Skip the line • Pickup available

Monarch Butterfly Mexico Reserve Sanctuary & Valle de Bravo

12 hours • Private group • Pickup available

About the author

Chelsea is a Kentucky-born freelance writer based in the United States. She’s spent the last five years creating content about traveling, nature, and sustainability. On any given weekend, you can find her camping, hiking, or kayaking in the great outdoors.

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11 incredible national parks in Mexico City

1. Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park

Best for: Volcano views and high-altitude hiking

Address

Opening hours

Hike in Iztaccíhuatl-Popocatépetl National Park

2. Desierto de los Leones National Park

Best for: A tranquil city escape

Address

Opening hours

Discover the best hiking trails near Mexico City

3. El Tepozteco National Park

Best for: Ancient ruins

Address

Opening hours

Tour the Tepozteco Archeological Zone

4. La Marquesa National Park

Best for: History buffs and avid walkers

Address

Opening hours

Find outdoor activities in the Toluca region

5. La Malinche National Park

Best for: Family-friendly hiking

Address

Opening hours

Discover top sights in La Malinche National Park

6. Nevado de Toluca National Park

Best for: Striking landscapes and summit treks

Address

Opening hours

Get outdoors in Nevado de Toluca National Park

7. Grutas de Cacahuamilpa National Park

Best for: Spelunking and water activities

Address

Opening hours

Go spelunking at Grutas de Cacahuamilpa Caverns

8. Cumbres del Ajusco National Park

Best for: A mountain getaway from the city

Address

Opening hours

Uncover the best viewpoints of Mexico City

9. Lagunas de Zempoala National Park

Best for: Lagoon hikes and camping

Address

Opening hours

10. El Chico National Park

Best for: Rock climbing

Address

Opening hours

Find the top activities in the Hidalgo region

11. Bosencheve National Park

Best for: Biodiversity and nature walks

Address

Opening hours

Explore things to do in Michoacán

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