Thanks to Yelp, we found Jardines de Mexico during an early October stay in Cuernavaca and…read moreXochitepec. Aside from the wedding were in town for, Jardines de Mexico was the highlight of the trip! It exceeded my expectations and was worth the time to get out there, walk the grounds for about two hours, and frantically get back to the hotel for our friend's wedding. Honestly, I wish we could have stayed longer.
Thought to be the largest garden in the world, Jardines de Mexico spans more than 51 hectares (~126 acres), located near the southwestern side of Lake Tequesquitengo. It features seven large-scale thematic gardens inspired by the design, flora, and essense of different countries. There's the cactus garden, the Japanese garden, the tropical garden, the "Labyrinth of the senses," the four seasons garden, "ConSentidos," and my unexpected favorite - the Italian garden.
We almost dismissed the Italian garden because we didn't know what to expect other than statues and maybe some tall Italian Cypress trees. My breath was *literally* taken away when we walked up the steps and overlooked the grand balcony and WOW. The view. Do not miss this garden. Another favorite of mine was the Japanese garden, along with the tropical garden. Engulfing yourself in nature - the plants, the flowers, the butterflies, the water elements - is a nice reprieve from the city. A lovely way to recharge and also get grounded.
Not that some gardens might be closed due to maintenecnce. A few gardens we passed through were prepping for private events (yes. they do private events such as weddings and corporate gatherings). They also host large-scale events, like concerts, and seasonal events (for the holidays).
Admission is $275MXP for visitors (13+), $225 seniors, and $125 for children (3 to 12 years). They offer a 20% ticket discount for locals of Morelos and teachers. You can buy tickets online or at their ticket office.
Wear comfy shoes, a hat (not sure if they allow umbrellas), sunscreen, sunglasses, up to one 1L bottled water, and a charged phone for pics!
Pros:
o There are shuttles/trams that take you to different parts of the park, even if it's over the next garden (which is still a walk).
o It's dog-friendly! There are cooling off/wading pools throughout the park in the warmer months, and also doggy water stations.
o There is plenty of parking, and the covered parking area is provided by mixed use solar panels (shade for patrons and energy for the park!).
o There are onsite restaurants and cafes, plenty of restrooms, some seating areas along the walking paths, a gift shop, and an art gallery.
What needs some improvement:
o They need more signage. You can easily get lost.
o There are no rideshares around, nor a line of taxis to get you out. If you call for a taxi, expect it to arrive within 45 min.
Pet policy:
o $70 admission fee, and one dog per adult
o Must wear a leash at all times; no retractable leashes allowed
o No dog food for sale, so bring your own.
o Clean up after your pet.
