Cuahilama Archaeological Site

Where the stones tell stories of water and corn

AREA

What Makes It Special?

Perched atop a hill overlooking the Xochimilco Valley, Cuahilama is a little-known yet deeply symbolic site. It is home to more than 50 petroglyphs depicting human figures, animals, and calendar and ritual motifs, bearing witness to the Xochimilco worldview centered on water, fertility, and time.

Did You Know…?

Cuahilama is believed to have been a ceremonial and astronomical observatory for the pre-Hispanic peoples of the southern Valley of Mexico. The engraved stones date from the Postclassic period (900–1521 AD), and some feature depictions of the Tonalpohualli (the 260-day ritual calendar).

Don’t Miss

The hike to the site is challenging but rewarding. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and get ready for a panoramic view of Xochimilco and the lake that once was. It’s a great idea to combine this with a cultural visit to nearby indigenous villages, such as Santa Cruz Acalpixca.

Plan Your Visit

C. 2 de Abril, Col. Rinconada, Xochimilco, 16510 Ciudad de México, CDMX

Opening Hours:

Free access, no official supervision (visit during the day)

Admission:

Free admission

Recommended Visit Time:

2 to 3 hours (including the hike)

Ideal For:

Archaeology enthusiastsHikersLovers of natural and cultural history

How to Get There

Taxqueña Metro + Xochimilco Light Rail + Tulyehualco Bus

Santa Cruz – 16-minute walk

Head to the Santa Cruz Acalpixca neighborhood in Xochimilco. Calle 2 de Abril has Wi-Fi hotspots

An area with few signs featuring pre-Hispanic petroglyphs. Ideal for guided hikes or for those who are well-prepared.

Available Services:

Archaeological Site

Outdoor Area

Partial Accessibility

You Can Also Find It In:

Discover More Nearby

Museum

Xochimilco Archaeological Museum

980 m away • 13 min walk

Recommended Experience

We selected this experience for its direct connection to this museum or the surrounding cultural environment.

CDMX: Teotihuacan Balloon Flight with Optional Pyramids Tour

Fly over the Teotihuacan Pyramids on a hot-air balloon ride, and enjoy a champagne toast and breakfast. Upgrade with transportation options or a guided visit to the ruins and the Guadalupe Shrine.

Book securely with:

GetYourGuide

You May Also Explore

Museums

Explore all the City Museums

Areas

Explore the City Through Its Cultural Neighborhoods

Themes

Discover Museums Based on Your Interests

Types

Find Museums by Specialty

Routes

Explore Curated Cultural Routes

Explore

Freely Explore Using Your Own Filters