Desierto de los Leones Ex-Convent

Nestled in the picturesque mountains on the outskirts of Mexico City and surrounded by a dense coniferous forest lies the Ex-Monastery of Desierto de los Leones. This site is located within Mexico's first national park, established in 1917. Its intriguing name translates to "Desert of the Lions," though the word "desert" here refers not to a dry landscape, but to a secluded and quiet place sought by Carmelite monks for prayer and meditation away from the city's bustle.

The monastery complex was built in the 17th century and today stands as an impressive blend of colonial architecture and wild nature. Massive stone walls, arched vaults, and quiet inner courtyards create an atmosphere of tranquility and historical immersion. Walking through its grounds, it is easy to imagine the life of the monks who once called this place home. The thick forests surrounding the monastery only heighten the sense of being disconnected from the modern world.

Visitors can explore various parts of the former monastery, including the main cloister, chapels, cells, and even a mysterious cellar that is the subject of many local legends. This historic site attracts not only architecture enthusiasts but also nature lovers. The surrounding national park is a popular destination for hiking, picnics, and simply relaxing outdoors, offering guests coolness and peace.

The Ex-Monastery of Desierto de los Leones is a unique attraction where history is harmoniously intertwined with nature. It offers a rare opportunity to take a journey back in time and enjoy the silence, all while being very close to the busy capital. It is an ideal place for those who want to combine cultural enrichment with outdoor recreation.

For up-to-date information on opening hours, ticket prices, and scheduled events, we recommend contacting the national park administration directly. You can use the following contact details:

A visit to the Ex-Monastery of Desierto de los Leones offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in history and enjoy nature. Inside the monastery itself, you can explore its well-preserved rooms: wander through the courtyards and peek into the former monks' cells and chapels. The underground corridors and catacombs are of particular interest, adding an element of mystery to the visit. Additionally, temporary exhibitions, cultural events, and guided tours are often held on the monastery grounds, providing deeper insight into the religious and cultural life of the colonial era.

Beyond the monastery walls, a vast national park awaits, perfect for outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking and cycling trails of varying difficulty leading through the dense coniferous forest. It is a wonderful place for leisurely walks, bird watching, and discovering local flora and fauna. Many visitors come here for picnics to escape the city bustle surrounded by picturesque landscapes.

This location is excellent for family vacations and for those looking for beautiful spots for photoshoots. You can simply relax in the fresh air or set off on a full-scale hike through the surrounding area. The park also features restaurants where you can sample local cuisine after a long walk. Thus, a trip to Desierto de los Leones is a harmonious combination of cultural education and natural relaxation.

The Ex-Monastery of Desierto de los Leones is located about 30 kilometers southwest of the center of Mexico City, making it an excellent option for a day trip from the capital. There are several ways to get there, depending on your budget and preferences.

The most convenient way is by car or taxi. The drive from the city center takes about an hour, depending on traffic. You should take the Mexico-Toluca highway (Carretera México-Toluca), following signs for Desierto de los Leones. There is a visitor parking lot within the national park. Keep in mind that cell service can be weak around the monastery, so calling a taxi for the return trip may be difficult.

For a more budget-friendly journey, you can use public transportation. First, take the metro to Observatorio (Line 1) or Tacubaya stations. From there, transfer to a bus or shared taxi (colectivo) heading toward Desierto de los Leones park. On weekends, special bus routes may also run, for example, from the Viveros metro station, but their schedules should be checked in advance. Traveling by public transport takes longer but offers a more authentic local experience.

As the monastery and surrounding park attract many visitors on weekends and holidays, it is recommended to plan your trip in advance. To avoid large crowds and traffic at the entrance, it is best to leave early in the morning. This is especially important if you plan to use public transport, as it can get very crowded.

The history of the Desierto de los Leones monastery dates back to the beginning of the 17th century. It was founded in 1606 by members of the Discalced Carmelites order, who sought a secluded place for prayer and spiritual practice far from the noise of growing Mexico City. The name of this place often raises questions: the word "Desierto" (desert) in this context refers not to an arid landscape but to a secluded, deserted place ideal for monastic life. The "Leones" (lions) part comes not from predators, but from the surname of the Leon brothers, who were patrons and helped fund the construction of the monastery.

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the monastery flourished, becoming an important spiritual and cultural center. It served not only as a place for prayer but also as a refuge for religious figures during turbulent times. However, its secluded life came to an end in 1810 during a period of significant historical events in Mexico. It was then that the monks were forced to leave their cloister, and shortly after, the monastery was nationalized by the government.

After the monks' departure, the complex began to fall into decay and was partially destroyed. A new chapter in its history began in the 20th century when a large-scale restoration was carried out. Thanks to these efforts, the former monastery was saved from complete ruin and transformed into a museum and an important monument of colonial architecture. Today, it is open to all, allowing visitors to touch its rich history and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the site.

When planning a visit to the Ex-Monastery of Desierto de los Leones, you should consider how much time you want to devote to different activities. To fully explore the monastery complex and enjoy a leisurely walk through the park's scenic surroundings, it is recommended to set aside at least 3-4 hours. This will be enough time to see the main buildings, peek into the mysterious cellars, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic site.

If your interest is focused solely on the architecture and history of the monastery itself, the tour may take about 1.5–2 hours. However, to truly appreciate the uniqueness of this place, it is worth spending time in the surrounding national park as well. For nature lovers and those who enjoy long walks or hiking on forest trails, it is better to plan a full-day trip. This will allow you to explore the natural beauty without rushing, have a picnic, and completely disconnect from the city hustle.

The Ex-Monastery of Desierto de los Leones and the adjacent national park are open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This allows guests to plan their visit for any convenient day of the week. To fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this historic site and take beautiful photos without the crowds, it is recommended to arrive in the morning hours.

Despite the set schedule, it is strongly recommended to check for up-to-date information on opening hours before your trip. The schedule may change depending on the season, weather conditions, as well as due to public holidays or private events held on the complex grounds. You can verify the details on the official website or by using the contact phone number provided in the relevant section.

A visit to the Ex-Monastery of Desierto de los Leones is a fascinating journey in itself, but its location in the picturesque outskirts of Mexico City opens up even more opportunities for exploration. Exploring nearby attractions will help you get a more complete picture of this part of Mexico, where history, nature, and modern life coexist harmoniously.

By combining a visit to the monastery with a trip to other interesting spots, you can turn a standard excursion into a full and diverse day. Whether it's a walk through a modern park, a shopping trip, or a visit to an amusement park, there are options for every taste in the vicinity of Desierto de los Leones. Below is a list of nearby attractions that could complement your itinerary.