It is since 1917, when it was declared a national park by President Venustiano Carranza, a place of recreation and recreation for those who want to be in contact with nature.
Fifteen minutes from Mexico City is this wonderful wooded area with its hills, ravines and springs that supply water to the western area of the capital of Mexico. Its flora is mainly made up of trees with seductive aromas: pines, oyameles and oaks. Its fauna - now scarce - consists of raccoons, rabbits, squirrels and various birds. Unfortunately, the forest has deteriorated due to immoderate human looting and the effects of a barkworm plague that invaded it. Due to the height of the park, the weather is generally cold.
Once in the park, a visit to the former Carmelite convent built by Fray Andrés de San Miguel between 1606 and 1611, is almost mandatory. As a curious fact, in relation to the name of Desierto de los Leones, we must remember that religious orders such as the one that had its seat here had the purpose of life in community, obedience and poverty by meditating, so they moved away from the noise of the city . Because this is a deserted place, it was selected by the monks to build their convent there. And in relation to the word Lions, its origin is not yet known.
Outside the convent we find pleasant restaurants that offer delicious and simple specialties, handicraft shops, parking lots, outdoor eating areas with picnic areas and grills.
How to get: Mexico - Toluca highway. Col. San Mateo. Every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Gratuitous.
