CDMX | parque quetzalcóatl

// MEXICO // CDMX //

parque quetzalcóatl

a whimsical art park that pays homage to its namesake feathered serpent deity

Perched high up in the mountains west of the city, Parque Quetzalcóatl is a colorful escape and tranquil retreat from the bustle below. The drive up to the understated park entrance feels like the winding streets in the Hollywood hills, Spanish style houses and cheerful bougainvillea.

The passion project of architect Javier Senosiain, and still very much in construction, Parque Quetzalcóatl is only open to private guided tours at the moment, which makes for an even more special and peaceful experience. It’s also home to a few residences, including 2 Airbnbs that get exclusive 24 hour access to the park. Once finished, it will be open to the public to enjoy.

The whimsical gates tease whats to come, and from the entrance, you’re immediately met with an expansive panorama of the plateau beyond.

The park feels like what paradise should be: filled with luscious plants, saturated with natural colors, the sounds of nature and music blending together, the smells of flowers wafting lightly through the air. Fresh berries that can be picked and eaten straight from the bushes. Organic shapes and winding paths to guide you through discovery and wonder at every turn. And so many places to pause and sit in nature, soak up the sun, feel a light breeze, and heal.

Every detail is thoughtfully designed using natural materials sourced locally. The water flows with gravity through the park, connecting one section to another. The park is divided into 3 kingdoms: plant, mineral and animal. As of 2024, only the plant and mineral kingdoms are near completion. Plant Kingdom has an impeccably mosaic’ed walls that organically snake around a stained glass dome that floods a plant-filled room with color. Mineral Kingdom is literally a sparkling cave of gems leading into an impressive natural screening room. The vision is for the Animal Kingdom to be a farm, filled with animals running free.

The tours are guided by students of Senosiain, who offer insight into the construction and design, the inspiration, the natural elements and the community vision. Over two hours, you walk through the various sections of the park, culminating with fresh fruit and Tajin under the shade of trees with a view over the park. A perfect, peaceful half day trip from the city.

the details

Address	Ret. Villa Los Naranjos 53297, Paseos del Bosque, 53297 Naucalpan de Juárez, Méx., Mexico
Website	https://en.parquequetzalcoatl.com/
Hours	by appointment only
Price	$$$, currently it is only open to private tours (usually 2-6 people with a guide), for $1600 pesos (~$78) per person (with discounts for nationals and children or students) that goes toward the preservation and maintenance of the park
Aesthetic	fantastical, colorful, with a nod to heritage