Wondering where you can escape the city without leaving Mexico City? That place is San Nicolás Totolapan. This neighborhood is one of the four original towns of Magdalena Contreras. It offers a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty.
San Nicolás Totolapan got its start in 1535. After the Mexican Revolution, it became an ejido in 1924. President Lázaro Cárdenas extended the public land in 1938. Totolapan comes from the Náhuatl phrase for turkey on water. You can even find its glyph in the Mendocino Codex.
The Parish Church of San Nicolás Totolapan remains central to the town. It is dedicated to San Nicolás Tolentino. The church was rebuilt in 1924 in the original Baroque style. It stands on pre-Hispanic ruins. Inside you can see a stone with ancient inscriptions. You will also find an image of the Christ of Mercy, an oil painting of the Patron Saint, and an image of the Christ Child. The town celebrates its founding on July 14. It also celebrates the feast of Saint Nicolas on September 10.
San Nicolás Totolapan was once a Barrio Mágico. It remains a captivating place to explore. Take an afternoon to wander its center and side streets. Do not miss the mural by Ariosto Otero Reyes. It is titled El campo no aguanta más. It means The field can’t take it anymore. Look for it on the Ejidal Building near the town square. It was painted in 2003.
San Nicolás Totolapan is also a natural sanctuary. The Parque Ejidal Totolapan opened in 1998. It is a space for recreation and family time. It is a green lung in Magdalena Contreras.
You can enjoy many activities in San Nicolás Totolapan. These include ecotourism activities and sports. The park is known as the place of birds in Náhuatl.
Cycling is a favorite activity here. The park has downhill tracks and cross-country trails. Ziplining offers a thrilling experience. Fly through the air and enjoy the green landscapes.
Lose yourself in the cedar maze. Enjoy adventure activities in harmony with nature. You can also experience the forest on horseback. Feel the ups and downs of the terrain.
Fishing is a fun family activity. You can taste your catch at the park restaurant. The park is safe for hiking. There is permanent security. Reach the viewpoint for amazing landscapes.
Extend your stay in San Nicolás Totolapan by renting cabins. There is also a camping area. The Parque Ejidal San Nicolás Totolapan is a natural area. It is known for its aesthetic and ecological care. You will find forests of oak and oyamel. The climate is temperate with summer rains. The Eslava River runs through it.
The park has over 150 kilometers of trails. Enjoy them by bicycle or on foot. Inaugurated in 1998, it was the first social tourism project in the city’s conservation area. In 2006, the ejido lands became a Community Ecological Reserve.
So come explore San Nicolás Totolapan. Experience its history and natural beauty. It is a unique treasure within Mexico City.