Welcome to the creepiest patch of paradise in Mexico City: the Xochimilco Island of Dolls. Yes, it’s real, it’s weird, and it’s hauntingly unforgettable. Tucked deep in the canals of Xochimilco, the Island of the Dead Dolls (Isla de las Muñecas) is not your average day trip, unless your average day involves hundreds of mutilated, dirt-streaked dolls staring blankly at you from the trees.
Whether you're into legends, urban horror, or just want to shake up your Mexico City itinerary, here’s everything you need to know about the Island of Dolls Xochimilco Mexico—from its chilling origin story to how to actually get there without getting cursed.
Decades ago, a man named Don Julián Santana moved to a small, remote island in the Xochimilco canals. Legend has it, he found a young girl who had tragically drowned nearby. Not long after, he saw a doll floating in the water—he believed it belonged to the girl. He hung it on a tree to honor her spirit.
Then came another doll… and another… and another.
He claimed the girl's spirit haunted him, and to appease her, he kept hanging up dolls he found in the canals (or bartered for) on trees, fences, boats—anywhere, really.
Fast-forward a few decades: the Island of Dolls Xochimilco Mexico is now a bizarre shrine of dismembered dolls. Arms missing. Eyes gouged. Weathered by time. It's a terrifying tribute to a ghost no one’s quite sure existed. Oh, and fun fact? Don Julián died in the same spot where he said the girl had drowned. Coincidence or not?
Ready to creep yourself out in broad daylight? You can only reach the Island of the Dead Dolls by boat—specifically, on a trajinera (those colorful, flat-bottomed boats) that cruise through the Xochimilco canals.
Starting point: Head to the Embarcadero Cuemanco or Embarcadero Fernando Celada in Xochimilco.
Duration: A round trip to the island takes 3–4 hours. It’s not exactly close, but hey—haunted islands aren’t supposed to be convenient.
If you’re not into haggling with boat operators, you’re in luck—there are several Xochimilco Island of the Dolls tours that take you on a colorful boat tour, making the whole thing a lot smoother.
Ideal for: Couples, families, photographers, and travelers who want the ride entirely to themselves
Ideal for: Solo travelers, budget-conscious visitors, and social explorers who enjoy guided experiences
Ideal for: First-timers, families, or anyone who wants the whole experience bundled from start to finish
The island is deep within the Xochimilco canal network and is only accessible by a trajinera boat ride from piers like Embarcadero Cuemanco or Fernando Celada.
You’ll need to hire a trajinera for a 3–4 hour round trip. Some tours include stops at the island and commentary about its creepy history.
Yes, but only if your tour includes permission. The island is private property, so not all trajineras allow visitors to step off the boat.
If your boat tour includes the island stop, no separate entry tickets are needed. Always confirm with your tour provider before booking.
Not in a haunted-house way, but the atmosphere is eerie. The hundreds of decaying dolls hanging in the trees definitely give spooky vibes.
Visiting the Island of Dolls in Mexico is safe. Xochimilco is a popular tourist destination, and your trip will be secure if you go with a licensed boat operator and follow basic safety precautions.
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