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Containing the highest peak in Mexico City (3,900 meters), the Ajusco National Park is a dense pine and oak forest that is home to small mammals, reptiles, and several dozen bird species. It covers an area of just under 1,000 hectares and natural mountain springs provide the source of the Lerma and the Balsas rivers. The park can be accessed by going South along the Picacho-Ajusco road from the Periférico. The road leads to a circuit where one can drive all the way around the mountain and towards the State of Mexico. It is a popular day trip for people from Mexico City. In the winter, there is often snow on the mountain and the circuit road may be closed when conditions are icy.
Cumbres del Ajusco National Park is one of many national parks near Mexico City. The Ajusco is known for its high elevations reaching 3,900 metres (12,800 ft) above sea level and is visible from any part of Mexico city. The park is characterized by pine-oak forests and high mountain grassland. Cumbres del Ajusco means "watered grove peaks", an appropriate name for this mountainous region covered with lush green forest with many flowers due to a fair amount of precipitation. The Balsas and Lerma rivers begin in the heart of the Cumbres del Ajusco.
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Xitle
Hiking trails go up to the top of the dormant volcano and also lead through cool forests to a natural cave, an historic ranching areas, and other natural attractions in the park. The Xitle volcano erupted in 245 AD, destroying the Mesoamerican city of Cuicuilco and burying the entire area of what is today the Pedregal district of Mexico City under a thick layer of lava flow. The eruptions continued for 70 years until 315 AD. After Mexico City was conquered by the Spanish in the 16th century, settlers built many structures in Tlalpan and Pedregal using black volcanic stone cut from Xitle's hardened lava flow.
St. Andrew the Apostle Church
This parish church was built between 1770 and 1773, it was refurbished in 1965. The church attracts pilgrims who come to celebrate the feast of St. Andrew in November each year.
This chapel, dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel, was built in the 17th century. The church contains a large stone sculpture of St. Michael. A small, unassuming but tranquil place to be.
The largest amusement park in Mexico City. Roller coasters, thrill rides, shows and more.
Tlalpan Forest National Park
Large forested area with walking paths. 5km jogging path. Picnic areas available. Sunday flea market. No dogs, bicycles or scooters allowed.
A national forest (Natural Protected Area), it is a hilly forest 1 km west of the Centro Histórico. There are plenty of free courses and activities at the Casa de la Cultura (cultural centre). The impressive building facade was once located in the Condesa and was a pumping station used to bring water from Xochimilco to Mexico City.