State of Mexico · Morelos · Mexico
Welcome to Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, widely recognized as Zempoala National Park. Located in Ocuilan, State of Mexico, Mexico - on the border with Morelos - this national park is a primary hub for travelers exploring the lagoons, pine forests and rare wildlife of the region.
Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is located on the border between State of Mexico and Morelos, not far from Mexico City. It is the main recharge area of the Apatlaco River micro-basin aquifer. The lagoons and coniferous forests create breathtaking scenery. It is also the only place in Morelos where the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) has been recorded. The park covers 4,790 hectares and was established by decree on November 27, 1936.
Official Name
Lagunas de Zempoala National Park
Site Type
National Park
Country
Mexico
State/Province
Ocuilan, State of Mexico / Huitzilac, Morelos
Area
4,790 hectares
Google Rating
4.5/5 (5,444)
Address
2MHJ+Q2 Lagunas de Zempoala, State of Mexico, Mexico
Live conditions for the lagoon zone at about 2,800 m above sea level. Mountain weather can change within an hour - check before you set off.
Light rain
Updated: 02:15
Feels like
10°
Humidity
83%
Wind
1 km/h
Precipitation
0.1 mm
UV index
0
Tips for Today
Risks & Alerts
Clothing & Layers
Pack List
Next 7 Days
Today
16° 9°
100%
10 km/h
Sat
16° 8°
100%
8 km/h
Sun
18° 9°
85%
14 km/h
Mon
16° 9°
92%
12 km/h
Tue
17° 10°
89%
13 km/h
Wed
17° 9°
86%
11 km/h
Thu
17° 7°
89%
11 km/h
Open days are weekends and public holidays (09:00-18:00). Cold mornings and sudden rain are common; bring layers and a light rain jacket.
A practical table based on the region's long-term climate, hydrology and wildlife patterns. Weather varies from day to day - always confirm with the live forecast before travelling.
| Season & Period | Typical Weather | Lagoons & Water | Wildlife Watching | Gear & Planning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec - Feb Dry & cool | Clear, dry days with very cold mornings and nights; night frost possible. | Permanent lagoons remain at a stable, lower level; seasonal lagoons are mostly dry or very shallow. | Birds gather at the water at sunrise; footprints of mammals can be found along the shores. | Best for crisp photo light. Bring layers, gloves and sun protection; arrive by late morning for the warmest hours. |
| Mar - May Dry & warmer | Warmest and driest months; strong sun and a higher fire risk in the pine forest. | Water levels keep receding; some seasonal basins can dry out completely by late May. | Best in the early morning and late afternoon; reptiles bask in the sun and bird song increases. | Start very early and carry extra drinking water. Strictly respect fire rules and stay on marked trails. |
| Jun - Aug Rainy-season peak | Mild days with frequent afternoon showers or thunderstorms and sudden temperature drops. | The lagoons refill and look their fullest; seasonal lagoons reappear. | Amphibians such as salamanders become active and breed - look, but never touch or disturb them. | Waterproof shoes, a rain jacket and quick-dry clothes. Trails can be slippery; allow extra time. |
| Sep - Nov Rainy-season tail | Rain gradually eases; crisp, clear mornings with occasional drizzle. | Full water levels early in the season, then slowly stabilising. | Migration season - excellent for birdwatching; wildlife remains active before winter. | Fewer visitors and beautiful light for photography. Mornings are cool - carry a light jacket. |
Three field-tested ways to enjoy the park, matched to who is travelling and at what pace. All routes can be shortened or lengthened on the day.
Half day recommended
Suggested route
Good to know
Full day recommended
Suggested route
Good to know
2-3 hours recommended
Suggested route
Good to know
Two balanced plans built around the park's opening hours (09:00-18:00 on weekends and public holidays).
Arrive at the gate, pay the entrance fee and use the visitor centre facilities.
Gentle interpretive walk along the Zempoala lagoon shore and viewpoints.
Picnic or snack break at a designated rest area.
Second lagoon viewpoint (Quila) or a short optional horse ride.
Head back; stop for lunch in a nearby gateway town on the return road.
Enter early to beat the crowd; visitor centre and exhibits.
Interpretive trail loop in the Montezuma pine forest.
Picnic lunch at the camping-rest area with a lagoon view.
Rest during the warmest hours; optional horse ride or craft-shop stop.
Walk the far shoreline to observe wildlife and late light.
Sunset photo session at the main viewpoint.
Return to the car before closing time (18:00) and leave no trace.
Zempoala means 'many lagoons' in Nahuatl, as the park features seven lagoons: Quila, Zempoala, Compila, Tonatiwha, Seca, Prieta, and Huilapan. Only three are perennial lagoons; the rest are intermittent, their appearance and formation of large water bodies depending on rainfall.
Lagunas de Zempoala National Park was officially established by federal decree on November 27, 1936, becoming one of the earliest national parks in Mexico. The park spans Ocuilan in State of Mexico and Huitzilac in Morelos, covering 4,790 hectares, aimed at protecting this important freshwater lake ecosystem and coniferous forests.
The park is the main recharge area of the Apatlaco River micro-basin aquifer, one of the few perennial water bodies near the Mexico City metropolitan area. Dense forests, easy access, and three other natural protected areas in the region make it an important habitat for numerous endemic species, such as the cross-banded rattlesnake (Crotalus transversus).
This is the only place in Morelos where the ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) has been recorded. Other representative species include bobcat (Lynx rufus), raccoon (Procyon lotor), Steller's jay (Cyanocitta stelleri), Transverse Volcano rattlesnake (Crotalus triseriatus), Mexican salamander (Ambystoma altamirani), and Long-tailed Wood-partridge (Dendrortyx macroura).
Today, Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is an important ecotourism destination in Mexico. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, landscape meditation, environmental education, nature photography, wildlife observation and sport fishing. Park facilities include a visitor center, viewpoints, information modules, restrooms, interpretive trails and a craft shop. Please be a responsible and eco-friendly visitor, and follow the park rangers' instructions.
When visiting, start at the Visitor Center to learn about the park's ecosystem and seven lagoons; then hike the Interpretive Trails to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of lagoons and coniferous forests; rest at the Viewpoints to observe wildlife; and finally visit the Craft Shop for souvenirs. Please be a responsible and eco-friendly visitor, and follow the park rangers' instructions.
Name, memory and conservation - the threads that connect these lagoons to the people who lived beside them.
Zempoala comes from the Nahuatl word for "place of many waters" or "twenty waters". The name echoes in several towns of central Mexico and here it points to a landscape once dotted with far more water bodies than the seven that survive today.
According to an oral tradition retold by the National Water Commission (CONAGUA), Zempoatl was a young woman of Huitzilac whose story of love and loss ended in tears. Her grieving father and brothers wept day and night, and their tears filled the valley - giving life to the lagoons that still mirror the sky today. The park's name and the legend meet in the same idea: this is a place born of water.
The lagoons were declared Lagunas de Zempoala National Park in 1936 - one of the first national parks in Mexico - protecting almost 4,790 hectares of lagoons and Montezuma pine forest across the State of Mexico and Morelos. The decree was later adjusted in 1947 to define today's protected area.
Oral legend source: National Water Commission (CONAGUA), Government of Mexico: www.gob.mx/conagua
Discover the ideal route to explore Lagunas de Zempoala National Park and experience the breathtaking scenery of lagoons and coniferous forests.
Depart from Mexico City in the morning via Federal Highway 95 toward Cuernavaca, about 2 hours to the park entrance.
Upon arrival, visit the visitor center to learn about the park's ecosystem, seven lagoons and conservation information.
Hike along the interpretive trails, enjoy the lagoons and surrounding coniferous forests, and observe wildlife.
Rest at the viewpoints by the lake and take in the breathtaking scenery of lagoons and forests. Most areas are walkable, horse rental is also available.
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holidays 09:00-18:00 (Closed Mon-Fri)
Spring-Summer (Mild)
Low temperatures, bring warm clothing
Important Notes
Park only open on weekends and public holidays, verify latest information before visiting
Morning arrival avoids crowds, enjoy a more peaceful natural experience
95 MXN per person per day
Park Activities
Camping, hiking, nature photography, wildlife observation, sport fishing, landscape meditation, environmental education
Nearest airport: Mexico City International Airport (AICM). About 2 hours drive from the airport to the park entrance.
From Mexico City, take Federal Highway 95 (Mexico/Cuernavaca highway), then turn onto the access road to the park. About 20.3 km from Cuernavaca.
From Mexico City's Tasqueña bus terminal, take Pullman de Morelos to Cuernavaca, then transfer to local transport to the park.
Most areas are walkable, but horse rental is available inside the park.
Banks, ATMs, pharmacies, hospitals, markets/supermarkets and transport services available near the park.
Lagunas de Zempoala National Park is an important natural reserve in Mexico, only 20.3 km from Cuernavaca. Weekend visits recommended.
Neutral overview by service type - no business names, no endorsements. Availability changes with the season and opening days; always confirm on site.
The Charm of Lagunas de Zempoala National Park
Park panoramic view - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Lagoon scenery - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Coniferous forest ecology - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Interpretive trails - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Montezuma pine forest - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Lagoon reflection - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Ocelot habitat - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Natural landscape - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Seven lagoons - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Lake and mountain views - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Natural beauty - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Hiking path - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Lagoons and forests - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Nature conservation - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Endemic species - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Park entrance - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Camping area - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Natural scenery - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Viewpoint - Lagunas de Zempoala National Park, Ocuilan
Review information can be viewed via Google Maps (external link).
A beautiful natural paradise. The lagoons are crystal clear, and the surrounding pine forests and mountain views are breathtaking. Highly recommended for all nature lovers.
An excellent ecotourism destination. The lagoons and coniferous forests create a stunning landscape. Fresh air, peaceful environment, perfect getaway from Mexico City.
Very beautiful national park. The seven lagoons each have their own character, hiking trails are well maintained. Morning visits recommended. The 95 peso entrance fee is well worth it.
One of the most beautiful natural reserves in Mexico. The combination of lagoons and pine forests is unforgettable. It's also the only place in Morelos where the ocelot has been recorded! Definitely worth a visit.
Great nature experience. The lagoons are very beautiful, suitable for hiking and camping. Cold climate in fall/winter, remember to bring warm clothes. Horse rental is available and fun.
Beautiful national park, full of natural charm. Zempoala means 'many lagoons' in Nahuatl, and each of the seven lagoons has its own beauty. Unforgettable.
Interesting natural reserve. Experience the beauty of nature up close, the interpretive trails are educational. Recommend bringing your own food and water, limited facilities in the park.
Natural gem. Lagunas de Zempoala is one of the closest natural paradises to Mexico City. The scenery of lagoons and pine forests is unparalleled. A must-visit.
Everything you need to know before visiting Zempoala National Park in Ocuilan, State of Mexico.
2MHJ+Q2 Lagunas de Zempoala, State of Mexico, Mexico (20.3 km from Cuernavaca)
This visitor guide was compiled from official and authoritative sources to keep the information accurate and up to date.
For official updates and regional tourism information, visit Mexico / State of Mexico Official Tourism Portal
A national park is a living laboratory. Understanding why these lagoons exist helps us visit without leaving a mark.
Little Science Stories
The lagoons occupy natural depressions of an ancient volcanic landscape in the Sierra de Ajusco-Chichinauhtzin at about 2,800 m. Rain and thin volcanic soils slowly feed the basins, which is why the area is one of the few permanent water bodies close to Mexico City.
Only three lagoons are permanent (Quila, Zempoala, Compila); the other four are seasonal. They fill when the summer rains arrive and shrink or vanish in the dry season - a natural rhythm, not a sign of damage.
The Mexican salamander (Ambystoma altamirani) lives only in this mountain region. Habitat loss, water pollution, introduced predatory fish, and collection for the pet trade have pushed it to the edge. Seeing one here is a privilege - and a reason to stay quiet and keep the water clean.
Montezuma pines and mixed forest act as a giant sponge: they capture fog and rain, slow the runoff and recharge the aquifer below. Protecting trees is protecting the lagoons themselves.
Visitor Responsibilities