The Island of Dolls in Mexico: Xochimilco’s Creepiest—and Most Fascinating—Day Trip
If you’re traveling in Mexico City and want a day trip that’s a little off the beaten path—okay, a lot off the beaten path—there’s one place that stands out for all the eeriest reasons: La Isla de las Muñecas, or The Island of Dolls.
This bizarre little island sits in the middle of the canals of Xochimilco, a region known for its colorful boats, floating gardens, and festive atmosphere. But tucked away beyond the mariachi music and party barges is a location that’s anything but lighthearted.
Creepy. Mysterious. And totally unforgettable.
Let’s dive into the story of Mexico’s infamous Island of Dolls—what it is, how it came to be, and whether it’s worth visiting on your next trip.
So… What Is the Island of Dolls?
La Isla de las Muñecas is exactly what it sounds like: a small island covered in hundreds of decaying, weather-worn dolls, hanging from trees, nailed to posts, and scattered throughout the site.
Many are missing limbs, have hollow eyes, or are draped in cobwebs and moss. And yes—it’s as disturbing as it sounds. Some are baby dolls, some are Barbie-like, and others are homemade or long-forgotten toys from decades past. Some appear to stare directly at you as you walk by.
And yet, there’s something captivating about it too. There’s a tragic legend, a bit of urban folklore, and a peek into how grief and superstition can turn into a full-blown cultural phenomenon.
The Legend Behind the Island
The story begins with Don Julián Santana Barrera, a man who chose to live a reclusive life on this tiny island in the mid-1900s. According to local legend, Julián discovered the body of a young girl who had drowned in the canals near the island. Shortly afterward, he spotted a floating doll in the water, which he assumed belonged to the girl.
To honor her spirit—and perhaps to protect the island from evil—he hung the doll on a nearby tree.
Over the years, Julián continued to hang dolls across the island. He believed they warded off evil spirits, and some accounts suggest he thought the little girl’s spirit was still present. Others say the dolls spoke to him, whispering or crying at night.
Julián eventually died on the island—some say he drowned in the same spot where the girl perished years earlier.
Since then, the island has become a curiosity for visitors and a cult destination for lovers of ghost stories and the macabre.
Visiting La Isla de las Muñecas: What to Expect
When I (Ashley) visited the Island of Dolls a few years ago, I didn’t quite know what to expect. I love unique travel experiences, but dolls seriously freak me out—and let’s just say this place had my skin crawling.
The island is small, but the atmosphere is intense. It’s quiet, damp, and eerily still. You hear the sound of birds, water lapping the boat, and maybe a doll creaking in the breeze. It’s like something out of a horror movie, but it’s very, very real.
Would I go again? Honestly, probably not. Once was enough for me. But I’m so glad I went. There’s something powerful about standing in a place where grief, legend, and belief have intertwined into something so… haunting.
How to Get to the Island of Dolls
To reach La Isla de las Muñecas, you’ll first need to get to Xochimilco, about 45 minutes to an hour from central Mexico City depending on traffic. Once there, head to one of the trajineras—colorful flat-bottomed boats that operate like gondolas.
Most visitors hire a boat for a few hours and negotiate the route ahead of time. Not every trajinera goes to the Island of Dolls by default, so be sure to ask specifically for it (say “La Isla de las Muñecas”).
Here are a few tips:
🚤 Hire a private trajinera: The island is far from the main tourist circuit, so a longer trip (up to 4 hours roundtrip) is needed.
💵 Negotiate the price: Expect to pay between $1,500–2,000 MXN (~$85–115 USD) for the full excursion. This usually covers your boat for a group, not per person.
🕒 Go early in the day: It’s spookier—and hotter—in the afternoon. Mornings are less crowded and cooler.
🧃 Bring snacks or drinks: Many locals sell food and beverages from their boats, or you can pack your own.
Is It Safe? Is It Worth It?
The Island of Dolls is not dangerous, but it’s definitely not your typical tourist spot. The walkways are uneven, the dolls are fragile (please don’t touch!), and it’s a bit of a trek.
That said, it’s absolutely worth it if you:
Love offbeat or haunted travel spots
Want to experience a deeper layer of local legend and folklore
Enjoy photography (this place is a dream for moody shots)
Are curious about places that blur the line between history and myth
If dolls or eerie places give you the creeps? Maybe stick to the floating gardens, mariachi boats, and micheladas. But if you're up for something truly one of a kind, this is it.
Bonus: What Else to Do in Xochimilco
Even if the Island of Dolls isn’t your thing, Xochimilco is still a must-visit while in Mexico City. The canal system is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a colorful, festive atmosphere that’s basically a floating party.
Here’s what else to check out:
🎶 Mariachi boats: Hire a band to perform live while you float.
🌺 Floating gardens (chinampas): Learn about this ancient Aztec farming system still in use today.
🍻 Michelada vendors: Grab a spicy beer cocktail as you cruise.
🧺 Picnic on board: Bring your own food or buy from floating vendors (fresh elotes, tacos, and even mole!).
It’s one of the most vibrant cultural experiences you can have in Mexico City, and one that balances out the eeriness of La Isla de las Muñecas.
Final Thoughts: Would You Visit the Island of Dolls?
Love it or hate it, the Island of Dolls is one of those places you never forget. Whether you’re there to chase ghost stories, explore urban legends, or just snap a few hauntingly cool pics, it’s a side of Mexico that’s rarely seen in guidebooks.
It’s spooky. It’s strange. And it’s uniquely Xochimilco.
So tell us—would you visit the Island of Dolls? Or would you rather stay far, far away?
👇 Let us know in the comments or on Instagram @PeachyPassports. We’re dying (pun intended) to hear what you think.
