Getting to explore Jamaica market with Luz was fantastic. She showed us great food while helping us explore Mexico City’s culture.
Mexico City Food Tour: Jamaica Market
Navigate a working market where food, flowers, and history meet
The Finer Details
A longstanding cornerstone of local food and shopping culture, the Mexican market is a must-see when visiting Mexico City. During this 3-hour Jamaica Market Tour, led by a local insider or food expert, we'll dive inside the market as we feast both our eyes and stomachs, developing a deeper appreciation for the wide range of textures, colors, and flavors present in Mexican culture and cuisine.
[Our expert guide] and this market walk were deeply interesting and engaging. It's a rare chance to see Mexican culture behind-the-scenes.
Mexico City Jamaica Market Tour
Our Mexico City market tour will take place at Mercado Jamaica, one of the most historic and popular markets in the city. Originally a trading post for the Aztecs and established in the 1950s in its current form, the market has a rich history as a prime location on an ancient canal pathway. Our expert guide will begin by talking about the historic and current-day importance of the marketplace for Mexican people. We will then dive into the heart of the market to talk about—and sample—a number of fresh ingredients on offer, from moles to tortilla dough and pozole corn.
A Floral Journey
What makes Jamaica Market unique is its abundance of cut flowers and arrangements. It’s the go-to wholesale flower market for the city, and especially important during Dia de los Muertos celebrations in early November. Our expert will talk about the significance of local festivals and funeral rites, which relate to the floral theme at the market.
Explore Like a Local
Our expert guide will facilitate discussions with local vendors who have served the culinary needs of Mexico City for decades and enjoy sharing their story. We will also discuss the changing face of neighborhood markets, which goes along withthe changing shopping habits of locals. Along the way, we will sample a range of Mexican produce, much of it unknown outside of the country, to examine how these products fit into Mexican culinary traditions.
Time and belly-space permitting, we may end our exploration in a nearby food establishment to taste a prepared dish such as a huarache, an open-faced taco shaped like a shoe, or carnitas to culminate the discussion.
Want a full tour of Mexico's prepared dishes? Try our Roma Food Tour, which explores the past, present and future of Mexican cuisine.
Take Aways
At the end of the walk, we will have gained a better understanding of the crucial role markets play in shaping local identity, while leaving with happy taste buds and florally-feasted eyes.
FAQ
Are tastings included?
Yes, along the walk you will taste a variety of spices, ingredients and produce. There is a small tasting fee that will be added per person during checkout so that your guide will take care of all money transactions during the tour (and you can enjoy to the fullest!).
I have dietary requests. How do I communicate them?
Please let us know in advance (in the notes section during checkout or by emailing us) any dietary requirements so your guide can plan accordingly.
Where You’ll Go
From iconic landmarks to tucked-away local favorites, these are the places you’ll explore and experience firsthand with your Expert.
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Jamaica Market
What’s Included As Standard
Here’s a look at what your tour covers, plus anything you’ll want to consider arranging separately, so you can plan with confidence.
Included
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English-speaking expert guideTours led in English, offering you unbroken understanding throughout.
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Intentionally sized groupsA smaller group means more time for conversations and questions.
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Tickets and entrance feesAll entry tickets included (unless clearly stated otherwise).
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HeadsetsHeadsets are included on tours that need them, so every word can be heard.
Not Included
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GratuitiesWe encourage tipping as a way to thank your guide after your experience.
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Food and drinkRefreshments are only included during a tour when clearly noted.
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Transportation to and from the meeting pointUnless noted, pre- and post-tour transport isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
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Hotel pickup or drop-offUnless noted, travel to or from accommodation isn’t included - this service can be added by request.
Where You'll Explore
Make the Most of Your Tour
Some helpful advice for getting the most from your experience, from practical prep to small on-the-day tips.
Dos:
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Check the weather and dress appropriately
- Bring a bottle of water (no glass)
- Feel free to ask your Expert anything
Don'ts:
- Bring firearms or weapons
- Bring sharp objects (e.g. knives, swiss army knives, switchblades, hiking sticks)
- Dress inappropriately to enter religious sites or sacred monuments
Any questions? You can always
contact us.
Don’t just take our word for it
Raquel was prepared, knowledgeable, and friendly. She heard our preferences and made sure we were able to try everything we wanted. She was also kind and thoughtful!
Luz was an outstanding, knowledgeable and fun guide. We enjoyed her enthusiasm.
Book a Tour
Let Your Curiosity Shape Your Journey
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