Mexico City/Iztapalapa

Iztapalapa is in the eastern part of Mexico City. It is a rough and tumble area that is the most populous borough in the city, as well as the poorest, and most crime-ridden. It has a long history, going back to the time when years were counted in single digits, and it has some unique attractions that a curious and adventurous traveler would enjoy, but it is also a poster child for urban decay and must be approached with diligence. See Stay safe.

During the colonial era, Iztapalapa was populated almost entirely by indigenas (Nahua) and was agrarian with chinampas and canals that connected to Xochimilco. In the 20th century, the area became heavily urbanized and the population changed to almost entirely mestizo.

Get in
Iztapalapa is well connected by public transit including Metro, Metrobus, and combis. Metro will be the best option for travelers.

There are several Metro stations in Iztapalapa close to places of touristic interest. Stations include:
 * Metro de la Ciudad de México (logo) version 2019.svg Line:
 * Metro de la Ciudad de México (logo) version 2019.svg Line:
 * Metro de la Ciudad de México (logo) version 2019.svg Line:

Get around
Use Metro to get to most sites of interest. Uber is a good choice. If you use local taxis, be careful to use known sitios and take precautions (see Stay safe).

See








Passion play
The Passion Play of Iztapalapa has been performed every year since 1843, though it wasn't originally a passion play to commemorate the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. It began during a cholera epidemic as a celebration by locals giving thanks to God for sparing them from the disease and death sweeping the rest of the country. Over time, the epidemic was forgotten and it became a pure Easter celebration taking place from Good Friday through the entire Semana Santa. Today, Iztapalapa's Passion Play is one of the largest and most famous in Latin America, drawing up to 4 million visitors to the neighborhood for the 1-week performance and celebration. During this time, the borough is generally safe for tourists as the police force deploys in full force.

Drink
Sales of alcoholic beverages are suspended for the entire week of Semana Santa when the annual Passion Play is presented.

Drinking tap water is always risky in Mexico, but particularly so in Iztapalapa where much of the water is referred to as agua de tamarindo because of its dirty brown color.

Sleep
There is a camping area in Cerro de la Estrella National Park.

Stay safe
Iztapalapa is a rough neighborhood. Do not wander far from crowds or into nearby neighborhoods. Stay near touristic sites: this is not the part of town to be adventurous in.

Combis and urbano buses may not be safe for outsiders in this part of town. Be vigilant.

Go next

 * La Villa de Guadalupe
 * Xochimilco