Myths and legends about Xochimilco
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ALMUDENA ISUNZA LÓPEZ
Ystories about Mexico ou may know some creepy legends like “La Llorona”, or the love story of Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl, but you might not know about the ghosts and creatures of the trajineras of Xochimilco.
The canals of Xochimilco have became a massive touristic destination. Since the 1930s, many people have drowned along the waterways due to accidents or tragedies.
Some boatmen claim to have seen some mysterious shadows, strange shapes and creepy whistles coming from abandoned trajineras that appear out of nowhere in the fog. They have also seen figures aboard these boats emerging from the trees on the “chinampas” when no one else is around.
Local traditions says that the oral beliefs in Xochimilco preserve the souls of those who lost their lives. People believe that the water trapped the souls of those who fell in or sailed alone in the deep, dense darkness of the night.
Many still believe in this myths and pass their fears and beliefs down from generation to generation. People who remain afraid when night falls over Xochimilco’s fog or when they see empty trajineras.
It’s up to you to decide whether you are strong or weak to believe in the creepy creatures of Xochimilco.
Cohen, V. (2025, abril 19). 6 leyendas nacidas en los lagos de Xochimilco. Sopitas.com. https://www.sopitas.com/mientra s-tanto/6-leyendas-nacidas-enlos-lagos-de-xochimilco/ Leyendas de fantasmas en Xochimilco. (2022, marzo 2). El Universal. https://www.eluniversal.com.mx/d estinos/leyendas-de-fantasmasen-xochimilco/
Think La Llorona is scary? Wait until you see what’s floating in the canals. Behind Xochimilco’s colorful boats lie ghost trajineras, shadowy figures, and trapped souls lurking in the fog. (Relax, the spirits won't bite—unless you drop your taco). Are you brave enough to sail after dark, or will you hide behind the mariachi band?
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