El Nido de Quetzalcóatl

El Nido de Quetzalcóatl ranks among Mexico’s most remarkable architectural wonders. This serpentine structure covers 5,000 square meters of uneven terrain in Naucalpan. I’ve seen many unique properties, but this creation, which took six years to complete until 2007, stands unmatched.

The massive structure resembles Quetzalcóatl’s body and houses 10 luxurious apartments. Each unit spans 200 square meters. The main structure’s interior reaches 6.50 meters high and 8.60 meters wide. Multicolored ceramic beads adorn its surface, creating an iridescent effect that mirrors the quetzal bird’s beauty. On top of that, it connects to Parque Quetzalcóatl, a vast 20-hectare ecological park that acts as a green lung northeast of Mexico City.

This hidden mansion reveals its charm through the serpent’s “back” entrance. A suspension bridge links the apartments together, creating a surreal experience. In this piece, you’ll discover everything about visiting this architectural masterpiece, from booking your stay to learning about its otherworldly spaces.

How to Find El Nido de Quetzalcóatl

You’ll need to plan ahead to find this architectural marvel. El Nido de Quetzalcóatl’s location at Calle Bosque de los Remedios 29, Paseos del Bosque, sits quietly in Naucalpan de Juárez.

Location and directions

The trip from Mexico City’s vibrant center takes about 40 minutes by Uber from Condesa. The property’s challenging terrain makes it an exclusive spot that rewards those who make the effort to visit. Access remains restricted – you must be a resident, book an Airbnb stay, or join a private tour.

Guided tours run Monday through Saturday with two time slots available: 10:30 AM and 1:00 PM. Each tour lasts two hours, which gives you plenty of time to explore this amazing space. The administration team can be reached at +52-5519880781 to confirm your visit.

Best time to visit

Late October through May offers the best time to explore El Nido de Quetzalcóatl. Mexico City’s dry season brings mild temperatures and clear skies during these months. These weather conditions make it perfect to wander through the extensive gardens and admire the serpentine architecture.

Weekday mornings work best as crowds tend to be smaller. The complex welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM, but stays closed on Sundays.

Here’s everything you need to know before finalizing your plans:

• Book your tours ahead via email at hola@parquequetzalcoatl.com
• Tour prices are 1,600 pesos for foreign visitors and 1,300 pesos for Mexican nationals
• The private parkland covers 1,500 acres

Booking Your Stay at El Nido

You can book this architectural masterpiece only through Airbnb. I’ve stayed at this unique property and want to share everything you need to know about booking your serpentine sanctuary.

Current prices on Airbnb

El Nido de Quetzalcóatl’s nightly rates start from USD 385, but prices change with seasons and occupancy. The apartments can fit up to eight guests comfortably. Each unit gives you plenty of space with five bedrooms and four bathrooms. You’ll find two units available – one is slightly bigger and costs more.

What’s included in your stay

Your stay comes with amenities that make the experience special. Each morning starts with free breakfast essentials – fresh bread, seasonal fruits, and coffee or tea. You’ll get a fully-equipped kitchen and filtered water.

The property gives you tailored concierge services to make your stay better. These services have:

• Airport transfers
• Grocery shopping assistance
• Flower arrangements
• Personal chef services (upon request)
• Daily cleaning service (scheduled)

Each apartment has a living room, dining area, and laundry facilities. You can ask the host to stock the fridge with breakfast items or bring in a local chef for authentic Mexican meals. Food delivery services like Rappi and Uber Eats serve the property too.

Booking tips and requirements

Plan ahead since rooms fill up fast. The property needs you to stay at least two nights. The concierge team welcomes early requests for special occasions to give you uninterrupted service.

The property’s unique layout needs attention. Apartments have staircases without guardrails, and the tiles can get slippery even though they’re grippy. Many stairs and steep inclines make this place tough for guests who have trouble moving around.

Book during weekdays or shoulder seasons to get better rates. Mexico City is just an hour away, making this architectural wonder perfect for a longer Mexican adventure.

Inside the Serpent Apartments

The serpentine corridors of El Nido de Quetzalcóatl showcase a masterpiece of organic architecture without a single straight line. Ten unique apartments connect through winding pathways, each offering a different point of view of this architectural wonder.

Room types and layouts

Each apartment spans 200 square meters. The internal vaults and gently curved walls mirror a serpent’s natural form. We designed these spaces with a double-level layout. The structure stands 6.50 meters high and 8.60 meters wide.

Cream and timber finishes adorn each thoughtfully designed apartment. A series of corridors, staircases, and bridges connect the rooms. The layout guides visitors naturally through the space. Each window frames unique views of the surrounding gardens, transforming every room into a private nature observatory.

The layout has:

• Five bedrooms with custom furnishings
• Four well-appointed bathrooms
• A spacious living and dining area
• A fully-equipped kitchen
• A dedicated laundry center

Amenities and facilities

The apartments feature handcrafted finishes and natural materials like stone and wood among other standard amenities. A muted color palette of cream and beige hues creates a serene atmosphere that contrasts with the vibrant exterior.

The complex now operates with eco-conscious features. Its treatment plant recycles water for irrigation. Built-in wooden furniture, customizable soft sofas, and ergonomic office spaces enhance the apartments. Strategically placed windows flood the interiors with natural light. The main entrance remains the only internal door.

Modern conveniences maintain high comfort standards while preserving artistic integrity. White plaster adorns the walls with tiled and carpeted flooring. The shelving curves naturally with the walls, creating functional storage solutions that enhance the space’s organic flow.

Exploring Parque Quetzalcóatl

Parque Quetzalcóatl began as an environmental project in 2000 that perfectly blends nature with architectural breakthroughs.

Guided tour experience

The park’s guided tours last about three hours. Guests at El Nido get customized concierge service with expert guides. Tour guides use Unite Tour Guide System equipment that delivers clear audio across the terrain.

Tours run from 8 AM to 5 PM, and guests need reservations. Junior architects from Senosiain’s office lead most tours and give explanations about the park’s design philosophy and construction methods.

Photo spots

You’ll find amazing photo opportunities at:

• A kaleidoscopic greenhouse with a stained-glass roof
• Snake-shaped structures covered in trencadís mosaic and volcanic rock
• Water mirrors reflecting the architecture
• Beautiful gardens with bamboo groves

Garden highlights

The park has distinct kingdoms that create unique experiences. A cavernous space in the mineral kingdom displays various minerals, while the plant kingdom has an extraordinary greenhouse. The animal kingdom is still under development and will add more features to this growing project.

This ecological hub sits northeast of Mexico City. The property uses smart water management with three rainwater-harvesting pools and a treatment plant that handles drainage from nearby homes. Its unique look comes from ferrocement construction that combines local stones, tezontle (volcanic rock), and colorful tiles.

Beautiful gardens, outdoor corridors, and communal spaces fill the outdoor areas. The park teaches visitors about advanced landscaping and architectural techniques through its restored ecosystem. Curves, ramps, and tunnels create a sculptural wonderland that plays with the natural environment.

Tips for Your Visit

You need thoughtful planning to make your visit to this architectural wonder memorable. I have explored every corner of El Nido de Quetzalcóatl and want to share my insider tips that will help you make the most of your stay.

What to pack

Your packing list should focus on comfort and practicality. The property has many stairs and different terrain levels, so comfortable walking shoes are vital. Photography enthusiasts should bring extra batteries and memory cards because the property’s photogenic spots will keep your camera busy.

Here are the must-pack items for your visit:

• A light windbreaker for unexpected weather changes
• Reusable water bottle for staying hydrated
• Comfortable walking shoes with good grip
• Power bank for backup charging
• Universal travel adapter with multiple USB ports

Sun protection matters a lot here – pack high-quality sunscreen and insect repellent. I suggest bringing a small first aid kit with simple medications since pharmacies might not be available in the immediate area.

Getting around

We arranged private transportation to El Nido de Quetzalcóatl. The property’s concierge team can set up airport transfers when you ask. Uber services run in the area too, and the ride takes about an hour from central Mexico City.

Walking becomes your way to move around once you’re on the property. Curved walkways and suspension bridges connect different sections. These architectural elements aren’t just for looks – they help you experience the property’s unique design fully.

Local food options

El Nido de Quetzalcóatl’s culinary experience gives you several convenient choices. The complimentary breakfast service starts your day with fresh bread, seasonal fruits, and coffee or tea.

You can request individual-specific chef services if you want more dining options. Each apartment’s kitchen comes fully equipped, so you can cook your own meals too. The concierge service can pre-stock your apartment with groceries and breakfast items.

The surrounding area has many dining choices. You can easily reach local restaurants from the property, and Uber Eats delivers here. The concierge knows great spots nearby that serve authentic Mexican specialties if you want to try regional cuisine.

El Nido de Quetzalcóatl is proof of architectural brilliance that blends nature’s beauty with human creativity. My time learning about this serpentine wonder showed me it goes beyond unique accommodation. This place takes you on a trip into artistic vision and ecological harmony.

The reward definitely makes up for the careful planning needed to reach this hidden gem. Each apartment’s story unfolds through curved walls, natural light, and thoughtful design elements. The ecological park surrounding the property adds wonder and transforms every stay into an architectural fairytale retreat.

You should book well ahead, especially during peak seasons from October to May. This extraordinary property will create lasting memories whether you take a guided tour or stay overnight. Mexico’s blend of luxury, art, and nature creates something unique here – maybe unlike anything else in the world.

Some FAQs about El Nido de Quetzalcóatl:

Where is the Nido de Quetzalcóatl hotel located?

El Nido de Quetzalcóatl is located in Naucalpan, within the metropolitan area of Mexico City. It is a unique architectural project designed by Javier Senosiain, blending organic forms with the surrounding nature. This remarkable space offers a surreal experience with gardens, tunnels, and structures inspired by the mythical feathered serpent.

How much does it cost to rent El Nido de Quetzalcóatl?

The cost to rent El Nido de Quetzalcóatl varies depending on the season and booking platform. Prices on Airbnb can be high due to its exclusivity and demand. For the most accurate rates, it is best to check directly on the El Nido de Quetzalcóatl Airbnb listing.

Who created El Nido de Quetzalcóatl?

El Nido de Quetzalcóatl was created by architect Javier Senosiain, known for his organic architecture style. His designs integrate natural elements into the built environment, creating harmony between structures and nature. This project exemplifies his vision of blending living spaces with the surrounding ecosystem.

Can Quetzalcóatl Park be visited?

Quetzalcóatl Park can be visited, but only with a prior reservation. It is not open for general public access due to its private status and residential areas. However, there are options for an El Nido de Quetzalcóatl tour, which provides guided visits to certain areas of the property.

How do you enter El Nido de Quetzalcóatl?

To enter El Nido de Quetzalcóatl, a reservation must be made through its official website or Airbnb. Because of its exclusivity, availability is limited, and bookings should be planned in advance. Some guided experiences allow visitors to explore the architectural masterpiece and its surroundings.

Where is the Gran Hotel in Mexico City located?

The Gran Hotel in Mexico City is located in the Historic Center, right in front of the Zócalo. It is famous for its stunning art nouveau architecture and its magnificent stained-glass ceiling in the lobby. The hotel is a historic landmark, attracting visitors with its elegance and rich cultural heritage.

What is the name of Quetzalcóatl’s city?

There is no city named after Quetzalcóatl, but the deity is one of the most important figures in Mesoamerican mythology. Quetzalcóatl was highly revered by the Mexica (Aztecs) and Toltecs, influencing many aspects of their culture. His legacy is reflected in various architectural works, including El Nido de Quetzalcóatl in Mexico.

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