Things to do in Mexico City

Tear up some mountain bike trails of your own

As sprawling as Mexico City may seem, it’s less than an hour’s drive to the vast wooded hills of Desierto De Los Leones. With no marked trails to speak of this, national park is fantastic for pure impulse mountain biking. Drop in at Poray (tel: +52 55 6394 3259; www.poray.bike) for your rental needs.

Join the hoards for at the Auditorio Nacional

Pleasingly postmodern, and with a programme that incorporates everything from contemporary ballet to opera and classical concerts, Auditorio Nacional (tel: +52 55 9138 1350; www.auditorio.com.mx) is the premier performing arts venue in Mexico. With a capacity of 10,000 people, the venue is befitting of Mexico City’s own vastness.

Fall in love with lucha libre

Flamboyant, acrobatic and not at all camp, luchalibre (Mexican wrestling) is one of the most popular sports in the country - and you don’t need to be a Lycra lover to enjoy it. For the finest fight night atmosphere, join 22,000 other fans in the Arena México (www.arenamexico.com.mx). It can’t be beaten.

Set your spurs for cowboy country

Less than an hour north of Mexico City and you’re into cowboy country - or rather vaquero country. Take the reins and ride through the open plains, canyons and mountains that make up Mexico’s heartland. With expert guides offering day rides or longer excursions, Rancho Las Cascadas (tel: +52 55 1801 0101; www.rancholascascadas.com) is the place to stay.

Catch your breath with hiking yoga

For some inner peace at a great pace, try hiking yoga. The concept is not as off-kilter as it sounds; merely a walk to some of Mexico City’s most picturesque locations, such as Bosque de Tlalpan and El Tepozteco, followed by a yoga class. Hiking Yoga (www.hikingyoga.com) run 90-minute classes.

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