Los Colomos

Located in the northeast part of the city, on the border between Guadalajara and Zapopan, Bosque Los Colomos is one of the main green lungs of the metropolitan area. In your free time, take advantage of this beautiful space to walk, go horseback riding, exercise, meditate, or sign up for one of the many recreational activities regularly offered for all ages.

A Bit of History

At the end of the 19th century, engineer Agustín V. Pascal began the project of building a hydrological zone in this area to supply drinking water to Guadalajara. Then, in the early 20th century, Governor Luis del Carmen Curiel officially established it as Bosque Los Colomos as we know it today.

In June 2007, the forest was designated a Protected Natural Area, classified specifically as a Municipal Area for Hydrological Protection. Across its 93.29 hectares, you\'ll find a great diversity of plants and trees, and along its lakes, streams, and wooded zones, around 160 animal species coexist.

As a Protected Natural Area, the preservation of its flora and fauna, as well as the improvement of its ecosystem, are top priorities. Every time you visit, please take care to respect the wildlife and environment around you.

Since becoming an urban forest and recreational natural park, Bosque Los Colomos has been one of the most visited spots not only by families from Guadalajara, but also by people from across Jalisco, the rest of Mexico, and even from around the world.

Why the Name “Los Colomos”?

At one point in history, this area was a popular stop for people traveling from downtown Guadalajara to the Basilica of Zapopan. Travelers would rest, bathe, or have a snack along the forest’s streams and creeks before continuing their journey.

One of the most distinctive features of this area is a plant that grows along the banks of these streams and rivers, known by its scientific name Xanthosoma roseum, and more commonly as colomos.

This plant, which gives the forest its name, is known for producing large amounts of organic matter, and its roots can absorb heavy metals. Because of these qualities, colomos plants are used in bioremediation processes. Within the forest, areas where these plants grow are considered the most important for ecosystem conservation.

Gardens of Bosque Los Colomos

Among the many recreational areas in this urban forest, two of the most popular are its themed gardens: a Mexican garden and a Japanese garden.

The Mexican garden features various species of cacti and other native Mexican plants. The Japanese garden, on the other hand, is the most iconic spot in Bosque Los Colomos. If you haven’t visited yet, it’s well worth setting aside a day to explore.

This garden was donated by the city of Kyoto, Japan, as a symbol of friendship between Kyoto and Guadalajara. It was inaugurated in 1994 and preserves the original design of a temple honoring the goddess Dagoin Samboin. The space carries symbolic themes of family, harmony, beauty, and serenity.

The garden blends native flora, like pine trees, with species commonly used in traditional Japanese landscaping, such as azaleas, Chinese flame trees, Chinese cedar, and camellias.

As for the wildlife, the koi fish — a symbol of love and friendship in Japan — are especially eye-catching. You’ll also find red-eared slider turtles (also called Japanese turtles) and casquito turtles living in the garden’s pond.

Take a break and let yourself be amazed by this peaceful corner of the forest.

What Else Can You Do in Bosque Los Colomos?

Even just walking or resting in one of the shaded areas can be refreshing, but Bosque Los Colomos offers a wide variety of activities to enjoy with family, friends, or on your own.

Running Tracks

There are three running paths: one is 5 kilometers long, and the other two are 3 kilometers each.

Interpretive Trails

These are guided nature walks that combine social and environmental learning, led by trained experts. You can register your group directly with the Metropolitan Center for Environmental Education and Culture (CECAM) at 332 258 0535.

Summer Camps

These camps aim to promote environmental education through games, challenges, and activities that are not only fun but also encourage learning, friendship, and appreciation of nature.

Photo Sessions

Planning a special event and want to take pictures surrounded by nature? The forest offers several scenic spots. Sessions in the Japanese garden cost $850 pesos; sessions elsewhere in the forest cost $200 pesos.

Birdwatching

You’ll find both local and migratory bird species here. Take some time to admire their variety of shapes and colors.

Night Tours

Many nocturnal species are hard to spot during the day, which is why CECA offers night tours through the forest. Step out of your comfort zone and see the forest from a whole new perspective.

Camping

There’s a special area set aside for environmentally focused camping activities. Reservations are required.

Horseback Riding

Enjoy a horseback ride along select trails in the forest. Rides typically last about 30 minutes.

CECA (Environmental Education and Culture Center)

Each of the urban forests managed by the Guadalajara Metropolitan Forest Agency, including Bosque Los Colomos, offers environmental education programs that also include cultural activities. Currently, the Water Cultural Space is hosting traveling exhibitions in all urban forests. For information on upcoming events, contact CECA at 332 258 0535.

Casa Colomos Cultural Center

Founded in 1892 and also known as El Castillo (The Castle), this building houses the cultural center and the offices of the Bosque Los Colomos Board of Trustees. Workshops are offered here for children and seniors.

Alejandro Zohn’s Bridges

Designed in 1994 by the same architect behind iconic city landmarks like the San Juan de Dios Market and the Acoustical Shell in Agua Azul Park, these bridges connect different parts of the forest and offer scenic views from multiple vantage points.