All about Acuaparque in Mérida, Mexico

Acuaparque is a large area outside the centre. Mérida's Aquapark is popular with residents of Mérida's southeast, as well as birders, but remains unknown to many other residents.

Here you escape from the traffic and the city's constant hustle and bustle. There are hundreds of large trees for shade and a series of paths (approx. 2km) that have become popular for a stroll, jogging or dog walking.

The upper part of the L-shaped park consists of a large lake with many water lilies and reeds. There also are several species of birds not commonly seen in the city, especially water birds, but also frogs, vultures, fish, ducks and bats.

After three years without service due to the floods of 2020 (during which many areas and paths were under water for a long time) and the Covid-19 pandemic a lot of work has been done in the park and now the park looks nice again.

Development of the park

The park is officially divided into Acuaparque I and Acuaparque II. This division was made due to expansions and developments over time. The upper part of the L-shaped park (Acuaparque I) was the original water park project and was built first.

Acuaparque I mainly consists of a large lake with many water lilies and reeds. Acuaparque II was an extension of the original park. This lower part consists of green areas with many trees and also lake areas.

Fun for kids

Acuaparque also offers great fun for kids. The pools and the water slide reopened to the public in 2023. The pools are open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is also a children's playground and plenty of space to run, climb and play for kids.

Those who come to swim are asked to wear shorts or bathing suits, to rinse off before entering, and that minors are accompanied by an adult.

However, there is no possibility to buy anything to eat or drink, so be prepared. You can of course bring a blanket and a picnic and make yourself comfortable.

A few tips

The best time to visit Mérida's Aquaparque is early in the morning when the heat is at its lowest and the birds begin to come out for breakfast. Winter is the perfect time of year to visit Acuaparque as migratory birds are in the region.

Entrance to Mérida's Acuaparque is free and it is open 24 hours every day of the week. The park has groundskeepers but it's perhaps wise not to visit too late at night (until about 8:00 pm), also because there is little lighting on the paths.