All about Acuaparque in Mérida, Mexico (2025 Guide)

Most of the large nature parks around Mérida are pretty overgrown and too big to maintain properly. That’s why I like Acuaparque – it’s a manageable size and well kept, with the lakes being the real highlight.

Acuaparque is located a bit outside the city center, in the southeastern part of Mérida. It's a popular spot for locals from the area, especially those living nearby, and also attracts birdwatchers. However, many other residents of the city are still unfamiliar with it.

Escape the city’s hustle and traffic in this park, shaded by hundreds of large trees. Its 2 km network of paths is popular for walks, jogging, and dog strolls.

The upper part of the L-shaped water 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 of closure due to the 2020 floods, which left many areas and paths underwater for a long time, along with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, a lot of work has been done to restore the park. Now, it looks beautiful once again.

The Evolution of Acuaparque

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 is primarily made up of a large lake, surrounded by beautiful water lilies and reeds. Acuaparque II, an extension of the original park, features expansive green areas with numerous trees, as well as additional lake zones.

Acuaparque’s Pools and Playground

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.

Best Time to Visit Acuaparque

The cooler season is the perfect time of year to visit Acuaparque, as migratory birds are in the region. This typically spans from November to March, when many species pass through Yucatán on their migration route.

Early mornings are ideal for visiting Mérida's Acuaparque, when the temperatures are lower and the birds begin to emerge for breakfast.

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.

Birdwatching in Mérida’s Parks

In the parks around Mérida, you'll find a wide variety of bird species, especially during the cooler months when migratory birds pass through the region.

Commonly spotted species include the bright green and red Roseate Spoonbill, the elegant Great Egret, and the playful Black-crowned Night Heron. You might also catch sight of the striking Yellow-crowned Night Heron or the noisy but beautiful White Ibis.

For birdwatching, early mornings are often the best time, as, as mentioned earlier, that's when the birds are most active, feeding, or settling for the day.

If you're planning to observe them closely, I recommend bringing binoculars and a quiet approach, as sudden movements can scare them off.

Respecting the natural environment and not disturbing the birds is key to ensuring a peaceful experience for both you and the wildlife.