Horror places are the most enchanting ones. They offer an amalgamation of emotions. Today, in this blog, I will be talking about the Island of Dolls – the scariest yet most exciting place on earth. If you’re a brave-hearted person and a traveller seeking a destination that stands out from the rest, then this is the one.
If you dare to set foot on the island near Mexico City, you will be met with the horrific sight of hundreds of half-decomposed dolls hanging from trees and wooden shacks.
But the story of how they got there is almost as terrifying as the dolls themselves. Read on, if you can handle it, to discover more about Isla de las Muñecas.”
The story of Isla de las Muñecas
In the 1950 , a Mexican man named Don Julian Santana Barrera sought solace on an island in Xochimilco, south of Mexico City.
During his explorations, he stumbled upon the body of a drowned young girl in the nearby waters. Soon after, a doll, which he presumed belonged to the girl, washed up on the shore. To honor her, he hung it from a tree.
Subsequently, Don Julian began sensing a spirit’s presence. Seeking to appease it, he started adorning the trees with more dolls, sourced from trash or the canals’ waters. What began as an offering turned into an obsession, spanning five decades.
In 2001, Don Julian’s body was reportedly found in the same spot where he had discovered the young girl, marking the end of his lifelong dedication to the island and its dolls.
Since then, the island has drawn increasing numbers of tourists eager to witness the dolls and add their own, as a gesture of respect for both the girl and Don Julian
Are the ghosts still there ?
Scientists or those who follow scientific principles generally believe that ghosts do not exist. However, many people who visit certain places report feeling eerie and spooky vibes, hearing footsteps, and whispers. Some have even experienced the sensation of being followed by a doll or other objects.
Where is the island of dolls?
The Island of the Dolls is situated in Xochimilco, approximately 30 km south of Mexico City. Upon reaching Xochimilco, travellers will need to board a trajinera, a vibrant gondola-style boat commonly used for transportation along the area’s canals.
To reach Isla de las Muñecas, take a boat from the Embarcadero Cuemanco dock. Ensure to inquire about the boats that make stops at the island. The boat journey typically spans between one to two hours.
How to reach?
To reach the Island of the Dolls (Isla de las Muñecas) in Xochimilco from Mexico City, follow these steps:
Travel to Xochimilco: From Mexico City, you can take a taxi, bus, or the subway to get to Xochimilco, which is about 30 kilometres south of the city centre.
Board a Trajinera: At Xochimilco, head to the Embarcadero Cuemanco dock. There, you’ll find trajineras, colourful gondola-style boats, which are the primary mode of transportation in the area’s canals.
Find a Boat to Isla de las Muñecas: Ask the operators at Embarcadero Cuemanco which boats will be stopping at Isla de las Muñecas. Not all boats might make this stop, so it’s essential to confirm beforehand.
Boat Journey: Once aboard the correct trajinera, enjoy the scenic boat ride along the canals. The journey to the Island of the Dolls usually takes around one to two hours.
Keep in mind that it’s advisable to visit during the daytime and to arrange your return transportation in advance, as services might be limited in the evening. Additionally, having a local guide or someone familiar with the area can be helpful during the trip.
Where to stay ?
If you’re going to visit the horrors of the Island of the Dolls, then you will want somewhere relaxing to stay. There are several luxurious hotels at mexico you can book them according to your budget and preferences
Some special tips
Visiting the Island of the Dolls in Mexico can be a unique experience. Here are some tips:
1)Respect the surroundings: Understand the significance of the island and its history.
It’s a place with a dark backstory, so be respectful of its cultural importance.
2)Bring bug repellent: The area can be quite buggy due to its swampy environment.
3)Plan your transportation: It’s accessible by boat only, so arrange transportation beforehand.
4)Be prepared for an eerie atmosphere: The island’s aesthetic with hanging dolls can be unsettling for some, so mentally prepare yourself if you’re sensitive to such environments.
5)Stay safe: The paths can be uneven, so watch your step. And, as always, keep an eye on your belongings.
Final thoughts
The Island of the Dolls isn’t an ordinary destination; its eerie surroundings and atmosphere make it a spooky place. However, as a traveller, seeking exciting places should be at the top of your list. The hanging dolls and their chilling backstory will send shivers down your spine with each step. It’s a unique mix of emotions – excitement at the sight of the dolls and, as a traveller, experiencing one of the most intriguing feelings in the world.
