Mexico Monarch Butterfly: Visit Sierra Chincua Sanctuary and a Magic Town (Private / 14 h)

Overview

Join our private tour to see an amazing natural show performed by thousands of butterflies in the UNESCO-listed Michoacan Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve and explore Tlalpujahua, a charming town with a Christmas atmosphere.

Highlights

• Enjoy an extraordinary natural show performed by thousands of monarch butterflies.
• Take an easy hike to enjoy the fresh air and picturesque panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Get immersed in a charming town with a Christmas atmosphere all year round.
• See thousands of unique and diverse Christmas baubles produced by talented local artisans in Tlalpujahua.
• Get acquainted with the gastronomy of Michoacán State by trying local snacks such as corundas, uchepos, carnitas, etc.

Itinerary

In the morning, meet your guide at your accommodation and then take a picturesque drive through the Valley of Mexico to reach Sierra Chincua, one of five official monarch butterfly sanctuaries that are famous for their exceptional natural beauty and impressive landscapes. This place is the final (and the only) destination for the annual monarch butterfly migration (November to March) which is considered one of nature’s greatest spectacles and is currently a top-class attraction for visitors from all around the world. Once there, take a walk (or a horse ride, if you prefer) to the colony of those fantastic animals enjoying beautiful mountainous landscapes and clean air on our way.

Later, head to the closeby “Magic Town” of Tlalpujahua de Rayón, a charming municipality in Michoacan. It is famous for having a Christmas atmosphere as its talented local artisans produce millions of lovely and colorful blown-glass Christmas baubles all year round that can be seen at different street stalls.  On a walking tour learn about the mining past of this town and visit its well-preserved Nuestra Señora del Carmen Church, built during the 18th century, among other outstanding buildings.

Moreover, get acquainted with the local flavors from Michoacan State and try delicious snacks such as corundas, uchepos, carnitas, etc. on the way!

After a day full of new experiences, return to our vehicle and relax on the way back to Mexico City.

Why go with us

• The time of the tour is spent purely on sightseeing: no visits to souvenir shops and restaurants (unless you ask).
• An ideal choice for small groups: the price of the tour is fixed and varies just slightly depending on the number of participants.
• We are flexible: the program and route can be adjusted to your interests while the duration of the tour can be always extended for an extra fee.

Logistics

• DEPARTURE TIME AND LOCATION: Default departure times are 7:00 and 8:00 AM, but we can also adjust them per your request. Our guide will meet you at the requested time and location and might need to contact you by phone. Therefore, please kindly provide a valid phone number during your booking.
• TOUR DURATION AND CUSTOMIZATION: The standard duration of the tour is 14 h from the moment of a meetup. On the other hand, the tour is customizable which means we can adjust the time you spend in each destination. For example, if you want to visit an extra location (attraction/restaurant/market, etc.), you can do it on a complimentary basis if this visit (1) fits the default duration of the tour and (2) doesn't involve a change of the route.
• TRANSPORT: Complimentary pick-up/drop-off is included: please indicate the exact time and location in Mexico City for your pick-up during your booking (e.g. in the "Special Requirements" field). 
• WHAT TO TAKE WITH YOU: Comfortable clothes and shoes; jacket/sweater; hat/cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen; travel insurance; good mood and curiosity.

Notes

• Children under 3 come free.
• The type of vehicle depends on the size of your group and may include a car, 7-seater, or minivan.
• This is a private tour: only your group will participate.
• Travelers should have moderate physical fitness conditions.