Monarch Butterfly: Biosphere Reserve & Christmas Tour in Mexico
Active
14h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
OVERVIEW
Admire amazing landscapes on the road to this unique Biosphere Reserve. Witness nature’s stunning spectacle as colorful monarch butterflies. Explore the lovely Magic Town of Tlalpujahua of Christmas magic and wonders. Savor Michoacan’s irresistible flavors and fill your heart with unforgettable memories!
HIGHLIGHTS
✔ Enjoy an extraordinary natural show performed by thousands of monarch butterflies.
✔ Get immersed in a charming town with a Christmas atmosphere all year round.
✔ Get acquainted with the gastronomy of Michoacán State by trying local snacks such as corundas, uchepos, carnitas, etc.
WHY GO WITH US?
◘ You will spend the time of the tour purely on its activities & sightseeing: no visits to souvenir shops & restaurants (unless you ask).
◘ We are flexible: we can adjust the program and route to your interests while the duration of the tour can be always extended for an extra fee (for private tours only).
Available options
Small-group tour
MINIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: We need 2+ participants to confirm the group tour.<br/>LANGUAGE(S): English & Spanish (our guides are bilingual). <br/>PICK UP: not included: meet your group at Angel de la Independencia roundabout close to City Express Reforma Hotel.
Private Tour
MINIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS: 1+ (the tour is 100% confirmed for any group size).
<br/>PICKUP: included: from your accommodation or any other place of choice in Mexico City (please indicate it during the booking).
<br/> LANGUAGE(S): Spanish & English, other languages (e.g. French, German, Italian, Portuguese) upon prior request (based on availability).
What's included
Activities: Entrance and guided visit to Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary; walking tour in Tlalpujahua
Transportation: Round transportation from Mexico City.
Local Expert Guides: Service of a multilingual local guide.
Meals: bottled water and snacks
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide and transfer to Sierra Chincua (~3-3.5 h depending on the traffic conditions), learn about the places you pass on the way, and enjoy diverse landscapes.
2
Our route leads to Sierra Chincua, one of the official Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries, offering a front-row seat to the remarkable annual Mexico Monarch Butterfly migration, a true wonder of nature that unfolds from November to March.
3
Charming “Magic Town” in Michoacan is renowned for its festive Christmas spirit and skilled local artisans specializing in intricate blown-glass Christmas baubles. During the tour, delve into the town’s rich mining history and explore the well-preserved Nuestra Señora del Carmen Church dating back to the 18th century.
4
Stop 4
After a day full of adventures and new experiences, get to our vehicle and relax on the way back to Mexico City (~3-3.5 hours depending on the traffic conditions).
What's not included
Travel insurance; personal expenses, and tips.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
PICK UP: Only included in private tours.
MEETING POINT: Please note that hotel pickup and drop-off are only included in the private tour option. For the group tour, you will need to meet your guide at the designated meeting point.
SEASON & WEATHER: The butterfly sanctuaries' season runs November-March, peaking December-February. Daily sightings vary with weather - cold or rain reduces activity.
NOTE: The butterflies’ habitat in Sierra Chincua is a natural wonder that shifts with the changing seasons and climate. Reaching the sanctuary usually takes 1 to 2 hours of hiking, depending on the butterfly location and your fitness level. The trail ascends from 2,800 to 3,400 meters (9,200–11,150 feet) in elevation, with distances ranging from 1.2 to 3 kilometers (0.75–1.86 miles) and elevation gains between 220 and 800 meters (720–2,620 feet). A moderate level of fitness is generally required. Locally available horses can be hired (at your own cost) to assist with the steeper sections of the trail, but they only cover about half of the hike.
PRICE: Please note that the price you paid includes a commission from the online platform where it’s sold—often up to 30%—which limits our flexibility to offer discounts or other price reductions
MEETING POINT: Please note that hotel pickup and drop-off are only included in the private tour option. For the group tour, you will need to meet your guide at the designated meeting point.
Travel time is included in the total tour duration
CONTACT: Please provide a valid contact phone number with the international prefix (e.g., +11111111111) as our guide may need it for pickup. Please ensure it's available on the day of the tour. Alternatively, if we cannot find and reach you, the tour will be considered a no-show.
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the entrance of Hotel City Express Plus by Marriott (please do not enter and meet your guide outside), close to the Angel of Independence.Make sure your phone number is available on the day of the tour in case the guide needs to contact you.
About Mexico City
Mexico City, the vibrant capital of Mexico, is a sprawling metropolis where ancient Aztec ruins coexist with modern skyscrapers. This cultural and historical hub offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from world-class museums and colonial architecture to bustling markets and delicious cuisine. The city's high-altitude location and diverse neighborhoods make it a unique destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Zócalo
The main square of Mexico City, surrounded by historic buildings including the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace. It's the heart of the city and a must-visit for its cultural and historical significance.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free (some attractions have entry fees)
Chapultepec Park
One of the largest urban parks in the world, featuring a lake, museums, and the famous Chapultepec Castle. It's a great place for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (some attractions have entry fees)
Palacio de Bellas Artes
An iconic cultural landmark featuring stunning murals by famous Mexican artists like Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros. The building itself is a masterpiece of art nouveau and neoclassical architecture.
Architecture
1-2 hours
MXN 75 (USD 3.75) for the museum
Teotihuacan
An ancient Mesoamerican city with the famous Pyramid of the Sun and Pyramid of the Moon. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating glimpse into pre-Aztec civilizations.
Historical
Half day to full day
MXN 80 (USD 4) for the site, plus guide fees if applicable
Frida Kahlo Museum
The former home of Frida Kahlo, known as the Blue House, now a museum dedicated to her life and work. It offers a deep dive into the life of one of Mexico's most famous artists.
Museum
1-2 hours
MXN 250 (USD 12.50) for foreigners
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tacos al Pastor
Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple and onions.
Street food
Contains meat, can be spicy
Mole
A rich, complex sauce made with chocolate, chili peppers, and spices, typically served with chicken or turkey.
Main course
Contains chocolate, can be spicy
Chiles en Nogada
Poblano chili peppers stuffed with picadillo (a mixture of meat, fruits, and spices) and topped with walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds, representing the colors of the Mexican flag.
Main course
Contains meat, nuts, and dairy
Tlayudas
A large, crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, meat, and salsa, often referred to as the 'Mexican pizza'.
Street food
Contains cheese and meat, can be spicy
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Sierra de Guadalupe
Climbing Nevado de Toluca
Paragliding in Valle de Bravo
Visiting Chapultepec Park
Relaxing in Jardín Borda
Enjoying a spa day in Polanco
Exploring the Historic Center
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season with pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during this period.
15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F)
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Mexican Peso (MXN)
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Electricity
127VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Mexico City is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Mexico City International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By train
Buenavista Station, Toluca Airport Station
By bus
Terminal de Autobuses de Paso de la Reforma, Terminal de Autobuses del Norte
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is the most efficient way to get around the city, with 12 lines covering most neighborhoods. It can get crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Didi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center
Roma
Condesa
Coyoacán
Polanco
Day trips
Puebla
130 km (81 miles) • Full day
A colonial city known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Puebla is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a rich history and unique charm.
Texcoco
50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day
A town near Mexico City known for its beautiful gardens and historical sites. Texcoco is home to the ancient Aztec city of Texcoco and the beautiful Jardín Botánico de Texcoco.
Xochimilco
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A unique neighborhood in Mexico City known for its canals and traditional trajinera boats. Xochimilco is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a unique and colorful experience.
Festivals
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) • November 1-2
Festival Internacional de Cine de Morelia (Morelia International Film Festival) • October
Feria de las Flores (Flower Festival) • September
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Use the metro system to get around the city quickly and affordably
- Try street food from busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and safety
- Visit museums and attractions on weekdays to avoid crowds and long lines
- Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot to discover hidden gems and local culture
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
