Overview
The Monarch Butterfly Tour Mexico has the main purpose of watching a marvelous natural show performed by thousands of butterflies in UNESCO-listed Michoacan Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve and visiting the charming town of Angangueo, a classic example of a Mexican mining town with large churches, tiled-roof houses, and verdant mountains.
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.
- Walk down cobbled streets and enjoy the Alpine views of the “Magic Town" of Angangueo.
Itinerary
Join us on the Monarch Butterfly Tour! Where your adventure begins with a picturesque drive through the Valley of Mexico. As we journey through this stunning landscape, you’ll witness the gradual transition from the bustling city to the serene beauty of the Mexican countryside, surrounded by mountains, lush forests, and wide-open fields.
Our destination is Sierra Chincua, one of the five official monarch butterfly sanctuaries located in Michoacán. This region is known for its exceptional natural beauty and impressive landscapes, and it is the only destination for the annual migration of the Monarch butterflies. From November to March, millions of butterflies make their incredible journey from Canada and the United States to the warmth of this high-altitude sanctuary.
Upon arrival at Sierra Chincua, you can take a hike or a horseback ride (at an additional cost) to reach the butterfly colony. The hike will take you through the beautiful mountainous landscapes, where you’ll walk beneath towering trees and enjoy the clean, fresh air of the mountainous region.
Once you reach the Monarch butterfly colony, prepare to be amazed by the sight of millions of butterflies covering the trees and fluttering through the air. The spectacle is so awe-inspiring that it often feels as though you’ve stepped into another world. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the Monarch butterfly migration, explaining the ecological significance of this event and the importance of preserving the sanctuaries where these butterflies return year after year.
After experiencing the marvel of the Monarch butterfly colony, we’ll head to the nearby “Magic Town” of Angangueo, known as the “capital of Monarch Butterfly Reserve”. This charming town has a rich history, having once been one of the most important mining towns in the region.
During your visit, enjoy a walking tour around Angangueo, where you’ll learn about the town’s mining heritage, its local culture, and its current role in the Monarch Butterfly Reserve. The town is also home to local artisans who produce beautiful crafts and handmade goods inspired by the Monarch butterfly and the natural surroundings. You may also have the opportunity to taste some local treats and explore the town’s cultural riches, all while soaking in the atmosphere that makes Angangueo a true gem in Michoacán.
After a day filled with nature’s wonders, cultural exploration, and gastronomic delights, we’ll take you back to your accommodation in Mexico City. Here, you can relax in our vehicle while reflecting on the unforgettable memories of this extraordinary adventure.
How is this tour different?
Read morePrices
- This tour is private: only your group will participate.
- The price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group (please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar ➡️ to see the final price).
Inclusions
Included ✅
Local Expert Guides
Service of a multilingual local guide:
- Small-group tour: English & Spanish (our guides are bilingual).
- Private tour: Spanish & English + other languages (e.g. French, German, Italian, Portuguese) upon prior request (based on availability).
Transportation
Round transportation from Mexico City:
- Small-group tour: Shared (with other participants in the group tour) pickup from a defined location.
- Private tour: Private (just for your group) pickup from your accommodation or another place of choice in Mexico City.
The type of vehicle depends on the size of the group and may include a car, 7-seater, or minivan.
Meals
Non-alcoholic drinks and snacks.
Activities
Entrance and guided visit to Sierra Chincua Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary; walking tour in Magic Town of Angangueo.
Excluded ❌
Accommodation
Accommodation is not included: find the one exactly for you.
Personal expenses
Flights
Flights are not included: check our partner deals.
Insurance
Travel insurance is not included: find insurance tailored for you.
Tips
Details
Minimum number of participants |
Automatic confirmation (your departure is automatically confirmed and 100% guaranteed). |
Meeting Point |
Meet your group at Angel de la Independencia roundabout close to City Express Reforma Hotel.
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Departure Time | 07:00 & 08:anytime between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM (please specify your preferred time in ‘Special requirements’ during the booking)00 AM |
Languages |
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What to take with you? |
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Accesibility | 🛑 Not wheelchair accessible. |
Pets | 🛑 Not permitted. |
Ages |
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Things to know before booking |
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Customization ? The way how tour organizer can customize this tour for you
We can do the following customizations on your request (subject to availability and needs to be confirmed before the tour):
1. Adjust the starting time of the tour.
2. Adjust the time you spend at each destination of the tour.
3. Add extra places of your choice (e.g. attractions, restaurants, etc.) to the itinerary on a complimentary basis if those visits.
(1) fit the default duration of the tour, (2) don’t involve a significant change of the route and extra fees (e.g. entrance tickets, tolls, parking, etc.).
Changes other than those will involve an extra fee and must be communicated to the tour organizer at least 72h before the tour (e.g. in the “Special Requirements” field during the booking or via email).
Cancellations
1-Day Tours: With Prepaid Services
Cancellation fees depend on the number of days before the Tour start date:
- 30+ days before: 0% of the remaining payment
- 20-29 days before: 25%
- 10-19 days before: 50%
- Less than 10 days before, or no-show: 100%
No cancellation fee applies if a substitute participant is arranged. See full text of the cancellation policy here.
Frequently asked questions:
You can book this tour by clicking the "Check Availability" button, selecting a date, filling in the participant details, and completing your payment securely online. Afterward, you will receive a confirmation email.
We use Stripe to process payments safely, accepting Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and other local payment methods available in your country.
If your group exceeds the allowed number of participants, please contact us directly. We will provide a customized quote and make arrangements to accommodate your group.
The tour organizer's contact phone number and email will be provided in your booking confirmation email. If you have any further questions, you can also contact us directly. Unless explicitly stated that the "Tour Organizer" is Vibe Adventures, the tour and activity providers ("Tour Organizers") are independent third parties and not affiliates of Vibe Adventures. Vibe Adventures is not liable for any injuries, accidents, delays, fraud, weather conditions, or expenses related to the Tour Organizers or their tours. Travelers are responsible for obtaining travel insurance and ensuring they have valid passports, visas, and necessary vaccinations if not included in the tour.
Each tour has its own cancellation policy listed in the tour description, which you should review before booking to understand refund eligibility and deadlines. Most 1-day tours can be rescheduled or canceled with a full refund if done up to 48 hours before the tour. Later changes may be possible, depending on availability. To cancel or modify your booking, contact the organizer directly using the contact details provided in your confirmation email. Cancellations and modifications are subject to availability and the organizer’s terms and conditions.
Yes, all our tours follow strict safety protocols, and guides are trained to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for travelers of all ages. Check the tour description for age limits or recommendations.
Some tours may have specific recommendations or restrictions depending on the activity level. These details are provided in each tour description.
It depends on the tour. Some include pick-up and drop-off at the meeting point, while others meet at a specific location. Check the tour details to see what is included.
Yes, most meeting points can be reached by public transport. You can check directions online (e.g., via Google Maps) based on your starting location.
The meeting point is listed in the tour description and in your booking confirmation. Guides may also contact you in advance with instructions and directions.
For most tours, we recommend comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, some cash (for snacks or souvenirs), and any personal items you may need.
Some tours may suggest specific clothing or gear depending on the activity. Details are provided in the tour description to ensure your safety and comfort.
Yes, if safety or operational issues prevent the tour from happening, you will receive a full refund. While most tours run in light rain or snow, we prioritize your safety.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
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