Overview
Experience the Monarch Butterfly Mexico Sanctuary and discover Piedra Herrada, one of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve’s sanctuaries, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Later, stop at Valle de Bravo to wander its charming cobbled streets, markets, squares, parks, and numerous cozy spots to enjoy a bite. Don’t miss out on this colorful flight!
Highlights
- Discover one of the sactuaries of the UNESCO-listed Monarch Butterfly Mexico Sanctuary.
- Experience in your own flesh one of the most spectacular natural phenomena and learn all about these unique insects from a local guide.
- Visit Valle de Bravo and walk down its beautiful cobbled streets from the 16th century in its historic center.
- Make a stop at the Folk Art Museum and get to know about Mexico's artistic heritage.
- Visit a breathtaking waterfall
Itinerary
Begin your Monarch Butterfly Mexico Sanctuary with an early meet-up with your guide at your accommodation. From there, we’ll head out on a journey toward the Monarch Butterfly Mexico Reserve, a breathtaking natural wonder in the oyamel forests of Michoacán and the State of Mexico. This extraordinary experience will allow you to witness one of the most remarkable natural phenomena in the world. From November to March, millions of Monarch butterflies migrate from the northern United States and Canada to these forests, where they overwinter in the safe embrace of the cool mountain climate.
As you arrive at the Monarch Butterfly sanctuary, the air will be filled with the gentle fluttering of thousands of butterflies, covering the trees in a mesmerizing display of orange and black. Seeing so many butterflies gathered in one place is nothing short of magical. These incredible creatures travel over 4,000 miles during their migration, and it’s here, in the tranquil forests of Michoacán, that they find rest and refuge. This natural spectacle is one of the most awe-inspiring events on Earth, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness it up close, experiencing the quiet majesty of the butterflies as they cluster on the branches and fly through the crisp mountain air. Your guide will share fascinating details about the Monarch butterfly’s life cycle, the migration process, and the conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.
After diving into the Monarch butterfly sanctuary, we will continue our adventure to Valle de Bravo, a charming colonial town nestled beside the beautiful Lake Avándaro. This quaint town, known for its cobblestone streets, historical architecture, and stunning lake views, is a popular destination for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. As we stroll through the historic center, you’ll be surrounded by the charming colonial buildings and markets that have made Valle de Bravo famous.
You’ll also have the opportunity to try some authentic local food. The area is known for its delicious Mexican cuisine, and you can sample dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and fresh tamales in the bustling town squares. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy some artisanal ice cream, made from local fruits, to refresh yourself as you explore.
As you wander through the town, your guide will share stories about the area’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Valle de Bravo has something for everyone, from its rich cultural significance to its picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
After the tour and a day full of new experiences, return to our vehicle and relax back to Mexico City.
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 Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, Velo de Novia Waterfall, and Museum of Popular Art of Valle de Bravo; and walking tour in Valle de Bravo.
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 |
Angel de la Independencia - roundabout from the side of Hotel City Express Plus by Marriot
Pickup included: your accommodation or another convenient place of your choice.
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Departure Time | 7:00, 8:00 and 9:00 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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