Overview
The Michoacan Tour is the perfect way to discover hidden treasures! It’ll take you on a journey off the beaten track to explore one of the most enchanting and least explored states in Mexico. Experience the perfect blend of pre-Hispanic traditions and colonial-era architecture that creates the unique charm of Michoacan. You’ll visit three of Mexico’s coolest under-the-radar cities: the charming Pátzcuaro, a “Magical Town” where indigenous women sell local delicacies in the shadow of 16th-century churches; the lush city of Uruapan, gateway to the famous Paricutín volcano; and the capital of Morelia, boasting an ancient UNESCO-listed cathedral and aqueduct built from local pink stone. Get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime to explore the hidden gems of Michoacan.
Highlights
- Explore Michoacán, one of Mexico’s most beautiful and least visited states, full of hidden gems and natural beauty.
- Admire the impressive UNESCO-listed colonial center of Morelia, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.
- Visit Janitzio, a charming island in the middle of Pátzcuaro Lake, offering picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Hike Paricutin, the youngest volcano in the Western Hemisphere, experiencing its rugged terrain and unique volcanic landscape.
- Discover Tzintzuntzan, once the capital of the ancient Purepecha State, with fascinating ruins of one of Mexico’s greatest pre-Hispanic cities.
How is this tour different?
Read moreItinerary
Day 1: Mexico City
Welcome to the magnificent Ciudad de Mexico, the unique and bustling heart of Latin America where history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. You can arrive at any time, giving you the chance to explore the city at your own pace and soak in its vibrant energy before we begin our adventure.
In the evening, we’ll meet for an informational welcome meeting with your fellow travelers and Tour Leader. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with your group and share excitement for the days ahead.
After the meeting, we’ll head to one of the city’s amazing restaurants or bars, where you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink. It’s the ideal time to relax, get to know your new friends, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Mexico City.
This is just the beginning of an unforgettable journey filled with rich culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and breathtaking sights. The adventure awaits, and we can’t wait to explore this incredible city with you!
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Mexico City
- Meals: dinner
- Activities: welcome meeting

Day 2: Mexico City
Get ready for the Michoacan Tour! Start your adventure as we take you through the historic and cultural gems of Mexico City. Our day begins with a guided walking tour through the Historic Center, where you’ll discover stunning architecture and fascinating stories about the city’s rich past. The charm of this area, with its colonial buildings and atmosphere, will captivate you.
Next, we’ll head to Xochimilco, where you’ll enjoy a tranquil boat ride through its famous canals. Feel the peaceful rhythm of the water and soak in the beauty of this UNESCO-listed site, which perfectly blends nature and history.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the National Anthropology Museum, one of the most important museums in Mexico. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Mexico’s diverse indigenous cultures through fascinating exhibits and world-renowned collections of archaeological artifacts.
After a day filled with cultural exploration, you can join the group for an optional dinner and get-together in the evening. This is the perfect opportunity to share your experiences and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Mexico City with new friends.
Prepare yourself for a day full of discovery, history, and unforgettable moments!
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned, tourist-class hotel/B&B in Mexico City
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: walking in the Historic Centre of Mexico City; guided visit to the National Anthropology Museum; boat ride in Xochimilco

Day 3: Mexico City – Tlalpujahua – Morelia
Join us on an unforgettable adventure as we leave the hustle and bustle of Mexico City and head towards the charming town of Tlalpujahua in Michoacán. Known for its historical significance as an old mining town, Tlalpujahua is nestled among picturesque pine forests, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Explore the winding streets of this quaint town, where the colonial architecture and stunning pink-stone sanctuary will captivate you.
Our first stop will be a visit to a local mining museum, where you’ll discover the town’s rich mining heritage. Then, we’ll take a guided walk through the historic center, learning about the fascinating history and culture of Tlalpujahua. Don’t forget to enjoy an optional lunch, featuring delicious local flavors, before continuing our journey.
Next, we’ll head to Morelia, the state capital, which boasts a UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center. After checking into our accommodations, we’ll set off for a walking tour through Morelia’s stunning city center. With its Baroque architecture, beautiful cathedrals, and vibrant atmosphere, this is a place that will surely leave an impression.
In the evening, join us for an optional dinner and get-together at one of the local restaurants or bars, where you can reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the lively spirit of this beautiful city.
Get ready for a day full of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences!
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned, tourist-class hotel/B&B in Morelia
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: guided visit to Museo de la Mina las Dos Estrellas; orientation walks in Tlalpujahua and Morelia
- Driving Distances: Mexico City – Tlalpujahua (~170 km ~ 3 h). Tlalpujahua – Morelia (~121 km ~ 2 h).

Day 4: Morelia – Tzintzuntzan – Janitzio – Pátzcuaro
Start your journey through history as we head to Tzintzuntzan, the ancient capital of the Purepecha State. Explore the impressive pyramids and immerse yourself in the rich history of this fascinating site.
Next, we’ll take a boat ride to Isla de Janitzio, the largest island in Lake Pátzcuaro. Witness the butterfly fishermen and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and island, where tradition meets natural beauty.
We’ll then visit Pátzcuaro, a charming colonial town founded in the 14th century. After checking in and resting, we’ll enjoy an evening walk with your guide through the town’s historic center.
End the day with an optional dinner and get-together at a local restaurant, where you can relax and share stories with fellow travelers.
This day offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and breathtaking views, making it an unforgettable experience!
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned, tourist-class hotel/B&B in Pátzcuaro
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: guided visit to Tzintzuntzan Archaeological Zone; boat to Janitzio; orientation walks in Janitzio, Tzintzuntzan, and Pátzcuaro
- Driving Distances: Morelia – Tzintzuntzan (~54 km ~ 1 h). Tzintzuntzan – Janitzio (~23 km ~ 40 min). Janitzio – Pátzcuaro (~10 km ~ 20 min).

Day 5: Pátzcuaro – Paricutin Volcano – Uruapan
Start your adventure with an exciting hike to Paricutin, the youngest dormant volcano in the Western Hemisphere. Enjoy breathtaking views from the summit and explore the abandoned San Juan Parangaricutiro Church—an eerie reminder of the eruption that buried much of the town beneath lava and rocks.
Next, head to the charming town of Uruapan, nestled in the Purépecha highlands. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, soaking in the local culture and beautiful surroundings.
Wrap up the day with an optional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can bond with your fellow travelers over delicious regional cuisine. This day offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration!
- Meals and Drinks: breakfast
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned, tourist-class hotel/B&B in Uruapan
- Activities: guided hike to Paricutin Volcano; orientation walk of Uruapan
- Driving Distances: Pátzcuaro – Paricutín Volcano (~76 km ~ 1.5 h). Paricutín Volcano – Uruapan (~34 km ~ 1 h).

Day 6: Uruapan – Paracho – Camecuaro National Park – Zamora
Start your day with a visit to Barranca del Cupatitzio, a national park featuring scenic walking paths, artificial fountains, and lush tropical vegetation. Explore the beauty of this natural oasis before heading to Paracho, a charming town renowned for producing the world’s finest guitars and home to the director of the beloved film Coco. Enjoy a guided stroll through the town, soaking in its rich cultural heritage.
Next, make your way to Camécuaro, a breathtaking lake surrounded by towering ancient cypress trees, with crystal-clear turquoise waters. Take a peaceful walk around the lake, and if you wish, enjoy a refreshing swim in its tranquil waters.
Finish the day in Zamora, the third-largest city in the state, famous for its neo-gothic Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the largest cathedrals in the Americas. After checking in and resting, join a guided walk through the historic center before enjoying an optional dinner at a local restaurant, where you can reflect on a day full of nature, culture, and exploration.
- Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned, tourist-class hotel/B&B in Zamora
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: guided visits to Barranca del Cupatitzio and Lago de Camécuaro National Parks; orientation walks of Paracho and Zamora
- Driving Distances: Uruapan – Paracho (~44 km ~ 1 h). Paracho – Camecuaro National Park (~78 km ~ 1.5 h). Camecuaro National Park – Zamora (~18 km ~ 30 min).

Day 7: Zamora – Cuitzeo – Los Azufres
Begin your day in Cuitzeo, a peaceful colonial town that offers breathtaking views where the land meets the sky, and a lake that mirrors the landscape. Take a leisurely stroll around the town’s historic center, admiring its charming colonial architecture and tranquil surroundings.
Next, head to Los Azufres, a beautiful national park nestled in the mountains, known for its natural sulfur hot springs. Enjoy the soothing thermal waters, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation after a day of exploration.
In the evening, join the group for an optional farewell dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the day.
- Accommodation: eco-cabins in Los Azufres
- Meals: breakfast
- Activities: orientation walk of Cuitzeo with a guided visit to the Museum of the Print; access to spa facilities in Los Azufres
- Driving Distances: Zamora – Cuitzeo (~113 km ~ 2 h). Cuitzeo – Los Azufres (~79 km ~ 1.5 h).

Day 8: Los Azufres – Mexico City
As our tour comes to a close, we bid farewell to the beautiful state of Michoacán. We will depart in the morning, and arrive in Mexico City in the afternoon. For those traveling during winter (November-March), there’s a special treat in store. We will stop at the nearby Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in the world. You will be amazed as you witness millions of monarch butterflies gathering to overwinter in this magical place.
For those traveling during other times of the year, we have an equally exciting option. We will visit the Grutas de Tziranda, a natural wonder located in the municipality of Zitácuaro. These incredible caves are filled with stunning rock formations, underground rivers, and a variety of flora and fauna that will leave you in awe.
Whichever season you travel, our final day will be filled with unforgettable experiences that will stay with you long after you leave Michoacán.
- Meals and Drinks: breakfast
- Activities: guided visit to Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (November-March) or Grutas de Tziranda (April-October).
- Driving Distances: Los Azufres – Mexico City (~178 km ~ 3 h).

Prices
- 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
English/Spanish bilingual guide.
Accommodation
7x nights in conveniently located, locally-owned hotels/B&Bs
Transportation
Private vehicle during the trip.
Meals
7x breakfasts
Activities
Walking tours and orientation walks Mexico City, Tlalpujahua, Morelia, Pátzcuaro, Uruapan, Paracho, Zamora, Cuitzeo. Guided visits: National Museum of Anthropology (Mexico City); Museo de la Mina las Dos Estrellas (Tlalpujahua); Tzintzuntzan Archaeological Zone; Barranca del Cupatitzio National Park; Museum of the Print (Cuitzeo); Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (Dec-Feb). Boat ride in Xochimilco and Janitzio; hiking to Paricutin Volcano and in Camecuaro National Park; access to spa facilities in Los Azufres.
Excluded ❌
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 |
Manual confirmation (if a minimum number of participants is not met, we may cancel and fully refund your booking). |
Meeting Point | The tour starts with a welcome meeting in the lobby of your hotel (exact name and location to be provided in trip notes before the tour). |
Departure Time | Exact time to be confirmed |
Languages |
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Suitability |
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What to take with you? |
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Accesibility | 🛑 Not wheelchair accessible. |
Pets | 🛑 Not permitted. |
Things to know before booking |
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Cancellations
Cancellation fees depend on the number of days before the Tour start date (also applies to all extra services booked, such as airport transfers, pre-/post-tour accommodations, additional activities, etc.):
- 60+ days before: 0% of the remaining payment
- 30–59 days before: 25%
- 15–29 days before: 50%
- Less than 15 days before, or no-show: 100%
No cancellation fee applies if a substitute participant is arranged.
Please see our Cancellation Policy for more info.
Frequently asked questions:
How do I book a multi-day tour?
Booking is simple: choose whether you want to join a group tour or book a private tour, select your desired tour and dates on our website, complete the booking form, and securely pay online. You’ll then receive a confirmation email with all the details.
What is included in the tour price?
- Accommodation in centrally located, tourist-class hotels or guesthouses with private facilities
- Transportation between destinations (car, 7-seater, or van, depending on group size)
- Activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Breakfasts
- Services of a local bilingual tour leader
How many participants are needed to confirm a group tour?
What happens if there aren't enough participants?
If, at the time of booking, your selected tour and departure date don’t have enough participants to confirm, we typically offer the following options:
- Wait for more bookings: We can temporarily confirm your spot, but please note that we reserve the right to cancel the booking and issue a full refund if the group doesn’t meet the minimum number of participants at least 1 month before departure.
- Book a private departure: Click “Check availability” to see pricing options. With a private departure, the tour is exclusively for your group, and you can modify the itinerary (subject to confirmation) and choose any departure date for more flexibility with flights.
- Invite more companions to join your group tour: By bringing in more people to meet the minimum number of participants, we can immediately confirm the departure.
- Join a confirmed group departure: If your schedule is flexible, you can join one of our other confirmed group departures at a discounted rate.
Can I book a private tour instead of a group one?
Yes. Private tours are customizable and can depart any day. Additional activities or stops can be added at your request (subject to price modifications).
Why does the price per person change when booking private tours?
As a significant part of the tour costs are fixed, the price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group. The more people you book for, the lower the price per person becomes. Please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar to see the final price.
Are flights included?
No, flights from your place of residence and the starting location of the tour are not included. However, we are always happy to help you find the best deals (contact us if you need assistance). You can also check flight options on the website we personally use and recommend to our customers.
What hotels will I stay in?
An exact list of accommodations will be sent together with trip notes 2 weeks before the departure date. All accommodations are centrally located, tourist-class (3* or similar), locally-owned properties with private facilities in each room. We can arrange pre- and post-tour accommodations but not earlier than 1 month before departure when the sales for the tour are closed, and we know the final number of participants. If you're interested in exact locations, contact us, and we will send you a list of accommodations we used on previous departures (subject to change based on availability).
What types of rooms are available?
- Single Room: 1 person, 1 bed
- Double Room: 2 people, 1 double bed
- Twin Room: 2 people, 2 single beds
- Triple Room: 3 people, 1 double + 1 single bed
- Quad Room: 4 people, 2 double beds
Is there a single supplement fee?
Yes. Solo travelers should book a single room, which will have a slightly higher price compared to sharing with another traveler. If preferred, we can also pair you with another traveler of the same gender (subject to availability) to avoid the supplement. If you are interested, please book a single room and mention it in the “Special requirements” section. If we find another person on the same departure who wants to share a twin room, we will refund the proportional difference. Otherwise, your booking as a single room will remain.
Is there any age limit for participants?
Our multi-day tours with group departures are designed for travelers aged 12–69 with moderate physical fitness. Participants outside this range may still join if they are in good condition and can keep up with the group’s pace. If you are confident you can maintain the pace with the activities of the tour or a group departure, feel free to book the tour or contact us in advance if you have any doubts. Private departures generally do not have age limitations due to customization of pace and itinerary.
Is the tour accessible for travelers with reduced mobility?
Unless you have a companion who can assist you with a wheelchair, small-group tour departures are generally not wheelchair accessible, and pets are not permitted. Given the possible customization of the pace and itinerary, private tours are generally more likely to accommodate travelers with reduced mobility (subject to confirmation; contact us for more info).
What should I pack for the tour?
- Comfortable weather-appropriate clothes and walking shoes
- Swimming suit and slippers
- Small backpack for daily excursions
- Hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Personal ID, some cash in local currency, and travel insurance
- Good mood and curiosity!
Are meals included?
Most of our multi-day tours include daily breakfasts. Lunches and dinners are usually not included, so you can explore local cuisine. Your guide will recommend and take you to good-value, local restaurants. Included gastronomic experiences can usually accommodate common dietary restrictions, but special diets may not always be fully guaranteed.
Can children, seniors, or solo travelers join?
Yes. The tour is suitable for couples, families, seniors, solo travelers, youth, women-only groups, and LGBT+ travelers. Please consider the physical activity level before booking.
How many people are usually in a group?
Our small-group tours usually have 6–12 participants, creating a friendly and personalized experience.
What is the average daily travel distance?
It depends on the tour and the day of the tour—some days we stay in one location, while others involve moving between locations. On average, you can expect about 200 km per day (1.5–3 hours of driving) with regular sightseeing, meal, and rest stops.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost belongings.
Can I extend my stay or add extra activities?
Yes. We can arrange pre- or post-tour accommodations and add extra activities upon request.
What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
Each tour has its own cancellation policy. Please check the booking terms for more info.
Are tips included?
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel/restaurant staff are not included. While absolutely optional, tips are an important part of the local culture and a significant source of income for the people involved and their families.
How do I stay connected during the tour?
Wi-Fi is available in most accommodations, but data coverage can be limited in remote areas. We recommend informing friends or family of your itinerary before departure. All accommodations on this tour, as well as many restaurants/cafés in Mexico, have Wi-Fi. If needed, you can also get a prepaid local SIM card with data (available in most convenience stores), ideally Telcel’s “Paquete Amigo Sin Límite,” which offers the best coverage in the country and free calls to the USA and Canada.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
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