Things to do in

Michoacán

After departing at 7:00 AM from Morelia, enjoy the scenic drive to find a landscape with volcanic mountains and valleys. Later on, the drive goes higher and higher to find the fir trees where the Monarchs winter over 3000 meters above sea level. Found in 1976, thanks to research by Canadian scientist Fred Urquhart, the winter refuge of the monarch butterfly in central Mexico is a real wonder of nature. Declared a UNESCO-protected natural site in 2008, This is the large green area where butterflies that leave Canada & the United States mountain areas in the fall come & hide in the woods of “El Rosario” sanctuary (Michoacan, Mexico), to hibernate from late November to February. Due to their sexual maturing in March, they reproduce a new generation of butterflies that will continue the millennial migration flight to North America; when the spring begins. Well preserved to the present day by WWF & Monarch Watch among other NGOs, the winter homes are now recovering from a seriously reduced number of butterflies from years ago. Don´t let other travelers create histories about the Monarchs; come and enjoy the real wonder of nature with your own eyes; and find yourself in the magical woods of the Monarchs, in central Mexico!

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. NOTE: This comprehensive tour takes you through the heart of Chichen Itza & Ek Balam, covering their rich history and cultural significance in approximately 2 hours. Once downloaded, immerse yourself in a journey through time. Understand the profound effects of the Spanish Conquest on the ancient Mayan civilization. Walk the Sacbe, a white limestone pathway, connecting ceremonial platforms and temples. Discover the significance of the protective Defensive Wall, and marvel at the grandeur of the Entrance Arch, symbolizing gateways to sacred precincts. Witness the gripping history of the Mayan Ballgame as you approach the Ballcourt, where high-stakes games once decided fates. Delve into the wonders of Mayan Architecture, from intricate designs to monumental structures, and feel the spiritual essence at the Ceremonial Circular Steam Bath. Deepen your insights into Mayan Religion as you approach The Acropolis, Ek Balam's primary temple, and wonder at the artistic Hieroglyphic Serpents. Pay your respects at The Tomb, housing the remains of a significant ruler, and then ascend to the Top of the Pyramid for breathtaking panoramic views. The journey continues through the serene South Plaza before bidding a silent Farewell to the site's spiritual remnants. But the exploration doesn't end there; the majestic El Castillo awaits, followed by the haunting Tzompantli or the Wall of Skulls. Refresh your senses at the sacred Cenote Ik Kil and stand in awe of the Temple of the Warriors, a testimony to Mayan valor. Continue to the Ossuary, an ancient burial chamber, and then marvel at the astronomical genius of the Mayans at El Caracol, the observatory. Concluding at Las Monjas, this tour offers an unparalleled dive into the legacy and mysteries of a civilization that once flourished on these lands.

In Tzintzuntzan, discover the old city from pre Columbian times, established around 1250 and the way it became the most important indigenous village populated from pre Hispanic times. In Patzcuaro enjoy the walking city tour to the cobblestoned streets and admire the white walls & tile roofs in the city of Patzcuaro that was a state capital as of 1534. Try the local gastronomy at lunch break and learn about the way first Bishop Vasco de Quiroga did his best to benefit the local Indigenous with hospitals, schools and workshops to improve life based on the «Utopia» book by Thomas More. In Santa Clara del Cobre after lunchtime, discover the interesting way the local craftsmen transform a piece of copper into artwork, by hammering! Return to Morelia is programmed by 5 PM, after knowing more about the local culture & traditions.

Come on an unforgettable journey to greet the Mexico Monarch Butterfly, starting from the captivating Valley of Mexico. 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. Upon arrival, you can choose to take a leisurely walk or a horse ride (optional at your own cost) to reach the heart of the butterfly colony, all while soaking in the breathtaking mountainous landscapes and refreshing, clean air. Next, we’ll make our way to Tlalpujahua de Rayon, a charming “Magic Town” in Michoacan 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. To tantalize your taste buds further, savor the delectable flavors of Michoacan, indulging in mouthwatering treats like corundas, uchepos, carnitas, and more on the return journey. After a day brimming with unforgettable memories, relax in the comfort of our vehicle as we safely transport you back to Mexico City. Witness the Mexico Monarch Butterfly‘s astounding migration and immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Tlalpujahua along the way.

You will visit the lake area of Michoacán taking a tour in shared transportation with air conditioning, television and climate. You will begin by getting to know the area of Capula, a town that offers the well-known Catrinas, the most recognized in the world, and you can take them home as well as try the Michoacan flavors with their delicious sweet bread. You will also visit Santa Fe de la Laguna, a beautiful town full of traditions and culture that dresses its doors with decorations of Flor de Cempasúchil (it means flower with twenty petals (from cempohualli = twenty and Xochitl = flower)) and with enormous altars to remember its deceased, here you can taste a traditional cuisine dish that the locals offer when visiting the houses, this town is also the birthplace of Mama Coco, a beautiful lady with a huge heart who was the image for the famous Disney movie. We will visit the most famous pantheon in the world decorated for the Day of the Dead located in Tzintzuntzan as well as the pantheon of the Tzurumutaro community. To later visit the capital of Las Carnitas, the famous community of Quiroga. You can also taste the delicious and delicious traditional cuisine in a restaurant located in an ecological reserve surrounded by pine trees and with a view of Lake Pátzcuaro, you will try Michoacan Mezcal or if you prefer a hot chocolate.

After a pick-up from your accommodation, start the Monarch Butterfly Tour Mexico taking a picturesque drive through the Valley of Mexico to reach Sierra Chincua, one of five official monarch butterfly sanctuaries that are famous for its 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 hike (or a horse ride, if you prefer to make it easier) to the colony of those amazing animals, enjoying beautiful mountainous landscapes and clean air on our way. Afterward, go to the nearby “Magic Town” of Angangueo. Known as “the capital of Monarch Butterfly Reserve”, it also used to be one of the most important mining towns in the region and is currently known for its cultural and natural riches. After an optional lunch and a walking tour around the town, return to your vehicle and relax on your way back to Mexico City.

My tour starts in Morelia going to the famous Janitzio Island, to meet the indigenous culture and witness the «celebration» to all souls day. Since the Lake Patzcuaro area has pre-Columbian roots for the celebration, this tour goes to a world famous tourist destination to watch the ritual in a different time of day, besides stopping at small villages like Tzintzuntzan. Enjoy local recipes of traditional cooking when stopping to lunchtime. In #Mexico the famous #DayOfTheDead celebration is still alive! «We’re not a costume, we are a culture».

Starting 9 AM, first we will do the boat ride to Janitzio Island to watch the volcanic landscape & meet the fishermen with famous butterfly nets. When the boat ride is over, we do a walk of the city downtown talking about local history, culture & traditions. When doing the walk of the city, many handcraft shops can be found on the way to see the important buildings from the XVI century like the House of the eleven patios, the old Cathedral, The Jesuit College & the main church named Basilica after 1926. Finally, you don´t suppose to miss the ice cream stop to try the local "Pasta" ice cream. As you walk the cobblestoned streets, admire the white walls & tile roofs in the city of Patzcuaro which was a state capital as of 1534. Try the local gastronomy at lunch break and learn about the way first Bishop Vasco de Quiroga did his best to benefit the local indigenous people so they used to call him "Tata Vasco"

Begin the day by meeting your guide at your accommodation and heading to Monarch Butterfly Mexico Reserve. Witness one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena from November to March: the Monarch butterflies over-wintering in Mexico. The Monarch butterfly migrates from Canada and northern US to the oyamel forests of Michoacan and the State of Mexico. Witness this unique natural spectacle, as tourists take advantage of the trip to Valle de Bravo to experience this sanctuary. Our next spot is Valle de Bravo. Stroll in its historic center, and try authentic local food. The heart of this magical city, mostly built in the 16th century, has it all: historical buildings, cobbled streets, markets, and more. Visit the Joaquin Arcadio Pagasa Cultural Center, Independence Square, and more while enjoying artisanal ice cream. After the tour and a day full of new experiences, return to our vehicle and relax on the way back to Mexico City.

We will pick you up at your hotel or at our meeting point to go to the State of Michoacan, it will take us 3 hours to get to the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. Upon our arrival we will begin with a walk through the forest of approximately 50 minutes, in which you will learn about the flora and fauna of the region and enjoy beautiful landscapes. Upon reaching the heart of the butterfly colony you will witness one of the most amazing phenomena in the world: the migration of the monarch butterfly. You will have time to enjoy and photograph the butterflies. We will go down the mountain to enjoy a delicious traditional meal. You will have free time to see the crafts and souvenirs and we will return to Mexico City.