How to Visit Mexico’s Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries
- Nancy
- Jan 17
- 3 min read
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
There are few natural spectacles as awe-inspiring as the annual Monarch butterfly migration. Each year, millions of monarch butterflies travel up to 2,800 miles from the United States and Canada to overwinter in the oyamel fir forests of central Mexico.
This extraordinary phenomenon takes place within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning parts of Michoacán and Estado de México, west of Mexico City. Visiting these sanctuaries is one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in North America—and with a little planning, it’s surprisingly accessible.
Planning Your Trip to the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries
Best Time to Visit the Monarch Butterflies in Mexico
Peak viewing season: January and February
On cool or cloudy days, butterflies cluster together in the trees to stay warm
On sunny, warm days, butterflies take flight—offering the most dynamic and memorable viewing experience
Getting There
Fly into Mexico City (MEX) or Morelia (MLM); both serve as convenient gateways to the highlands
From there, continue by car or tour group to the sanctuary regions
Tour Options
Day trips can be booked via Viator and are available from Mexico City, Morelia and San Miguel de Allende. (affiliate links)
Multi-day small group tours typically depart from Mexico City and include:
Visits to multiple sanctuaries
Cultural experiences
Overnight stays in charming pueblos mágicos like Valle de Bravo or Tlalpujahua
Visiting Independently
Independent travel is possible, but self-driving is not recommended unless you:
Are fluent in Spanish
Have experience driving in Mexico
Purchase separate Mexican car insurance
Most sanctuaries require local guides for entry. If traveling independently, you’ll hire a guide upon arrival.
What to Expect on the Ground
Moderate uphill hiking at high altitude (or optional horseback riding)
Horses are locally managed; stirrups may not be adjusted, so rides can be slow and uncomfortable
Bring a warm layer and rain poncho
Where to See Monarch Butterflies in Mexico
While the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve includes more than a dozen sanctuaries, the following are the most popular and accessible for visitors:
Piedra Herrada Sanctuary (Estado de México)
Located near Valle de Bravo and within reach of Mexico City, Piedra Herrada is one of the most popular sanctuaries. Visitors can choose guided hikes or horseback rides to the butterfly colonies.
El Rosario Sanctuary (Michoacán)
One of the largest and most visited sanctuaries, El Rosario is known for its dense butterfly populations. Hiking and horseback riding are both available.
Sierra Chincua Sanctuary (Michoacán)
The closest sanctuary to the town of Angangueo, Sierra Chincua offers guided access and horseback rentals and is ideal for travelers staying locally.
El Capulín & La Mesa Sanctuaries (Estado de México)
These sanctuaries near Valle de Bravo are less crowded alternatives, making them a good option for visitors seeking a quieter experience.
Multi-Day Small Group Monarch Butterfly Tours
Booking a small group tour is one of the easiest and most enriching ways to visit the monarch sanctuaries, as logistics can be complex.
Recommended Tour Companies
Eco-Colors: This multi-day tour starts and ends in Mexico City and includes:
Visits to two monarch sanctuaries
Overnight stays in Valle de Bravo
Flexible itineraries based on where butterfly colonies are most concentrated
My husband and I participated in this tour in 2025 and found it truly magical. You can book this tour through Viator here. (affiliate link).
Other reputable small group tour operators include:
Natural Habitat Adventures
Monarch Odyssey
Explora Latin America
These tours fill up quickly—book at least six months in advance for peak season travel.
The Bottom Line
Visiting the Monarch butterfly sanctuaries in Mexico is more than a nature excursion—it’s a pilgrimage to one of the planet’s most extraordinary migrations. With proper planning, this experience will stay with you long after the butterflies take flight.
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