Join Butterfly Pavilion for an unforgettable winter journey to Mexico's magical monarch butterfly sanctuaries. This five-day trip will immerse you with the monarch butterflies overwintering habitat and includes visits to three butterfly sanctuaries, an afternoon waterfall hike, and a visit to the Butterfly Garden at Chapultepec Park in Mexico City.
January 19-24, 2026
Picture yourself wandering beneath the towering fir trees of a magical forest in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve of central Mexico. The sun is warm, and the breeze flutters the wings of millions of bright orange monarch butterflies resting on the massive boughs of native Oyamels. This is the nesting ground they return to annually. They have traveled thousands of miles from their summer homes in central Canada and the United States to overwinter here. You breathe in deeply, the air smells fresh like pine sap and greenery. Experiencing this amazing natural phenomenon, you are reminded how incredible invertebrates are.
You can make this dream come true by signing up for Butterfly Pavilion’s trip with Reefs to Rockies to Mexico! Join Butterfly Pavilion’s Vice President of Science and Conservation, Dr. Rich Reading and Lepidopterist, Shiran Hershcovich as they journey into the incredible Biosphere Reserve. See the itinerary here.
Itinerary:
Day 1 (Mon, Jan 19) – Arrival
Upon arrival at Mexico City International Airport (MEX), you’ll be met for your transfer to your hotel. Take the evening to relax or explore the vibrant Condesa neighborhood, known for its leafy streets, art deco architecture, and lively cafes.
Day 2 (Tues, Jan 20) – Mexico City to Angangueo
Meet your fellow travelers, guide, and Butterfly Pavilion hosts during a Welcome Breakfast at Eno, Chef Enrique Olvera’s casual cafe. Olvera is the visionary behind Pujol, one of the world’s most acclaimed restaurants.
After breakfast, we head to the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the pine-oak forests of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. This reserve protects the primary overwintering sites of the eastern monarch butterfly population. Today, we’ll visit our first sanctuary, likely Sierra Chincua, where you’ll travel by horse and on foot to reach butterfly clusters at elevations between 9,000-11,000 feet. It’s a challenging but rewarding journey. Tonight’s rustic accommodations provide easy access to nearby monarch sanctuaries, setting the stage for more adventures.
Day 3 (Wed, Jan 21) – Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve and Valle de Bravo
No two days at the monarch sanctuaries are alike. Today, we’ll visit another reserve, with the location determined by recent sightings and butterfly cluster activity. After spending time with the monarchs, we’ll continue to Valle de Bravo, one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos, known for its cobbled streets, terracotta roofs, and lush surroundings.
Day 4 (Thurs, Jan 22) – Monarch Sanctuary and Velo de Novia Waterfall
Today, we visit a third monarch sanctuary. This afternoon, enjoy a nature walk to Velo de Novia, a spectacular 115-foot waterfall named for its resemblance to a flowing wedding veil. Keep your binoculars handy – this area is known for excellent birding.
Day 5 (Fri, Jan 23) – Valle de Bravo to Mexico City
Today, we make our way back to Mexico City with a stop at the renowned National Museum of Anthropology, a must-see for its stunning collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. This evening, relive the highlights of your journey during our Farewell Dinner.
Day 6 (Sat, Jan 26) – Departure ~ Transfer to the airport in time for our flight home.
Trip Dates: 1/19/26 – 1/24/26. Includes most meals, double occupancy accommodation, airport transfers, local guides and park entrance fees. Flights, passport/visa fees, hotel upgrades and optional gratuities not included.
For more information, see trip details or contact us at development@butterflies.org.