The main event of our visit to Mexico City was to experience the Monarch Butterfly migration in the nearby state of Michoacan. After a three hour drive from Mexico City, we arrived at Reserva de la Biosfera Mariposa Monarca, to observe one of nature’s miracles most difficult to explain.
We hiked for over an hour into the reserve’s pine forest until we saw our first Monarch. We joked whether we would see 10 to 20 butterflies, 100 to 200 butterflies, 1000 to 2000 butterflies, ten thousand to twenty thousand butterflies… we were pleased to see millions!
The Aztecs believed that the Monarch butterfly symbolized the soul: fertility, rebirth, regeneration, happiness and joy. We felt the same mysticism when we encountered their aura at this wintering site. Although the Monarchs return to Canada in spring, during the winter season you can admire this elusive species in the masses from November to March in Michoacan.
Cow Tip #1: The Biosphere contains eight of the twelve butterfly sanctuaries in the region. The wintering site of the Monarchs can vary slightly from year to year but locals surely know where to go. We went to Sierra Chincua sanctuary near Tlalpujahua and we were not disappointed
Cow Tip #2: Driving from Mexico is simple along Highway 15 towards Morelia Cuoto. Don’t forget your pesos - the toll road is a bit pricey but well worth it for the scenic and safe drive through Mexico’s interior. Plan to arrive at the reserve by 9am
Cow Tip #3: Although it’s possible to hire a Spanish-speaking guide at the sanctuary, we opted not to. Trails are windy and unmarked and Hanzel and Gretel-ing it may not be so effective where horses abound. Just follow the Monarchs!
Cow Tip #4: While the Monarchs journey south for the winter, the population peaks in February when mating multiplies before their flight back North
I was intrigued by your experience in Mexico City! I have been to Mexico several times but never ventured there. It will definitely be on my list. One question - it seems like it’s best to rent a car once there. Will a US driver’s license suffice to rent a car over there? Thanks, Jennifer B.
Yes, a US driver’s license will suffice. Have a wonderful adventure!!
Betsy,
I enjoyed reading about your trip. Where did you find out about this reserve? When did you visit? I am hoping to go this year but am not finding much info about festivals or locations or hotels. Any info you could pass along would be appreciated.
Thanks
Sincerely,
Renee Davis
Hi Renee,
I visited the reserve in February 2009. It was amazing! The butterflies are there from November to March, but I think February is the best time to visit because it’s mating season and the populations peak.
To be honest, I didn’t have much information when I planned my trip. I had read about El Rosario reserve but ended up visiting Sierra Chincua according to the advice of the locals. The populations from reserve to reserve seem to vary from year to year. We drove on highway 15 toward Morelia, asked where to see the butterflies at every toll stop, and ended up at the reserve 3 hrs later.
We set up camp in Mexico City and visited the reserve as a day trip. We stayed in a hotel on the Zocalo. Enjoy your trip and let me know if you need any more info to plan. I’m happy to help!
Betsy