The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve is a 563 square kilometre protected area located within rugged forested mountains 100km northeast of Mexico City. It is the site of one of the most extraordinary animal migrations in the world, when each year up to one billion monarch butterflies return from northern breeding areas to overwinter here. Of the 14 overwintering colonies in this region, 8 are protected by the reserve. The massive numbers of butterflies turn the trees orange, bend branches and fill the sky when they take flight. Their eight month migration north in spring takes them as far as eastern Canada during which time four successive generations are born and die.
Organised group tours: The following tours for Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve are available:
Tour Map of Mexico Monarch Butterfly Trail
Mexico Monarch Butterfly Trail
£999
excl. flights
10 days
Great value, reasonable prices, quality experiences. Comfortable and varied tourist-class accommodations chosen for location and character. Mix of public and private transport for the best overall experience. All the top highlights included, plus plenty of time to explore on your own.
The trips we've build our reputation on. Designed for maximum variety, these trips are geared towards travellers searching for a healthy mix of active exploration, uncommon landscapes, amazing wildlife and local cultures.
Mexico Monarch Butterfly Trail
For the nature lover who also appreciates cultural luminescence, this butterfly adventure captures the brightest colours of Mexico in just ten days. From the historic streets of Mexico City, you'll travel through stunning national parks, colonial towns and beautiful countryside as you follow the migration of the monarch butterfly. Wander through flutters of butterflies in the reserves of El Rosario and Sierra Chincua. Off the beaten path, this quirky adventure will give you a unique insight into the people and 'mariposas' of Mexico.