Mexico’s Monarch Butterflies and Magical Cities
(Wed, Feb 3 – Sun, Feb 7, 2016)
Every winter, the cloud forests in the mountains of central Mexico play host to millions
and millions of over-wintering monarch butterflies. This aggregation of monarchs in
Mexico’s central highlands remains one of the most impressive wildlife spectacles on the
planet. When masses of butterflies are in flight, it sounds like rain falling and their
cumulative weight can bend branches of oyamel firs. In addition to visiting two butterfly
sanctuaries in the state of Mexico, travelers will also visit vibrant Mexico City and colonial
Valle de Bravo, one of Mexico’s “Magical Towns”.
Itinerary
Day 1 (Wed, Feb 3) – Mexico City
Upon arrival to Mexico City, you'll be met for the transfer to your hotel. Overnight at Camino Real – Airport or
similar. (http://www.caminoreal.com/destinations/airport) (D)
Day 2 (Thurs, Feb 4) – Mexico City/ Piedra Herrada Monarch Sanctuary/ Valle de Bravo
After breakfast at the hotel, depart to Piedra Herrada Monarch Reserve, the easiest monarch sanctuary to access
from Mexico City. Often, visitors to Piedra Herrada encounter swarms of monarchs before even arriving to the
sanctuary. Hike uphill to the heart of the sanctuary to witness massive aggregations of monarchs. Standing in the
forests of the reserve as millions of orange and black monarch butterflies swarm overhead is a magical sight and
today, you'll experience it first-hand. To make the most of your visit, you’ll also get to enjoy a picnic lunch at the
sanctuary.
Continue on to nearby Valle de Bravo, one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magico (“Magical Towns”) located less than 30
minutes from the sanctuary. You’ll have time this afternoon to explore Valle on your own. Its narrow, cobblestoned streets and colonial-style buildings along the shores of Laguna de Avandaro are perfect for exploring and
your hotel for the next two nights is conveniently located just a few blocks from the main plaza. Overnight at
Meson de Leyendas. (http://mesondeleyendas.com/) (B,L,D)
Day 3 (Fri, Feb 5) – Valle de Bravo/ El Capulin Monarch Sanctuary
Today brings a visit to El Capulin, a second monarch sanctuary in Mexico State. El Capulin receives far less visitors
than Piedra Herrada and offers a much wilder feel. The trails here are more rugged so the group will travel by
horseback to the butterfly congregation sites. After time to fully enjoy the spectacle of butterflies and lunch at a
typical fondita, head back to Valle de Bravo. Dinner this evening will be at the best Italian restaurant in town, a
gastronomic icon for the last 30 years. Overnight at Meson de Leyendas. (B,L,D)
Day 4 (Sat, Feb 6) – Valle de Bravo/ Mexico City
Morning return to Mexico City. Your hotel this evening is located only a block away from Mexico City’s iconic
Zocalo and Historic Center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blending colonial 17th Century grandeur with a raw
industrial edge, Downtown Hotel integrates local indigenous culture while celebrating its prime location. You’ll
have the opportunity to take advantage of this incredible location during a guided city tour to the most important
buildings and landmarks in the area. Stops include the Cathedral (the largest on the continent), Mayor Temple
Museum (where you can clearly see the remains of the Aztec civilization upon which the Spaniards built the city in
the 16th century), and the National Palace to see Diego Rivera’s impressive mural paintings. Tonight’s dinner is on
your own, but we strongly recommend eating at Azul Restaurant located at your hotel, one of Mexico City’s most
famous restaurants. Overnight at Downtown Hotel. (http://www.downtownmexico.com/main.html) (B,L)
Day 5 (Sun, Feb 7) – Mexico City/ Departure
Today’s activities will depend on your flight time. If your departure time is in the afternoon or evening, a visit to La
Ciudadela Artisans’ Market is possible. Transfer to the airport in time for your flight home. (B)
Meals: B=Breakfast; L=Lunch; D=Dinner
Price: $1669* per person (double occupancy); $475* single supplement.
Pricing includes accommodations, private transfers and tours, full-time local bilingual guide, trip host, entrance
fees as listed, and noted meals. A donation to support Audubon Society of Greater Denver will be made on behalf of
all participants.
Exclusions: international airfare, alcohol, passport/visa fees, checked baggage fees, travel insurance, optional
activities, taxis, gratuities for local guide, and personal expenses.
* A 3% discount will be applied for payment by check.