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Mexico | Migration of the Monarch Butterflies

with Florida Museum of Natural History

February 1, 2025 - February 6, 2025

Monarch at El Rosario

Photo by Pelin Karaca
Monarch cluster

Photo by Pelin Karaca
Monarchs in flight

Photo by Ian Segebarth
Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City

Photo by Stefanie Plein
Sierra Chincua mountain scenery

Photo by Pelin Karaca
Monarch clusters at El Rosario

Photo by Pelin Karaca
Angangueo is located high in the mountains in Michoacan

Photo by Pelin Karaca
Riding horseback at Sierra Chincua

Photo by Stephanie Kowacz
Trail in El Rosario Reserve

Photo by Pelin Karaca

Buildout

Overview

About this trip

One of the most amazing phenomena in nature is the annual migration of millions of Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) southward from their breeding grounds in the United States and Canada to overwintering sites high in the mountains of southern Mexico. Hundreds of millions of Monarchs fly along the Gulf Coast, or across the Gulf of Mexico, to eventually reach the belt of mountains which stretches across the southern end of the central Mexican plateau.

Join the Florida Museum of Natural History for this special opportunity to see Monarchs packed in the countless millions on the roosts, feeding on wildflowers, and watering streams. The beauty of their rustling wings clearly audible at times of mass flight, the sprinkling of orange Monarch scales drifting down through the green fir tree boughs, and sheer magnitude of the numbers seen, all combine to make this one of the most amazing experiences imaginable. The Florida Museum of Natural History has participated in expeditions to Mexico to witness this phenomena for the last 20 years and believes that it is important for people to experience firsthand so they can continue to contribute to important Monarch conservation projects.

Highlights

Discover the annual migration of monarchs at Sierra Chincua and El Rosario Reserves alongside a lepidopterist of the Florida Museum of Natural History.
Photograph the dramatic colors of the butterflies as they hang in clusters from the trees, drink from streams, feed on wildflowers, and soar in the air above.
Visit the pyramids at Teotihuacán, one of the most architecturally significant Mesoamerican sites of pre-Columbian times.
Spend time exploring colonial Angangueo, which was once a mining town but now derives most of its livelihood from butterfly ecotourism and agriculture.

Meet your leader

Andrei Sourakov

Andrei Sourakov obtained his Ph.D. at the University of Florida in 1997. Currently, he serves as a Collections Coordinator of Lepidoptera at the Florida Museum of Natural History and teaches “Insects and Plants” as a graduate faculty of Entomology. Dr. Sourakov has worked with Lepidoptera all his life, conducted field work in more than 20 countries, and his interests range from biogeography and speciation to community and chemical ecology. He has been leading trips to Monarch overwintering colonies in Mexico for over 10 years.

Activity Level 4: Moderate-Strenuous

This journey is for fit and active nature enthusiasts. Daily activities last for 5 or more hours. There are challenging excursions to butterfly colonies that may require walking for approximately 2 miles at altitudes of up to 10,660 feet on some trails that are narrow and rugged. These may involve both steep uphill and downhill hikes of 30 minutes or more (hiking at your own pace), and require horseback riding for part of the way; please note there is a maximum weight limit of approximately 260 lbs to ride the horses. Restrooms are only available at the base of the mountain. Weather in the Central Highlands during the migration is typically cool and dry with average temperatures in the 50s. Though days are typically sunny, there can be some windy conditions, and nights occasionally drop below 30°F. Also included are walking tours in provincial towns and in Mexico City. Here, at the Teotihuacán archaeological site, you can choose to climb two pyramids: the largest is over 200 feet high with 248 steep steps.

Additional Notes

During site visits, the days entail walking around the butterfly sites on your own and photographing and watching butterflies. Please be prepared to be independent during butterfly watching.

Please also see the information about Safety & Risk Management under the Travel Info tab.

Land Cost

^$2,450

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $625

What makes us different

Wildlife up-close

Enjoy up-close observation of the behaviors and interactions of wildlife in their native habitats

Cultural Discovery

Put culture in context as you discover the history and traditions of your destination

Meaningful experiences

We believe travel should be more than just a vacation – it should enrich and inspire

Low stress travel planning

We take care of all the details so you know your trip will be smooth sailing

Expert guides

We take pride in hiring local guides who are carefully selected for their knowledge, sensitivity and skill in the field

Support local communities

We work with local guides and organizations so your trip includes authentic cultural experiences while supporting the economy of the region

Itinerary

Mexico City

Feb 01

Upon arrival in Mexico City, you will be met in the airport and transported to your hotel, situated in the historic district on the Zócalo. The Zócalo is the largest plaza in Latin America, and it is surrounded by the National Palace, Metropolitan Cathedral, Templo Mayor, and many restaurants and historical architecture. This evening, meet in the hotel lobby at 7 pm for a welcome dinner and program orientation at a nearby restaurant. Check-in starts at 3 pm.

Dinner included

Overnight at Zocalo Central Hotel

Angangueo

Feb 02

Begin today with a short exploration of Mexico City during a brief walking tour of the Zócalo the largest plaza in Latin America and the surrounding Metropolitan Cathedral, and Templo Mayor; a boxed lunch will be provided. Depart for the colonial town of Angangueo, high in the mountains in the state of Michoacán, about 100 miles west of Mexico City. Check in at Hotel Don Bruno. After dinner, the museum leader will present a brief orientation lecture on the monarch sites and our activities over the next several days. Elevation at Hotel Don Bruno is 8,460 feet. Please note that it can get cold at night and in the early morning, and most rooms do not have heat. It is recommended that you bring warm sleeping clothes.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at Hotel Don Bruno

Angangueo

Feb 03

Spend today at Sierra Chincua Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary. This is one of several nearby monarch sites and is more isolated than El Rosario, which you will visit tomorrow. The journey starts with a hike up the mountain to about 10,000 feet. Horses are available to rent for a portion of the trail. (approximately 150 200 Mexican pesos each way, cash only). Some uphill walking will be required, but it can be done at your own pace and with stops and rest as needed. Once at the site, you have the day to walk around on your own and watch and photograph the spectacular colony independently. The museum leader will be available to answer questions. A boxed lunch will be provided to eat at your leisure. Please note that restrooms are located at the base of the mountain and can be reached by walking or renting a horse. There are also vendors at the base selling food, beverages, and local crafts. The site is typically shaded, so remember to dress in layers due to changes in temperature and elevation. Late in the afternoon, return to Hotel Don Bruno for dinner. The museum leader will host an evening lecture and discussion on the monarchs, their biology, ecology, and conservation.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at Hotel Don Bruno

Angangueo

Feb 04

Today visit the monarch sanctuary of El Rosario, the largest overwintering site. The colony normally contains well over 100 million adult monarchs. An excellent trail system winds through the fir covered slopes on which the colony is located. Additionally, there is a nearby stream where the butterflies may fly at midday to drink water. At this time of year, they may take flight for an hour or more to secure water, nectar, etc., before returning to their roost on the tree limbs or trunks. The hike to reach the colony may again reach up to 10,000 feet and will require hiking up the mountain. The hike is at your own pace, and birding can be done along the way. A portion of the hike can again be done by horseback rental. Once at the site, the day will be spent enjoying the colony and watching the butterflies go through their daily cycle of activities. Please be prepared to be independent again today during butterfly watching. The museum leader will also be available to answer questions. A simple picnic lunch will be provided, to be eaten at your leisure. Restrooms are located at the bottom of the mountain and not in the reserve. In the late afternoon, return from the mountains to Angangueo. You will have free time to enjoy the hotel gardens, walk the town's cobblestone streets and take photos, or to just relax. The museum leader will give another evening lecture on the monarchs, with emphasis on their migration, orientation, and navigation abilities.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at Hotel Don Bruno

Mexico City

Feb 05

Depart for the Mexico City area and the pyramids at San Juan Teotihuacán. We'll have the afternoon to explore this world famous archaeological site, which covers 32 square miles and contains many structures, including two large pyramids. A must see spot is the Quetzpapalotl Palace or "Palace of the Butterflies"on the site. The Pyramid of the Sun, at a height of more than 200 feet, is one of the largest known pre Columbian structures in the Americas. After time to explore the ruins on your own, we return to our hotel on the Zócalo for a farewell dinner.

Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner included

Overnight at Zocalo Central Hotel

Mexico City, Departure

Feb 06

This morning, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home. Breakfast will be included depending on your departure time. Please be aware that you need to be at the airport three hours ahead of your scheduled departure flight time. (This goes for the flight to Mexico as well as on the way back.) Please pay careful attention when you book your return flight, as a 7 am departure from Mexico City means that you will need to wake up at 3:30 am to get to the airport by 4 am. If you choose to make an early morning booking, there is no problem in terms of getting you to the airport on time, but we want you to be aware of the three-hour check-in time.

Breakfast- included

Pricing

Land Cost

^$2,450

Per person

About this price

Land cost only. Does not include round-trip airfare to and from destination.

Single room supplement $625

What's included

Activities and meals as mentioned in itinerary
Full time guide for the duration of your program
Private transportation and driver for the duration of the program
Airport transfers
Bottled water or water refill station during transfers
Carbon Offset
Water during meals

What's not included

International airfare
Items of personal nature
Tips for guide and driver
Travel Insurance

Pricing details:

Cost is based on a minimum of 19 participants in double occupancy.

Full payment of $2450 is required to enroll on this program. This payment is not refundable.

Holbrook Travel strongly recommends the purchase of travel protection for medical emergencies while traveling and to protect your investment. Please note the purchase of Cancel for Any Reason Coverage or to exclude pre-existing conditions with Trip Cancellation coverage may require policy purchase within 10-14 days of your initial deposit, depending upon the provider.

Single room supplement $625

Final payment due date: September 29, 2024

Travel Info

Safety & Risk Management

Please note that this program visits the Mexican state of Michoacán, which the U.S. State Department has long designated a Travel Advisory Level 4 due to criminal activity. Mexico City is designated a Level 2. Holbrook has operated programs to view the monarch migration in these locations for many years without incident, and we have strict safety protocols in place for all our destinations. However, it is ultimately up to each traveler to make their own assessment regarding safety and risk. Travelers are advised to visit https://travel.state.gov for more information.

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Mexico. Passports must be valid for at least the duration of your stay. As this requirement is subject to change at any time without notice, we recommend at least 6 months’ validity. A passport card is not acceptable for entry to the U.S. by air.

Travelers no longer need to fill out the Forma Migratoria Multiple (FMM), also known as the tourist card, if flying in and out of the following airports: Mexico City International Airport (MEX), Cancun International Airport (CUN), Cozumel International Airport (CZM), Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), or Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR).

If you are flying in and out of an airport other than those listed above, Mexico still requires submission of an immigration form (tourist card) upon arrival. There is no fee for the form, but it is recommended that you complete the form online at https://www.inm.gob.mx/fmme/publico/en/solicitud.html and print it prior to your departure. While the form will also be available upon arrival, printing the tourist card prior to your trip will expedite your arrival process. For more information about the tourist card, visit https://www.mexicotouristcard.com.

If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Mexican Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.

There are no vaccinations required for entry into Mexico. The CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Mexico.

Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

MALARIA

The CDC does not consider travelers to Mexico City or the Mexican state of Michoacán to be at risk for malaria.

Dengue Fever & Other Insect-borne Illnesses

Locally transmitted cases of dengue fever have been reported in Mexico. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area have been infected with the virus and are spreading it to people. In addition, locally transmitted cases of leishmaniasis, Zika virus, and other insect-borne illnesses have been reported in Mexico.

There are no vaccinations available to protect against dengue, leishmaniasis, or Zika. The CDC recommends that travelers to Mexico protect themselves against insect bites. Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later). As a precaution, the CDC advises women who are pregnant to consider postponing travel to any area where Zika virus transmission is ongoing.

Altitude Sickness

The high elevations of Michoacán might cause some travelers to experience altitude sickness during this program. Please discuss appropriate preventative measures with your personal physician prior to travel.

The most common form of the illness is acute mountain sickness (AMS). Symptoms generally include: headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, and at times, vomiting. The two more serious, and less common, forms of altitude illness are high-cerebral edema (HACE) and high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). HACE and HAPE can be potentially fatal if left untreated. Symptoms include: profound lethargy, extreme confusion, and increased breathlessness.

To alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness: stay hydrated and well-rested; eat high-carbohydrate foods; and avoid heavy, fatty foods, alcohol, sleeping pills, or narcotics during travel and in the days before arrival. Avoid heavy exercise while staying at high elevations.

Visit the CDC website for more information.

Travelers’ Diarrhea

The CDC warns that travelers’ diarrhea is the most common travel-related illness. Consumption of contaminated food and water may cause diarrhea. To avoid this, do not drink tap water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Avoid ice and uncooked vegetables or fruit without a peel. When in doubt, ask your guide. Restrict yourself to cooked food at restaurants, and avoid food sold on the streets. If you contract diarrhea, it is very important to drink large quantities of purified water. Consult your doctor for appropriate medication should you contract diarrhea.

SUN EXPOSURE

The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.

Resources

Suggested Packing List

Everyone has personal preferences when it comes to packing; for this reason, the information below is offered as a general guide and not a definitive list. You know yourself best: Use your discretion and pack what you think will serve you, based on your personal preferences and specific itinerary. You may find many of these items in our Gear Store.

CLOTHING

Casual, comfortable field clothes are suitable for visits to the monarch sites and most other activities. You may wish to bring a slightly nicer, but still casual, outfit for your time in Mexico City.

Bring enough clothing suitable for the length of your program. Make sure to bring warm clothes, as the temperatures at 10,000 feet can be at or below 30 °F in the early morning. It can also be windy on the mountains. Layering is strongly encouraged, as the mid-day temperatures may be in the 60s or 70s. At Teotihuacán, it will likely be 80-90 °F and in full sun. Versatility is key.

A combination of short-sleeved and long-sleeved shirts suitable for layering
A combination of light- and medium-weight long pants (such as jeans, khakis, or field pants)
Undergarments; long underwear and warm socks may be useful at night, as the rooms at Hotel Don Bruno are unheated and could get rather cold
Warm sleepwear
Parka or other outerwear: Temperatures may be near freezing for the first hour or two of the day.
Socks – Bring extra pairs.
Shoes – You'll likely want at least one pair of hiking boots for dusty forest trails or riding horseback (if desired), and/or a pair of comfortable, well-worn, closed-toe shoes with rubber soles suitable for walking on cobblestone streets, gravel paths, and uneven surfaces. In addition, you may want a pair of sturdy sport-strap sandals (e.g. Keens, Tevas, or similar) and/or casual flip-flops or sandals.
Swimsuit – There are mineral springs at Hotel Agua Blanca.
Rain gear – Rain is infrequent, but a lightweight rain jacket or hooded poncho comes in handy should a slight drizzle or snow flurry occur. It also makes a great layer for added warmth.
Cap or wool hat
Bandana, scarf, or neck gaiter – These can be helpful on dusty trails.
Gloves
Hand warmers – Hand warmers are small, heated pouches found in outdoor sections of many large retail stores as well as specialty sports and camping stores. When you open their packaging, the oxygen reacts with the powder inside the pouches to create heat, and after about 30 minutes they heat up to 120 °F, last for about 6-10 hours, and provide considerable warmth. They come in a variety of sizes and are inexpensive. These have been very popular with travelers in the past and are another way to ensure that you are comfortable during the cool mornings and nights. Due to current security regulations at airports, we recommend you pack these in your checked luggage, NOT your carry-on bag.

Personal Toiletries

Pack toiletries based on your personal preferences and habits. Below are just a few recommendations to keep in mind.

Shampoo, conditioner, lotion, deodorant/antiperspirant , etc. – All hotels provide shampoo and soap, but you may wish to bring your own from home if you prefer. If possible, avoid strong fragrances in consideration of your fellow travelers.
Soap and washcloth or a small, quick-drying microfiber towel – These items are not always standard in hotels outside the US, so you may wish to bring them with you.
Hairbrush, comb, hair ties, shower cap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Razor
Ear plugs, especially if you are a light sleeper
Personal hygiene products
Insect repellent with an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF – There is a chance for sunburn when on the mountain, as well as at Teotihuacán, where temperatures may be as high as 80-90 °F.
A travel pack of tissues – also useful as napkins or toilet paper if needed, as it may not be available at all stops

In addition to your personal toiletries, it is useful to pack a small medical kit, which you can easily prepare. Helpful items might include: bandages, antihistamine, a pain reliever (may be helpful for altitude headaches), motion sickness and/or altitude sickness medication (if you are prone to either), anti-diarrhea medicine, individually wrapped pre-moistened towelettes and/or hand sanitizer, antibiotic ointment, anti-fungal cream, moleskin for blisters, eye drops, tweezers, a mini sewing kit, and an extra pair of disposable contact lenses or eyeglasses if you wear them.

MISCELLANEOUS

Remember to pack valuables such as your passport, cash/credit cards, and medications in your carry-on luggage.

Passport, FMM (if applicable), and photocopies of all travel documentation
Personal insurance card and travel insurance information
Money – ATM/credit card and cash; small bills in good condition are recommended
Prescription medicines (if applicable), with a copy of the prescription
Sunglasses with strap
Small day pack for carrying water, camera gear, rain gear, clothing layers, etc. during monarch site visits
Flashlight and/or head lamp
Travel alarm clock or inexpensive waterproof wristwatch with alarm – Not all hotels provide alarm clocks.
A pocket calculator or phone to assist with conversions and currency exchange
Hot water bottle (to help warm your bed at Hotel Don Bruno)
Binoculars with lens cleaner
Camera and related equipment, such as charger, lenses, and extra memory cards – Be prepared to pay an extra park fee for use of a video camera (anything that looks professional-level) while in the parks.
Reusable water bottle – Plan to buy bottled water, but you may wish to bring an extra container for refilling
Non-perishable snacks
Pocket-knife or multipurpose tool – Pack in your checked luggage
Notepad or travel journal and pen
Music or reading material for down time, long bus drives, or on the airplane, and a portable bright light to read by
Collapsible walking stick with rubber tip
Zip-top style bags – useful for packing toiletries, sorting clothing, storing damp or muddy shoes, or as a dry bag for protecting electronics
Money belt
Chargers for electronics

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E product Contact Us

Request More Information:

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Complete the form below and we will be in touch with you.

Toll-free

800-866-7111

Local

352-377-7111

3540 NW 13th Street
Gainesville, FL 32609

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"Amazing experience. Loved everything about this trip. The day at El Rosario was absolutely incredible."

- Leslie B. Mexico, 2023

Questions?

Contact Lisa Palmese-Graubard at 800-451-7111 x339 or email Lisa.

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Mexico

See this in person

You are here

Mexico | Migration of the Monarch Butterflies

with Florida Museum of Natural History

Buildout

About this trip

Highlights

Meet your leader

Andrei Sourakov

Activity Level 4: Moderate-Strenuous

Additional Notes

$2,450

Per person

What makes us different

Wildlife up-close

Cultural Discovery

Meaningful experiences

Low stress travel planning

Expert guides

Support local communities

AND MORE!

Mexico City

Feb 01

Angangueo

Feb 02

Angangueo

Feb 03

Angangueo

Feb 04

Mexico City

Feb 05

Mexico City, Departure

Feb 06

$2,450

Per person

What's included

What's not included

Safety & Risk Management

Entry & Exit Requirements

Health Information

IMMUNIZATIONS

MALARIA

Dengue Fever & Other Insect-borne Illnesses

Altitude Sickness

Travelers’ Diarrhea

SUN EXPOSURE

Respiratory Illness Protocols

Suggested Packing List

CLOTHING

Personal Toiletries

MISCELLANEOUS

Request More Information:

Question? Comments? Ready to Confirm?

Toll-free

Local

Questions?

From the blog

From the blog

From the blog

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