Category Archives: Colonial Cities

National Geographic Traveler Magazine’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” 2013: Mexico

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Nat Geo Tour Lifetime 2013

Journey Mexico, the leader in Mexico Travel offering unique luxury, adventure, natural and cultural tours, is pleased to announce that its Magical Mexican Migrations—Pacific Whales and Highland Butterflies tour has been selected as one of National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Tours of a Lifetime” and will be featured in their May 2013 magazine issue.

The “50 Tours of a Lifetime” are National Geographic Traveler’s selection of the most authentic, most innovative, most immersive, best-guided, and most sustainable tours. This is the third year in row that one of Journey Mexico’s trips have made the list, with the first being Copper Canyon Semana Santa Trek and second, Chiapas: A Journey Through Mexico Less Visited. This year’s theme was tours that ‘capture the spirit of exploration.’ National Geographic Traveler’s executive editor Norie Quintos said “[the tours] push the boundaries of mainstream tourism, whether taking travelers to the far corners of the globe, or helping them dive deep into the culture of familiar destinations.”

With that said, it is no surprise that our  Magical Mexican Migrations—Pacific Whales and Highland Butterflies tour stood out to the editorial team. This tour immerses you in the circle of life, as  creatures ranging in size from 3-4 inch featherweights to school bus-sized 30-40 ton giants make their way to Mexico by air and sea. The trip visits both the World Heritage highland forests of Michoacán and the marine enclaves of Baja California, delighting and mystifying human observers.

monarch-butterfly-tour

whale-watching

Journey Mexico is pleased to offer this tour of a lifetime, so that explorers can experience both of these extraordinary congregations of wildlife.  We invite you to join Monarch butterflies and eastern Gray whales in their annual sojourn and learning about conservation issues that threaten the future of these precious ecosystems.  Explore historic Morelia, kayak the Sea of Cortez, and snorkel with wild sea lions.  Along the way, expert naturalist guides will reveal many charms of Mexico, proven here to draw repeat visitors from great distances.

 

 

Puebla City Highlights from Tianguis Turistico

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The most important event in Mexico’s tourism, Tianguis Turistico, continues to grow as expectations in terms of buyers and attendance have exceeded and broken record the past two years. Being held for the first time in Puebla, the 38th edition Tianguis Turistico was the largest in terms of countries represented — with over 42 present. For the 25,000+ attendees, events, parties, lunches, and tours were held all around the city. Puebla dazzled and delighted its visitors during the four day event showing off their cultural and historical highlights that warrants the recognition to be named a  UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here are some of the places highlighted in Puebla during Tianguis Turistico:

Civic Center Cinco de Mayo
The Puebla Convention Center is located on the foothills of the Cerro Los Fuertes de Loreto y Guadalupe, which is where the Battle of Puebla on May 5 (Cinco de Mayo) took place back in 1862. Today, the Civic Center Cinco de Mayo remains as a place of major importance in the history of Mexico and is commemorated by memorial monuments, the old fort structures Fuerte de Loreto and Fuerte de Guadalupe,  and interactive museums of military history and talavera.

Cinco de Mayo Forts

Centro Historico
The Historic Centre of Puebla, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987, preserves over 2,500 monuments distributed across 391 blocks making Puebla the city with the largest number of monuments in the Americas. In the Historic Centre of Puebla, colorful, colonial architecture dominates and is strewn with unique cathedrals and churches, world-renowned gastronomy, bazaars and artisans.

Historic Center in Puebla - The Cathedral

Museo Nacional de los Ferrocarriles
An important piece of history, the Ferrocariles Mexicanos (Mexican Railway) Train Station was close to being demolished in the 1970s but was rescued for its declaration as cultural heritage. It later turned into a museum that today demonstrates the importance of its construction and locomotive engines that helped the development of the railway system in Mexico.

Mexican Railway Museum

La Purificadora
Located in the Historical Center of Puebla, La Purificadora has converted from a late 19th-century factory once used to purify water for the production of ice to a trendy, boutique hotel. The hotel offers one of the best views of Puebla, overlooking San Francisco Church and beautiful gardens.

Boutique Hotel in Puebla

Cholula (Archaeological Site)
A newly recognized Pueblo Magico (Magical Town), Cholula is best known for its grand pyramid on which rests the large yellow church, Iglesia de los Remedios with a dramatic backdrop of the Popocatépetl Volcano. The pyramid, which is the largest pyramid in the world, is made up of sever overlaid pyramids built over a six century period. Today, the archaeological site includes ruins, tunnels, and a museum.
Cholula Archaeological Site

 El Mural de los Poblanos
Puebla is home to some of the most popular dishes in Mexican gastronomy and El Mural de los Poblanos restaurant is where you can find the some of these traditional Poblano treats. The house specialties are cemitas, chile relleno, and five kinds of mole all served up in an authentic and elegant way. They also have a wide selection of mezcales and tequila, mexican wines and cooking classes and workshops.

El Mural de los Poblanos

All photos taken from www.puebla.travel

Travel Trade Show 2013: Tianguis Turistico Puebla

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Puebla Tianguis

Puebla is gearing up for the 38th Edition of the Tianguis Turistico — Mexico’s most important travel trade show. The fair will be held from March 17th to March 20th at the Exhibition Center in the state’s capital,  providing a unique business arena where domestic and international purchasers are able to meet with over 500 Mexican tourism service providers.

For 36 years, Tianguis Turistico had been held in Acapulco before deciding to become a traveling tourism fair, making its first stop in 2012 at the beach destination of Puerto Vallarta.  Puebla will be the first colonial destination of the Tianguis Turistico Mexico. While last year had a record-breaking attendance of 1,400 buyers and 7,500 attendees, this year Mexico is expecting to exceed that number with 1,500 buyers from 33 countries. Puebla was chosen as this year’s host because of it abundance of cultural and historical significance. In fact, the city of Puebla was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987. Puebla commented that it will be a proud host and as part of preparations for Tianguis’ activities, the city has invested more than 300 million pesos in infrastructure.

If you are unfamiliar with Puebla, it has exquisite architecture which can be seen in its many churches and convents and it is also where some of the popular dishes of Mexican cuisine come from –such as chiles en nogada (a colorful blend of poblano peppers topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds) and mole poblano. Puebla also is proudly home to seven Pueblos Magicos — recognized ‘Magical Towns’ that imbue certain characteristics and experiences through architecture, traditions, customs, music, gastronomy, festivities and handcrafts.

Magic Towns Puebla If you’re planning to attend this travel fair or visit Puebla for any reason, give Journey Mexico a call.  Matteo, Rene, and Jessica, will be representing Journey Mexico at this year’s Tianguis. If you would like to make an appointment, please email them.

 

2013 Mexico Travel Bucket List

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As we enter the new year of 2013 and a new era of the 14th baktun, it is time to start not only planning new adventures and travels — but also completing them! If you’re looking for the most exhilarating trips to add to your 2013 Travel Bucket List, Mexico has some of the best!

With a majority of Mexico’s destinations deemed safe for traveling and increasingly more tourists visiting, Mexico is back on the map for many international travelers. The world is starting to understand the message that not only does Mexico have incredible beaches and luxurious resorts, it also has a wealth of culture and vast offerings of nature and wildlife. Here are Mexico’s most invigorating experiences and destinations to add to your 2013 Travel Bucket List:

1) El Rosario Monarch Reserve
One of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world is the annual migration of the North American Monarch Butterfly. Arriving in late October, they travel up to three thousand miles to their warm wintering grounds in Michoacán, Mexico. The butterflies transform Michoacán’s El Rosario Reserve to vibrant shades of orange as they completely envelop the trees and cover the grounds–a truly spectacular sight to see.

MonarchButterfly

 

2) Chiapas
Inhabited with lush jungles, exotic native communities, colonial cities  and Mayan archeology, Chiapas is an incredibly diverse state in Mexico. The Sumidero Canyon, with its towering walls and exotic wildlife, is a popular attraction; but not to be missed are the radiating waterfalls of Misol-Ha and Agua Azul within the Lacondon Jungle. Other highlights include San Cristobal de las Casas, appointed one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos (Magical Towns) which is an extreme contrast from San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan, where indigenous customs and traditions are still very much present.AguaAzul

 

3) Xilitla & The Famous Gardens of Sir Edward James
Hidden in  state of San Luis Potosi, the Magical Town of Xilitla is known for its abundant vegetation and surrealism. Among Xilitla’s waterfalls, mountains and tropical rain forest is where an eccentric Englishman, Sir Edward James, decided to create his own fantasy world of surrealist inspiration. Towering concrete sculptures and fantastical figures create a dreamlike castle and gardens that await to be discovered.
xilitla2

 

4) Isla Holbox &  Swimming With Whale Sharks 
Isla Holbox is beautiful island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula (close to Cancun) known for its white sand, crystal waters, and incredible sunsets. While beautiful to visit any time of the year, it is May through September when the world’s largest fish, the Whale Shark, come to migrate. Growing over 40ft in length, they pose no threat to humans, which makes swimming with these giant creatures in the natural habitat a must-do for every adventurer.

SwimmingWhaleSharks

 

5) Copper Canyon
The largest canyon in North America, Copper Canyon is nearly four times the volume of the Grand Canyon found in the USA.  There are many adventure activities such as hiking, mountain biking  and wildlife viewing but the highlight of this region is the famous Chihuahua al Pacifico Train. Crossing numerous bridges and tunnels, the changing landscapes offer unbelievable photo opportunities.  Along the ride you can stop off to experience historic haciendas, visit the frontier mining outpost of Batopilas and learn about the indigenous Tarahumara traditional culture.Copper-Canyon-Bucket-List

Where to Vacation in Mexico in December

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As December approaches, the vibrant traditions of Mexico come to life in new ways. In a country with strong historical ties, cultural celebrations dating back to colonial times and beyond take the forefront in communities all over Mexico. Everywhere you go, the holiday season is marked by robust flavors, colors and aromas. Seasonal food and goods become available, offering fresh experiences even to veteran travelers. The spirit of Mexico in December is enchanting and an opportunity to enjoy unforgettable festivities.

Mexican Celebrations in December

For nine days stretching from December 16th to the 24th, the Mexican Posadas take place. Singing processions travel the streets with candles, reenacting St. Joseph and the Virgin Mary’s trek through Bethlehem in search of shelter. Residents in nearby homes play the roles of innkeepers who refused to help the travelers until Joseph and Mary are received at a designated area. In many places, the procession is beautifully detailed with angels, pilgrims, shepherds and children carrying poinsettias. The entire scene is performed in song and at the final location the participants share prayers of thanks before enjoying a marvelous feast.

Throughout the month, visitors are sure to see Nativity scenes decorating homes, churches and several public venues. Scenes of Jesus’ birth in a manger are carefully laid out with ceramic figures often representing the Biblical characters. Along the streets of Mexico, these scenes range from simple setups to elaborate designs with breathtaking detail. As December 24th arrives, families gather for a nourishing meal on Christmas Eve, honoring the Nativity scene with prayer and gratitude.

Holiday Markets in Mexico

Public areas quickly transform into scenes of holiday cheer with attractive Christmas decorations. As the holiday is widely celebrated in Mexico, special markets are arranged where locals can purchase Christmas decorations, supplies for the Nativity scene and other seasonal items. For the children, holiday candy is a common attraction, and of course, the bright and inviting plazas are great place for amusement and mingling.

Where to Vacation in Mexico in December

If you want to experience the holiday season in Mexico, visit the colonial cities for an up-close look at the rich cultural traditions.

Mexico City

The country’s dynamic capital is one of the most exciting places to visit worldwide. From bustling bazaars full of exquisite artisan jewelry, glassware, silver and weavings to the astonishing archaeological sites of ancient civilizations, Mexico City is pulsing with invigorating culture, living history and thriving arts. Visitors are charmed by the Zocalo plaza and quaint colonial layout of the city, which features stunning architectural landmarks that house museums, cathedrals, galleries and government offices. The homes of remarkable figures like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera still stand in remembrance of their work while just beyond the city the ruins of Teotihuacan tell the story of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic ancestors, the Aztecs. To find out more visit our Mexico City tour, one of several private journeys to the city.

Other Destinations

Guanajuato, located in central Mexico, is another destination for a memorable vacation. In this colonial heartland, the city is still home to incredible Baroque architecture and underground pathways such as Boca Mina, a famous mine once coveted for its silver. For the traveler who enjoys diverse entertainment, the city is bursting with thrilling nightlife, chic restaurants, live music and boutique hotels with luxury amenities.

Just a few towns away, Patzcuaro lies amidst charming artisan communities where visitors can truly dive into the local cultural, from tasting traditional cuisine to checking out the artisan and copper workshops. Or if you prefer to see a UN World Heritage site, travel to nearby Morelia for authentic souvenirs from Michoacan markets and a chance to see the city’s treasured historic center. Wherever you decide to visit, the holiday season is sure to bring impressive festivities that will be remembered for years to come.

Mexico Culture Travel: Dia de los Muertos en San Miguel de Allende

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Mexican culture exudes spirit and vitality that truly comes to life during the El Dia de los Muertos celebration, a national event honoring the lives of lost relatives, friends and public figures. This important holiday, known as Day of the Dead in English, takes place annually on November 1st and 2nd.

Many people believe Halloween and Dia de los Muertos are versions of the same holiday. Both celebrations coincide with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, occurring when the veil between the living and the dead is believed to be weakened, enabling communication with spirits. Yet, the spirits of Halloween are harmful, magical and mischievous, so children wear costumes to scare them away. Day of the Dead is a joyful holiday that handles death from a lighthearted and sentimental perspective, allowing individuals to show respect and love for ancestors and friends who have passed away.

Day of the Dead Festivities in San Miguel de Allende

Dia de los Muertos originated from a centuries old Aztec festival in honor of Mictecacihuatl, a goddess known as the Lady of the Dead. Today, Mexican families create colorful altars in their homes. The living also come together to decorate the graves of the dead with their favorite foods, tequila, flowers and sweets while encouraging the presence of these benevolent spirits and sharing humorous stories in remembrance of who they once were. Some of the most entertaining moments involve short poems known as calaveritas, or little skulls, in which funny, satirical verses are written and dedicated to the deceased.

San Miguel de Allende, a municipality in eastern Guanajuato, provides the perfect opportunity to take part in these extraordinary festivities. Tourist traffic is light at this time of year, the weather is mild and visitors have the chance to find souvenirs at an authentic Dia de los Muertos market. As November approaches, families stream in and out of local cemeteries to scrub tombstones, clear away weeds and lay out flowers and candles. In the weeks before the celebration, a special market is set up near the Plaza Civica where everyone shops for decorations amongst stalls of sugar skulls, miniature coffins, skeleton puppets and the familiar skeleton masks and figures, known as calacas. The Calaca Festival takes place November 1-4 this year.

A candlelight vigil lights up the cemetery as cheerful crowds gather to celebrate the dead, listen to mariachi bands, share bottles of tequila and enjoy a picnic with friends and family. All around, children play amidst displays of skeletons in comical scenarios. Calacas are a significant part of Mexican folk art intended to mock death and overcome the pain of loss, depicting skeletons humorously as noble ladies, drunken merrymakers, dancers, brides and many other roles of everyday life.

Exploring San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende has a wealth of cultural attractions you can experience before and after Dia de los Muertos. The stunning city center features beautifully preserved architecture in neoclassical and baroque styles that house cathedrals, galleries and museums. Along vibrant, colorful streets, the local artisan shops offer charming turquoise jewelry and silver crafts. Live events are frequently held in the local parks and travelers can choose from a tempting variety of authentic Mexican and international cuisine from the city’s inviting restaurants. With a range of impressive vacation rentals in the area, visitors will have no trouble finding cozy villas for relaxation when the Day of the Dead celebration is over.

Webinar on Mexico: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Mexico is home to 31 World Heritage sites including 10 Mexican cities, but do you know what makes all of them so special?

Travel Weekly (TravelWeekly.com) — one of the most influential B2B news resources for the travel industry that delivers all the late-breaking news, analysis and research that travel professionals need to succeed — is hosting a very special webinar on the UNESCO World Hertiage Sites in Mexico. Journey Mexico’s President, Zach Rabinor, has been asked to join the panel of operators who specialize in these incredible regions alongside hosts: Travel Weekly, representatives from UNESCO,  The Mexico Tourism Board, and other operators.We invite you to learn about the history and culture of Mexico recognized worldwide!

What: Mexico’s UNESCO World Heritage Site Webinar
Who: Travel Weekly, The Mexico Tourism Board, UNESCO Representatives,  Journey Mexico & other specialists
When: October 9th at 2:00pm ET // 1:00pm CT
Where: Live streaming webinar
How:  Webinar open to registrants. Register here.

Unique Hotels and Restaurants in Guanajuato – Our Top Picks

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As the Festival Internacional Cervantino 2012 approaches, one of the largest celebrations of the arts worldwide, travelers from across the globe will be arriving in the cultural mecca of Guanajuato, Mexico. With 19 days of festivities running from October 3 to October 21, we wanted to share Journey Mexico’s picks for the top hotels and restaurants in Guanajuato.

Hotels:
1) The restored ruins of a 17th-century hacienda is the home of Camino Real Guanajuato Hotel, a breathtaking historic building recognized as an INAH World Heritage Site. Exquisite details of the original hacienda have been preserved, creating the perfect blend of carved stonework, vaulted architecture and chic modern décor. With rooms overlooking beautiful gardens and onsite pool, gym and business center facilities, guests have plenty of modern comforts for an enjoyable stay.

2) The Quintas Las Acacias was converted from its late 19th-century origins to an elegant boutique hotel, offering 17 rooms and pampered suites that merge classic European style with distinctly Mexican motifs and artisan decor. The hotel’s AAA Four Diamond rating is well-earned with first-rate amenities, unparalleled hospitality and tranquil settings that combine history with luxury. Charming touches like the beautiful cactus garden, soothing outdoor jacuzzi and intimate restaurant offers guests a truly unique experience.

3) The European-inspired boutique hotel Villa Maria Cristina offers the atmosphere of a regal estate. Lofty ceilings, charming courtyards and mosaic tile floors welcome travelers into this aristocratic home, where 13 airy suites are outfitted with elegant French furnishings. Guests can relax in the spa and pool styled after a Roman bathhouse or dine on sophisticated international cuisine. Luxury amenities like car and concierge services, designer toiletries and massage therapy guarantee an unforgettable visit.

 

Restaurants

1) México Lindo y Sabroso
Location: Paseo de la Presa 154, San Jose

For a taste of the country’s signature cuisine, visit Mexico Lindo y Sabroso, a quiet eatery with a cozy veranda for outdoor dining. In a menu with tasty regional cuisine and Yucatecan specialties, each dish is imbued with rich agricultural flavors paired with tender meats, beans and delectable sauces. Dine on the restaurant’s famed Enchilada trio, crispy flautas, green pozole or delicious pork-topped panuchos. With just a short drive from downtown, the restaurant is the perfect stop between festival events.


3) El Jardin de los Milagros
Location: Calle Alhondiga 80, San Javier

Cultural and contemporary merge expertly at the Garden of Miracles, where Chef Bricio Dominguez crafts flavorful Mexican, Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine designed to offer an incredible sensory experience. The indulgent flavors of fresh seafood ceviche, hearty stew and sopecitos topped with succulent meat and sauces dominant the menu, which re-envisions traditional dishes dating back to pre-Hispanic royalty with innovative modern touches. Nestled beneath a great white sapote tree in a former hacienda, the restaurant’s large windows offer a beautiful garden view while you dine.

4) El Abue
Location: Calle San José 14 at Plaza Baratillo

Don’t overlook El Abue, a hidden treasure at the heart of Guanajuato. The charmingly intimate dining room is perfect for couples and seasoned travelers who enjoy a quiet atmosphere and authentic regional Mexican cuisine. Chiles en nogada, a pork-filled poblano chile topped with toasted walnut cream sauce, is the star of the menu. Delicious tortilla soup and enchiladas in exquisite red Oaxacan mole are local favorites, but you’ll also find fresh salads, Italian pastas and juicy flank steak on this diverse menu.

Best Boutique Hotels in Morelia

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Boutique hotels with impeccable service, dynamic culturally-inspired décor and spectacular grounds are appearing in some of Mexico’s most thriving municipalities. These boutique hotels offer a unique and unforgettable vacation experience that caters to travelers’ every need with luxury amenities. As a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site admired for its rich colonial architecture, the Michoacan capital of Morelia is the perfect backdrop for a luxury vacation offering the best of hospitality, history, nature and cultural immersion. Don’t wait to book a spot at these top boutique hotels in Morelia.

1) Virrey de Mendoza

The majestic splendor of the Virrey de Mendoza makes this 17th century mansion a luxurious setting ideal for business travelers and romantic getaways. Colonial refinement meets modern comfort in the hotel’s 55 historically-inspired rooms, complete with antique furnishings and stunning balcony views of Morelia’s famed Historic Center. An outdoor dining pavilion offers an enchanting look at the city’s magnificent architecture and thriving nightlife while other comforts are catered to with onsite Wi-F access, an upscale restaurant and bar serving international cuisine and opulent banquet halls for hosting group events.


2) Rancho San Cayetano

At Rancho San Cayetano, five acres of breathtaking countryside provide a rustic paradise for travelers in need of an idyllic retreat. The stunning natural landscape of Morelia sets the tone for this relaxing country which is surrounded by towering greenery and beautiful cliff-side gardens. Quaint décor ranging from exquisite woven tapestries and bedding to stone fireplaces and wooden rocking chairs imbues the hotel’s nine rooms and six cabins with undeniable comfort and charm. The sparkling waters of the Rio San Isidro lie just below and the hotel is located near one of Michoacan’s most remarkable attractions, the forest sanctuary of migratory Monarch butterflies. With a restaurant, pool, spa and specialty tours available on site, guests can explore the hotel grounds or venture out into the local culture. hotel,

 


3) Villa Montana Hotel & Spa

The authentic pink quarry stone buildings of the Villa Montana Hotel lie at the center of lush gardens and elegant sculptures. Couples, business travelers and families will all love the blissful comfort of the hotel’s 36 colonial-inspired rooms, which blend rustic and refined elements like exposed beams, cobblestone walls and neoclassical art. Travelers who want to relax amidst Mexico’s beautiful landscape can enjoy dining, swimming and tennis in tranquil gardens. A library, spa, restaurant and gift shop offer a complete vacation experience, but Villa Montana is also conveniently located 15 minutes away from downtown Morelia for exciting excursions.

4) Los Juaninos

Every stay at Los Juaninos Hotel is a new experience with 30 gorgeously designed rooms that capture unique elements of Spanish colonial architecture and decor. Converted from a 17th century palace, Los Juaninos’s inviting rooms feature rich hues, European-style bathrooms and charming grandeur perfect for luxury seekers and honeymooners. Situated at the heart of Morelia’s Historic Center, hotel guests are treated to impressive views of the Michoacan capital city square. The hotel restaurant La Azotea provides a stunning contrast with a chic contemporary atmosphere and rooftop dining for a perfect view of the nearby cathedral.

 

If you are a traveler who enjoys both luxury and comfort, but value the unique and different you will love staying in these boutique hotels. These cozy hotels are designed to offer visitors the best experience Morelia has to offer.  For more boutique hotels featured on our site, read our blogs tagged under boutique hotels.

The Monarch Butterfly Migration: Amazing Nature Travel to Mexico

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For several weeks each year, the oyamel fir trees of Michoacan, Mexico, are transformed into a breathtaking backdrop for one of the most amazing natural phenomena in the world. As late October nears, millions of monarch butterfies suddenly descend upon the branches of Mexico’s spectacular forest reserve to rest amongst the evergreen needles.

To nearby observers, the forest appears to be enveloped by the gentle flitting of delicate reddish orange wings lined with black veins and white speckles. These majestic travelers are Monarch butterflies, an insect colony that must progress through a cycle of multiple generations of offspring before reaching its winter destination along the Mexican coast.

Migration of the Monarch Butterflies Trip

The arrival of the Monarch butterfly is a celebrated event for both locals and foreign visitors who are eager to witness the final stretch of a 5000-mile journey from North America. Journey Mexico welcomes travelers to share in this unforgettable moment with an exciting trip that takes you along the trails of the El Rosario reserve, an enchanting Monarch butterfly sanctuary where these beautiful creatures hibernate and lay thousands of eggs upon special milkweed leaves.

Led by an expert guide, you will travel into a towering grove of fir trees for an up-close look at the Monarch butterflies in their winter habitat. Our highly knowledgeable guides explain the unique cycle of migration Monarch butterflies undergo every year to ensure their survival, a journey that requires several generations of Monarchs to complete. The first three generations of Monarchs travel only a portion of the distance northward, eventually laying the eggs that will form a new colony just before they die out.

On this enlightening trip, visitors experience the final stages of migration as the fourth generation settles in the hibernation grounds. The temperate climate of Michoacan offers safety from moisture and cold, cover from predators and plentiful growth of milkweed. Fourth generation Monarchs, known as the Methuselah generation, have an extended life cycle up to seven or eight months, allowing them to make the journey south from late summer to early autumn and emerge for the mating process as spring arrives.

Enjoy the Natural Treasures of Michoacan, Mexico

The Monarch barely weighs one gram, and yet, its role as a pollinator has a profound effect on the eco-system. Your time amongst the Monarchs continues with a visit to another major sanctuary ground, the Sierra Chincua Reserve. Surrounded by clusters of exquisite Monarch butterflies, visitors get a firsthand glimpse at the epic life cycle of this insect civilization. Yet, no JourneyMexico excursion is complete without adventuring into the surrounding towns and municipalities.

The Michoacan region boasts a magnificent natural landscape, as well as astonishing historical landmarks. Travelers are sure to be captivated by the charming countryside, lush green valleys and sparkling lakes of the Patzcuaro, Tzintzuntzan, Ihuatzio and Cucuchuco areas. These towns still stand as thriving cultural centers where visitors can admire the fascinating crafts of skilled artisans and experience the magic of festivals that have been celebrated for generations. Close by are the archeological sites of ancient city squares that preserve a living history of Michoacan.

From the beautifully gripping drama of nature to the monuments of an evolving civilization, this once-in-a-lifetime trip offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself deep in the culture and splendor of Mexico.

Can’t make it to Mexico? SK Films “Flight of the Butterflies” will be premiering soon in a city near you!