Category Archives: Monarch Butterflies

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.

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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.

 

 

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.

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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.
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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.

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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

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!

 

Ecotourism in Mexico – Top 5 Tours

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Mexico EcotourismAt Journey Mexico, we take a responsible approach to tourism. In addition to luxury vacations, we offer the best options for eco-minded travelers interested in discovering the true essence of Mexico. If you’re new to this term, ecotourism has been defined as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people.”

Ecotourism combines sustainable travel, environment conservation and community improvement into a unified approach that follows these principles:

  • Minimal impact to the environment or native communities
  • Fosters awareness and respect of the environment and diverse cultures
  • Creates a positive experience for both native hosts and visiting tourists
  • Raises funds for local conservation efforts
  • Empowers the local residents and improves their financial welfare
  • Increases awareness of the social, political and environmental climate in the host country

If you’re looking for a true adventure that combines fun and education with community involvement, we can help you find it! Here are the top five ecotourism trips operated by Journey Mexico:

Chiapas Adventure Trip – Ziplines, Waterfalls and Ruins
Immerse your entire being in the allure of ancient Mexico! This tour provides an up-close look at the ancient Mayan ruins of Palenque as well as the surrounding jungles. Discover the thrill of flying through the canopy on a zipline and swimming at the foot of a majestic, 100-foot waterfall as you traverse this rugged terrain.

Hiking Oaxaca’s Mountains to the Pacific
Over the course of this nine-day trek, you’ll discover remote mountain villages and explore several archeological sites as you bask in the tropical warmth of Mexico’s Southwestern coast. In addition to a very active vacation, you’ll leave this lesser-traveled region with the knowledge that you helped contribute to the progress of the traditional Zapotec communities that populate the Sierra Norte.

The Migration of the Monarch Butterflies Trip
During this tour, you’ll travel to Michoacan to view the fields filled with elegant Monarch Butterflies. Each year, millions of these gentle creatures converge on this single part of Mexico to spend the winter. Your tour guide will tell you more about this miraculous feat, and you’ll also have the chance to explore neighboring Patzcuaro, the legendary “door to heaven.”

Sea Turtles and Whale Watching Adventures
Join the Ocean Revolution to help preserve the delicate ocean ecosystem that lies along the western coast of Mexico. This trip gives you the chance to spot sea turtles and a variety of whales in both the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez as you travel along the coastline of Baja California.

Oaxaca Cycling Excursion
Combine your love of bike riding with your desire for adventure with this tour! Along the way, you’ll travel through a variety of Oaxacan cities, towns and forests to learn more about the interesting culture, delicious cuisine and amazing natural resources of this part of Mexico.

At Journey Mexico, we’re committed to sustainable travel. Whenever possible, we create engaging tours that provide our clients with the trip of a lifetime while minimizing any negative impact that our presence could create. In addition to promoting local prosperity, our eco-tours help increase cultural understanding and cooperation. Join us in preserving the pristine natural areas that make the remotest regions of Mexico truly special! Give us a call today to plan your next adventure.

To read more about eco-friendly hotels, read our blog about top eco-friendly hotels on the Pacific Coast.

The Monarch Butterfly Reserves Near Michoacan (Mariposa Monarca)

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Monarch Butterflies in Michoacan (Mariposa Monarca)It’s hard to believe that the dramatic orange-and-black monarch butterflies that flit around your garden make an epic journey each year. Before you even notice a change in the weather, these majestic creatures instinctually start their trek south to sunny Mexico. For many, this is a 2000-mile trip! To provide a safe haven for these annual guests, this country has set aside over 200 square miles of protected land to serve as butterfly reserves.

To witness this spectacle, plan to visit the Michoacan region between November and March. Each year, the majority of the butterfly reserves open their gates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. during these months to allow the public to get a closer look at the billions of monarch butterflies nestled in the native oyamel fir trees. Near the end of February, the Festival Cultural de la Mariposa Monarca celebrates the peak of butterfly season. Although this week is a great time to experience this phenomenon, it is also the most crowded time to visit.

The two most popular butterfly reserves in Michoacan are El Rosario Reserve and the Sierra Chincua Reserve, but many smaller venues are also open to the public. If you’re visiting Mexico City, a day trip is all that’s needed to enjoy these butterfly reserves. Angangueo, a nearby village, also offers overnight accommodations if you’re staying farther afield or would like to spend more than a single day in the butterfly fields. Most visitors drive to the reserves or take a tour bus. The buses only go as far as Angangueo, but you can easily hire a driver to take you to the field of your choice.

If you’d like to learn more about the monarch butterfly and its annual migration, here are few interesting facts you may not know:

  • Temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit can paralyze the monarch butterfly.
  • During the migration, these butterflies can be clocked at up to 30 mph but average 12 mph.
  • The monarch butterfly can soar up to two miles above the ground.
  • Monarch butterflies have a small amount of a magnetic substance in their tiny bodies. Some think this acts as an internal compass to lead them to their winter grounds.
  • When the monarch is on the move, it can cover 80 miles each day.

This winter, head south to picturesque Mexico to escape the winter weather just like the monarch butterfly! While you’re there, make it a point to visit these heavenly insects in their vacation home. Contact Journey Mexico today to plan your journey:

From Mexico or international: +52 (322) 225 9821
Toll free: 1-800-513-1587

Mexico Shines as a Family/Eco Travel Destination

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students whale watching

#MexicoToday: Mexico was recently featured as one of the world’s top five destinations for family eco-travel in a recent article from the Kansas City Star. The article showcases only Playa Viva, an all-inclusive coastal eco-lodge near the Pacific paradise of Ixtapa, yet due to the country’s abundance of natural phenomena, Mexico is home to endless opportunities for families to enrich their knowledge of the way the Earth, its animals, and its people are interconnected.

Focusing on “preserving the cultures, traditions, communities, species and habitats that make this planet worth exploring,” Playa Viva offers a sustainable boutique hotel for families interested in enjoying “Guilt-Free Luxury” while exploring the hotel’s Sea Turtle Sanctuary, where thousands of endangered sea turtles come to lay their eggs each year.

Like Playa Viva, many local initiatives in Mexico have joined together with international non-profits like SEE Turtles and Earth Watch as well as with operators like Journey Mexico to offer travel enthusiasts an opportunity to enhance their holidays with hands-on interaction with many of the Mexico’s ecosystems and their wildlife.

The goals of these trips include:

  • To Educate travelers about the fragility of the natural ecosystems of the world and about what we as individuals can do to build positive relationships with these ecosystems
  • To get travelers physically involved in the solution through volun-tourism activities like helping aggregate sea turtle census data and monitoring endangered animal populations
  • To expose children to new cultures and languages in order to facilitate cultural understanding
  • To inspire a lifelong desire to travel and learn about the cultures and ecosystems of the world

Another benefit of eco-travel is that it can often be incorporated with a child’s science, social studies, foreign language, even art and music lesson plans. The Rainforest Alliance, of which Journey Mexico is a member, offers curriculum guides for kindergarten through eighth grade students, which parents can use to enrich the life-learning experiences of their children.

We all know that Disney World is a blast (and I hear the butter beer at The Wizardry World of Harry Potter is awesome) but how much of a real benefit are these mass-market attractions for children? If you’re thinking, “Not much,” I agree. But imagine your children actually petting a Gray Whale in the Sea of Cortez; running, arms raised, through a blizzard of Monarch Butterflies that have migrated thousands of miles to the Mexican countryside; or exploring a Mayan pyramid built hundreds of years before the Common Era. Now those are experiences that change lives for the better. And in Mexico, they happen every day.

Flight of the Monarch Exhibit in Chicago

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Migration of the Monarch Butterfly ExhibitThe Peggy Notebaert Museum Nature Museum is celebrating the annual migration of the Monarch Butterfly as a natural link between Mexico, the US, and Canada with an exhibit that debuts this Saturday in Chicago. The exhibit is being put on in conjunction with the Consulate General of Mexico and is entitled Sanctuary: Flight of the Monarch Butterfly. The exhibit is designed to “transport visitors of all ages on the wings of the Monarch Butterfly through the perspectives of award-winning Mexican artists” via paintings, photography, multimedia video, and sound installations.

Every year, millions of Monarch Butterflies travel thousands of miles from Canada, across the US, to a sanctuary in Michoacan, Mexico. This unbelievable feat attracts visitors to Mexico from around the globe as the sight of the millions of Monarchs is truly unforgettable.