"My wife and I travelled with Jennifer on a 2 day tour from San Miguel to visit the Monarch Butterflies. What a truly unforgettable trip materially enhanced by her organizational skills, patience, good humor and inclusion of Prof. Pablo Jaramillo as monarch expert. His enthusiasm, remarkable knowledge and delivery of complex information in an easy to understand manner further enhanced our experience."
- Vincero Joe (Hope for the Monarchs 2026)
DATES DURATION DIFFICULTY GROUP SIZE BEGINS & ENDS MEALS
Jan 19-30 11 Nights Moderate Mobility 16 Max Mexico City 18 (11 B + 5 L + 2 D)
TOUR OVERVIEW
Discover the rich cultural and natural treasures of central Mexico on a journey that blends ancient civilizations, charming colonial towns, extraordinary wildlife, and restorative landscapes. We begin in the enchanting Pueblo Mágico of Taxco de Alarcón, famed for its silver-mining heritage, whitewashed architecture, and winding cobblestone streets. and exceptional architecture. We will enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Pozos Azules before browsing Taxco’s renowned silver workshops and galleries. Our journey continues with a two-night stay in the mystical mountain town of Tepoztlán, a destination celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, vibrant cultural traditions, and exceptional culinary scene. Here, you’ll have time to soak in the atmosphere of one of Mexico’s most beloved Pueblo Mágicos while enjoying world-class dining, including an unforgettable Michelin-starred experience. Along the way, we explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Xochicalco and Tollan-Xicocotitlan, two of Mexico’s most important pre-Hispanic cities. The adventure culminates with one of nature’s greatest spectacles: visits to two Monarch Butterfly reserves, including an exclusive experience in a private sanctuary guided by an award-winning PhD research scientist. Witness millions of butterflies gathered in the highland forests as you learn about their astonishing migration and conservation. We then conclude with three nights at the breathtaking Grutas de Tolantongo, where thermal pools, turquoise rivers, waterfalls, and canyon views provide the perfect setting for relaxation. Our final celebration features a traditional carne asada feast beside the river—a memorable ending to a journey filled with history, culture, nature, and renewal.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
LOGISTICS
12 Days Duration
11 Nights Duration
Hotels (Double Occupancy)
11 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
2 Dinners
Drinks are not included unless specified
Private Transportation
12 Days with Local Expert
1 Tour with Award Winning Research Scientist
ENTRANCE FEES & ACTIVITIES
Entrance to Xochicalco Archaeology Site
Entrance to Pozos Azules
Entrance to Mine Museum
Entrance to Grutas Cuacahuimilpa
Educational Lecture by Dr. Jaramillo López
Entrance to Private Reserve
Entrance to Second Reserve
Entrance to Tollan-Xicocotitlan Archaeology Site
Entrance to Grutas de Tolantongo x 3 Days
Entrance to La Gloria x 1 Day
5 SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS
1
TAXCO DE ALARCÓN
Guerrero, Mexico
Taxco de Alarcón is one of Mexico’s most historic and picturesque colonial towns, nestled in the mountains of northern Guerrero. Long before the arrival of the Spanish, the region was inhabited by Nahua peoples who extracted and traded minerals from the surrounding hills. Following the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, rich silver deposits transformed Taxco into one of New Spain’s most important mining centers. The town flourished as silver from its mines helped fuel the economy of the Spanish Empire, and its steep cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and red-tiled roofs still reflect the prosperity of that era. Taxco experienced a revival in the 20th century when American designer and silversmith William Spratling established workshops that helped restore the town’s reputation as Mexico’s silver capital. His efforts attracted talented artisans from across the country and sparked a renaissance in Mexican silver design. Today, Taxco remains renowned for its fine jewelry and craftsmanship, while landmarks such as the magnificent Santa Prisca de Taxco stand as enduring symbols of the town’s mining wealth, artistic heritage, and colonial charm.
2
ANCIENT CITY OF XOCHICALCO
Morelos, Mexico
Xochicalco was one of the most important cities of Mesoamerica during the Epiclassic period (approximately AD 650–900), emerging after the decline of the great metropolis of Teotihuacan. Strategically situated atop a series of fortified hills in present-day Morelos, Xochicalco became a thriving center of trade, astronomy, religion, and political power, connecting cultures from central Mexico, the Maya region, and the Gulf Coast. The city is best known for its magnificent Temple of the Feathered Serpent, whose intricate carvings depict rulers, priests, and symbols associated with astronomy and sacred knowledge. Xochicalco’s advanced observatory, carved into a natural cave, demonstrates the importance of celestial observation to its inhabitants. Although the city was abandoned around AD 900, its impressive architecture and artistic achievements provide valuable insight into a pivotal era of Mesoamerican history. Today, Xochicalco is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Centre World Heritage Site and is considered one of Mexico’s most remarkable archaeological treasures.
3
MEET AWARD WINNING SCIENTIST
Dr. Pablo Jaramillo López
Dr. Pablo Fabián Jaramillo-López is a biologist, agroecologist, and conservation scientist whose work has focused on the protection and restoration of the forests that support the annual migration of the Monarch butterfly in central Mexico. Originally from Ecuador, he earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering before completing a PhD in Biology at the University of Western Ontario in Canada. Since moving to Mexico, he has been affiliated with the National Autonomous University of Mexico in Morelia, where his research has examined ecosystem restoration, soil recovery, community forestry, and the conservation of Monarch butterfly habitat. Dr. Jaramillo-López is widely recognized for his work in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, where he has collaborated with international scientists to study forest health, habitat loss, climate impacts, and conservation strategies essential to the survival of the Monarch migration. His research has been published in leading scientific journals, including Science and American Entomologist, and he has served on the board of the Monarch Butterfly Fund. His work combines rigorous scientific research with practical conservation initiatives that engage local communities in protecting one of the world's most remarkable wildlife phenomena. Known for his ability to communicate complex ecological concepts to both scientific and public audiences, Dr. Jaramillo-López has become a respected advocate for Monarch butterfly conservation throughout North America. His fieldwork in the overwintering forests of Michoacán provides valuable insight into the challenges facing the species and the collaborative efforts required to ensure that future generations can continue to witness the extraordinary migration of the Monarch butterfly.
4
VISIT 2 MONARCH BUTTERFLY RESERVES
One of which is a private reserve
The Monarch butterfly migration is one of the most extraordinary wildlife journeys on Earth. Each autumn, millions of Monarch butterflies travel up to 4,500 kilometers (2,800 miles) from Canada and the United States to the high-altitude fir forests of central Mexico. Remarkably, the butterflies that arrive in Mexico have never made the journey before; they are several generations removed from the butterflies that left the previous spring, yet they instinctively navigate to the same mountains year after year. From November through March, the butterflies cluster by the millions in the cool oyamel fir forests of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, primarily in the states of Michoacán and State of Mexico. The forests provide the precise temperature and humidity conditions needed for the butterflies to conserve energy through the winter. As temperatures rise in late February and March, the Monarchs become more active, mate, and begin their northward migration. Their descendants will continue the journey through the United States and Canada, completing a remarkable multi-generational cycle that spans an entire continent. During our tour, you will visit 2 reserves over 2 days, giving better chances of observing them while they are active.
5
GRUTAS DE TOLANTONGO
Hidalgo, Mexico
One of the most extraordinary places we have ever taken guests is to the Grutas de Tolantongo! Enjoy 3 nights to unwind and relax in nature's oasis, with a cave that features a thermal waterfall and pool, turquoise waters galore, a waterfall you can swim beneath and much more...
3 REASONS TO TRAVEL WITH US
1
SMALL GROUP TRAVEL
16 Maximum
This tour is designed for a maximum of 16 guests. Small group travel makes for a more intimate and personal journey and also allows us easier meals in restaurants and visited parks and museums.
2
CHARITY EFFORTS
Giving Back to Local Communities
The Mazahua community offering us tours to the private reserves has been working closely with conservation biologist Bill Toone, who co-founded ECOLIFE Conservation in 2003, along with Eric Hallstein and Tom Hanscom. One of their initiatives for helping conservation in the Monarch Butterfly Reserve was to build Patsari stoves, which are an efficient in-home cookstove that uses far less wood than the traditional open-fires. Aside from the fact that open-air fires have resulted in many young children suffering horrific, life-altering burns from kitchen accidents, these firest also contributed to high rates of COPD and lung cancer. The Patsari stoves are built above ground, to prevent the children from falling into them. They vent the smoke out of the home, which vastly improves the health of local indigenous women and their families, and yet another significant win is that each stove saves approximately 5.6 tons of firewood annually. ECOLIFE has now built approximately 17,000 stoves, which have been distributed to families living in the biosphere, which has reduced in-house smoke by 90% and saved over 50,000 trees. Thanks to your presence on this tour, we will present the community with $7000 Pesos, which is enough to purchase 2 more Patsari stoves for local families.
3
A TRULY CURATED EXPERIENCE
Each Tour is Custom Designed
We network with the locals to bring you culinary experiences, introduce you to artists and collectives, offer a private reserve for observing monarchs and more! This tour has been carefully curated to included a diverse selection of activities and experiences.
TO CONFIRM YOUR TOUR
The tour price for this adventure is $63,058 MXN per person. We require a 50% non-refundable deposit to confirm your tour. We accept payments through Wise or traditional bank transfer. If you would like to use a credit card, we charge an extra 5% to cover their processing fees. You may choose to pay the deposit or full trip amount on your credit card by clicking on the appropriate button below. ALL TOURS ARE PRICED IN MEXICAN PESOS. YOUR BANK WILL CONVERT THE AMOUNT FOR YOU. If you would like to use a payment plan, we can invoice you monthly, The balance must be paid in full by the start of the trip. If you are paying the balance through a bank transfer or by credit card, it is due 2 weeks prior to our tour commencement. Otherwise, you may pay the balance with cash upon arrival in Mexico City on October 22. Please purchase Travel Insurance to cover any emergencies that could cause you to cancel your trip.
LET'S HIT THE ROAD!
DAY
1
BIENVENIDOS
Tepoztlan, Morelos
AFTERNOON: Please meet us by 9:00 AM in Mexico City at Restaurant Vuela Carmela, located right outside Termanal 2, Sala B, Gate 75 on Av. Capitán Carlos León. We will have a quick breakfast/brunch before departing Mexico City for the ancient UNESCO designated city of Xochicalco. Flourishing between 650 and 900 CE after the decline of Teotihuacan, Xochicalco became an important political, commercial, and ceremonial center known for its impressive architecture, astronomical observatories, and intricate stone carvings. Its name means “Place of the House of Flowers” in Nahuatl. Xochicalco is especially famous for the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, whose detailed reliefs reflect the influence of several Mesoamerican cultures, including the Maya and Zapotec civilizations. Today, Xochicalco is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers valuable insight into the cultural and scientific achievements of ancient Mesoamerica. We will arrive at approximately 12 PM, and will spend approximately 45 mins to 1 hour in the museum. At 1 PM, we will enjoy a lovely charcuterie lunch in the lounge area before heading out into the archaeological site. Following lunch, we will spend about 2 hours exploring this fascinating city, departing at approximately 4 PM for our hotel in the nearby Pueblo Magico of Tepoztlan. EVENING: We will check into our hotel and enjoy free time until dinner, which is scheduled for 6:30 PM in the hotel garden. MEALS: Picnic is included. All other meals are separate.
DAY
2
PLACE OF COPPER
Tepoztlan, Morelos
MORNING: We will meet in the garden this morning by 8:30 AM for a lovely breakfast before we head out on a morning walking tour. Tepoztlán is a picturesque mountain town in the state of Morelos, Mexico, known for its rich indigenous heritage, cobblestone streets, and vibrant artistic culture. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush forests, Tepoztlán is considered a spiritual and cultural destination, attracting visitors with its traditional markets, colonial architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. The town is most famous for the Tepozteco Pyramid, an ancient Aztec temple perched high on a nearby mountain, which offers panoramic views of the valley below. Tepoztlán is also recognized as a “Pueblo Mágico” by the Mexican government for its historical significance, natural beauty, and preservation of local traditions. The name Tepoztlan loosely translates as place of copper or place of the copper axe, with a linguistic connection to Tepoztécatl, the Aztec deity of pulque, fertility and wind. For those who wish to challenge themselves with the laborious climb up the cliff to the temple, you will want to go early in the AM. It is a very difficult climb with steep paths and loose gravel, rendering it slippery. Please let us know ahead of time if you would like to try so we can make arrangements. AFTERNOON: Tepoztlan has a bustling downtown full of little boutique galleries, many health and wellness shops focused on alternative healing, coffee shops, restaurants and a vibrant market. After our walking tour, we will have lunch and break for free time so you can explore. EVENING: This evening we have a 7 PM reservation at Mesa de Origen, which is a fantastic Michelen-recognized restaurant inside the Amomoxtli boutique hotel. They offer a farm to table experience that showcases the best of the regions produce and culinary beauty. Their menu features pre-Hispanic and fusion cuisine, incorporating many vegetables, fruits and herbs grown on-site. We will have a set-menu this evening, so will send you a questionnaire about any allergies or food preferences you have. MEALS: Breakfast included. Dinner includes one cocktail. Please bring pesos for additional beverages, as they will only issue one bill for our group.
DAY
3
CEREMONIAL PLACE
Taxco de Alarcón, Guerrero
MORNING: We are not scheduling a formal time for breakfast this morning, as we are not departing until Noon. Please have your luggage in the lobby by 11:45 AM and remember to bring your key to the lobby for check-out. AFTERNOON: From Tepoztlan, we will transfer to Grutas de Cuachuamilpa, which is Mexico’s most treasured cave system. Formed over millions of years by underground rivers carving through limestone, the caves are famous for their enormous chambers, towering stalactites and stalagmites, and dramatic rock formations. The site has been used since pre-Hispanic times for ceremonial purposes and today is a popular destination for hiking, exploration, and guided tours. The name “Cacahuamilpa” comes from the Nahuatl language and is commonly translated as “place of the peanut fields” or “land fertile for growing peanuts.” Indigenous peoples once knew the caves by another name, “Salachi,” meaning ceremonial place. We will depart Grutas de Cuachuamilpa at around 3:00 PM for the Pueblo Magico of Taxco de Alarcan, where we should arrive at around 4 PM. For lunch, we are going to bring baguettes from one of the bakeries in Tepoztlan so guests can eat whenever you feel hungry. EVENING: We will meet in the hotel lobby at 5:00 PM to visit one of the local galleries for a special presentation about local silver. This will include information about some of the famous artists from this region, as well as what questions you should ask when purchasing silver. This evening we will have dinner at 7:00 PM at Del Angel Inn, enjoying panoramic views of the Santa Prisca Cathedral. MEALS: Breakfast and Lunch included. All other meals are separate.
DAY
4
TURQUOISE PARADISE
Taxco de Alarcón, Guerrero
MORNING & AFTERNOON: We will have breakfast at 8:00 AM at our favourite breakfast spot, El Americano. Our guests didn’t want to go anywhere else after eating here, for their menu has so many delightful options to try and the quality and service is impeccable. We will ask Oscar to make us bag lunches today, as they also have excellent bread and sandwich options. After breakfast, we will depart for the mystical Pozos Azules for some coldwater swimming in beautiful azure waters. Pozas Azules de Atzala is a beautiful natural attraction located near Taxco in the mountains of Guerrero, Mexico. The site is famous for its series of turquoise-blue pools and small waterfalls formed by crystal-clear streams flowing through limestone rock and lush vegetation. Surrounded by cliffs and forest, Pozas Azules is a popular destination for swimming, hiking, picnics, and ecotourism. The name “Pozas Azules” means “Blue Pools,” referring to the vivid blue and turquoise color of the water. The nearby community of Atzala comes from the Nahuatl language and means “in the middle of the waters.” Visitors are drawn to the peaceful atmosphere, cool mountain water, and scenic waterfalls that make the area feel like a hidden paradise near Taxco. We will stay in the park for the afternoon, departing at around 5 PM to visit El Cristo look-out point, with panoramic views of Taxco. We will return to Taxco at approximately 5 PM, so we will pack a bag lunch today so you can eat when you get hungry between the different pristine swim holes. EVENING: Our dinner reservation this evening is set for 7:00 PM in the elegant courtyard of Sotavento Restaurant. MEALS: Breakfast included. All other meals are separate
DAY
5
THE WHITE CITY
Taxco de Alarcón, Guerrero
MORNING: Breakfast at El Americano is set for 8:30 AM, followed by a magical walking tour of Taxco’s enchanting cobblestone streets. We will visit the William Spratling Museum to learn about his bold and powerful silver designs, explore the opulent symbolism of the Santa Prisca Church and more. AFTERNOON: You will have free time this afternoon to explore your own. Taxco has a plethora of silver workshops, art galleries, interesting churches and lots of coffee shops and boutique clothing stores. EVENING: This evening we will have dinner at Casa Spratling, which is housed in the historical colonial home of William Spratling. Featuring Mexican-Italian fusion, stand-out dishes include their Lasagna de Mole. Their ornate indoor dining room is full of artefacts, and the garden patio is cozy. MEALS: Breakfast Included. All other meals are separate
DAY
6
HOPE FOR THE MONARCHS
Zitacuaro, Michoacan
MORNING: Please have your luggage in the lobby by 8:00 AM this morning so we can get the van loaded before breakfast. Please remember to bring your key to the lobby for check-out. We will have our final breakfast at El Americano at 8:30 AM, and we are going to ask them to prepare us another bag lunch today for the road, as we will have a four-hour commute with no notable restaurants. Following breakfast, we will visit the Pre-Hispanic Mine Museum before our departure from Taxco. AFTERNOON: Most of our day will be spent commuting and enjoying some local music and conversation as we ascend into the pine forests of Michoacan’s highland area, most famed for the most phenomenal, unexplained natural mystery – the intergenerational migrating Monarch Butterfly. We hope to arrive at our hotel by 4:00 PM, on time for check-in. EVENING: Originally from Ecuador, Dr. Jaramillo completed his PhD in Ontario, Canada and now resides in Morelia as a Professor at UNAM. Dr. Jaramillo is an award-winning research scientist who has dedicated his career to rendering solutions for Monarch Butterfly habitats. Working with soil amendments, his passion is for eradicating the use of pesticides that kill the very milkweed monarchs require for laying their eggs, as well as assisting communities with avocado crops that do not require harmful fertilizers. It is an honour to work with such a passionate leader. This evening, we will meet with Dr. Jaramillo at 5:30 PM for a glass of wine and fascinating lecture entitled “Hope for the Monarchs.” This lecture covers amazing ground and is a truly important introduction to this component of our tour, as Dr. Jaramillo discusses the migration route, hibernation, obstacles the monarchs face, such as illegal logging, pesticides, the eradication of milkweed from agricultural lands and more. The uplifting conclusion covers ways in which we can personally contribute to helping these monarchs maintain their endangered migration, which includes attending tours like this, considering you are helping us raise money for valuable scientific research in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere. Following our lecture, we will have dinner and a chance to ask questions and discuss what we have learned. MEALS: Breakfast Included. All other meals are separate
DAY
7
THE PRIDE OF THE MAZAHUA
Zitacuaro, Michoacan
MORNING: Please meet us for breakfast at 8:00 AM. We will order the night before, so the kitchen can get our meals out quickly this morning. We are bound for an amazing adventure that involves four-wheel drive vehicles and a rugged logging road through the pine and oyamel forests in search of the roosts that have been migrating here over the past four years. The reserve is closed to the public and requires special logistics to visit, due to the road conditions. Anyone with a real love of adventure can sit in the back of the pick-up trucks with yours truly and our Mazahua guides. We will be entering the ejido of the Mazahua, who manage the lands we will travel through. If you are less mobile, you may want to sit inside one of the trucks, as the commute takes about an hour each way. AFTERNOON: Upon reaching the monarch butterfly colony, we will have plenty of time to observe. If you are not flexible or mobile and do not want to hike down the steep embankments, please be warned that most of the group will spend about 1.5-2 hours observing the monarchs. Unlike the public reserves, small groups are permitted to spend more time with these colonies, allowing us much closer encounters than most ever experience. We will have a bag lunch today, which you can enjoy at your leisure. That said, when we do return to the community, we will have a chance to visit a small but incredible cultural centre where we will get to try the indigenous regional cuisine. The cultural centre also showcases magnificent wool embroidered textiles featuring zoomorphic motifs with anthropomorphic features signifying the cosmic worldview of Mazahua spirituality. You will find blankets, capes, bedspreads, clothing, table runners and more. MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch and Mazahua Cuisine Included. Dinner is separate
DAY
8
SACRED MIGRATION
Zitacuaro, Michoacan
MORNING: As the monarchs have been moving in recent years, we will wait until November to announce what reserve we will visit today. This past season, the Monarchs landed in yet another reserve that is closed to the public, but our Mazahua guides can take us. If this opportunity returns for the next season, we will be thrilled to bring you here for another close encounter experience with very few other visitors. AFTERNOON: We will bring a bag lunch for everyone to enjoy at leisure, and should return to our resort at around 5:00 PM. EVENING: This evening we will have dinner at 7 PM. MEALS: Breakfast and Lunch Included
DAY
9
TOLTEC WARRIORS
Grutas de Tolantongo, Hidalgo
MORNING: Please have your luggage by the lobby for 7:45 AM. We will load the van before breakfast and depart at 9:00 AM for Tollan-Xicocotitlan. Arriving at 11 AM, we will visit the site first, which takes approximately 2 hours. Before departing, we will have about ½ hour to visit the small museum. Tollan-Xicocotitlan was the Toltec Capital and is an impressive city. AFTERNOON: Departing by 2:00 PM, we should arrive at our destination at around 4:30 PM. Guests need to be prepared to wait about 20 mins while we check in, due to the way the resort is organized. Your guides will head down to get the room keys. Once we return to the van, the guards will open the lower parking lot so we can unload. We will have a bag-lunch today for you to enjoy at leisure. EVENING: This evening we will have dinner at the restaurant and enjoy the pools until they close at 11 PM. MEALS: Breakfast and Lunch included.
DAY
10
A CAVE & A WATERFALL
Grutas de Tolantongo, Hidalgo
MORNING: This morning we will meet for breakfast at 8:00 AM, then pile into the van for a day adventure out at the Cave of Tolantongo! There are lockers near the park entrance, but we recommend just keeping it simple. We can purchase water socks and waterproof cases for our cell phones near the entrance. Hats and towels must be left on the fence by the cave entrance. Please do not bring your cameras, as there is nowhere safe to leave them by the cave. If you want to run back to the entrance and purchase a locker, you could bring your camera to take some photos, then return to join the group. If you are using a smart phone, the plastic cases work surprisingly well! As we will be gone for the bulk of the day, please pack a day-pack to leave in the van with anything you may want for comfort. AFTERNOON: This afternoon your hosts will prepare a picnic for you down by the river. Guests can swim in the pools, read a book, or just relax. We will rent chairs and tables for our meal. If you would like to bring beer or wine for the cooler, we will have ice. We will return to the hotel at around 4:30 or 5:00 PM. EVENING: This evening we will meet for dinner at 7 PM and enjoy relaxing in the pools this evening. MEALS: Breakfast and Picnic are included
DAY
11
CARNE ASADA TRADITION
Grutas de Tolantongo, Hidalgo
MORNING: We will have breakfast this morning at 8:00 AM, departing by 9:00 AM for an area across the river called La Gloria. For those who do not wish to climb up, there is a lovely waterfall pool not far from the bridge. Guests can enjoy soaking in the pool by the waterfall or swim in the river. Others who decide to hike up will find more pools and a more tranquil swimming area. As La Gloria costs another $150 MXN (included), many tourists tend to stay on the Tolantongo side. AFTERNOON: Free time to enjoy La Gloria or return to the Cave, which is walking distance from La Gloria bridge. There are restaurants to find tortas and cold drinks. EVENING: This evening your hosts are preparing a Carne Asada Feast for everyone. We will rent tables and chairs by the river, so you can still swim or relax while we are cooking. We will enjoy a nice bonfire this evening and return to the hotel at 8:00 so everyone still has time to enjoy the beautiful pools for one last tranquil evening. MEALS: Breakfast and Dinner included.
DAY
12
HOME SWEET HOME
Benito Juarez International Airport, Mexico City
MORNING: Please have your luggage ready before breakfast. We will meet at 8:00 AM. In order to get our luggage back up the hill, we will need to haul it all. If you are not strong enough, the guides will help you, so it may take us longer than usual to check-out. We hope to depart Tolantongo no later than 10 AM, making our way to Mexico City Airport to drop everyone off for afternoon flights. As the commute takes approximately 4.5 hours, please do not book your afternoon flights until after 5 PM. You may also choose to stay out by the airport and opt for a daytime flight the next morning. We will look for a lunch option while in Tolantongo, so we can find something to bring for the commute. MEALS: Breakfast Included.
"My wife and I travelled with Jennifer on a 2 day tour from San Miguel to visit the Monarch Butterflies. What a truly unforgettable trip materially enhanced by her organizational skills, patience, good humor and inclusion of Prof. Pablo Jaramillo as monarch expert. His enthusiasm, remarkable knowledge and delivery of complex information in an easy to understand manner further enhanced our experience. In addition, the stops we made at the pottery shop (with its unique garden) and in the town of Tlalpujahua (where we had lunch and spent the night before the monarch experience) were also very enjoyable. As for the visit to the butterfly reserve, suffice it to say it's a truly spiritual experience. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity that we're so grateful we pursued and especially grateful to Jennifer for all her kind assistance. We very much look forward to taking other trips with her."
- Vincero Joe (Hope for the Monarchs 2026)
LOGISTICS & OTHER INFO
ACCOMMODATIONS
Your accommodations are based on double occupancy. If you are travelling alone and prefer a room to yourself, the single occupancy is an extra $16,820 MXN. If you would like us to try to match you with a roommate, please confirm with us. In the event that we cannot find you a roommate, you are responsible for the single supplement.
BANKING
We recommend contacting your bank to inform them you will be travelling out of country. ATM machines are easily accessible in Mexico City International Airport, so you can withdraw some pesos upon arrival. Tolantongo does not have ATM's. You may use credit cards in select restaurants, but we recommend leaving the tip in cash. Not all international ATM's work in restaurants or stores, but you will be able to withdraw cash from the bank machines. IMPORTANT INFO FOR TAKING CASH OUT OF THE ATM: While you must always accept the "service fee" for using the ATM's, some Mexican banks will also offer you a conversion rate. ALWAYS HIT DECLINE. You will still receive your cash, but your own bank will give you a much better conversion rate.
CLIMATE & ALTITUDE
Overall January Conditions Travelers can expect dry, sunny weather throughout the trip, making January one of the best times to visit central Mexico. The greatest temperature variation occurs between the high-elevation Monarch Butterfly Reserves and the lower canyon environment of Tolantongo. Dressing in layers is recommended, with a warm jacket for butterfly reserve visits and lighter clothing for afternoons in Tepoztlán, Taxco, and Tolantongo. Tepoztlán Nestled in the mountains of the state of Morelos, Tepoztlán sits at an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters (5,575 feet). January is one of the most pleasant times to visit, with warm, sunny days averaging 22–27°C (72–81°F) and cool evenings that can drop to 8–12°C (46–54°F). Rainfall is minimal, and clear skies are common. Taxco de Alarcón The historic silver-mining town of Taxco de Alarcón lies at about 1,780 meters (5,840 feet) above sea level. January brings comfortable daytime temperatures of 20–25°C (68–77°F), while mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler, often ranging between 8–12°C (46–54°F). The weather is generally dry and ideal for exploring the town's steep cobblestone streets. Zitácuaro Located in the mountains of Michoacán, Zitácuaro sits at approximately 1,950 meters (6,400 feet). January days are typically mild and sunny, with temperatures reaching 18–24°C (64–75°F). Early mornings and nights can be chilly, often dropping to 4–8°C (39–46°F), so a warm jacket is recommended. Monarch Butterfly Reserves The wintering grounds of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve are located high in the pine and oyamel fir forests at elevations between 2,700 and 3,400 meters (8,850–11,150 feet). January is peak butterfly season, but also the coolest part of the journey. Daytime temperatures generally range from 10–18°C (50–64°F), while mornings can be near freezing. Visitors should dress in layers and be prepared for cool mountain conditions. Tolantongo The canyon oasis of Grutas de Tolantongo sits at a much lower elevation of approximately 1,280 meters (4,200 feet). January weather is pleasantly warm during the day, typically 22–28°C (72–82°F), with cooler evenings around 10–14°C (50–57°F). The naturally heated thermal pools maintain comfortable temperatures year-round, making winter an excellent time to visit.
MEDICAL INSURANCE & EMERGENCY CONTACT
Please purchase medical insurance before you come and send us contact information for your insurance provider AND an emergency contact, in case you are unable to communicate with us. Please send our contact information to a family member or friend in case someone at home cannot get a hold of you.
MOBILITY REQUIREMENTS
This tour requires decent mobility, as there are stairs and a few hills to climb, as well as boats to get in and out of, particularly during our night tour. Older guests are advised to bring a walking stick, particularly if you have balance issues. As we will have a guide and team leader with our group at all times, one of us will always stay behind to help those who struggle with stairs. If you are concerned about your mobility or breathing at high altitudes, please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer at coppermoontravels@protonmail.com to set up a zoom meeting.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Throughout the years, we have endured many cancellations for various emergencies, which has forced us to change our booking policy. Please purchase travel insurance to cover trip cancellation in the event that you suffer a medical emergency, bereavement, climate event etc.
WHAT TO BRING
These are some recommendations for items you may wish to bring for your trip. * Rain poncho or compact umbrella * Walking Stick * Layered clothing for warm and cold weather * 2 Pairs of comfortable shoes * Something dressy or costume-like for the Catrina Party * An open mind!
FAQ'S
1
HOW MUCH WILL MY MEALS COST?
Sit-down meals will range from $15-$40 US, depending on whether or not you order multiple courses plus drinks. Your breakfasts and 1 lunch are included, which means you are responsible for 9 lunches and 11 dinners.
2
HOW MUCH SPENDING MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
This really varies! We will see some beautiful textiles in Peña de Bernal, and lots of little boutique galleries throughout our travels. The handicrafts of this region include intricate back-strap weaving and traditional red clay coil pottery. If you collect textiles and pottery, expect to spend around $4000 MXN for quality fabric pieces and approximately $300-$600 MXN for ceramic pieces. We will also have the chance to buy quality artisan cheese and wine.
3
CAN WE BRING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ON TOUR?
While guests are technically permitted to drink in the van during our tours, we will remove anyone who drinks to excess, at your own expense, especially since we will be hiking and swimming. We prefer guests reserve their drinking for enjoying with food or in the evenings.
4
WHAT ARE THE BATHROOMS LIKE?
Baños have drastically improved over the years, but it is typical to find toilets without seats, especially in nature reserves. Please do not flush your toilet paper, as Mexico's pipes are narrow and treatment centres are not all designed to process TP. In some cases, the bathroom will be equipped with a massive water tank and a bucket, which is used for flushing the toilet. Simply fill the bucket and pour it into the toilet to flush. We recommend carrying hand sanitizer or a small, personal sized bottle of liquid hand soap in case there is no soap or handwashing facility.
5
WHAT IS THE STANDARD TIPPING AMOUNT?
We generally recommend tipping your driver around $40-$50 MXN per day, while doubling that for your team leaders, depending on their service. For your hotel or housekeeper, if you ask for cleaning services, we recommend $40-$50 MXN per service. If you are purchasing groceries and someone bags them for you, the average payment is 5 MXN per bag. Our drivers and guides establish their own rates, but tipping is still customary in Mexico, particularly in tourism-based professions. In restaurants, the standard tipping among foreigners is 15-20%. Please do not worry about tipping for meals that are included, as we will cover that! We also encourage our guests to pay all tips in cash whenever possible, as some restaurants do not allow tips to go through on credit or debit cards.