"A group of 10 went on the butterfly tour. It was spectacular. First we stopped at a wonderfu pottery shop with a splendid garden, where we found unique types of complex glazes. Then we went to our comfortable hotel, where Pablo the botanist gave a fascinating and informative lecture about monarchs, and how climate change is affecting them. the next morning we hiked to sierra chincua, where the butterflies put on a magnificent show. Our leader, Jennifer, was wonderful in every way."
- Ann Patty (Hope for the Monarchs 2025)
DATES DURATION DIFFICULTY GROUP SIZE BEGINS & ENDS MEALS
Feb 7-13, 2027 6 Nights Moderate Mobility 16 Max Mexico City 12 (6 B /4 L / 2 D)
TOUR OVERVIEW
Discover a remarkable blend of nature, culture, history, and relaxation on this unforgettable journey through central Mexico. Beginning in Mexico City, we travel to the charming colonial town of Zitácuaro, where we settle into the beautiful Rancho San Cayetano. Our exploration of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve takes us beyond the usual tourist route to a private reserve guided by members of the local Mazahua community. Together, we will learn about their traditions, enjoy authentic regional cuisine at their cultural center, and browse exquisite handcrafted textiles that reflect generations of artistic heritage. A highlight of the journey is our time with Dr. Jaramillo López, a renowned soil restoration specialist whose work supports conservation efforts within the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere. Through his engaging lecture, Hope for the Monarchs, guests gain a deeper understanding of the extraordinary multi-generational migration of the monarch butterfly, the challenges these remarkable insects face, and the innovative solutions being developed to protect their future. Dr. Jaramillo will also accompany us in the reserve, sharing his knowledge of the region's ecology, flora, and fauna. Leaving Zitácuaro, we journey through centuries of history with a visit to the ancient Toltec capital of Tollan-Xicocotitlan, where the famous stone Atlantean warriors stand watch over one of Mexico's most important archaeological sites. From there, we continue to the spectacular Grutas de Tolantongo, spending three nights immersed in one of Mexico's most beautiful natural oases. Thermal rivers, cascading waterfalls, turquoise pools, and the famous cave with its warm waterfall create an unforgettable setting for relaxation and exploration. We'll enjoy a traditional riverside carne asada feast prepared by our hosts, complete with a bonfire under the stars, and venture into the neighboring ejido of La Gloria to discover hidden waterfalls and natural pools. Our journey concludes with a return to Mexico City, carrying home memories of monarch butterflies, ancient civilizations, vibrant Indigenous culture, and the restorative beauty of Mexico's natural wonders.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
LOGISTICS
7 Days Duration
6 Nights Duration
Hotels (Double Occupancy)
6 Breakfasts with regular coffee, tea or juice. Latte's, cappuccinos and fancy beverages are separate.
4 Lunches
2 Dinners Drinks Separate
Private Transportation
7 Days with Local Guide
Ecolife Stove Donation
This tour Raises funds for Monarch Butterfly Research
ENTRANCE FEES & ACTIVITIES
Hope for the Monarchs Lecture with Dr. Jaramillo
Visit Private Monarch Butterfly Reserve
Visit Mazahua Cultural Centre
Visit El Rosario Monarch Butterfly Reserve
Horseback Riding at Rosario is Separate
Entrance to Tollan-Xicocotitlan Archaeology Site
Entrance to Tolantongo for full stay
Entrance to La Gloria for one day
5 SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS
1
VISIT A PRIVATE BUTTERFLY RESERVE
With Local Mazahua Guides
We are fortunate to have contact with a Mazahua Community that guards a reserve where Monarch Butterflies roost in winter. We will travel in pick-up trucks to the colony, then enjoy a private visit with very few travellers. Though we may be joined by other groups, these forests offer limited close-encounters with the monarchs in comparison to the public reserves that are visited by thousands of people per week. This is a unique opportunity and a pristine reserve that isn't geared towards tourism.
2
VISIT A WONDERFUL CULTURAL CENTRE
In Mazahua Territory
The Mazahua are renowned for their anthropomorphic and zoomorphic textiles, which reflect their pre-Hispanic worldview. We will have the opportunity to try traditional Mazahua cuisine while browsing through their fantastic and warm wool blankets, throws, purses, clothing and more, all hand embroidered.
3
VISIT TOLLAN-XICOCOTILAN
In Tula, Hidalgo
Tollan-Xicocotitlan, located in present-day Tula, Hidalgo, was the capital of the Toltec civilization, one of the most influential cultures of post-Classic Mesoamerica. Flourishing between approximately 900 and 1150 CE, the city emerged after the decline of Teotihuacan and became a major political, military, and religious center. According to both archaeological evidence and later Aztec traditions, Tollan was renowned for its skilled artisans, long-distance trade networks, and sophisticated urban planning. The city was dedicated to the worship of important deities, including Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent, whose cult spread throughout much of Mesoamerica. Today, the archaeological site is best known for its imposing stone "Atlantean" warrior statues that stand atop the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, symbolizing the military strength of the Toltec state. Although the city declined around the 12th century—likely due to a combination of political unrest, environmental pressures, and shifting trade routes—its legacy endured. The Aztecs revered the Toltecs as the embodiment of civilization, wisdom, and artistic excellence, and many later Mesoamerican societies traced elements of their culture and mythology back to the legendary city of Tollan-Xicocotitlan.
4
ENJOY A CARNE ASADA TRADITION
in Tolantongo, Hidalgo
Carne asada, meaning "grilled meat" in Spanish, is one of the most beloved culinary traditions of northern Mexico. Its origins can be traced to the cattle ranching culture introduced by the Spanish in the 16th century. As vast ranches spread across northern Mexico, particularly in regions such as Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Nuevo León, beef became a staple food. Ranch workers and families would gather around open fires to grill simple cuts of meat seasoned with little more than salt, creating a style of cooking that emphasized the quality of the beef and the communal experience of sharing a meal. Over time, carne asada evolved into much more than a dish—it became a social tradition. Across Mexico, families and friends gather for a "carne asada" to celebrate special occasions, enjoy weekends together, or simply spend time outdoors. While regional variations exist, the meal is often accompanied by tortillas, salsas, grilled onions, beans, and fresh vegetables. Today, carne asada remains a symbol of hospitality, community, and the enduring ranching heritage that helped shape much of northern Mexico's culture and cuisine.
5
TURRQUOISE WATERS OF TOLANTONGO
Two Ejidos & a Magical Paradise
Grutas de Tolantongo is a spectacular natural oasis hidden within a steep canyon in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico. Fed by geothermal springs emerging from deep within the mountains, Tolantongo is famous for its warm, mineral-rich turquoise waters that flow through a river, cascading pools, and a dramatic cave system. The site's most iconic feature is the large grotto where thermal water pours from the cave ceiling, creating a natural waterfall and warm pool beneath. Managed by local ejidos, Tolantongo has become one of Mexico's most celebrated eco-tourism destinations, offering visitors a unique combination of relaxation, adventure, and stunning natural scenery. For generations, the thermal springs have been valued by local communities for their restorative qualities. Today, visitors can soak in hillside infinity pools overlooking the canyon, swim in the warm river, explore tunnels and caves, and hike through the surrounding landscape. Despite its growing popularity, Tolantongo remains deeply connected to the communal land-management traditions of the region, with tourism revenues supporting local families and community development. Its combination of geothermal wonders, dramatic canyon views, and community stewardship makes it one of the most remarkable natural destinations in central Mexico.
3 REASONS TO TRAVEL WITH US
1
SMALL GROUP TRAVEL
16 Maximum
This tour is limited to 16 Guests, offering a more intimate experience than large bus tours. Rancho San Cayetano has limited capacity, and staying there is a real treat. We are also fortunate to have an amazing contact at Tolantongo who reserves us into a hotel that does not typically take reservations. Located right next to the lovely manmade pools, which stay open daily until 11 PM, we won't have as many stairs to climb at the end of the evening when the pools close.
2
AN EXPERT & RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Educational Tourism
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.
3
CHARITY WORK
We Give Back to Local Communities
We are pleased to now be supporting conservation biologist Bill Toone, founder of ECOLIFE Conservation, an organization developed with colleagues including Eric Hallstein and Tom Hanscom. Recognizing that successful conservation must benefit both people and wildlife, ECOLIFE introduced the Patsari stove program to communities surrounding the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. These fuel-efficient cookstoves use significantly less firewood than traditional open-fire cooking methods, helping to reduce pressure on the oyamel fir forests that provide critical overwintering habitat for monarch butterflies. The benefits extend far beyond forest conservation. Traditional indoor cooking fires expose families to dangerous smoke and place women and children at risk of burns and respiratory illness. Patsari stoves are elevated above ground, enclosed for safety, and vent smoke outside through a chimney, dramatically improving indoor air quality. Since the program began, thousands of stoves have been installed in communities around the reserve, reducing household smoke, improving family health, and saving substantial amounts of firewood each year. The project has become an internationally recognized example of how community well-being and environmental conservation can work hand in hand.
TO CONFIRM YOUR TOUR
The price of this tour is $33,355 MXN Per person, based on 14-16 Guests. Please invite your friends to join us! Prices are based on double occupancy. If you are travelling solo, the single supplement is an additional $7,200 MXN. Please let us know if you would prefer to have a roommate. We will try to match you with someone, but cannot guarantee this. 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 Please purchase Travel Insurance to cover any emergencies that could cause you to cancel your trip.
LET'S HIT THE ROAD!
DAY
1
BIENVENIDOS
Zitacuaro, Michoacan
AFTERNOON: Please meet us by 12:00 PM in Mexico City at Restaurant Vuela Carmela, located right outside Termanal 2, Sala B, Gate 75 on Av. Capitán Carlos León. We will have lunch before departing for Rancho San Cayetano, which will take approximately 3 hours. Dr. Jaramillo will meet us at Rancho San Cayetano by 4:30 PM to get set-up for a fascinating lecture about Monarch Butterflies. We will start at 5 PM, so please be at the restaurant early to order a beverage before our lecture begins. EVENING: Dinner is scheduled for 6:30 PM. We will order our meals before the lecture begins to give the kitchen time to prepare. We can continue our discussion with Dr. Jaramillo through dinner. MEALS: All meals are separate
DAY
2
JOURNEY TO THE SKY
Zitacuaro, Michoacan
MORNING: Please meet for breakfast by 8 AM and be prepared to depart by 9:00 AM. We will commute about one hour before meeting our Mazahua guides, who will take us in four wheel drive vehicles that can handle the dirt road into the private reserve. Each vehicle fits 4 guests inside, or you may ride in the back with your guides. The road is bumpy and takes about an hour. AFTERNOON: We will bring bag lunches today that you can enjoy at your leisure. We will need to hike for anywhere from 20 to 45 mins, depending on where the colony is. As they move throughout the season, we cannot predict this part of our day. Please be prepared to hike at high altitude and bring a walking stick if you have trouble with balance, hips or knees. We may have the opportunity to hike down the mountainsides off the trail, depending on where the colony is located. We will move slowly and carefully, but if you do have trouble with mobility, you may want to wait at the top. You will still be able to view the monarchs, but may not be able to get as close as those who can descend into the forest. When we leave the reserve, we will head to a wonderful Mazahua Cultural Centre where the women are cooking us traditional foods to try. It is delicious and beautifully prepared. We can also enjoy browsing through the textiles while we are enjoying our late (second) lunch! EVENING: Some guests may not require dinner after a bag lunch following by the Mazahua cuisine at around 4-4:30 PM. We will enjoy a lovely evening of leisure to visit and relax. MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch and Mazahua Cooking Included. Dinner is separat
DAY
3
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
4
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
5
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
6
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
7
HOME SWEET HOME
Mexico City Airport
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.
"Fabulous trip to Tolantongo. The many pools at the hot springs and the cave with a waterfall are spectacular. The cheese tasting and later the wine tasting were lovely. The fellow travelers were deligtful. I’ve been on two of Jen’s trip and she puts together amazing events."
- Pam A (Tolantongo Oasis Tour 2026)
LOGISTICS & OTHER INFO
ACCOMMODATIONS
Your accommodations are included, based on double occupancy. If you would like to share a room with someone, we will try to match you with another solo traveller. If you would like a private room as a solo traveller, there is an extra charge (TBA)
BANKING
We recommend contacting your bank to inform them you will be travelling out of country. ATM machines are easily accessible in Mexican Airports, so you can withdraw some pesos upon arrival. There are several ATM's available in San Miguel de Allende 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
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 is for active travellers who like to hike and swim. If you walk daily, you should be able to manage this tour. We recommend bringing a hiking stick to help with balance, especially if you suffer from sore hips or knees. Sturdy walking shoes are a must.
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 just in case it rains * Walking Stick * Layered clothing for relatively warm during the tour and colder weather in San Miguel de Allende and Peña de Bernal. * 2 Pairs of comfortable shoes. One pair could be a pair of sturdy hiking sandals. * Aqua Socks / Water Shoes for wearing while swimming * Hand Sanitizer or perssonal sized bottle of hand soap * 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.
