Isla de Janitzio is the most famed of our region for Dia de Muertos, and millions of guests who have visited our region over the years believe it to be where this tradition began.  What many do not realize is that the traditions of Dia de Muertos are dotted across our region, and reach other parts of Mexico and Latin America.  Rooted in ancient Mesoamerican cultures, which were borrowed and fused due to extensive trade and alliances from pre-Hispanic times, the traditions of Dia de Muertos vary, depending on where you are.  The Island of Janitzio is burdened with overtourism during this observance, which can be attributed to mass promotion that began several decades ago, when the Mexican government sought to attract visitors from Mexico City to this area.  Isla de Janitzio has been a tourist destination for almost 100 years, which has caused a lot of confusion around the authenticity of other cemeteries and traditions of this region. Guests who travel throughout this region during Dia de Muertos quickly learn that in fact, these traditions are deeply rooted in many communities here, and it is not necessary to contribute to further crowds on Noche de Muertos itself.

We offer a day trip to the island on October 31 each year, to visit the cemetery and witness the preparations that take place before the vigils begin.  We had lunch at a fabulous restaurant and everyone joked about the many stairs they climbed, despite not getting those iconic 10,000 steps!  A fantastic day!