Monarch Butterfly Reserve: Piedra Herrada Magical Valle de Bravo

Experience the Monarch Butterfly Mexico Reserve and discover Piedra Herrada, one of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve‘s sanctuaries, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. Later, stop at Valle de Bravo to wander its charming cobbled streets, markets, squares, parks, and numerous cozy spots to enjoy a bite. Don’t miss out on this colorful flight! Highlights Discover one of the sanctuaries of the UNESCO-listed Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve. Experience in your flesh one of the most spectacular natural phenomena and learn all about these unique insects from a local guide. Visit Valle de Bravo and walk down its beautiful cobbled streets from the 16th century in its historic center. Make a stop at the Folk Art Museum and get to know about Mexico's artistic heritage. Visit a breathtaking waterfall. You will spend the time of the tour purely on its activities and sightseeing: no visits to souvenir shops and restaurants (unless you ask).

1. 1

   Mexico City

   2.5 hours

   Meet your guide and transfer to Sierra Chincua (~3-3.5 h depending on the traffic conditions), learn about the places you pass on the way, and enjoy diverse landscapes.

2. 2

   Piedra Herrada Sanctuary

   3.3 hours

   Our route leads to Piedra Herrada, one of the official Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries, offering a front-row seat to the remarkable annual Mexico Monarch Butterfly migration, a true wonder of nature that unfolds from November to March. Optional lunch (~45 min).

3. 3

   Valle de Bravo

   2 hours

   Transfer to Valle de Bravo (-1 hr) and visit the incredible Velo de la Novia Waterfall.

4. 4

   Valle de Bravo

   2 hours

   Stroll in its historic center, and try authentic local food. The heart of this magical city, mostly built in the 16th century, has it all: historical buildings, cobbled streets, markets, and more. Visit the Joaquin Arcadio Pagasa Cultural Center, Independence Square, and more while enjoying artisanal ice cream.

5. 5

   Mexico City

   2.5 hours

   After a day full of adventures and new experiences, get to our vehicle and relax on the way back to Mexico City (~3-3.5 hours depending on the traffic conditions).

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• CONTACT: Please provide a valid contact phone number with the international prefix (e.g., +11111111111) as our guide may need it for pickup. Please ensure it's available on the day of the tour. Alternatively, if we cannot find and reach you, the tour will be considered a no-show.
• SEASON & WEATHER: The butterfly sanctuaries' season runs November-March, peaking December-February. Daily sightings vary with weather - cold or rain reduces activity.
• NOTE: The butterflies’ habitat is a natural wonder that shifts with the changing seasons and weather. Reaching the sanctuary typically takes 1 to 2 hours of hiking, depending on the butterfly location and your fitness level. The trail ascends from 2,800 to 3,400 meters (9,200–11,150 feet) in elevation, with distances ranging from 1.2 to 3 kilometers (0.75–1.86 miles) and elevation gains between 220 and 800 meters (720–2,620 feet). A moderate level of fitness is usually required. Locally available horses can be hired (at an additional cost) to assist with the steeper parts of the trail, but they only cover about half of the journey.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.