Known as the “Soul of Mexico,” Michoacan is the site of an annual migration in which 100 million monarch butterflies leave the United States and Canada and fly to forested sanctuaries outside a village they have never seen. Journey through towns and villages, archaeological sites and nature preserves to encounter Michoacan, and examine monarch biology and behavior and efforts to balance conservation with local needs.

Highlights

Discuss and observe the monarch butterfly on visits to two butterfly sanctuaries.

Explore the historic center of the UNESCO-recognized colonial gem of Morelia.

Learn about local handcrafts traditions and visit Santa Clara del Cobre to view the copperware for which it is famous.

Activity Particulars

Walking trails to El Rosario and Chincua nature preserves are steep and two miles each way. All sites between 5,000-9,000 feet.

Day 1

Days 1-2

Explore the historic center of Morelia, once known as Valladolid, a colonial gem recognized by UNESCO for its magnificent 17th- and 18th-century architectural treasures. Stops include the house of Jose Maria Morelos, Anthropology Museum, cathedral and Government Palace. Discuss Mexico’s long and vibrant history with an expert.

Lodging: Four-star hotel near main plaza.

Days 3-4

At Eduardo Ruiz National Park, study its natural history and ecology. Discussions address the Purepecha indigenous people’s customs, culture and traditions, followed by a visit to Uruapan’s historic center. Learn about the handcrafts traditions of Michoacan and Tata Vasco, and visit the town of Santa Clara del Cobre, well-known for its copperware handcrafts. Hear a lecture in the town of Tzinzunzan, capital of a Purepechan empire during the Pre-Columbian period.

Lodging: Five-star hotel.

Days 5-7

On your way to Patzcuaro, explore the Tingambato archaeological site, where a walking excursion displays a blend of active Indian life and regal colonial architecture. Examine historic Patzcuaro and its 16th- and 17th-century architecture with visits to the House of 11 Patios and Art Museum. En route to Angangueo, delight in the monarch sanctuary of Chincua and discuss monarch migration, biology, research and conservation.

Lodging: Colonial-style hotel in Patzcuaro and lodge in Angangueo.

Days 8-9

Visit another monarch sanctuary in El Rosario, where there are so many butterflies that the trees appear golden-orange, and observe the butterflies while learning about factors that contribute to their selection of this area during the winter.

Lodging: Comfortable hotels.

Mexico

The oldest of the land’s found by Europeans in the New World, Mexico has endured a rough history at the hands of Cortes and subsequent invaders. Despite a turbulent past, the country maintains its relaxed and inviting charm with a mix of modern and traditional from its industrious cities to its captivating wildernesses.