Every autumn millions of Monarch Butterflies from the eastern U.S.A. and Canada begin an incredible migration. To avoid the freezing temperatures of the northern winter, they journey south to spend the winter months in central México. By December, an estimated 100,000,000 butterflies have gathered on the slopes of remote mountains in the state of Michoacán, covering every tree in the area. The combined weight of these many tiny bodies can actually cause tree limbs to break! When the butterflies fly on sunny days to visit flowers or drink water, the sky appears filled with orange confetti - an indescribable sight!
In the spring, the same butterflies mate and return north, laying their eggs on the new spring milkweeds along the way. It is truly amazing that a single individual butterfly can fly up to 3,000 miles in its lifetime! Their children and grandchildren will continue the northward journey until next fall when the original migrant's great-grandchildren head south again.
This migration phenomenon is unique among butterflies. For thousands of years these fir forests in México's central mountains have offered an ideal winter refuge and breeding spot for the Monarchs, providing the perfect combination of food, water, shelter, and climate. Today, however, the pressure of logging and deforestation is threatening these mountain habitats. Tourist interest in the butterflies, and the resultant infusion of money into the local economy, have helped save these vital areas and have focused attention to the monarchs precarious situation.
Join us to learn about and experience this amazing natural phenomenon. Also, discover the picturesque and charming colonial towns of Pátzcuaro and Morélia, and explore the fascinating capital of México City!
This price includes airfare from Houston.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Also see tour packages in:
North America
Mexico
Local Culture
Cultural Journey
Ecotourism
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