The Best of Mexico City and Michoacán: Butterflies, Gardens & Culture

February 12–20, 2026
Nine Days and Eight Nights

Discover nature, history, and the soul of México
in one unforgettable experience.

QUICK LOOK

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TRIP

• • Witnessing the breathtaking sight of millions of monarch butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve.
  • Exploring the colonial city of Morelia, with its museums, galleries, incredible cuisine, and remarkable historic city center.
  • Visiting four Pueblos Mágicos, including the enchanting towns of Pátzcuaro and Tzintzuntzan.
  • Experiencing the vibrant Purépecha culture through its architecture, textiles, and cuisine.
  • Discovering the National Museum of Anthropology, home to some of the most fascinating artifacts from Mexico’s ancient civilizations.
  • Walking through the magnificent pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan, from its murals and neighborhoods to its monumental pyramids and ceremonial avenues.
  • Cruising through the canals of Xochimilco while learning about the ancient chinampa (floating garden) system.
  • Visiting the stunning Cosmovitral Botanical Garden, known for its impressive stained-glass murals and diverse plant life.
  • Meeting extraordinary folk artists who work with copper, clay, textiles, and more, and who continue to inspire and preserve traditional Mexican crafts.

GALLERY

ITINERARY

FEBRUARY 12

Welcome to vibrant Mexico City! Upon arrival at Benito Juárez International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to our hotel in the historic center. In the evening, we gather for a festive welcome dinner to meet fellow travelers, savor regional cuisine, and introduce the magical journey ahead.

FEBRUARY 13

Step into the grandeur of Teotihuacán, the legendary City of the Gods. We will explore the majestic Pyramids of the Sun and Moon and immerse ourselves in the world of ancient murals — where butterflies, jaguars, and cosmic forces dance in vibrant pigments. A professional guide brings these sacred images into rich cultural and symbolic context.

FEBRUARY 14

Sail through living history on a traditional trajinera along Xochimilco’s lush canals. We visit active chinampas (floating gardens) and meet local farmers who preserve centuries-old agricultural techniques. A colorful lunch and tasting of native crops reconnect us with the pre-Hispanic diet. In the afternoon, we visit La Casa Azul — Frida Kahlo’s home — to explore her enduring legacy and artistic influence on modern Mexico.

FEBRUARY 15

We journey to Toluca to witness the breathtaking Cosmovitral, a botanical sanctuary illuminated by more than 70 stained-glass panels designed by artist Leopoldo Flores. As sunlight pours through depictions of fire, water, and celestial beings, we stroll through native plants and enjoy a serene Japanese garden honoring botanist Eizi Matuda.

FEBRUARY 16

Today we visit the magnificent National Museum of Anthropology — one of the finest museums in the world — to explore its vast archaeological and ethnographic collections. We’ll seek out hidden symbolism, iconography, and deeper meaning in the objects that shaped Mesoamerican life. In the afternoon, we visit the monumental Fountain of Tláloc, designed by Diego Rivera, and discover the powerful story behind his aquatic mural.

FEBRUARY 17

The moment we’ve all been waiting for. We ascend into the forests of El Rosario to witness millions of Monarch butterflies in their sacred winter home. The silence, the fluttering wings, the golden light — it’s a spiritual experience beyond words.

FEBRUARY 18

Travel to the heart of Purépecha culture in Tzintzuntzan, where we explore pre-Hispanic yacatas (terraces) and meet master artisans of copper, ceramics, textiles, and woodwork. Discover how the Monarch butterfly inspires local craftsmanship and serves as a living symbol of transformation. In the evening, we are hosted by acclaimed Chef Lucero Soto for an intimate dining experience that reimagines Michoacán’s culinary legacy through storytelling and flavor. A feast for all the senses.

FEBRUARY 19

We spend our final day exploring the elegance of Morelia, visiting museums and galleries dedicated to the region’s artistic soul. We’ll learn about the powerful murals of Alfredo Zalce, Marion Greenwood, Philip Guston, and Reuben Kadish. Our farewell lunch at the stunning Restaurant Aldaba is a celebration of beauty, friendship, and everything we’ve discovered together — a joyful closing to a transformative journey.

FEBRUARY 20

Private transfers are arranged to either Morelia or Mexico City airports. You return home with your heart full and your spirit awakened — inspired by the Monarchs, touched by México’s living history, and enriched by new friendships that will last a lifetime.

COSTS (USD) & DETAILS

• • Transportation: México City Airport – Michoacán – México City Airport
  • Daily tours
  • A guide specialized in archaeology, ethnography and anthropology
  • Entrance fees to all the attractions detailed in the tour description
  • Horse ride at the butterfly sanctuary (if you want/need it).
  • Accommodations
  • Daily breakfast at the hotel
  • Welcome dinner and eight lunches

• • Tips
  • Telephone calls, laundry, etc.

Ready to reserve? Use the button below to go to our form. Questions? Contact us.  (If you need details about an alternative way to pay, we will be happy to help you.)