Along with varieties such as the Atlas and the Painted, monarch butterflies are known for their mass migrations. Expert travelers, they travel some 4,000 kilometers each winter to reach the fir forests in Mexico. This is, without a doubt, one of their favorite destinations to escape the low temperatures of the far north of the continent.
In the Aztec country, shorter days and occasional blizzards signal that the hibernation season for monarch butterflies is in full swing and will extend until the end of March. According to the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp), the sanctuaries located in the State of Mexico and Michoacán are already receiving locals and tourists who wish to admire the orange wings of this famous insect. If you want to be part of the more than 500,000 visitors estimated for this season, here are the details you need to know.
Where to see monarch butterflies in the state of Michoacán
In addition to the catrinas, the charro hats, and the prickly pear cactus, monarch butterflies have also become an icon of Mexican culture. For those who are not very familiar with their sighting, the best way to see them is to go to specific places, which are usually far from the bustle of large urban centers.
This year, the state of Michoacán has the most sanctuaries to visit. Among them is El Rosario, located in the town of Manzana Rancho Escondido. It opens at 9:00 a.m. However, there are those who suggest choosing a sunny day and going through the main gate between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m. to have a better chance of seeing the butterflies fluttering around the colorful flowers and trees.
18 kilometers to the north, in Angangueo, you will find the Sierra Chincua Sanctuary. There, both parking and adult tickets cost around $2.50. It is mandatory to enter with a local guide to climb the mountain, either on foot or on horseback. The first option is recommended for those who are used to practicing moderate physical activities, while the second, whose price ranges between $5 and $7, is ideal for a more peaceful experience.
The Senguio Sanctuary opened its doors 16 years ago. Despite this, it is the “youngest” of this triad. And it is not only a good place to enjoy the monarch butterflies, but it also has additional attractions, such as a 170-meter-long zip line and a tourist stop to rest for one or several days surrounded by nature.
Where to see monarch butterflies in the State of Mexico
Those who live or are passing through Mexico City can plan a day trip to the Piedra Herrada Sanctuary, which is located two hours from the center of the Mexican capital. Its exact location is the municipality of San Mateo Almomoloa and it opens every day from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. As in other places, the butterflies rest on top of the mountain, about 2,600 meters above sea level. With this in mind, do not forget to wear comfortable clothes and shoes and drink plenty of water.
Another alternative in the State of Mexico is La Mesa, which is on the slope of the mountains that border Michoacán. This characteristic shows that it has the necessary conditions to observe the monarch butterflies in peace. Once you have finished, you can choose to eat at a local restaurant, take photos at its viewpoints or rent a bicycle to go for a ride around the area.
The beautiful Magical Town 3 hours from Mexico City with beautiful natural landscapes and many butterflies
Precautions in the monarch butterfly sanctuaries
The monarch butterfly has a long history as one of the many species in the world that are in danger of extinction. For this reason, the Mexican Federal Government created its own Biosphere Reserve almost 25 years ago. That area was recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008.
Beyond what was mentioned above and the collaboration programs between Canada, the United States and Mexico, it is important to take some precautions when visiting sanctuaries dedicated to these lepidopterans. The most important guidelines established by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources are the following: do not take any natural elements, such as mushrooms, flowers or animals, do not smoke or light fires, remain silent and, if taking photos, turn off the flash. Finally, it goes without saying that disturbing, catching or touching butterflies is prohibited.
Source: travelandleisure-es
