In search of the monarch butterfly in Mexico
It’s still early when I get out of bed and get ready for breakfast. It’s cold. The faint sun hangs halfway up the blue sky and it looks set to be a lovely day. However, at the moment it’s just above zero and there’s still frost on the grass. You wouldn’t think so, but I’m in Mexico.
No sun, sea or beach
When people think of Mexico, they immediately picture white beaches, clear blue waters and cocktails. The interior has none of these things, but I’m not complaining. Here they drink mezcal, and over the past few days I’ve been enjoying the landscapes we’ve been driving through. The route takes us through the mountains, past fields full of cacti, and stops us in small villages for a traditional lunch; usually something made with tortillas. I can’t get enough of the sights and the days can’t go by fast enough for me.
Off to Angangueo for the Monarch butterfly migration
Yesterday we drove through colonial Mexico. We travelled from San Miguel de Allende via Morelia to Angangueo. Angangueo is a small mountain village at an altitude of 2,500 metres. The population is limited to around 9,000 and there are exactly two restaurants in the main square. The locals are incredibly hospitable and helpful, and I’ve eaten the best guacamole ever here, but apart from that there isn’t much to do. We didn’t just end up here by chance, though; we’re here for a reason: the migration of the Monarch butterfly.
Every year, millions of Monarch butterflies fly from Canada to the mountains in the Mexican state of Michoacán de Ocampo to overwinter. The butterflies gather in huge numbers in the trees and fly around during the day. This natural phenomenon is said to be very unique and special. After watching a few videos, I wanted to see it with my own eyes.
A magical fairy-tale forest teeming with Monarch butterflies
Here we are. Early in the morning, ready to visit the butterflies. There are three different sites open to visitors. The rest of the area is off-limits and belongs solely to the butterflies. We drive to El Rosario, which lies at an altitude of 3,000 metres. This reserve is managed by the villagers, and it’s compulsory to visit the park with a guide. That’s no bad thing, as they know everything about the area, the butterflies and the migration. What’s more, you’re supporting the local community. With butterflies in my stomach, we arrive at the park. I’m curious to see what we’ll find and still holding out hope that we’ll at least spot a few butterflies. It soon becomes clear that I’ve got nothing to worry about.
Slowly, the sun peeks through the trees and the butterflies awaken. Clusters of butterflies hang from the trees, having gathered together to get through the night. As soon as the sun shines on their wings, they begin to stir and fly away. The green forest transforms into a magical fairy-tale woodland. The butterflies – there are literally millions of them – flutter gracefully around us. I look up and the clear blue sky is filled with orange butterflies flying peacefully about, and I can’t take my eyes off the sight. A smile spreads across my face and I savour this special moment.
Orange butterflies everywhere
It’s still quiet and our guide leads us further into the forest. More and more butterflies are waking up; they fly upwards and I watch until the sky is completely filled with them. The contrast of the colours and the sound of their wings is impressive. I walk amongst the butterflies; one rests on my shoe and another takes a break on my arm. My guide tells me that he grew up here and that for him this is an annual phenomenon. Does he ever get tired of it? He says not, and I can’t imagine it either.
Mexico: so much more than just sun, sea and sand
This natural phenomenon is truly magical to experience. I have never seen so many butterflies in one place before, and the sunbeams shining through the trees make the sight even more special. Unfortunately, this place, like many others in Mexico, is overshadowed by the stereotypical image people have of Mexico: sun, sea and sand. However, Mexico has so much more to offer – it’s a wonderful place. The landscapes are varied and breathtaking, the people are friendly and hospitable, and the culture is diverse, vibrant and shaped by a long and impressive history.
Fancy a trip of Mexico?
Would you like to go on a self-guided trip of Mexico and are you curious about the options? Then do have a look at the itineraries we’ve put together for inspiration. You can book these tours directly, but we’d also be happy to put together a personalised itinerary based on your wishes and ideas.
Do you have a question? Please feel free to get in touch with us. Call us on +31 73 610 6204 or send an email to info@sapapanatravel.nl. We’d be happy to help.