How to Visit The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in Valle de Bravo Mexico

If you want to witness millions of Mariposa Monarca butterflies gathering in a spectacular, colorful dance, this post is for you. Let me share everything you need to know about visiting this magical place—the Piedra Herrada Sanctuary, near Valle de Bravo in Mexico State, based on my own adventures as a solo traveler.

There are different places to visit the Mariposa Monarca, but a trustworthy friend told me that the best Sanctuary is in Piedra Herrada, located between Toluca and Valle de Bravo.

Considering that I already visited Valle de Bravo, I was keener on staying in Toluca and visiting from there. However, I realized that the last time I was in Valle de Bravo, I didn’t make time to properly visit this pretty town, so I thought, why not go back? And so I did.

I spent three weeks there and made it my goal to experience all the things to do in Valle de Bravo in Mexico State, including, of course, visiting the Mariposa Monarca Sanctuary.

And in this post, I will tell you how to do it too.

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Quick Facts for Visiting Piedra Herrada

My Journey to See the Mariposa Monarca

During one of my trips around Mexico, I decided to dedicate time to seeing some of the country’s most beautiful landmarks, and spotting the Mariposa Monarca butterfly was at the top of my list. Personally, I’ve visited Valle de Bravo before, but never made time for this sanctuary—so on a recent trip, I resolved to finally experience it. I spent three weeks in Valle de Bravo, determined to explore every corner, including the Mariposa Monarca Sanctuary.

A trustworthy friend recommended Piedra Herrada as the best Monarch sanctuary. Since I’d already explored Valle de Bravo, I was tempted to stay in Toluca and visit from there. But the memories of Valle’s charm won me over, and soon I was back in town—excited for my butterfly adventure.

The Magic of Monarch Migration

Millions of Mariposas Monarcas begin their epic journey from Canada, traveling for months to the winter forests of Michoacán and Estado de México. They arrive around December and stay through mid-March, mating and clustering on the trees in vibrant swarms. Did you know you can tell males from females because males have brighter colors and two black dots on their lower wings, while females are paler with no dots?

In cold December weather, butterflies cluster at the entrance, seeking shelter. As temperatures warm, they swoop down to the river and feed on the Oyamel tree’s resin and drink from streams.

I found that the best spectacle is seeing them fluttering by the water or gathered together in dense clouds on the tree trunks—not something you forget easily!

The Best Time to Visit

Here’s what guides told me:

• December: Butterflies cluster on trees, best seen on chilly or cloudy days.
• February–early March: They bask in the sun, flying and feeding by the river—this is when I went, and it’s breathtaking.
• Mid-March: Butterflies begin their northward migration, so visit before they go!

How To Get to Piedra Herrada Sanctuary

If you’re traveling solo and don’t have your own car, a taxi from Valle de Bravo is the easiest option. Head to Calle Nicolas Bravo and Rincon San Vincente—waving down a taxi there is simple. Rates aren’t fixed, so negotiate for what feels fair.

I paid 200 MXN one way, and my driver happily came back two hours later for pickup. Some locals told me the “fair” rate is about 120 MXN, so haggle if you’re up for it.

There are also colectivos (shared taxis) to Los Saucos, but that leaves you 10 minutes’ drive away from the actual sanctuary. I felt a private taxi was worth every peso, especially given the pandemic and convenience.

What Happens at the Sanctuary (Your Practical Guide)

As you arrive, guides greet you in the parking lot—they’re required on the first leg of your walk. You have two choices:

• Hike to the Sanctuary Entrance:
  A slightly strenuous 1-hour trail uphill; guides cost 350 MXN per group, entrance 100 MXN/person. Horse rides for 350 MXN are available. You’ll see butterflies from a distance clustered around the trees.
• Go Down to the River:
  My personal favorite! Only a 10-minute walk reveals hundreds of butterflies drinking and fluttering around. The guide offered information, and then I was free to soak in the natural display at my own pace—a fabulous choice for solo travelers who want freedom and flexibility.

I lingered by the river for a couple of hours, loving the peace and pure beauty (and got stung by a wasp, but hey, that’s adventure for you!).

What to Bring and Know

• Wear hiking shoes and layered clothing (mornings are chilly)
• Sunscreen, hat, water, and cash for all expenses (no ATMs on site)
• Arrive before 11 AM to see butterflies at their most active
• Restrooms and snacks are available only at the entrance
• Weekends are busier—go on a weekday for a quieter experience

Conservation Importance (Did You Know?)

The Piedra Herrada Sanctuary is part of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve—a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects the monarchs’ critical wintering ground. Visiting helps support local conservation and community income.

Other Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries

If you’re exploring more, El Rosario and Sierra Chincua in Michoacán also host spectacular migrations. Each sanctuary has a different vibe, but Piedra Herrada is especially accessible from Valle de Bravo and Mexico City—perfect for solo travelers on a flexible itinerary.

Map & Directions

Check the sanctuary’s official location on Google Maps (search “Santuario Piedra Herrada, Monarch Butterflies Sanctuary, Temascaltepec”).

The Monarca Butterfly Sanctuary on the map

My Final Thoughts

Visiting the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in Piedra Herrada is one of my unforgettable nature experiences in Mexico. If you’ve been—or plan to go—share your stories or tips in the comments. And if you know another must-see spot for butterflies in Mexico, I’d love to hear about it!