Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive in Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a charming city with many beautiful plazas, fountains and colonial architecture. Housed in the former convent attached to one of Guadalajara's oldest churches, our hotel is in the historic heart of the city.

Day 2

Transfer to Morelia

Enjoy a morning walking tour to see Clemente Orozco's famous murals and the regional museum. Tranfer to Morelia.

Day 3

Folk Art Villages Tour

Today will be another one of your favorite days of the trip as you get acquainted with the colorful folk art villages of Patzcuaro, Tzintzuntzan, the Ihuatzio archeological site, and Quiroga. You will admire the hand-loomed fabrics, straw sculptures, hand-carved wooden furniture, and distinctive lacquer ware being crafted in the villages.

Day 4

Tour Patzcuaro, Janitzio Island, Sta. Clare de Cobre and return to Morelia

Patzcuaro is a well-preserved colonial town with no traffic lights. Except for its paved streets, little has changed since colonial times. This town has deep Indian roots, with the ancient Tarascan language still frequently heard. The House of the Eleven Patios, housed in a former convent, is the best one-stop shopping on our trip. You will find every type of local artistry for sale here. See the Museum of Popular and Regional Arts, located in the original 1540 San Nicolas College, the oldest education institution in Latin America. A boat ride to Janitzio Island will be one of the hightlights of our tour. Watch the copper process in the village specializing in this craft. Return to Morelia for the evening.

Day 5

El Rosario Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

Overnight in Angangueo

Spending the day visiting the winter refuge of the Monarch Butterfly in the mountains of Michoacan is an awesome experience. You will be here at the prime time to see them before they return to Canada. This is one of the few places in the world where you can hear the soft sound of butterflies flying. This day is well worth the time, effort and expense to be surrounded by their magic beauty. They will personally greet you, resting on your arms and head. Walk a mile up into this sanctuary at 10,000 ft.

Day 6

El Chincua Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary

We will visit another Monarch sanctuary for a different experience. In Chincua you can usually find yourself right in the middle of these wonderful, fragile creatures.

Day 7

Morning Historic Walking Tour of Morelia

Afternoon transfer to Guadalajara

Layer upon layer of fascinating colonial history surrounds you in this interesting city, which has earned the reputation as one of Mexico's most intellectual and artistic centers. Our 2-hour tour includes the state museum, General Morelia's birthplace, the government murals, the conservatory of music and the cathedral. Depart for Guadalajara

Day 8

Depart Guadalajara

Extra Information

Inclusions -

bilingual guide

Exclusions -

airfare

Extras -

This enchanting trip offers the wonderful variety of a privileged visit to two of the protected sanctuaries of the Monarch Butterflies, colonial history and unique small colorful folk art villages of Michoacan with centuries-old traditions still alive today. It is suitable for anyone in good health that likes to walk and has a spirit of adventure to enjoy off-the-beaten-track places. All hotels are very comfortable and located in the heart of the historic districts. {italic}We also offer independent customized itineraries to this destination.{-italic}