Each fall, millions of monarch butterflies make an incredible journey, migrating thousands of miles south from Canada and the United States to the high mountain forests of central Mexico. Join us for a breathtaking experience to witness this ancient migration up close.
On this 8-day adventure, we’ll journey south to Mexico City and the mountainous regions west to see the monarch migration up close, and explore the amazing culture and landscapes Mexico has to offer. This is Wander Women’s most-talked about trip, and we’re so excited to bring it back in 2026!
Our journey begins in Mexico City, where we’ll dive headfirst into the city’s vibrant rhythm—its history, flavors, and creativity. We’ll enjoy a custom guided tour of the city, exploring its most famous landmarks, bustling neighborhoods and parks, and get a taste of Mexico City’s fantastic food scene from locals that know the most delicious spots.
Then it’s on to Grutas Tolantongo, a natural hot springs resort in Hidalgo beloved by locals and those seeking a truly unique, natural Mexican experience. This all-day, jam-packed day trip will have us hiking to thermal waterfalls, exploring mountain caves and soaking in natural springs, all within a stunning mountain canyon.
Then, the main event: We’ll travel into the tranquil mountain town of Macheros, where we’ll stay at the Cerro Pelón Butterfly B&B — a haven for travelers and butterfly lovers alike. Over our stay, we’ll enjoy two guided visits to two different monarch sanctuaries, hiking among the firs where monarchs overwinter. Visiting the sanctuaries is a truly magical experience, and a quiet communion with one of nature’s most astonishing migrations.
After a whirlwind itinerary, we’ll close out our adventure back in Mexico City, where we’ll have one last day of exploration, before heading home, awe-inspired and hearts full. Like the monarchs, we’ll return north: with renewed sense of wonder and awe for journeys great and small.
ACTIVITIES
Witness the monarch migration: Journey to the tranquil mountain village of Macheros, home to the Cerro Pelón Butterfly B&B. From here, we’ll visit two separate monarch sanctuaries with local guides to witness millions of butterflies clustering — a breathtaking natural phenomenon few ever experience.
Explore Mexico City: Dive into the heart of Mexico City on a full-day, custom-guided tour with Taco Mensch, a local company known for blending food, culture, and storytelling. We’ll wander through historic neighborhoods like Chapultepec and Roma Norte, visit the stunning Bosque de Chapultepec Park, and explore the National Museum of Anthropology, home to Mexico’s most important cultural treasures. Along the way, we’ll stop at an organic tortillería, taste the best street tacos Mexico City has to offer, and finish with pastries from a Michelin-nominated chocolatier.
Discover the magic of Grutas Tolantongo: Spend a full day immersed in the natural beauty of Hidalgo at Grutas Tolantongo, a canyon oasis filled with turquoise thermal pools, cascading waterfalls, and mountain caves. Hike scenic trails, soak in warm mineral springs, and unwind amid breathtaking views.
Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum: Step inside the Casa Azul, Frida Kahlo’s vibrant blue home in the Coyoacán neighborhood. This intimate visit offers a glimpse into the life, art, and resilience of one of Mexico’s most iconic artists.
Visit a local avocado farm: Tour a working avocado farm in Macheros and learn how this region’s fertile soil and cool climate nurture Mexico’s most famous export. Meet the farmers, walk the groves, and enjoy a tasting of fresh, locally grown produce.
ACCOMMODATIONS & LOGISTICS
In Mexico City, we’ll stay at the Crisol Suites Condesa, a 4-star hotel in the middle of a bustling and hip neighborhood. Each participant will have their own room.
In Macheros, we’ll stay at the Cerro Pelón Butterfly B&B, a family-owned hotel set in the mountains. We’ll eat at the on-site restaurant each day for our meals. Each participant will have their own bed in a shared room with one other Wanderer.
Transportation
Once in Mexico, all in-country transport is arranged to ensure an efficient, comfortable trip. We’ll travel by Uber throughout Mexico City (the fastest and most reliable way to get around). We’ll take a combination of charter bus and local taxis to get to our B&B in Macheros. And we’ll have private transport for our tours of the monarch sanctuaries, avocado farm and Grutas Tolantongo.
For arrival and departure, participants are responsible for flights to and from Mexico City. Step-by-step instructions, including tips for transportation to and from the airport, will be provided well in advance to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
THINGS TO NOTE
This is a fast-paced, jam-packed itinerary. While we’ll certainly have opportunities for relaxation and good rest, participants should be ready for lots of moving around and moderate-level activity.
All of our tours will be delivered in English, and a working knowledge of Spanish is not necessary
“Where do I even begin? This is the kind of trip that you can only hope for in a lifetime. Something that most people only dream of experiencing, but never have the opportunity to actually enjoy. Without Wander Women, I’m not sure I would have ever made the trek into the mountains of Mexico to see the monarch migration. And I know for sure that if I had, my experience would not have been half as meaningful due to the people I met and connections I made during our trip.”
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Your registration provides you:
Expert planning and guiding from Kerri and Jenn, co-owners of WW
7 nights of comfortable lodging in Mexico City and Macheros
All in-country ground transportation, including buses, taxis, and private tour transportation
All entrance and tour fees to monarch sanctuaries, museums and Gruto Tolantongo
Meals provided during tours (Taco Mensch tour, sanctuary tours, Gruta Tolantongo) and breakfasts at Cerro Pelón Butterfly B&B
Pre-trip group information session to answer all your questions and fully prepare you for the adventure
Wanderer swag bag full of goodies
Comprehensive pre-trip online guide with detailed logistics, packing recommendations, and insider tips
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
Participants are responsible for:
Flights and transportation to/from Mexico City
Meals beyond B&B breakfasts and tour meals — enjoy exploring local cafés, and restaurants in Mexico City
Guide tips — we’ll be working with many local, expert guides. Tipping is typically expected and appreciated for these guides. Wander Women will provide guidance during pre-trip meetings for how much you should expect to tip.
Personal gear — bring your favorite equipment for a comfortable, personalized trek, guided by our recommended packing list
Travel insurance, which we strongly recommend for international travel
INVESTMENT
$3,300
PAYMENT PLAN
We offer payment plans for all our trips, so you can pay a deposit now and the rest over time! WeTravel (our booking platform) easily lets you make a downpayment (this is also your non-refundable trip deposit!) and set up automatic payments for the remainder. For the payment plan schedule, just check the WeTravel page for details. There is NO fee for choosing the payment plan option!
Deposit for this trip: $1,650