Natural WondersMigration of the Monarch ButterflyValle de Bravo

Its scientific name is Danaus Plexippus Linneo, better known as the Monarch Butterfly, arrives each fall on Mexican soil when it starts its migration from Canada and the United States, to the fir forest in the States of Michoacan and Mexico, which will provide ideal conditions for its growth and reproduction.

It is characterized as an insect of great beauty, strength, and longevity. It travels around 120 kilometers a day and makes its trip in 33 days or so. The sanctuaries of the monarch butterfly in Mexico are found in: Cerro Altamirano, Cerro Pelon, Sierra Chincua, Sierra del Campanario, Cerro Picacho, and Chivati Huacal.

These shelters provide protection to plants and animals that are endangered. It is estimated that it is home to between 7 million and 20 million butterflies. Between the months of November to March, it is common to see the Monarch Butterfly flying freely around the road between Saucos – Valle de Bravo - Saucos (surrounded by a forest of firs).

It is a wise precaution to drive slowly in the indicated areas to avoid scaring small insects.  At some point vehicle access is allowed and then after that take a tour on foot or on horseback into the forest, thus being able to admire this unique specimen.