Things to do in Estado de Mexico, Estado de Mexico: The Best Nature & Wildlife Areas

Reviewed By IamSydney

What a way to say goodbye to 2019 and hello to 2020. We visited on 31 Dec and what a perfect sunny day it was. From the moment we got to the car park we were surrounded by the butterflies floating through the air. The walk up to the trees where they ‘roost’ was magnificent- beautiful forest and flowers and (wherever there was sun) the butterflies- in their millions. It is surreal, magical, amazing and totally mesmerising - and when you see their trees you cannot believe your eyes! Millions of them! To me one of the most incredible things was to stand quietly and listen to them - you find you can easily hear the wings flapping! Logistics - as you come toward the sanctuary there are a few groups of guides on roadsides. The original sanctuary will be a bit further on and is obvious. As you enter some people will try to wave you into their parking area - they are not part of the original and caretaking cooperative just behind. The cooperative that run the Sanctuary are well organised as a group and everything is well run from clean toilets to great guides and really good food. They are from the local area and take care of the sanctuary whilst sharing the income. It is really interesting and fun to talk to them and find out more. They call the people / guides outside ‘clandestinos’ which is I guess correct but I also guess everyone is just trying to make a living. Whatever you think, the people here are wonderful to chat to (in Spanish). Costs - for what you get it’s very cheap! 30pesos parking (car should be safe and secure while you’re away) 70pesos per person entry which includes your guide 250ish to take a horse up the hill - a good idea if really unfit! 5pesos for the loos! Don’t miss it!!