Physical Requirements
At Nat Hab, we provide access to some of the most wondrous nature encounters the world has to offer. Many take place in destinations that are wild and remote, with varying physical demands and limited medical facilities. All trips may not be suitable for every traveler. In order to participate in this itinerary, travelers must comfortably and reliably be able to execute all physical requirements as noted below.
Level of Difficulty
- Moderate to Challenging
Trip Pace
Four locations in six days
Two long transfer days
Day 2: Four-hour bus ride from Mexico City to Angangueo
Day 5: Four-hour bus ride from Agua Blanca to Mexico City, with a stop in Toluca halfway through
Travelers must be able to walk 3-5 miles unassisted at altitudes that could reach up to 11,500 feet
Hikes range from 3-5 miles each; travelers should expect 4-6 hours of physical activity for several days
Terrain includes rocky, rough, and uneven terrain, sometimes with steep inclines to view the butterflies
The altitude combined with physical exertion and balance needed, can be considered strenuous for travelers
Horses are taken halfway to the sanctuaries. Travelers may need to ascend 1-2 miles to the sanctuary and then descend an additional 2 miles to the base. Horses will not be available for the descent.
Travel by bus, horseback and pickup truck with bench seats
Access to one of the butterfly sanctuaries requires a 30-minute open-bed truck ride over bumpy cobblestone roads, which may be uncomfortable for travelers with back or neck issues
Travelers must be able to walk 3-4 miles unassisted at altitudes that could reach up to 11,500 feet
The altitude combined with physical exertion and balance needed, can be considered strenuous for travelers
Travelers weighing more than 260 pounds must be able to walk 2-5 miles, in case horses are not available
Travelers must be able to ride a horse
Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers, or canes
Travelers must be fully mobile and physically independent
Daytime temps range from 50–70°F
Overnight temps often drop into the 30s°F
Generally dry with little rainfall; mornings can be foggy
Hike to 3-5miles at 11,000+ feet to reach the butterfly colony
Below are example photos of walks and hikes from our Monarchs Photo Expedition.
