Did you know that Michoacan is home to one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena? Every winter, millions of Monarch butterflies migrate over 4,000 km (2,500 miles) from Canada and the United States to the forested mountains of this central Mexican state. This breathtaking natural wonder is just one of many reasons why Michoacan should be on your travel radar, despite being overlooked by many international tourists.

Getting to Michoacan: Planning Your Journey

Michoacan is conveniently located in central-western Mexico, making it accessible from major cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara. The state’s capital, Morelia, serves as the main gateway for most visitors.

By Air

Morelia International Airport (MLM) offers direct flights from several Mexican cities and select U.S. destinations including Chicago, Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles. The airport is located about 30-40 minutes from downtown Morelia.

Alternatively, you can fly into Mexico City International Airport, which offers more international connections, and then travel to Michoacan by bus or rental car.

By Bus

Mexico has an excellent long-distance bus network. From Mexico City, premium buses run frequently to Morelia, taking approximately 4 hours. Companies like ETN and Primera Plus offer comfortable “luxury” services with reclining seats, onboard entertainment, and complimentary snacks.

By Car

If you prefer the freedom of driving, the journey from Mexico City to Morelia takes around 4 hours on well-maintained highways. This option gives you the flexibility to explore Michoacan’s smaller towns and natural attractions at your own pace.

Best Time to Visit Michoacan

Michoacan enjoys a temperate climate year-round, but certain seasons offer distinct advantages depending on what you want to experience.

If witnessing the monarch butterfly migration is on your bucket list, plan your visit between late November and February, with January being the peak month when millions of butterflies are most active.

Thousands of Monarch butterflies cluster on trees in the Butterfly Biosphere Reserve during winter months

Getting Around Michoacan

Exploring Michoacan’s diverse attractions requires some planning. Here are the best ways to navigate the state:

Rental Car

Having your own vehicle provides the most flexibility for exploring Michoacan’s countryside, small towns, and natural attractions. The main roads connecting major cities are generally in good condition, though rural routes may require more careful driving.

Public Transportation

Buses connect most towns and cities in Michoacan. For travel between major destinations like Morelia and Patzcuaro, first-class buses are comfortable and affordable. For smaller towns, “colectivos” (shared vans) are the way to go, though they may have limited schedules.

Taxis and Ridesharing

In Morelia and other larger cities, taxis are readily available. Ridesharing apps like Uber and DiDi also operate in Morelia, offering a convenient way to get around the city. Always ensure taxis are official before getting in.

Where to Stay in Michoacan

Michoacan offers accommodations for every budget and travel style. Most visitors base themselves in either Morelia or Patzcuaro, using these charming cities as hubs to explore the surrounding region.

The stunning courtyard of Hotel de la Soledad, one of Morelia’s finest boutique hotels

Morelia: The Capital City

Patzcuaro: The Magical Town

Top Things to Do in Michoacan

Michoacan offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring colonial architecture to witnessing natural wonders and immersing yourself in indigenous culture.

The distinctive white and red buildings of Patzcuaro, one of Mexico’s most charming Pueblos Mágicos

Explore Morelia’s Historic Center

Morelia’s UNESCO-listed historic center is a masterpiece of Spanish colonial architecture built from distinctive pink quarry stone. Don’t miss:

• Morelia Cathedral – One of Mexico’s most impressive baroque cathedrals with towering 70 m (230 ft) bell towers and a magnificent organ with 4,600 pipes
• Plaza de Armas – The main square where locals gather and cultural performances often take place
• Morelia Aqueduct – An impressive 18th-century structure with 253 arches stretching for nearly 1.6 km (1 mile)
• Clavijero Cultural Center – A former Jesuit college now housing art exhibitions in a beautiful colonial building

On Saturday evenings, don’t miss the spectacular light and sound show at the Cathedral, starting at 8:45 pm.

Visit the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve

Witnessing millions of monarch butterflies clustering in the forests of Michoacan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The butterflies arrive in November and stay until March, with January and February being the best months to visit when they’re most active.

The reserve has several sanctuaries open to visitors, with El Rosario and Sierra Chincua being the most accessible. A local guide is required to enter the sanctuaries, and the experience involves moderate hiking at high altitude.

Discover Patzcuaro and Lake Patzcuaro

The magical town of Patzcuaro, with its distinctive white buildings with red trim, is one of Michoacan’s most charming destinations. The town is a center of Purépecha culture and a hub for traditional crafts.

Key attractions include:

• Plaza Grande (Don Vasco Plaza) – One of Mexico’s largest plazas
• Casa de los Once Patios (House of Eleven Patios) – A former convent now housing artisan workshops
• Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Salud – An important religious site
• Lake Patzcuaro – Take a boat to Janitzio Island to see the massive statue of independence hero José María Morelos

Traditional boats approaching Janitzio Island on Lake Patzcuaro, with the towering Morelos statue visible

Climb Paricutín Volcano

Paricutín holds the distinction of being the youngest volcano in the world, having emerged suddenly from a farmer’s field in 1943. The volcano is now dormant, and visitors can hike to the summit in about an hour.

Don’t miss the half-buried church of San Juan Parangaricutiro, where bell towers emerge dramatically from solidified lava flows—a haunting reminder of the volcano’s destructive power.

The partially buried church of San Juan Parangaricutiro, with bell towers emerging from solidified lava

Explore the Pueblos Mágicos

Michoacan boasts eight Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns), each with its own unique character:

• Santa Clara del Cobre – Famous for copper craftsmanship dating back to pre-Hispanic times
• Tzintzuntzan – The former capital of the Purépecha Empire with important archaeological sites
• Cuitzeo – A lakeside town with a stunning 16th-century monastery
• Angangueo – Gateway to the butterfly sanctuaries
• Jiquilpan – Known for its neoclassical architecture
• Tacámbaro – A coffee-growing region with beautiful landscapes
• Tlalpujahua – Famous for handblown glass Christmas ornaments

Michoacan Cuisine: A Gastronomic Journey

Michoacan’s cuisine is considered one of Mexico’s finest, blending indigenous Purépecha traditions with Spanish influences. The state is Mexico’s largest producer of avocados and berries, which feature prominently in local dishes.

Michoacan-style carnitas tacos, a regional specialty best enjoyed in Quiroga

Must-Try Dishes

More Local Specialties

• Gaspacho – Not to be confused with Spanish gazpacho, this is a fruit salad with jicama, mango, and pineapple, topped with cheese, onion, and chili
• Atole de Grano – A savory corn soup flavored with anise, popular as street food in Patzcuaro
• Pasta de Nieve – A creamy sorbet made from caramelized milk, flavored with cinnamon and almonds
• Charales – Tiny fish from Lake Patzcuaro, typically fried crisp and eaten whole

For an authentic food experience, visit the carnitas market in Quiroga or try menudo (tripe soup) at the specialized market near Plaza de San Francisco in Patzcuaro.

Cultural Experiences in Michoacan

Michoacan’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its traditions, crafts, and festivals. The state is home to the Purépecha people, whose influence is still strongly felt today.

Elaborate Day of the Dead altar in Patzcuaro, one of the best places in Mexico to experience this tradition

Day of the Dead Celebrations

Michoacan is renowned for its Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations, particularly around Lake Patzcuaro. The small town of Santa Fe de la Laguna was the inspiration for the town in Disney’s “Coco.” If you visit in late October to early November, you’ll witness:

• Elaborate flower carpets (tapetes) made from marigold petals
• Beautiful ofrendas (altars) throughout towns and cities
• Candlelit cemeteries where families gather to honor deceased relatives
• Traditional dance performances and processions
• Special foods prepared only during this time

Traditional Crafts

Michoacan is famous for its artisanal crafts, each town specializing in different techniques:

• Santa Clara del Cobre – Copper items from jewelry to cookware
• Patzcuaro – Textiles, pottery, and wooden items
• Paracho – Handcrafted guitars and string instruments
• Capula – Catrina figurines and pottery
• Ocumicho – Whimsical devil figures in clay

An artisan crafting copper items using traditional techniques in Santa Clara del Cobre

The Dance of the Old Men

The Danza de los Viejitos (Dance of the Old Men) is a traditional Purépecha dance that you might encounter in Patzcuaro or on Janitzio Island. Performers wear masks of old men and colorful clothing, dancing with canes while appearing frail but suddenly showing surprising energy and skill.

Safety and Travel Tips for Michoacan

While parts of Michoacan have faced security challenges in recent years, the main tourist areas are generally safe for visitors who take standard precautions.

Safety Considerations

• Stick to tourist areas and major cities like Morelia and Patzcuaro
• Travel during daylight hours when possible, especially on rural roads
• Use official taxis or rideshare apps in cities
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
• Check current travel advisories before your trip

Practical Tips

• Language: While English is spoken in some tourist establishments, basic Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience
• Money: Carry some cash for smaller towns where credit cards may not be widely accepted
• Altitude: Morelia sits at 1,920 m (6,300 ft) and some attractions are even higher—stay hydrated and take it easy your first day
• Dress: Pack layers as mountain towns can be cool in the evenings, even when days are warm
• Photography: Always ask permission before photographing local people, especially in indigenous communities

A guided tour is a great way to learn about Morelia’s rich history and architecture

Sample Michoacan Itinerary

Here’s a suggested 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time in Michoacan:

If you have more time, consider adding visits to other Pueblos Mágicos or spending a day in Uruapan to explore Barranca del Cupatitzio National Park with its beautiful cascades and gardens.

The beautiful cascades of Barranca del Cupatitzio National Park in Uruapan

Why Michoacan Should Be Your Next Mexican Destination

Michoacan offers a refreshing alternative to Mexico’s more touristy destinations. With its stunning colonial architecture, rich indigenous culture, exceptional cuisine, and natural wonders like the Monarch butterfly migration, this central Mexican state rewards travelers seeking authentic experiences.

Whether you’re wandering the pink stone streets of Morelia, watching traditional dancers on Janitzio Island, or standing in awe as thousands of butterflies flutter around you in a mountain forest, Michoacan creates the kind of travel memories that last a lifetime.