Trip Overview
GREAT MIGRATIONS OF MEXICO 2026
Two of nature’s most incredible journeys of beating the odds to create another generation of Life. Experience the Monarch Butterflies and Gray Whales in Mexico at their Winter migration destinations. Trip begins in Mexico City with visits to El Rosario and Chincua Monarch Butterfly Sanctuaries, hike into the high forest to witness millions of butterflies in the forest clustering together to create warmth in the mornings and taking flight during warmer afternoons. Next you travel to Baja to see Gray Whales in their birthing and mating waters of San Ignacio Lagoon for four nights and 3 full days at Campo Cortez. Explore a variety of cultures within Mexico and see how small villages are integrating Eco-tourism to preserve the habitats for these migrating species.
Benefits of this trip: Visit the Central Highlands of Mexico and hike forests and stay in a lush retreat with thermal mineral waters, waterfalls and spa. Then journey to the remote Baja Coast to see the Gray Whales and their babies. Amazing opportunity for photographers to capture both the Monarch Butterflies and Gray Whales.
Hotel Agua Blanca
Tucked away in the lush mountains of Michoacán, Hotel Agua Blanca is a serene eco-retreat known for its rejuvenating mineral hot springs, stunning landscapes, and organic Mexican cuisine. Spanning 75 acres, the property features scenic trails through vibrant gardens and tropical bird-filled forests. With just 21 charming rooms, the hotel offers a cozy, nature-focused escape—free of TVs but with Wi-Fi and cell service. Guests can soak in clean thermal pools, enjoy spa treatments, or experience a traditional Temazcal steam bath. Committed to sustainability, the hotel uses solar-heated water, eco-friendly products, and conservation efforts, making it the perfect getaway for relaxation and connection with nature.
Grand Fiesta Americana Chapultepec
Discover this beautiful hotel near Chapultepec in Mexico City.
Our first and last night in Mexico City we stay at Grand Fiesta Americana Chapultepec. Considered by many to be one of the country's most beautiful hotels, it offers an unbeatable location in Mexico City, near the iconic Auditorio Nacional and the famed Paseo de la Reforma. The hotel hotel features modern architecture, clean modern rooms and breathtaking views of the Castillo de Chapultepec and the Bosque de Chapultepec. Throughout your stay, you'll be treated to the distinguished service befitting one of Mexico City's most luxurious hotels.
Monarch Butterfly Reserves
Sierra Chincua and El Rosario are two prominent butterfly sanctuaries within Mexico's Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in Michoacán, these reserves serve as critical overwintering habitats for millions of monarch butterflies migrating from North America. El Rosario, situated in the municipality of Ocampo, is the most renowned and frequently visited sanctuary, offering well-developed facilities and trails for visitors. Sierra Chincua, also in Michoacán, provides a less crowded experience, allowing visitors to observe the monarchs amidst serene natural surroundings. Both sanctuaries play vital roles in the conservation of the monarch butterfly and offer unique opportunities for eco-tourism and environmental education.
Beachside Cabins and Accommodations
WATERFRONT SOLAR-POWERED CABINS AT CAMPO CORTEZ
Our beachside cabins come equipped with electricity, comfortable beds and are well protected from the often harsh wind and elements of the coastal desert. Twelve of our cabins are double occupancy with a mixture of single and double beds while three cabins offer triple occupancy with a double and single bed. All our cabins are supplied with fresh linens, pillows, shelving and a countertop area with a small mirror. They are cozy, efficient and leave a small footprint on the land. You’ll find charging stations inside of each cabin with standard a USB connection as well as two USB C connections.
Special Accommodations: If you have any special needs, let us know and we will do everything we can to make your stay comfortable.
CPAP users: we offer two cabins that provide standard a/c power throughout the night for your medical device.
Special Diets: We happily accommodate special diets like Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten Free or others.
Book your stay today to experience first hand the majestic Gray Whales of San Ignacio Lagoon.
Campo Cortez - The Ecolodge
EXPERIENCE, LOCATION AND LOCALLY OPERATED ARE WHAT SET US APART
Campo Cortez - Our Private Ecolodge
Discover the unparalleled experience offered by Campo Cortez Ecolodge – your home base for an unforgettable adventure at San Ignacio Lagoon. As a locally owned and operated company, we pride ourselves on our exceptional location, modern amenities, and commitment to sustainable practices. Seemingly perched on the edge of civilization, Campo Cortez Ecolodge provides a unique blend of comfort and environmental consciousness. Our off-the-grid ecolodge has been powered by solar and wind energy for over 30 years, ensuring a clean and renewable source of power. Constructed using traditional building methods and local materials, our palapa serves as the central gathering point for daily activities and meals as well as a gift shop with local curios.
With our state-of-the-art solar generation system, you'll have access to 110 AC or 12-volt DC power for all your charging needs. Whether it's your phone, video camera, or computer, you can conveniently recharge them in the palapa or your cabin during the day. Our facilities feature hot showers, flushing marine toilets, and numerous hand washing stations, providing modern comforts in harmony with the surrounding environment. While we encourage you to unplug, we understand the need to stay connected; we offer STARLINK internet service so you can share your memorable moments and stay in touch with family and friends.
Our prime location is perfect to explore our trails for walking, hiking, and strolling on the beach. Join a tide-pooling excursion, where you'll discover fascinating marine life and even try your hand at chocolate clam hunting during our weekly clam and oyster bake.
Always available in the palapa are:
- Book and video library of Baja and marine mammals and plants
- Large screen TV to view daily videos and presentations
- Science and weather monitoring station
- Coffee and hot tea
- Snacks and fruit
- Sodas, beer, and wine
- Clean, reverse osmosis drinking water
- Gift shop of locally crafted goods including t-shirts and headgear
| ECOLODGE SCHEDULE | ACTIVITIES | |
|---|---|---|
| 7:00 am: | Coffee, cereals, fruit | • Guided tide pool exploration and critter hunts • Naturalist led excursions and lectures • Up close whale observation and interactions • Happy hour and incredible sunsets • Gray whale boneyard • Beach combing and stargazing • Birdwatching Schedule WILL vary day to day based on tide movements and weather |
| 8:00 am: | Hot breakfast | |
| 8:45 am: | Whale watching | |
| 12:00 pm: | Lunch | |
| 2:00 pm: | Whale watching | |
| 5:00 pm: | Happy hour | |
| 6:00 pm: | Dinner | |
| 9:00 pm: | Lights out-Palapa (Baja Midnight) | |
We are consistently rated the #1 Travelers’ Choice on Trip Advisor year after year for one reason, our Staff and Owners - who are residents and locals to San Ignacio Lagoon. We are four generations of family living and working in the lagoon since the settlement of San Ignacio Lagoon. We take pride in our efforts at our Ecolodge to have a low-impact environmentally and the responsibility that we carry as Ambassadors to the lagoon and its many wildlife residents.