When most people think of traveling to Mexico, they picture t-shirts, shorts, and sunscreen. iI you are heading into the mountains of Mexico to witness the incredible Monarch butterfly overwintering sites, we have another recommendation.
The sites, like El Rosario and Sierra Chincua, are nestled in Oyamel fir forests at elevations between 9,000 and nearly 11,000 feet (2,700 to 3,300 meters). At this altitude, the climate is entirely different from the main holiday destinations. Weather in the mountains can change quickly and it is a great advise to come prepared.After all, there’s nothing worse than traveling all the way to the sanctuaries only to have to turn back because you forgot a warm jacket.
To keep you comfortable on the trails and ensure you can focus entirely on the magic of the experience, here is your essential packing guide.
The Golden Rule: Dress in Layers
Mornings and evenings can be cold (down to 40°F /4°C), but once the midday sun hits the forest, it can warm up to a comfortable 80°F (26°C).
When you start your hike in the forests it might still be chilly and you will warm up when make your way up to the clusters. Once you reached the monarchs, you will cool down while standing in the forest and taking in nature.
Therefore, you want to come prepared and the best way is by wearing layers.
- Base Layer: A light t-shirt, ideally fast-drying. Avoid heavy cotton, which traps sweat and chills you when you stop moving.
- Mid-Layer: A fleece jacket or a lightweight down puffer jacket. This is your core insulation for the chilly morning start and the cooler, shaded sections of the forest.
- Outer Shell: A windproof, lightweight jacket. A windbreaker makes a massive difference in retaining body heat and protects in case of upcoming winds or even rain.
2. Footwear with Serious Grip
The terrain leading to the sanctuaries consists of rustic, uneven dirt trails that can be steep, rocky, or covered in loose gravel. To avoid slipping have steady shoes on you. Trail runners are an excellent choice, sneakers or hiking boots would also do the job. It is a good idea to have broken-in the footwear before coming on the trip to avoid any blisters.
Please note that it can be quite dusty, especially towards the end of the season. It might be a good idea to rather vote for the comfortable, used trainers than the brand new white sneakers.
3. Protect Yourself from the Elements
The combination of high altitude and dry mountain air requires a few specific protective items:
- As mentioned before, it might get dusty. Some people find it useful to wear a mask or cover the face partly with a buff.
- If you wear contact lenses, you might want to bring your choice of drops or consider wearing your prescription glasses.
- Don’t forget that we are at higher altitude and that UV rays are intense. Bring your dun protection and SPF sunscreen.
4. In Your Daypack
Keep your pack light but functional. Remember that you’ll want space to stow your layers as you strip them off during the hike.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is your number one defense against altitude headaches.
- Cash (Small Denominations of Mexican Pesos): The sanctuaries are run by local ejido (community) cooperatives. You will need cash for entrance fees, local guides, souvenirs, and horse rentals if you choose to ride up the steep sections. Cards are not accepted here.
- Binoculars or a Zoom Lens: The monarchs cluster high up in the boughs of the Oyamel fir trees. To truly appreciate the density of the clusters before they take flight, a small pair of binoculars or a good camera lens is a game-changer.
5. Cozy Clothes for the Evenings
Remember it can get quite cold at night. Traditional local hotels do not have central heating. While we bring a gold old hot water bag on our tours for you, it is important that you bring warm pajamas and warm clothes for the evening (and morning).