Anita Ruthling Klaussen

From our base in Angangueo, we headed up into the 10,000′ mountains, rode horses part of the way and then walked a short distance to the ROSARIO SANCTUARY. The Monarchs clump by the thousands onto the branches of the OYAMEL trees where they hibernate during the winter.  We were very fortunate to have as our guide, Alfonso Alonso, a renowned expert on Monarchs.  Assisting him were Astrid and Karel Beets. We arrived in the afternoon, as the day began to get cooler, so the activity level was moderate.  It was mesmerizing and magical. Never had I imagined so many butterflies.