Firefly season has already begun, and if you’re looking for a getaway surrounded by nature near Mexico City, the Valley of the Volcanoes is one of the best destinations to enjoy this natural phenomenon. On rainy nights, thousands of these tiny insects light up the forests with their characteristic glow, creating a spectacle that can only be admired for a few weeks a year.
Several ecoparks in the region open their doors to offer viewing tours in a controlled environment, while also promoting forest conservation and responsible tourism.
Where to see fireflies in the Valley of the Volcanoes?
The directory of participating ecotourism parks includes options for every taste. In Amecameca, you can visit Bosque Esmeralda, Rancho Alegre, Chalma Tetlalcolulco Ecotourism Park, Cabañas y Lácteos del Valle, Agua Viva, Las Huertas Cascada La Burbuja, Peña Verde, Atlalcatzi Ecopark, Paraje Telconyonqui, Bosque de Árboles de Navidad, Chalchimitl, Rancho Los Pavorreales, and Vivero El Paraíso.
You’ll also find spots in Ayapango (El Galpón), Chalco (El Ocotal and Las Piedras), Ecatzingo ( Tlanamacoyan Ecotourism Park), Ixtapaluca (Ávila Camacho and El Epazote Community Park), Tepetlaoxtoc (Apipilhuasco), Texcoco ( Basalt Prisms Sanctuary and Eco Tlaixpan), and Tlalmanalco—where Dos Aguas, Rancho La Mesa, Fuerza Ancestral, Tlalmanalco Ecotourism Park, and La Cabaña participate.
What You Should Know Before You Go
To protect the fireflies and their habitat, tours are typically conducted with restricted access and specific rules, such as avoiding the use of flashlights, camera flashes, insect repellent, or making noise during the tour. Additionally, it’s recommended to wear warm, waterproof clothing and non-slip footwear, as the season coincides with the rainy season.
📅 Rainy season (approximately June through August, depending on weather conditions).
📍 Ecoparks in the Valley of the Volcanoes, State of Mexico.
⏰ Generally evening and nighttime tours; check the schedule for the park you plan to visit.
💰 Prices vary by ecopark and the experience you choose.
If you’re looking for a different way to get out of the city, firefly watching in the Valley of the Volcanoes is one of the most impressive natural experiences of the season and an excellent opportunity to discover the forests of the State of Mexico in a unique way.
