Witness the 2025 firefly season in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala from June 20 to August 10. Explore eco-lodging, cultural tours, and natural magic at Rancho Buenavista.
A Forest of Light: Tlaxcala’s 2025 Firefly Season Shines Bright in Rancho Buenavista
Deep in the pine and oak forests of Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala, one of Mexico’s most magical natural events is about to begin. From June 20 through August 10, the 2025 firefly season transforms the woodlands into a glowing sanctuary, as thousands of fireflies take to the night air in a synchronized bioluminescent dance.
The Firefly Sanctuary, an ecotourism project encompassing more than 200 hectares and 26 designated viewing centers, becomes a stage for a romantic ritual: male lampyrids flashing rhythmic patterns to attract their mates. For many visitors, it’s not just a light show—it’s an emotional, grounding experience that reminds them of nature’s quiet wonder.
The Viewing Experience
The firefly tours begin just after dusk, typically around 7:00 p.m., and last 40 to 60 minutes. Visitors walk through forested trails in near-silence, guided by trained experts who help maintain the delicate balance required for the fireflies to thrive.
To witness this phenomenon, it’s essential to follow a few important guidelines:
- Reserve early. Due to the high demand, spaces fill quickly.
- Dress warmly. The humid forest climate can be chilly, especially at night. A jacket, raincoat, and non-slip shoes are strongly recommended.
- Avoid artificial lights and noise. Flashlights, phone screens, and loud conversations can disrupt the fireflies’ mating signals.
- Skip the bug spray. Chemical repellents can be fatal to fireflies and disrupt the forest’s ecosystem.
Where to Stay: Rancho Buenavista
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in nature, Rancho Buenavista stands out as one of Tlaxcala’s most celebrated eco-lodges. Founded in 1892 and passed down through generations, the hacienda-style property offers a deeply personal approach to sustainable tourism.
Rancho Buenavista’s accommodations cater to a range of travelers:
- Eco-cabins (starting at 3,400 pesos for double occupancy): Comfortable, low-impact lodging built with sustainability in mind.
- Glamping (from 4,320 pesos per night): Luxurious tents nestled in the forest, ideal for couples or those who want a mix of comfort and wilderness.
- Camping (640 pesos per person): Designated safe zones are available for guests bringing their own gear, or you can rent a tent on-site.
All overnight stays include access to a birdwatching center, morning hikes, local meals, a traditional breakfast, and coffee and bread following the firefly tour.
If you’re short on time, day visits are also available. A basic ticket (from 340 pesos) covers the firefly experience, a guide, post-tour coffee and bread, and a tasting of pulque, the traditional fermented agave drink.
Beyond the Fireflies
Rancho Buenavista offers more than just a glowing forest. Throughout the firefly season—and year-round—the center promotes cultural heritage, sustainable living, and holistic well-being through unique experiences.
Some standout activities include:
- Talks about Corn: Learn about maize’s central role in Mesoamerican culture, from its historical symbolism to its current use in rural communities.
- Pulque Tastings: Guided by local producers, guests can observe the extraction of aguamiel, understand the fermentation process, and taste natural pulque—a sacred drink of pre-Hispanic origin.
- Holistic Expression: Every Wednesday and Friday (during firefly season), guests can participate in introspective art workshops, painting their spiritual energy while surrounded by forest.
- Reforestation Efforts: Contribute directly to the ecosystem by planting a tree during your visit.
- Nature Connection: Visit the ancient tree estimated to be over 200 years old, take in panoramic views, and practice forest meditation or simply hug a tree and make a wish.
- Traditional Cuisine: Every meal is prepared using local ingredients by chefs focused on preserving Tlaxcalan culinary heritage.
A Call for Regenerative Tourism
Rancho Buenavista doesn’t just offer a vacation—it presents an invitation. Guests are encouraged to engage in regenerative tourism, a model that aims not just to sustain, but to improve the land and the communities that depend on it.
By visiting during firefly season or any other time of year, travelers contribute to rural development, environmental conservation, and the cultural revival of Tlaxcala. The team behind Rancho Buenavista, led by the Servín family, views every guest not as a consumer but as a partner in building a more respectful and connected world.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your firefly season experience:
- Book early. Tours and lodging sell out quickly due to limited access designed to protect the ecosystem.
- Stay for more than a night. Most packages include meals, activities, and opportunities to learn and give back.
- Travel responsibly. Your actions directly impact the fireflies and the communities who protect them.
In a fast-moving world, Rancho Buenavista and the fireflies of Nanacamilpa offer something increasingly rare: a reason to slow down, be still, and marvel at the light.
Witness the 2025 firefly season in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala from June 20 to August 10. Explore eco-lodging, cultural tours, and natural magic . . .
