The forests of Piedra Canteada in Central Mexico has suffered from excessive logging in the past. However, since its amazing firefly phenomenon started to draw people into the area, the benefit of preserving nature has become clear to everyone. Every summer, from late June through early August, Nanacamilpa Firefly Sanctuary attracts hundreds of visitors flocking to see its fairy-tale-like landscape. Thousands of fireflies are illuminating the night forest during their quest to find a mating partner.
Macrolampis palaciosi is a firefly species that is endemic to thick pine (oyamel) forests in the Tlaxcala state, located in 55 mi (89 km) from Mexico City. The forest covers foot areas of the Iztaccihuatl and Popocatepetl volcanoes. High elevation, high humidity levels, and low light pollution make this environment perfect for lightning bugs to proliferate. The fireflies spend 20 months of their lives as larva, and only during several weeks, they emerge to shine and reproduce. They are emitting light only for about one hour after dusk, between 8 and 9:30 pm.
During the annual firefly mating season, Nanacamilpa village offers tours in the forest, there are also a few hotels that are available to spend the night. The forest covers around 500 ac (200 ha), so it's possible to get lost there without a guide.
Apart from Nanacamilpa, take your time to check out another great place at Santuario de Luciérnagas, El Llanito, in Tlalpujahua, Michoacán. It's located at around 125 mi (200 km) north-west of Mexico City.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit the Nanacamilpa Firefly Forest in Mexico?
To witness the annual firefly mating season in the Nanacamilpa Firefly Forest in Mexico, visitors should plan their trip from late June through early August. During these months, thousands of fireflies light up the night forest in search of mating partners. Visitors should keep in mind that these insects only emit light for approximately one hour each night between 8 and 9:30 pm. Show more
Where is the Nanacamilpa Firefly Sanctuary located in Mexico?
Positioned in the Tlaxcala state, the Nanacamilpa Firefly Sanctuary is located around 55 miles (89 km) from Mexico City. Covering the land area of the Iztaccihuatl and Popocatepetl volcanoes, several hotels are available for visitors, should they wish to stay overnight and explore the area in-depth. During the firefly mating season, tours of the forest are offered. Show more
What species of firefly can be found in the Tlaxcala state?
The Macrolampis palaciosi can only be found in the Tlaxcala state and is specifically adapted to the thick pine forests there, thriving due to the region's high elevation, high humidity levels, and low light pollution. As larvae, the fireflies inhabit the forest floor for 20 months, emerging for just a few weeks of adults. During this time, they reproduce and light up the forest with their glowing abdomens. Show more
Is it possible to explore the Nanacamilpa Firefly Forest without a guide?
Venturing into the Nanacamilpa Firefly Forest without a guide is not recommended due to its size of approximately 500 acres. Without the guidance of an expert, visitors can easily get lost in the area. During the firefly mating season, guided tours of the forest are available to visitors, providing in-depth insight on the area and the mesmerizing firefly phenomenon. Show more
Are there other locations apart from Nanacamilpa to see the firefly phenomenon in Mexico?
The Santuario de Luciérnagas, El Llanito, in Tlalpujahua, Michoacán, is a popular alternative to witness the firefly phenomenon in Mexico. Situated approximately 125 mi (200 km) northwest of Mexico City, the location provides visitors with a secluded and tranquil experience whilst enjoying the fireflies. Besides this, the area is less visited by tourists comparatively and offers ample opportunities to observe the insects in their natural habitat. Show more
