Which Is the Best Firefly Sanctuary in Mexico? Comparison of Tlaxcala, Puebla, and the State of Mexico
Publicado por MARIANA DIAZ
May 28, 2025
Every summer, millions of fireflies illuminate the forests of central Mexico with their dancing natural glow. This bioluminescent phenomenon has turned Tlaxcala, Puebla, and the State of Mexico into highly attractive ecotourism destinations for travelers seeking a unique, nature-filled experience. Yet one key question arises: Which sanctuary is the best place to witness it?
In this article we offer an honest, detailed comparison of the main firefly sanctuaries in these three states. We discuss accessibility, services, conservation, lodging, viewing quality—and why the Firefly Sanctuary in Nanacamilpa, Tlaxcala, is regarded by thousands of visitors as the top choice in all of Mexico.
Main Firefly-Viewing Areas in Mexico
Tlaxcala
- Nanacamilpa (Firefly Sanctuary – Octli)
- Piedra Canteada (Tlaxco)
- Canto del Bosque (Nanacamilpa)
Puebla
- San Felipe Hidalgo (Zacatlán)
- Santa Rita Tlahuapan
State of Mexico
- Amecameca
- Tepotzotlán
- Valle de Bravo (private areas)
Comparative Table of Featured Sanctuaries
Why the Firefly Sanctuary (Octli) Is the Best Option
- Superior Viewing Quality
Thanks to its altitude, humidity, and habitat conservation, the Nanacamilpa forest offers the highest density and visibility of fireflies in Mexico.
Real Environmental Conservation- Controlled access
- Guided groups of max. 20 people
- Species monitoring
- Reforestation & environmental-education programs
- Infrastructure & Logistics
- Lodging at Glamping Octli with private bathroom
- Gourmet dinner using local ingredients
- Traditional temazcal ceremony
- Story-telling bonfires
- Parking, partial Wi-Fi, eco-shop
- Location & Accessibility
- Only 2.5 h from CDMX, 1.5 h from Puebla, 3 h from Querétaro
- Paved roads right to the entrance
- Maps, active WhatsApp line, digital confirmation
- Online Booking & Assistance
- Intuitive platform with secure payment
- Packages with transport from CDMX, Puebla, and QRO
- Immediate confirmation, calendar, and pre-arrival support
Real Visitor Reviews
“The best place to see fireflies. Everything is organized, clean, and cared for. We slept in the glamping and it was dreamy.” — Marisol H., CDMX“I had been to other sanctuaries, but nothing like Octli. The service, the tour, the temazcal… everything was perfect.” — Jorge T., Puebla“We booked everything online from Querétaro. We traveled as a family and every detail was thought out for us. Highly recommend.” — Laura G., QRO
Activities That Set It Apart from Other Sanctuaries
- Dinner under the stars
- Ceramics & herbal-medicine workshops
- Wild-mushroom foraging
- Temazcal with community therapists
- Craft-pulque tasting
- Packages for couples, families, and school groups
What to Consider When Choosing a Sanctuary
Recommendations for Visitors
- Book in advance, especially for July visits.
- Check the moon phase (new moon is best).
- Arrive before 6:30 p.m.
- Wear thermal, waterproof clothing.
- Do not use white lights or flashes during the tour.
- Take advantage of packages that include lodging, dinner, and temazcal.
How to Book Your Spot
- Visit Firefly Sanctuary MX
- Choose your date on the calendar
- Select a package (tour, glamping, dinner, temazcal)
- Make a secure payment
- Receive confirmation, directions, and WhatsApp assistance
Conclusion
Mexico offers several places to witness the natural spectacle of fireflies, but if you want a complete, organized, sustainable, and truly unforgettable experience, the Firefly Sanctuary in Octli, Tlaxcala, is your best option.
With first-class infrastructure, a committed team, a protected natural environment, and experiences designed for all the senses, your trip will not just be an outing—it will be a lifetime memory.