tours valle de bravo

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Tel. 72 2314 1483

Valle de Bravo

Descubre todos los misterios escondidos en  valle de bravo.  desde las maravillas naturales hasta los lugares para vivir la cultura como un local., reserva ahora.

RESERVA AHORA con $340.00 y cancela GRATIS*

Precio en línea $990.00 por persona, + mapa descriptivo, + transporte en 4×4 desde tu ubicación (dentro de valle de bravo), + recuerdo de comunidad rural, sugerencia de vestimenta:, – ropa cómoda, – sudadera extra o impermeable, – tenis o botas antiderrapantes, + todos los días, + duración: 4 horas, + pueblo mágico de valle de bravo, + cascada “velo de novia”, + cascada “el molino”, + reserva estatal “monte alto”, + estupa budista.

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Magic Town of Valle de Bravo

Discover a prodigious land with beautiful landscapes!

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 10 hours
• Users Ages: All Ages
• Tag Included: Transfer and tickets
• Clock Start time: 8:00 AM

Enjoy a scenic tour in Valle de Bravo

• Discover a prodigious land with beautiful landscapes that you will never forget.
• Discover the sanctuary of the Maranatha house of prayer and its customs.
• Climb the rock of Valle de Bravo, where you can admire the immensity of the lake and its landscapes surrounded by nature.
• Walk next to a waterfall and fall in love with the great sound of water running down the river.
• Admire the 35-meter fall of the Velo de Novia Waterfall.
• Let yourself be seduced by the charm of the cobblestone streets of Valle de Bravo.
• Chevron down What to Expect
• This tour will take you to the picturesque town of Valle de Bravo, famous for its weekend getaways and for being a great place to practice extreme sports such as skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding.
• We will visit the house of prayer Maranatha, which means “Come, Lord.” Built in the 70s by the Carmelite monks, this center of spiritual retreat invites meditation and personal knowledge through silence.
• Later we will visit the two most important waterfalls in Valle de Bravo. The Velo de Novia waterfall, famous for its wide mouth of water and its 35-meter height, will leave you breathless with its great natural beauty. We will give you some free time to take some photos and fall in love with the sound of the water flowing through the river.
• After the visits, we will come back to the zocalo of this Magic Town to eat the local food, enjoy an ice cream in the main plaza, and walk around to get a glimpse of the way of life of the local people.
• If you want to get into the boat (not included), ask your guide to take you to the port and enjoy a boat ride on the dam. After this activity, we will come back to Mexico City.

Note : Suitable for adults and children who can take long walks.

• Chevron down Included
• Modern transfer units from the meeting point and professional staff
• Optimal time to make visits without hurry
• Tickets to the places indicated in the itinerary
• Guided tours by local staff with extensive experience and attention
• Chevron down Not Included
• Chevron down What to Bring
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

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• Tag Transfer and tickets
• Users All Ages
• Hour Glass 10 hours

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Visit the Great Pyramid of Cholula and learn about the local history. Get to know the charm of Puebla, a perfect mix of history, tradition, culture, natural beauty, and gastronomy.

• Tag Food and drinks
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Tacos & Mezcal Tour

Taste the taco, the emblematic dish of Mexico. Explore the regions of Mexico through the delicious flavors and versatility of this dish. Enjoy a tour with food and drink included.

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Teotihuacan & Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe

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THE 5 BEST Valle de Bravo Tours & Excursions

Tours in valle de bravo.

• Multi-day Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Paragliding in Valle de Bravo

2. Kayak on the Valle de Bravo lake

3. Valle de Bravo: Private tour from Mexico City

4. Private Paragliding Flight in Valle de Bravo with Instructor

5. Climbing and Rappelling Course in Valle de Bravo

6. Magic Town Valle de Bravo from Mexico City

7. Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Private Tour from Mexico City

8. 7 Day-Monarch Butterfly Ecofriendly Tour in Mexico

9. Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Day Trip from Mexico City

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Six Flags Mexico Admission Ticket

Explore a sacred volcano with a professional photographer

Openwork butterfly garden

Hang gliding in Valle de Bravo

Half Day Private Tour to Pico del Águila in Ajusco

Hike and sunrise in the Ajusco forest with photos and video with drone

Ecological camp

Toluca Int Airport(TLC) to Toluca - Round-Trip Private Transfer

Toluca to Toluca Int Airport (TLC) - Departure Private Transfer

Private Departure Transfer from Toluca City hotels to Toluca airport

Magic Hands Tour

Totláli fireflies sighting

Private Arrival Transfer from Toluca airport to Toluca Hotels

Toluca Int Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Arrival Private Transfer

Mexico City Airport MEX to Ixtapan De La Sal Round Trip Transfer

Frida´s Neighborhood through History, Mercado & Cantina(Private)

Anahuacalli Museum and Diego Rivera Studio Tour with Admission Tickets

Mexico City Private Pre-Hispanic Cooking Class with Martha

Mexico Airport (MEX) to Cuernavaca Thermal Round-Trip Transfer

What travellers are saying.

• Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Day Trip from Mexico City
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• 7 Day-Monarch Butterfly Ecofriendly Tour in Mexico
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Journey To Mexico

Your Travel Guide To Mexico

12 Best Things To Do In Valle de Bravo, Mexico

Are you looking for the best things to do in Valle de Bravo ?

Deemed the “Mexican Hamptons” for its rich and elite residents, Valle de Bravo is about a couple of hours – or about 156 kilometers – southwest of Mexico City.

This village, situated on the shores of Lake Avándaro, is an upscale retreat for the affluent upper class. The relatively short distance from the Mexican capital makes Valle de Bravo a popular weekend getaway for privileged residents of Mexico City. It is a popular retreat for many wealthy foreigners and movie stars as well.

READ MORE: Best Hotels In Oaxaca City.

Valle de Bravo and the surrounding area are among Mexico’s well-known tourist destinations , thanks to its proximity to the capital. This colonial town is definitely a must in your Mexican itinerary.

Here are the best things to do in Valle de Bravo, Mexico.

Things you'll find in this article

1. Walk around the historic downtown of Valle de Bravo

2. go on a boat tour around lake avándaro, 3. try kayaking or paddleboarding in valle de bravo, 4. eat local seafood dishes on a floating restaurant, 5. enjoy valle de bravo’s nightlife, 6. paragliding, 7. explore monte alto state park, 8. visit the oldest church in valle de bravo, 9. see the cascada velo de novia waterfall, 10. explore the village of avándaro, 11. hike to the mirador la peña, travel tips and resources.

With Valle de Bravo’s cobblestone streets and the town square called the Plaza Principal, this activity is a sure breeze. You will be delighted with the Kiosko (Gazebo) in the Plaza Principal, the Jardín Principal or Main Garden, and the town’s white-walled and terracotta tile-roofed buildings that are centuries-old.

The San Francisco de Asis Church is also in the Plaza, so you might as well stop by. There are street foods galore in the area and lots of shopping opportunities.

For refreshments after your stroll, there are various bars and restaurants down the main streets of Calle Joaquín Arcadio Pagaza and Calle 5 de Mayo. A few streets from there, you will have an access to the Lake Avándaro.

To book this tour click here.

Lake Avándaro is a great lake with incredible views and every other tourist activity in Valle de Bravo seems to revolve around it, so this is truly the town’s centerpiece and a must-explore for all visitors.

At the Valle de Bravo town center, you will be met by a lot of boat tour offers so it’s easy to go aboard and explore the lake. Some tours will take you to various points around the lake and different towns and areas where you can rent lakeside cabins if you like.

You can buy a ticket at one of the ticket booths on the Municipal Embarcadero right by the lake in the town center. The tickets are not expensive and you can choose which areas you want to explore.

Apart from the boat tour, renting a paddleboard or a kayak to take out on the water yourself is a fun way to enjoy Lake Avándaro.

Same with the boat tour, you can get a ticket for a kayak or a paddleboard from the ticket booth on the lakeside Municipal Embarcadero in the town center.

The Municipal Embarcadero, where boats depart and offer tours of the lake, is Valle de Bravo’s pier with various restaurants.

For a better dining experience, head to one of the floating restaurants that offer typical Mexican seafood dishes. These seafoods are harvested from the Lake Avándaro itself.

Valle de Bravo is also noted for its fabulous nightlife, which attracts visitors frequently. There you will find an avenue full of clubs, bars, and karaokes, and everything it takes to fill your night with fun.

Don’t worry about going out in the dark for a drink or two; the local police make sure it is safe to wander through this area at night.

Because of the region’s lakefront breezes, Valle de Bravo has become a well-known spot for paragliding. It is one of the most iconic experiences you can have in Valle. If you’re paragliding for the first time, it’s recommended that you fly with an instructor. Flumen Paragliding in Sin Nombre offers courses to fit your skill (or lack thereof).

Gliders usually start off inside the Monte Alto State Park. Flying off the paraglider over the dam and the forest usually takes 20 minutes. These 20 minutes will sure last in your memory for a very long time.

Buy your ticket online here.

The Monte Alto was formed by the eruption of three volcanoes during the Mezoic era. Lava molded the hills seen there today.

The Monte Alto State Park is a protected area near Valle de Bravo. It has about 20 kilometers of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. The Monte Alto State Park also has various points for paragliding.

You can take refuge in cabins found in the reserve if you want to experience dozing off to the sounds of the forest.

Templo de Santa Maria Ahuacatlan, the oldest church in town, dates back to the 1600s. Here you will find the famous Black Christ or Cristo Negro that attracts a lot of pilgrims. The Cristo Negro statue is one of the very few artifacts to have miraculously survived a Colonial-era fire that destroyed the rest of the original church.

Situated in the village of Avándaro just nearby, the 35-meter high waterfall named Velo de Novia or Bridal Veil Falls awaits – and which you shouldn’t keep waiting.

The waterfall is tucked away in Velo de Novia Park and set in the middle a grove of fir trees. It is a fairly easy hike from the park entrance.

When you’re done taking in the beauty of Velo de Novia, it is time to explore the village of Avándaro.

Avándaro, like Valle de Bravo, is on the shores of the lake, 5 kilometers from the town center. The village offers a wide range of restaurants and places to rent motorcycles or bicycles, so exploring the village is a cinch.

La Peña is the best and most popular hiking trail you can find in Valle de Bravo. Please note that the hike to the Mirador La Peña (“La Peña Lookout”) is a bit steep. It is a short climb, however, and with stairs along the way.

Getting to the large cross at the top requires climbing up a few boulders, but once on top you will be rewarded with splendid panoramic views of Lake Avándaro.

12. See the monarch butterflies

Valle de Bravo is noted for the massive number of monarch butterflies that pass the town from the forests of the northern United States and Canada during their winter migration.

Valle de Bravo houses Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Reserve, one of the few monarch butterfly sanctuaries in Mexico . To get there, you must pay a 50-peso entrance fee, or about 2.5 USD. This includes a guide inside the sanctuary, which is necessary as the climb to the sanctuary takes one hour through the forest and is a little steep.

If you do not want to go on foot, there is an option to pay for a horseback ride and with a guide. This is a more exciting experience; however, please note that the final 45 meters is too too steep and rocky for the horses so you have to hike it yourself.

If you happen to be in town between the months of November and March, the migration of the monarch butterflies is a show that you shouldn’t miss. The best time to see these marvelous migratory butterflies is from about December until March.

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Hola! Que tal? I'm Christine, a Filipina but in love with Mexico. I used to live in Central America and Mexico is my favorite. Love tacos, tequila, and margarita.

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Ultimate Valle de Bravo Mexico Travel Guide (2024)

want to visit The Hamptons of Mexico City?

Located about two hours from Mexico City, you’ll be in picturesque Valle de Bravo, Mexico — deemed the Mexico City Hamptons by Architectural Digest magazine in 2019.

It is one of about 135 Mexico pueblos magicos (which means magic towns). This magical town is located in Estado de México (Mexico state, or literally State of Mexico).

A popular destination for wealthy chilangos (Mexico City locals), many head there to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Valle de Bravo is among the most peaceful and upscale weekend, overnight and day trips from Mexico City , with plenty of great accommodations.

Want to book the best Valle de Bravo Tour? This Valle de Bravo Paragliding Tour has a perfect 5 Star rating!

Ready to discover everything you need to know for an amazing trip to Valle de Bravo, Mexico?

Let’s get to this Valle de Bravo guide, starting where it’s located and how to get to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City. Followed by all the amazing things to see, where to stay in Valle de Bravo, the best restaurants, and more.

valle de bravo mexico travel guide

Where is valle de bravo mexico located.

Valle de Bravo is in Central Mexico, in Estado de Mexico (Mexico State). This is one of the 32 states in Mexico . It sits between Mexico City and Morelia.

🗺 Valle de Bravo Map

As you can see on the Valle de Bravo Mexico map above, it’s only a few miles from the neighboring state, Michoacan.

Here, where you’ll find the Morelia , a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the lake towns of Patzcuaro . This is one of the best places for attending Day of the Dead in Mexico , with its unique celebration.

How far is Valle de Bravo from Mexico City?

Valle de Bravo is about 87 miles (140 km) west of Mexico City. The drive takes about 2-2.5 hours in normal traffic.

What state is Valle de Bravo in?

Though many think Valle de Bravo is in Mexico City, it is located one state over in Estado de Mexico , which literally means “Mexico State.”

How do you get to Valle de Bravo Mexico?

To visit Valle de Bravo, most fly into Mexico City Airport (code: MEX) and rent a car for the two-hour drive to Valle de Bravo.

✈️ Find flights to Mexico City now!

However, there’s another also a few other options — though it’s usually best to use Mexico City International Airport because it has the most flights.

Opened in 2022, you can now fly into Felipe Ángeles International Airport (code: NLU). This is sometimes called the “new Mexico City airport” because it’s not too far from Mexico City.

There is also a small regional airport, Toluca International Airport (code: TLC), only about 30 minutes away, though there are no direct flights from the United States.

From Toluca Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Valle de Bravo, or take a bus. There are no buses from the airport, so you’ll have to first take a taxi to the Toluca bus station , then catch your bus to Valle de Bravo.

Best Mexico City to Valle de Bravo Tours

If you’re not staying overnight at one of these best Valle de Bravo hotels , a tour from Mexico City is without a doubt the best way to visit Valle de Bravo.

This Private Tour to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City is a great option because you’ll have a local guide showing you around.

🦋 If you’re visiting during the Mexico butterfly season, from about November to March, you can also book this Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Private Tour from Mexico City to see the butterflies in Valle de Bravo.

Mexico City to Valle de Bravo Drive

Valle de Bravo is about 2-2.5 hours from Mexico City by car, depending on traffic.

The fastest way is on the relatively new toll road, Highway 15D, that takes you directly from Mexico City to Valle de Bravo. 🚙 Note: Bring pesos (cash) for the tolls.

Renting A Car in Mexico City: Everything You Need to Know

There’s also the scenic route on Highway 134, which takes about 30 minutes longer.

As with most scenic drives, it’s the prettier and more relaxing of the two. On it, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of tall cacti, palms and pine trees and multicolored homes and buildings.

Renting a Car in Mexico City

While the thought of a Mexico City car rental might seem intimidating, it’s actually easy and relatively inexpensive.

Driving in Mexico is similar to driving in the U.S., but for a crash course on how to drive in Mexico, here’s 10 Useful Mexico Driving Tips to help you with how to drive in Mexico.

For a rental car in Mexico, I recommend and use Discover Cars — as they check both local Mexican companies and international companies simultaneously, so you get the best deal.

🚗 You can read more about Discover Cars here.

You can also buy Mexico car insurance directly with them, as you must have Mexican insurance in Mexico, as U.S. companies don’t count. Note: Even if you’re getting Mexico travel insurance , it rarely covers driving.

Mexico City to Valle de Bravo Bus

Want to take a bus from Mexico City to Valle de Bravo? It’s easy!

From Mexico City, grab an Uber or taxi to Terminal de Autobuses de Poniente (AKA Terminal Observatorio or TAPO Mexico City). It is located here .

There, you’ll buy a ticket with Zinabus for the trip to Valle de Bravo. When you’re headed back from Valle de Bravo to Mexico City, you’ll also use this bus.

🚌💨 Zinabus offers a 10% discount when you buy your tickets online . Prices will always vary, but plan to spend about $20-30 USD on roundtrip bus tickets to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City.

There is only one bus station in Valle de Bravo, which makes it easy to find!

The Terminal de Autobuses Valle de Bravo is located here , and if you need a taxi when you arrive, there are always some waiting outside.

10 Best Things to Do in Valle de Bravo Mexico

If you’re showing up to Valle de Bravo with no plan — no problem!

You can easily spend a day in Valle de Bravo or a week in Valle de Bravo and fill your time with amazing sites and activities.

For those what a better idea of what to do in Valle de Bravo, you’ll find 10 suggestions below. If that’s not enough, check out these 30 Best Valle de Bravo Things to Do , which will help you plan an epic Valle de Bravo trip.

1. Stroll Historic Downtown

Whatever you do, don’t miss spending some time in Centro de Valle de Bravo, or downtown!

One of the top things to do is simply wander downtown’s cobblestone streets, and the Plaza Principal (Town Square).

On your walk, take in the Kiosko (Gazebo) in the plaza and the centuries-old buildings with Valle de Bravo’s quintessential white walls and terracotta tile roofs.

In Plaza Principal, you’ll see the Jardín Principal (Main Garden), San Francisco de Asis Church, mercado shopping, street food stands, and more.

Make sure to try esquites de camaron (grilled corn served with diced shrimp, crema, lime and chile), an ice cream from La Michoacana, or a nieves (sorbet) from one of the street vendors.

Continue your stroll down the main streets of Calle Joaquín Arcadio Pagaza and Calle 5 de Mayo. Both have great shopping, restaurants, photography spots , bars and more.

Heading south on Calle 5 de Mayo, you’ll have a few streets where you can access Lake Avandaro Mexico.

2. Lago Avándaro (Lake Avandaro Valle de Bravo)

Lake Avandaro is the centerpiece of Valle de Bravo, and the town’s main draw for tourism.

Even when you’re on the water, the spectacular views from the shores of Lake Avándaro will also wow you.

If you do venture onto this great lake, you can enjoy a variety of aquatic recreation activities, like sailing , stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, boating, fishing and waterskiing.

💧 Valle de Bravo Fun Fact: It is actually an artificial lake created from a man made reservoir. You can read more about that here .

🛥️ Valle de Bravo Tours of LAKE AVANDARO

You can also just enjoy a relaxing boat tour from the Embarcadero Municipal Valle de Bravo ( Municipal Embarcadero ). You can buy tickets at the ticket booths right before a group tour departs from their private dock area.

There are also private boats that will take you on a tour. The 30-minute tours cost $500 MXN pesos (about $27 USD), and the 60-minute tours cost $1,000 pesos (about $54 USD). Of course, rates can always vary.

CAN YOU SWIM IN VALLE DE BRAVO’S LAKE AVANDARO?

Yes , you can swim in the lake — though many opt not to, as the water is quite cold. However, sailing and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) are some very popular ways to get out on the water.

Don’t plan to swim while visiting? Even Valle de Bravo’s land-based activities seem to revolve around the lake! (The only one that doesn’t seems to be mountain biking in Valle de Bravo .)

Most hikes and walking trails meander their way to the top of town, so you can take in the scenic vistas of the lake from above, and watch the paragliders and or hang-gliders from above.

3. Valle de Bravo Paragliding

Located at 6,070-feet above sea level (1,850 m), Valle de Bravo ranks among the best places for paragliding in the world.

The views of the lake on your descent only make the experience that much more memorable. For first-time flyers, don’t worry, you’ll go tandem with a trained instructor.

Paragliding in Valle de Bravo costs about $150-175 USD per person.

🪂 best Paragliding Tours in Valle de bravo

🚴‍♀️ sporty activities in valle de bravo.

The town of Valle de Bravo has plenty of sports to enjoy back on land or on the beautiful lake.

There’s mountain bike trails for those who fancy some extreme sports, as well as golf clubs and horseback riding. There are also numerous hiking trails in Valle de Bravo that go to a Mirador (lookout point) or waterfalls.

On Lago de Avandaro Lake, there’s plenty of space to practice water sports like water skiing and sailing .

4. Mercado de Artesanías (Artisan Market)

No trip is complete without a visit to Mercado de Artesanías, the best Valle de Bravo arts & crafts market.

This is the best place to shop in Valle de Bravo for souvenirs made by artisans from different towns in the area.

For upscale Valle de Bravo shopping, head to Calle Joaquín Arcadio Pagaza instead.

Here, you’ll find stall after stall with handmade goods from Mexican artisans and the indigenous Mazahua peoples .

Don’t pass up the chance to purchase colorful Mazahua fabrics, Otumba pottery, Ocoxal baskets made from woven pine needles, handcrafted woodworks and more.

5. Cascada Velo de Novia Waterfall

In the neighboring town of Avándaro, an affluent suburb of Valle de Bravo, you’ll find the 115-foot waterfall (35 m), Velo de Novia . It’s name means Bridal Veil Falls.

Tucked away in Velo de Novia Park, and set amid a grove of fir trees, it’s an easy hike to the falls from the park entrance.

From the entry point, it is about 15-20 minutes to the bottom of the falls on a well-maintained trail .

🇲🇽 Avándaro Mexico Travel

As some have discovered Valle de Bravo online, and seen its multimillion dollar homes, you may be curious about where all that epic Valle de Bravo real estate is located.

Well, it’s here in Avandaro, a wealthy town perched on the hill overlooking Valle de Bravo and Lake Avandaro. For those who might be considering living in Valle de Bravo Mexico, these lake house villas have the best views in town.

On weekends, the main street in Avandaro comes alive, as many Mexico City locals escape here for a relaxing weekend.

Avandaro is also popular for its golf courses, private cabanas in the woods like Cabañas Salamandras del Lago , and the famed El Santuario Resort & Spa .

✌️ Avándaro Mexico Fun Facts: The Festival Rock y Ruedas de Avándaro, a massive Mexican rock festival that took place in the town in 1971 — is often called the Woodstock of Mexico.

6. San Francisco de Asis Church

The beautiful San Francisco de Asis Church in Valle de Bravo is a 17th Century church that sits in the center of the Plaza Principal (sometimes called Plaza Independencia, or Town Plaza).

It is the most recognizable building in the Valle de Bravo skyline, and said to be the tallest church in the entire state. Inside, enjoy a few quiet moments away from the nonstop energy in the Plaza.

As with many Mexican churches, there are beautiful paintings, sculptures, murals to see. You may take travel photos inside the church, as long as there’s no service going on and you’re respectful.

7. Hike to Mirador La Peña

La Pena is the most popular and best hiking trail in Valle de Bravo. ⚠️ Note: It is quite high, and there’s no safety railings, so hike with caution.

What you will want to do is take a cab to the trailhead, as the walk through town to reach that point is all uphill and you may be too tired to even do La Pena.

To get to the large cross at the very top of the Mirador La Peña (meaning “La Peña Lookout”), you’ll have to climb up some boulders.

The hike itself is a bit steep, though it’s a short climb with stairs along the way. When I did the La Peña Valle de Bravo hike, it took about 30 minutes.

Once at the top of Mirador, you’ll have spectacular, panoramic views of Lake Avandaro.

This is one of the most popular things to do in Valle de Bravo so it’s safe for the most part, but you’ll need to use caution at various points on the trail. If you have good hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers, you’ll want to use those.

🥾 Love hiking? This is a hilly town, so there’s plenty of places to go hiking in Valle de Bravo, like Monte Alto State Park . Located nearby, there’s also Nevado de Toluca, one of the tallest peaks in Mexico.

8. Cascada Refugio del Salto Waterfall

Much like the advice you just got for the Mirador La Peña, you’ll want to take a cab to the trailhead for the El Salto waterfall.

It’s a relatively easy 20-30 minute walk from the main road, through the woods. The trail is pretty clearly defined, and goes along the river.

If you don’t want to hike, take a taxi to the Misión Grand Valle de Bravo hotel.

This is one of the best boutique hotels in Valle de Bravo, and a great place for lunch as you can eat at their restaurant right next to the waterfall.

You can also head there after the hike for lunch, as you can access the restaurant from the trail.

9. Templo de Santa Maria Ahuacatlan

This is the oldest church in Valle de Bravo, and dates back to the 17th Century in pre-hispanic times.

Some say it’s the most important religious building in the Historic Center, as a so-called miracle took place here.

Inside, you’ll see the famed Cristo Negro , or Black Christ, one just a few items to survive a Colonial-era fire which destroyed the rest of the church, though miraculously left the statue unscathed.

10. Shopping on Joaquin Arcadio Pagaza

Calle Joaquín Arcadio Pagaza has the best shopping in Valle de Bravo.

This street is lined with high-end shops, like Ce de Casa , that specialize in artisan-made Mexican housewares and locally-sourced items.

Here, you’ll also find great cafes like Soleado, Cocina del Mundo , art galleries, boutique clothing shops, and more.

Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in Valle de Bravo

The best time to see butterflies in Mexico is from about November to April . However, the best time to see Valle de Bravo butterflies is from about December to March .

In the spring, these butterflies begin an eight month migration that takes them all the way to Eastern Canada and back, during which time four successive generations are born and die. How they find their way back to their overwintering site remains a mystery. Source: UNESCO

🦋 Note: This is seasonal, and you can’t see butterflies in Mexico all year — so if you’re visiting during the Mexico butterfly season, you have to add this to your list.

The Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Reserve is a habitat for millions (maybe even billions) of migratory butterflies. It is located in the surrounding area just north of town.

This Piedra Herrada Sanctuary Valle de Bravo is part of the larger UNESCO World Heritage Property Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico.

This rural area is considered one of the most beautiful Mexico UNESCO sites. Because of this remote location, its safest to visit on this guided tour , as you must do a steep climb on a one-hour hike through the forest.

You can also pay to go on horseback and with a guide, though even the horses don’t go up the final 150 feet (45 m), as it’s too steep and rocky for them.

Once at the top, you’ll see thousands of monarch butterflies in your immediate eye-line.

When you look around, you’ll see thousands more, sometimes weighing down branches because there are so many of them, but also fluttering about, and even landing on you.

It is a true Mexico bucket list experience!

Best Mexico Monarch Butterfly Tours

Since this is a seasonal phenomenon, you’ll only find Mexico butterfly tours advertised from about October to March, during the Mexico butterfly season.

If you happen to be searching for the best Valle de Bravo butterfly tours, you may not even see them come up from about April to September.

Best Valle de Bravo Hotels

Wondering where to stay in Valle de Bravo Mexico? You have a lot of options for a smaller town.

Valle de Bravo is all about luxury, though there are also mid-range and budget options. Below, you’ll find what are considered the best hotels in Valle de Bravo, with options at all price points.

However, when it comes to the best Valle de Bravo resorts — there is a clear winner, La Casa Rodavento .

1. La Casa Rodavento: Best Hotel in Valle de Bravo

After a full day hiking, shopping and enjoying the lake, enjoy every possible comfort you could want at La Casa Rodavento Hotel .

Enjoy posh rooms, the pool, spa, jacuzzi, bar, and also a fancy dinner at the onsite Nuestro restaurant. If you can get a reservation, Nuestro is such a beautiful place for a quiet and romantic dinner.

🏨 La Casa Rodavento Valle de Bravo Booking Tip

Inquire about getting Suite 2, which has a private rooftop deck with expansive views of the town and the San Francisco de Asis Cathedral.

Note: This resort is adults only. However, their sister resort, Hotel Avandaro Golf & Spa Resort , is family-friendly with plenty of activities like an arcade, tennis courts, playground and a pool.

2. Cinco Rodavento Valle de Bravo

The slightly-less expensive cousin to La Casa Rodavento, Cinco Rodavento Valle de Bravo has a similar eco-chic decor and nice amenities.

It has more of an overall youthful, trendy vibe, and is the perfect hotel for a girl’s trip or friend’s trip, but also quiet enough to make for a great romantic getaway.

When you visit Cinco Rodavento, don’t miss the amazing rooftop bar called Rüf (pronounced Roof), a popular place for rooftop cocktails and to enjoy the sunset.

Considered the best rooftop bar in Valle de Bravo, they also have live music most weekend nights.

Now, if you’re looking for a more upscale option, definitely opt for La Casa Rodavento over Cinco Rodavento . However, Cinco wins in the “fun” department.

3. Hotel San Sebastian Valle de Bravo

A great hotel for the price, you’ll get great amenities and upscale service here at Hotel San Sebastian Valle de Bravo , but without the upscale price tag.

Located in the heart of Downtown, you’ll enjoy some of the best views of any Valle de Bravo hotel.

Also, this place just oozes with old-world charm and you’re just a short walk from the Town Center.

4. Capital O Hotel Rincon Soñado

For a great budget-friendly option, there’s Capital O Hotel Rincon Soñado Valle de Bravo , a posada style hotel in Downtown near the Plaza Principal and Mercado de Artesanías.

Keep in mind that if you’re visiting on the weekend, lower-priced options like this fill up well in advance.

Best Restaurants in Valle de Bravo Mexico

1. el callejón del hambre : best tacos in valle de bravo.

El Callejón del Hambre (Hunger Alley) is the place Valle de Bravo locals go for their street foods — particularly for the tacos, elote and esquites.

If you want to enjoy some cheap eats, quintessential Mexico street tacos and other traditional Mexican food , head to El Callejón del Hambre and eat wherever has the longest line. My favorite place is Tacos Jaimes .

🌮 Asados Don Abel

There’s also Asados Don Abel , which is another locals’ favorite and a hidden gem for visitors. They do have tables and chairs here, so you can sit down at the table and eat.

This is a no-frills Mexican BBQ joint, which specializes in wild boar tacos and frijoles charros (pork and beans). It is located across from a nice park, reminiscent of the main square, but less crowded.

2. Nuestro: Best Restaurant in Valle de Bravo

Nuestro is the restaurant at La Casa Rodavento , and widely considered the best Valle de Bravo restaurant.

You will definitely want a reservation if you plan to eat dinner at this popular spot.

Headed by Chef Alberto Colín, who once worked under famed French chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the cuisine at Nuestro is classic Mexican food with a twist.

The dishes at Nuestro Valle de Bravo feature hyper-local ingredients, with a seasonal menu that changes every quarter.

What else would you expect from one of the best Mexican chefs working today?!

If Nuestro happens to be fully booked — and if you’re going on a weekend, it just might be — the beautiful rooftop at Quirina Restaurant at the Múbú Boutique Hotel , is also a great fine dining option.

Just like Nuestro Valle de Bravo, Quirina Restaurante has amazing reviews and ambiance, so you can’t go wrong with either.

3. Soleado, Cocina del Mundo : Best Cafe in Valle de Bravo

A well known Valle de Bravo restaurant, Soleado, Cocina del Mundo (Sunny, World Cuisine) is adorable inside and outside.

There is a nice downstairs area, but the rooftop terrace offers beautiful views with international foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

4. Rüf at Cinco Rodavento : Best Ba r in Valle de Bravo

Rüf (pronounced roof) at Cinco Rodavento Hotel has the best cocktails in Valle de Bravo, particularly their mezcal cocktails, like the one pictured above.

🥃 Love Mexican mezcal? Book this best Valle de Bravo mezcal tour, Mezcal, Ancient Drink: Enjoy & Learn at El Ensueño. On this 5 Star tour, you’ll sample the best artesian mezcal in towns.

As a rooftop bar, you’ll sip said delicious cocktails while taking in the beautiful views of Lake Avandaro, stunning both during the day and at night. It’s easy to see why this ranks as one of the best bars in Valle de Bravo.

Valle de Bravo Mexico Travel Guide & FAQ

What’s the best time to visit valle de bravo.

Central Mexico is blessed with what’s called “Eternal Spring” weather, so there’s really no bad time to visit. If you like cooler temperatures, opt for winter and spring, but if you want to take advantage of the sunshine, visit in summer or fall.

🌡️ Valle de Bravo Weather

Valle de Bravo temperatures are generally temperate year-round, but check out the detailed guide below for some tips on making the most of your Valle de Bravo travel.

🌱 valle de bravo in Spring and Summer

The Valle de Bravo rainy season runs from about June to September, and it can rain quite a bit, so consider bringing this windproof travel umbrella with you.

April and May tend to be the hottest months, but the nice breeze off Avandaro Lake helps keep Valle de Bravo cool.

Still, you’ll want to bring your reusable water bottle. I use this one from Water-To-Go with a built in filter.

🍂 valle de bravo in Winter and Fall

Winters are cool to cold, so pack warm clothes and layers, as overnight temperatures can dip into the 40°Fs (6-8°C). This can also be romantic because a lot of cabins in Valle de Bravo have a fireplace.

January is usually the coolest month in Valle de Bravo. November through April is generally dry and sunny, so these are great months for hikes to the Valle de Bravo waterfalls .

🧳 For more information on what to pack for Mexico, check out the Ultimate Packing List for Mexico + FREE Checklist Download

🦋 Mexico Monarch Butterfly Migration in Valle de Bravo: December to March

Aside from when to get the best weather in Valle de Bravo Mexico, many want to visit to see the millions of monarch butterflies during their annual migration.

The butterflies are around from about November to April , but the best time to see butterflies in Valle de Bravo is from December to March .

🦋 Head here for more information on how to see the monarch butterflies in Mexico.

👻 Festival de Las Almas (Late-October)

The largest of the annual Valle de Bravo festivals is Festival de Las Almas (Festival of the Souls). It is part of one of the most important Mexican holidays .

It takes place at the end of October, coinciding with Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead Mexico — a festive holiday with costumes, traditional dancing and an elaborate fireworks display.

🪂 Monarca Paragliding Open (January)

The Monarca Open takes place each year in January.

During this competition, paragliders from all over the world come to Valle de Bravo to compete and enjoy one of the best places in the world for paragliding.

Is Valle de Bravo safe for travelers?

Wondering about Valle de Bravo safety? It ranks among the safest cities in Mexico — however, no place on Earth is 100% safe, and you always need to exercise some caution as a traveler. Overall though, it is very safe.

The drive to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City is also considered safe, but you’ll want to do it during the day.

Just like most residents of Mexico City will tell you, they only do this drive during the day, and so should you.

Still have concerns about the Is Valle de Bravo Mexico safe question? Let’s take a deeper dive into the complex topic of Mexico travel safety.

Valle de Bravo is located in Estado de Mexico (Mexico State), which if you’ve done a search, you know isn’t known as one of the safest places in Mexico .

However, the Valle de Bravo pueblo magico is a popular vacation town that’s considered safe for travelers.

The Mexican government is generally very invested in keeping these kinds of tourist towns safe, so visitors continue to return.

Now, that’s not to say bad things don’t happen in Valle de Bravo; they do.

For this reason, you’ll want to exercise the same general travel precautions you would anywhere else in the world.

These include: don’t walk home alone at night, don’t leave your valuables unattended, and avoid people and situations that feel unsafe.

These measures should suffice on your Valle de Bravo trip, as it’s pretty safe.

Is Valle de Bravo worth visiting?

Often likened to the Hamptons in New York, Lake Cuomo, Italy, or San Miguel de Allende, Mexico — Valle de Bravo is an ideal town for rest, relaxation, peace and quiet. First time visitors are generally pretty wowed after their trip!

Valle de Bravo is considered a spiritual center, popular for yoga and wellness retreats. However, it is still one of the best-kept secrets in Mexico , so you’re away from the crowds.

For those seeking a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City , this is your perfect place. Don’t hesitate to book your hotel and entire Valle de Bravo vacation now.

What’s the Valle de Bravo population?

As of 2020, there are about 62,000 living in Valle de Bravo.

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Valle de Bravo Mexico

Personally, I’m obsessed with Valle de Bravo. It’s gorgeous, quaint, charming, and there’s quite a few great things to see in Valle de Bravo, in addition to great restaurants and street food .

This well preserved colonial town is centered around Lake Avándaro, so there’s no shortage of water activities.

From sailing , boating, yachting and jet skiing, to swimming, fishing, stand-up paddle boarding and hang gliding — these are the can’t miss Valle de Bravo things to do in the water and the sky!

Back on land, you can go hiking to waterfalls , take this bike tour , and explore charming and historic Downtown Valle de Bravo. It has cobblestone-lined streets and colonial buildings dating back to the 16th Century.

Whether this is a quick day trip from Mexico City , or you have two days in Valle de Bravo or a whole week to really get tot know the town, you won’t regret visiting Valle de Bravo Mexico.

Note: You might see this town called other names, like Valle del Bravo Mexico, Valle Bravo Mexico, Balle de Bravo Mexico, Valle de Mexico, Baye de Bravo Mexico, Via de Mexico, or Via de Bravo Mexico — but it is called Valle de Bravo.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

Top Tours in Valle de Bravo, Mexico

Valle de bravo tours.

• Multi-day Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Paragliding in Valle de Bravo

2. Kayak on the Valle de Bravo lake

3. Valle de Bravo: Private tour from Mexico City

4. Private Paragliding Flight in Valle de Bravo with Instructor

5. Climbing and Rappelling Course in Valle de Bravo

6. Magic Town Valle de Bravo from Mexico City

7. Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Private Tour from Mexico City

8. 7 Day-Monarch Butterfly Ecofriendly Tour in Mexico

9. Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Day Trip from Mexico City

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Frida Kahlo Museum, Diego Rivera Studio & Anahuacalli Museum Private Tour

Authentic Mexican Cooking Lesson With a Gastronomic Historian in Mexico City

Six Flags Mexico Admission Ticket

Openwork butterfly garden

Hang gliding in Valle de Bravo

Half Day Private Tour to Pico del Águila in Ajusco

Explore a sacred volcano with a professional photographer

Hike and sunrise in the Ajusco forest with photos and video with drone

Ecological camp

Toluca to Toluca Int Airport (TLC) - Departure Private Transfer

Toluca Int Airport(TLC) to Toluca - Round-Trip Private Transfer

Private Departure Transfer from Toluca City hotels to Toluca airport

Magic Hands Tour

Totláli fireflies sighting

Private Arrival Transfer from Toluca airport to Toluca Hotels

Toluca Int Airport (TLC) to Toluca - Arrival Private Transfer

Mexico City Airport MEX to Ixtapan De La Sal Round Trip Transfer

Frida´s Neighborhood through History, Mercado & Cantina(Private)

Anahuacalli Museum and Diego Rivera Studio Tour with Admission Tickets

Mexico City Private Pre-Hispanic Cooking Class with Martha

Mexico Airport (MEX) to Cuernavaca Thermal Round-Trip Transfer

What travellers are saying.

• Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Day Trip from Mexico City
• Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary Private Tour from Mexico City
• Kayak on the Valle de Bravo lake
• Valle de Bravo: Private tour from Mexico City
• 7 Day-Monarch Butterfly Ecofriendly Tour in Mexico
• Rio Adventure
• Explora Valle
• Alas del Hombre
• Vuela en Valle
• Cabalgatas Valle
• Mexico Paddle Co
• Para-Planet

Things to do in Valle de Bravo: Top 10

Do you want to know why you should visit Valle de Bravo in Mexico? Are you wondering which are the best things to do in Valle de Bravo? Do you want to know how to get there from Mexico City and more?

Keep reading this article and discover why Valle de Bravo is a must for every traveler in the world!

Today I’m going to share with you  some things to do in Valle de Bravo, Mexico .

In fact, this is a picture from one of our tours to Valle de Bravo. Our adventurers were so happy with this and other activities I’m about to show you in this post 🙊:

So, you are coming to Vallo de Bravo? That’s cool, you are in the right article!!

If you are ready to live an amazing experience, welcome and enjoy the best things to do in the magical town of Valle de Bravo , Me xico Article:

• Enjoy the lake 💧
• Walk through the town 🚶
• Visit the viewpoint of La Peña 🌳
• Paragliding experience 🪂
• Avandaro tour 🎸
• Mountain biking ⛰️
• See the Monarch Butterflies 🦋
• Enjoy its restaurants 🍽️
• Go shopping at the Crafts Market 🏺
• Have a drink and enjoy the local nightlife 🍸

Plus…

• Why visit Valle de Bravo in Mexico? 🇲🇽
• How to get to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City? 🚗
• How far is Valle de Bravo from Mexico City? 🌏
• Best time to visit Valle de Bravo ☼  

1. Enjoy the lake

This lake can be appreciated in many different ways. On the Municipal Pier , there are many restaurants, including floating ones offering typical dishes such as “vallesana” cecina (type of meat) , and trout.

This body of water is not only one of the main local food sources. Also, along with the forest, it gives a picturesque touch to the town. This artificial lake is a symbol of Valle de Bravo. It would be a crime not to navigate it .

What to do here?

• Explore the lake in a kayak.
• Try some paddleboarding.
• Explore the lake by sailboat.
• Test your skills on a jet ski.
• Take some pics of the splendid lake and sunset.

The highlight of this place:

Know and admire the lake on a boat tour. Different boats can take you around the lake while you listen to live music , eat delicious Mexican food , and take fantastic pictures of the sunset.

2. A walk through the town

Although its main attraction is the lake, its downtown is an active and lovely place. Named in 2005 as a magical town, walking through its winding and beautiful streets is a must-do activity.

The town center is full of culture, so when visiting, take a walk through its cobbled streets enjoying various craft stalls, restaurants, and cafes that surround the place.

• Admire some crafts made by local artisans.
• Buy ceramics and beautiful souvenirs in the local market.
• Taste some exquisite street food. For instance, ‘esquites’ (corn) with shrimp, tacos, quesadillas, pambazos, and many other Mexican snacks.
• On the weekends, there are art galleries open to the public. Also, have a look at the street and local art that surrounds the place.
• Spend a wonderful afternoon at some delicious cafes and restaurants.

While touring the town you should also see the imposing 17th-century Parish of San Francisco de Asis.

3. Visit the viewpoint of La Peña

Either do it from La Peña or Monte Alto . From these viewpoints, you can see practically the entire lake, town, valley, and mountains – a unique and unmissable view.

Throughout time, La Peña has been part of many cultures, stories, and legends. Indeed, this is a place full of mysticism and ancient energy where you can spend a magical moment.

Nowadays it has become a quite inhabited and tourist area at the same time, where you can enjoy a pleasant walk along its paths to reach its mysterious caves. 

• Going on a hiking tour to see the top of the Peña de Valle de Bravo . On the way, you will also find caves formed of limestone rock dated from pre-Hispanic times.
• Take advantage of the incredible views and take some incredible pictures of the landscape.
• Watch the dawn and sunset.
• Listen to the legends and stories such as the legend of the hidden treasure in the place.

Once the sun starts to fade away, do not hesitate to climb to the top and admire the lights and colors that the sky of Valle de Bravo offers to everyone.

4. Paragliding

Flying off the paraglider is one of the iconic experiences of Valle , which is why several companies organize the entire experience to make it as fun and safe as possible. Without a doubt, with such beautiful views, it is an incredible place to do it.

T he tranquility of its winds has earned worldwide recognition for the practice of this activity. The vast majority of these experiences include an unmissable 20-minute flight over the dam and the forest. 

How much does paragliding cost?

The price of this experience varies since they can range from 1,000 pesos (55 USD), 1800 pesos (99 USD) to 2,000 pesos (110 USD), and 3,500 pesos (190 USD), depending on the time (20 minutes, 30-40 minutes, and one hour).

All of the prices are per person. In the place, you can check out if they can give you a discount if you come with a big group of friends.

Most paragliding companies give you insurance or special prices for those who already have experience in the sport. It is a free fall of about 1 minute and at least 5 minutes of flight in the parachute.

Paragliding companies:

• Flumen paragliding
• Rio adventure
• Volare Xtreme
• Parapente Vuela en valle – GoFly
• Para-Planet

5. Avandaro tour

The village of Avandaro is located on the shores of the lake, 5 kilometers from the town center. In fact, this place has a rock music history just like Woodstock 1969 that you will love to hear.

Want to know more about it? Then come to this place and listen to the story straight from the locals’ mouths while drinking a cold beer. Sounds like a great plan isn’t it?

• Rent a bike or a motorcycle and spend an entertaining day.
• Do some hiking surrounded by nature.
• Horse ride around the beautiful natural area.
• On Mondays, there is a flower market where you can buy beautiful specimens.
• Buy souvenirs in the local handicrafts area.
• Try some typical sweets of the region and local beverages such as ‘micheladas’ and ‘cantaritos’. Also, eat delicious Mexican snacks.
• Organize a picnic with your friends and family.
• Lsiten to the legend of the Velo de Novia Waterfall

Cool off in the 35m high Velo de Novia Waterfall . Here, you can try some rafting-waterfall to test your extreme adventurer’s skills.

Plus, you can listen to the sound of the water and animals in the area. Definitely, you are going to have a peaceful moment enjoying the green paradise that surrounds you.

6. Mountain biking

One of the main things to do in Valle de Bravo is the extreme sports that can be done there. This is due to its mountainous landscape and incredible views of the surroundings – perfect terrain for mountain biking. There are also a bit more relaxed routes for beginners, as well as the option of ATV tours.

Where to rent bikes?

• Pablo’s Bikes
• Reyes Bike’s Valle De Bravo
• LA RUEDA Y EL PEDAL SA de CV

7. See the Monarch Butterflies

If you come here between November and March , this is a show that you cannot miss. Valle is known for having one of the few monarch butterfly sanctuaries in Mexico.

Every winter, millions of monarch butterflies make their pilgrimage more than 4,500 kilometers from the forests of Canada and the northern United States. The entrance to the Butterfly Sanctuary costs 50 pesos and includes a guide. 

🦋 Check out our tour: Michoacan Monarch Butterfly Reserve Private Tour

The most famous sanctuary is Piedra Herrada. This place is part of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve declared a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2008.

You won’t regret spending a colorful day in a precious place such as this one.  

Sanctuary opening hours   

Note: Many times the reservation schedules and dates from the sanctuary may vary due to Mexican celebrations, the COVID-19 pandemic, or simply due to external factors on the part of the personnel working on the reserves.

8. Enjoy its restaurants

One of Valle’s great culinary delights is the abundance of restaurants it has, including those with Mexican, Italian, French, and other international cuisines , any of these can make a perfect plan to go out for dinner one night.

For instance, “ Los Pericos “ (the parrots) was the first floating restaurant on the beautiful lake of Valle de Bravo. It offers a beautiful view to enjoy Mexican and international cuisine, it specializes in seafood as well as its good drinks and cocktails.

This is not the only restaurant where you can taste delicious Mexican and local food. There is an extensive culinary variety in Valle as mentioned above. That is why, wherever you are in Valle de Bravo, every corner will surprise you with its great restaurants.

Other restaurants you should try:

• Los Veleros
• La Michoacana
• Casa Avandaro Restaurant
• Dipao Avandaro
• El Mesón Restaurant
• La Chiquita

9. Go shopping at the Crafts Market

If you want to get the most original gifts and souvenirs, go to the local artisanal market, here you can find a wide variety of products of the highest quality, with a touch of Valle de Bravo . Check out our post: Markets in Mexico City (Top 10)

Walking through the streets of Valle, you can appreciate different local stalls where you can admire the local handicrafts . You can take home a souvenir made with love by Mexican artisans!

What to buy in the craft markets?

• Customized souvenirs
• Traditional embroidery
• Glass and clay figures
• Leather products

10. Have a drink and enjoy the local nightlife

Valle is also known for the great nightlife it has, there is an avenue where you can find bars, karaoke, and clubs , having everything you need to have a fun night.

Having fun at night in Valle de Bravo is pretty easy, it has many places ranging from breweries and bars to exclusive nightclubs with terraces and great lake views.

If safety is your concern, throughout the day and the night you will find police officers wandering around to ensure you don’t have a sour time in this town.

Where to spend nightlife in Valle?

• La Mezca de Valle
• La Pila Seca
• Ojalá Bar Valle de Bravo
• Efecto Valle de Bravo
• Monkeys’ Bar

Why visit Valle de Bravo in Mexico?

Valle de Bravo , located just 2 hours away from Mexico City , is a perfect destination to rest and get in touch with nature. In this place, you can taste exquisite local cuisine, be sporty, and experience some of its attractive festivals.

In fact, Valle de Bravo is a “magical town” where you can spend the best days of your life doing different activities. Furthermore, it is in our post about where to celebrate New Year’s Eve!

Definitely, there are many things to do in Valle de Bravo according to your budget. Indeed, it can be from a luxury experience to discovering a more local-vibe environment.

☀️ Sure we can help with that, check out our tour: Private ATV & Water Skiing Tour to Valle de Bravo .

How to get to valle de bravo from mexico city.

The best option for you to get there is by bus. In Mexico City, there are different bus stations.

The best bus station option to get there is La Tapo terminal ( Terminal de Autobuses Poniente ). Once at the terminal, you must go to the Autobuses Zinacantepec module.

The cost of the ticket to Mexico City – Valle de Bravo ranges from $185 to $245 MXN. Buses leave at any time of the day and the trip takes 2 hours.

If you want to arrive by car, you have two routes. In one, you pay at Toluca; in the other, you do not. However, in both, you pay the ticket office at La Marquesa ($85 MXN).

Toll road: on this road, you avoid going through the traffic of Toluca . However, this route has ticket offices (Approx. $200.00 MXN) and the trip takes 2 and a half hours.

Free highway: here you pass through the city of Toluca, which will make your trip longer. However, you can make several stops during your trip and get to know the hidden gems that the State of Mexico has to offer.

How far is Valle de Bravo from Mexico City?

The distance is relatively close. From Valle de Bravo to Mexico City is 84.5065 miles by road including 28 miles on highways.

By highway, it takes approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes and passes through Toluca de Lerdo, Almoloya de Juarez, Lerma de Villada, Ocoyoacac, La Marquesa , and Cuajimalpa de Morelos.

Best time to visit Valle de Bravo

May is a perfect season to find warm weather with a minimum of 21° to a maximum of 30°.

January and February are the coldest months. Practically, the best option to have a hot but refreshing afternoon is in May. And if you want a cooler afternoon and enjoy it with a hot drink, you can come from the end of November until February.

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Valle de Bravo Mexico: A Travel Guide to the Mexican Hamptons

Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase using one of those links, I may earn a commission at zero cost for you. Please see my disclaimer policy here, and my privacy policy here.

Planning to visit Valle de Bravo Mexico ? I’ve got you covered!

With its colonial feel, cobblestone roads, colorful market, amazing hiking trails, outdoor activities, cute cafes, and delicious restaurants, Valle de Bravo should be on your bucket list of places to visit in Mexico. In this post, you will find out why.

I have been to Valle de Bravo twice. The first time, in 2017, I didn’t have much time to explore, but, fast forward 4 years I decided to go back for a couple of days to see the monarch butterflies sanctuary and ended up staying 3 weeks.

I decided to make it my main goal to explore as much as I could and join every possible activity to make the most of this spectacular Pueblo Magico that conquered my heart.

Valle de Bravo Mexico at a Glance

Valle de Bravo, Mexico is a colonial town situated by the Avandaro Lake only 2 hours drive from Mexico City and one hour 30 minutes from Toluca Airport.

Proclaimed Pueblo Magico in 2005, there is indeed a lot of magic in it, and for a reason, it has always been a popular vacation destination for the capital’s affluent upper class.

But also many wealthy foreigners and movie stars found Valle de Bravo and its surroundings the perfect spot for their occasional getaways. A Mexico Pueblo Magico that you should include among your list of the best places to visit in Mexico .

If you love to walk around the town and get lost in its flowery narrow lane, it won’t take much to notice the opulent villas scattered around the hills with stunning views over the lake.

If you happen to pay a visit to the nearby Avandaro and take a walk in the golf club (not on weekends) you will see even more of it.

After my luxury villa accidental tour, I wasn’t surprised to see Valle de Bravo mentioned in a famous architecture magazine where the pretty town is compared to the Hamptons, the popular getaways for wealthy New Yorkers.

But Valle de Bravo is not only popular among Mexicans, as it became internationally famous in 2009 for hosting the Paragliding World Championship, with 150 competitors from more than 40 countries.

Among the many outdoor activities that you can practice here, Valle de Bravo is indeed one of the perfect spots for paragliding lovers.

And every year you can watch the Monarca Paragliding Open , a competition that takes place in January. Although the 2021 edition has been canceled due to COVID-19, stay tuned for next year’s edition.

I am so fascinated by this town that I wrote this compact but quite exhaustive guide with the hope of helping you organize your visit.

If you are ready to explore Valle de Bravo with me, read on.

Amazing Things to Do in Valle de Bravo

1. take a walk around the town and visit valle de bravo landmarks.

Walking around and getting lost is the first thing I do when I visit a new place. I would wait to take out my camera after I get the feeling that it’s safe to do it. And Valle de Bravo is safe, just be aware of the people around you if you are photographing in their direction.

You will love to walk around the narrow and steep cobblestone lanes, besides being a great morning exercise is the best way to enjoy and explore the town. Among the points of interest within Valle de Bravo at walking distance:

✔️ Templo de Santa María Ahuacatlán (El Cristo Negro) – is very much appreciated and cherished among locals, it’s quite popular for the Black Christ.

✔️ The Parroquia of San Francisco de Asis – located next to the Central Garden of the Plaza Independencia, the parish dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi stands out towering over Valle de Bravo. You will love to photograph it on the hilly roads around town.

Built with the simplicity of the Franciscan construction, it still preserves a 16th-century quarry bell tower and it houses sculptural works from the seventeenth century.

During October of each year (except the pandemic times), the festival is held in honor of its saint, with dances and fireworks and a large party in the central garden.

✔️ Take a walk through the colorful market – before the pandemic, it was much bigger and more lively. Now, most stands are closed but in the external part, you will enjoy walking through the fruit stalls and will be tempted to buy those fresh veggies for your healthy meal, if you are staying home and get tired of eating out.

2. Try The Local Bread And Bakery in the “Panaderias ”

I always find Mexican bread mediocre, but here in Valle de Bravo, you can find one of the exceptions. Especially if you walk in around 8 am, you can still smell the bread just taken out of the oven. It’s crunchy outside and soft inside. A real delicacy. Also, the sweet version is delicious.

3. Take a stroll in Calle 5 de Mayo

the main street with interesting shops, restaurants, and bars in the heart of Valle de Bravo. You can walk all the way to the end of the street, and you will reach the lake, especially in lovely early morning or at sunset.

4. Enjoy watching the paragliding landing in the “ pista de aterrizajes ” by the lake.

You can find the direction in Google

5. Eat a “Crepa”

The French crepes are quite common here. Not sure for what reason. My favorite place to eat them is Bretaña La Ville Crepe where you can find all sorts of Crepes salted and sweet.

6. Watch the Sunset from the Mirador Cruz de Mission

The Mirador is a short walk from the plaza. Take the road Calle del Deposito from the Main plaza and then turn to Cruz de Mission. it’s a 10-minute walk and super safe.

7. Check out the art exposition in the cultural center Joaquin Arcadio Pagala.

The 18th-century building was the home of the poet and bishop of the same name who lived from 1839 to 1918. You can admire its collection of 98 pieces of 18th-century furniture and religious ornaments that belonged to the former owner.

However, you can also browse through a temporary art gallery exposition that changes every two months. View location

8. Walk to La Peña Mirador

This was the best hike I did in Valle de Bravo, and the best part is that it’s safe to go on your own even if you are a girl traveling alone. Super safe.

Just keep some stones with you or dog food in case you meet some street dogs that scare you. Other than that it’s a very short but steep walk to the top of La Peña from where you will enjoy amazing views over the lake.

9. Walk to the Avandaro waterfall – El Salto

You could easily walk alone to the El Salto waterfall , but I was happy to be with a guide. I booked a tour on Airbnb with Arturo.

It was only 10 USD and all worth it. It’s a nice walk from Valle de Bravo, first among spectacular houses and then in the forest along the river to reach the fall.

The second part of the walk it’s a little too isolated for me to go alone. That’s why I appreciated joining a group and we were only 3 so it was nice.

If you are traveling with somebody it’s ok to go on your own and easy to find.

10. Visit the Waterfall Velo de Novia

The waterfall Velo de Novia is in Avandaro a wealthy town perched on the hill overlooking the lake above Valle de Bravo. You can get there by taxi either private or on a share basis.

There is a significant price difference but at these times you will probably want to be on your own in the taxi.

They will leave you at the entrance of the park from where you have just a short walk to reach the beautiful waterfall. If you like to walk you can follow the river and walk along until you get to Avandaro Lake. It’s a short and pleasant walk.

I was lucky because Lupica, the mum of my Airbnb owner offered to take me in her quad. It was a lovely adventure.

She kindly took me for a walk to the golf course, a spectacular manicured field surrounded by million-dollar homes, and then we went to the waterfall where we walked down to the river and up to the spectacular fall.

You will also enjoy walking along the main street in Avandaro full of great shops and restaurants. Lupita explained also that the town becomes alive on the weekends when the homeowners come from Mexico for their short escape to their private paradise.

11. Take a Walking Tour in The Hills Around Valle de Bravo

Take a beautiful walk up to the tower (La Torre), where the paragliding takes off. It’s the highest location around Valle de Bravo.

Two trails lead you there. I took the shortest but steepest, great exercise and a nice walk through local homes and nature.

It takes an hour to get there if you walk at a good pace. As you can imagine all the effort is paid off by a breathtaking view over the lake and the city of Valle de Bravo.

Although it’s an easy walk, it’s advisable to go with a guide because the trail is difficult to find and has a lot of detours. You can get lost. I definitely would.

I went with Karla, a nice girl from Venezuela in love with Valle de Bravo and Mexico. You can email her to book your tour.

12. Try the Paragliding Experience

If you are up for extreme sports, you will love to try Paragliding. No worries you don’t have to be an expert or think about anything.

You will fly with an instructor and all you have to do is to enjoy the ride. I didn’t do it, to be honest, because I was too scared but most people come to Valle de Bravo just to experience the thrill of flying. So you might want to try it too.

Different paragliding schools in Valle de Bravo offer this tour. I can’t suggest a particular one, though. Enjoy! And let me know how it goes!

13. Take a Kayaking Tour on the Lake

Kayaking or paddleboarding are common activities in Valle de Bravo and it’s a good way to enjoy the lake while doing some exercising. I wanted to join a kayaking tour but I realized it’s more common to find a kayak to rent and go on your own than find a tour. I didn’t like the idea of kayaking on my own so I didn’t do it. Too bad! This is one of the times when I wished I had a travel companion.

As for paddleboarding, it is easier to find a group to join but I didn’t want to get wet as it was February and quite cold to take a swim in the lake. 🙂

14. Visit the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary (seasonal)

This was the highlight of my stay in Valle de Bravo. The Sanctuary of the Mariposa Monarca is located about 11 miles from Valle de Bravo but there is no public transportation so I took a private taxi. I stayed there for 2 hours and saw millions of spectacular butterflies drinking in the river and flying all around me.

It was a real miracle of nature. I wrote a separate post on the Monarch Butterflies in Valle de Bravo Mexic o where I explain in detail how to get there, the costs, and why the Monarch Butterflies like these specific areas.

Mind though, you can see them only from December through March.

15. Take a mezcal tour

Cabañas El Ensueño organizes a mezcal tasting where they explain all the kinds of Mezcal and how it is made. Very interesting. You can find them on AIRBNB .

➢ Do I need travel insurance in Mexico? Yes, you do! I can never stress enough what a lifesaver it can be in unexpected situations. Although I hope I never need it, it gives me peace of mind to know that whatever happens, I am covered. I have been using   Safety Wing , and I find it quite fair, covering a lot for its pricing level. Depending on your needs or you can compare different insurance companies on this useful site, TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER . Make sure you read carefully what’s included before making the purchase. If you are undecided yet, you can read my post on the best travel insurance for Mexico for more clarity.

Where to Stay in Valle de Bravo

There are different accommodation options in Valle de Bravo. Since I stayed 3 weeks I booked two different accommodations.

The first one was an Airbnb, it was an exquisite room but I didn’t pay attention to the reviews that were warning about the noise and that was real! So I am not going to suggest it to you.

However, my second place was just perfect. I was looking for a cheap but cozy place because I like to work from the room and I need a nice environment to focus. I found a great 40% offer on Booking.com for a cute little hotel right in the heart of Valle de Bravo and I grabbed it immediately.

But most of all it was super tranquil, and it had a rooftop terrace from where to admire spectacular views of the sun setting over Valle de Bravo red roofs.

The hotel is called Hotel Valle Bonito , from Collection O hotels. A real gem for budget travelers.

If you are looking for a more upscale option you can check out Mubu’ Hotel Boutique and Casa Rodavento both spectacular colonial residences turned into elegant luxury hotels.

Hotel Mission Valle de Bravo is also an amazing option if you prefer to stay away from town and immerse yourself in nature. Hotel Mission Valle de Bravo is in fact located right by the waterfall El Salto. You can imagine the spectacular views.

If you rather stay in a beautiful home for more privacy check out this stunning property overlooking the lake and the city. Or this lake house , located close to the lake and at walking distance from the city.

Find More Hotels and Homes in Valle de Bravo On This Useful Map

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Valle de Bravo

The culinary scene in Valle de Bravo is also quite varied and eclectic. However, I have to confess I have been eating out for three weeks and always in the same places.

Because I love to work from cafes, my favorite one was La Machinhuepa , right at the beginning of Calle 5 de Mayo the main road that goes from the Plaza to the Lake.

Cozy and spacious place with great simple options for lunch and delicious croissants for breakfast. 🙂 I used to stay there all day long when I wasn’t exploring and I felt very welcomed, also because it was empty almost all the time, except on Sundays. Very kind and friendly staff, especially Francisco, very professional and kind.

Another place where I would go was Trastevere , although I wasn’t impressed by the food, it was a great place to work from, with a beautiful external patio and a nicely decorated lounge, when outside was too hot.

If you want a great espresso coffee go to Caos Cafe , a tiny place but with great espresso.

For a decent pizza or other Italian-style delicacies, you can try Dipao . I had a pizza and although it has nothing to do with the real Italian pizza, it was eatable.

I noticed Soleado restaurant has amazing reviews on Tripadvisor , so my horrible experience might have been bad luck.

The place is really nice but I ordered the Thailand dish and it was…uneatable (to be nice), very salty and the overcooked noodles were swimming in a broth of soy sauce.

When I told them, they simply said I am sorry, offered me a cookie and the bill. I laughed and even left them a tip. I felt really sorry for them.

I usually never leave food on the plate, but this one was uneatable. If you try it let me know how it goes.

For a fancy dinner at sunset, you can try the Quirina Restaurant, located on the spectacular rooftop terrace of the Mubu’ hotel boutique .

If you are like me and love vegan food you must try Ground Food in Calle 5 de Mayo. They have simple but tasty dishes and a fixed menu with different options. It’s cheap and with abundant portions. I can never finish the full menu and always ask for a takeaway.

How to move around Valle de Bravo

The pretty town is most of the time walkable because everything is so close and the town is so pretty that you just love to walk around. However, if you need to travel to the surrounding places and attractions you have 2 options:

• Private taxi – they don’t have a fixed rate and you will have to negotiate
• Taxi Colectivo – they have a fixed rate supposedly but tend to charge more to foreigners, so ask a local first how much is it from one place to another and be firm. But keep in mind that sometimes they can refuse to take you if you don’t pay what they want.
• Car rentals – unfortunately, there is no car rental in Valle de Bravo. If you are coming from Toluca you can rent a car there where you can have plenty of choices, and drive to Valle de Bravo, which is the best solution.

If you are concerned about driving in Mexico , don’t be. This area is pretty safe to drive around. Just make sure you follow my tips on how to rent a car in Mexico .

How to get to Valle de Bravo Mexico

Getting to Valle de Bravo is easy. You can get by bus to Toluca from Mexico City or any of the main cities in the area.

From Toluca, you either rent a car and drive (about 1 hour) or you can hop on the brand new Zinabus in Toluca, and in 2 hours you will be in Valle de Bravo.

If you can, avoid the buses that take the Amanalco route because it’s longer and makes more stops.

Keep in mind that in Toluca there is an airport and you might find flights from different Mexican cities if the bus ride seems too long. Otherwise, you can fly to Mexico City and get a bus from the airport directly to Toluca with the bus company Caminante .

Direct Busses to Valle de Bravo from Mexico City

There are no direct buses from Mexico City airport to Valle de Bravo. If you don’t want to connect in Toluca you must take an Uber from Mexico City Airport to Terminal de Autobuses Poniente and from there you will find Zina Bus , which has different direct busses per day.

An Uber from Mexico City airport to Poniente is from 150 MXN to 200 MXN depending on what time of the day and what traffic.

Well, I hope I gave you a good overview of the beautiful Valle de Bravo and the amazing things to do. If I have missed anything please let me know. I will be happy to help if I can.

Before You Go…

Here are some useful posts that you might be interested in:

• 19 Amazing Day Trips from Mexico City
• Is Mexico City Worth Visiting? Tips from A Local
• 39 Fun Facts About Mexico That You May Not Know About
• Unmissable 23 things to do in Queretaro, Mexico, and its Surroundings
• The 13 Best Places to Stay in Oaxaca City

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that lead her to Mexico, that she can proudly call home. After seven years in Cancun where she's still a resident, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job to embrace a nomadic lifestyle. She traveled all over Mexico, from Baja California to Ciudad Juarez, Oaxaca, Chiapas Hidalgo exploring and living like a local. Isabella founded Let's Travel to Mexico to help travelers plan their own trip on and off the beaten path in this beautiful land that she loves so dearly.

Fantastic info! Super useful… Helps me só much with preparing my trip and enjoying the pre-journey. GRACIAS Isabella!

Hello Astrea! Thanks for reaching out. Glad you found the information useful. Have an amazing trip!

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17 Best Things To in Do Valle De Bravo Mexico: [2023]

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through the links in this article. 

Surrounded by the rolling hills of Central Mexico, Valley De Bravo is one of the most popular day trips from Mexico City along Lake Avandaro.

One of the most popular pueblos magicos in Mexico with a quaint old town dating back to the 16th century, charming cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes, where you can grab a freshly baked pastry with some hot chocolate. Whether you want to go hiking, paraglide over the spectacular valley, or enjoy a boat ride on the lake, you will love this destination. 

Dubbed the Mexico City Hamptons by the Architectural Digest Magazine , Valle De Bravo is one of the most popular destinations for the wealthy residents of Mexico City who come here to escape the big city. 

It’s also a perfect place to combine with the nearby Monarch Butterfly, one of the best places to visit in Mexico to watch the beautiful butterflies. 

I spent a few days in the area, but felt like it was not nearly enough, as there is so much to do in this place! In this article, I will share some of my favorite things to do in the area, so you can visit this amazing destination. 

✅ Read: Can I pay with US dollars in Mexico ?

Best things to do in Valle De Bravo Mexico

It’s is one of my favorite places in Mexico , and you can spend a while here. I’ve visited this town several times and ended up extending my stay here because this place has so much to do.

Below are some of my favorite activities in this place that you should try during your stay. 

1. Explore the Historic Center of Valle De Bravo

The historic center is a perfect place to start your trip and get familiar with the town. 

The Parroquia de San Francisco de Asia is the centerpiece of the gorgeous plaza, surrounded by the beautiful park ( JardinPrincipal ), a gazebo ( Kiosko ), and many benches. The red-tile buildings with white walls line the cobblestone streets, giving the town a distinct look. 

Take Calle 5 Mayo from the center, and you will find stores, restaurants, and photo spots before arriving at Lake Avandaro. 

2. Enjoy Lake Avandaro 

Lake Avanadaro is the man-made lake that’s the main attraction of this town. Here you can enjoy many water sports like kayaking, boating, waterskiing, and paddle boarding. 

Can you swim in Lake Avandaro? 

You can also swim in lake Avandaro, although the water stays chilly even during warmer summer months. 

Luckily, you don’t have to endure the cold water to enjoy this magnificent lake. Take a boat tour from the Embarcadero Municipal Valle de Bravo . You can get tickets for a boat tour on the spot at the ticket office near the dock. 

3. Try paragraphing 

Paragliding is one of the most popular things to do in Valle de Bravo thanks to its elevation of 6,070 feet (1,850 meters).

When you walk around the Old Town, you will find numerous tour agencies advertising paragliding. If you sign up for paragliding, you will have an experienced instructor with you. 

However, there are also many paragliding schools, where you can learn this popular sport. 

4. Piedra Herrada Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary 

The sanctuary is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Property Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve famous for millions of monarch butterflies who migrate here from Canada every year in search of a warmer climate. It’s one of the most popular destinations for eco-tourism in Mexico.

How to get from Valle De Bravo to Piedra Herrada?

Since there are no buses or other public transportation between Valley De Bravo and Piedra Herrada, you can take a taxi or rent a car to get there.

Plan your trip for a bright sunny day, because that’s when the butterflies are most active. I visited the sanctuary on a cloudy day in January, and unfortunately, didn’t see a lot of butterflies flying around, as they were mostly on the trees. 

GOOD TO KNOW: The butterfly season lasts from December through March, and it’s the only time when you can see them. 

Entrance fee is 70 Mexican Pesos per person and has to be paid in cash.

Monarch butterfly tours from Mexico City

One of the most popular options is a Monarch butterfly tour from Mexico City . The tour picks you up early morning from your hotel and brings back in the evening. You spend a day exploring the sanctuary and learning about the butterflies before heading back.

5. Go kayaking on Lake Avandaro 

Kayaking on Lake Avandaro is one of the most popular things to do in Valle De Bravo. Another option is paddle boarding, which is popular in summer. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard in many places around the lake for an hourly rate. 

Another option is to join a kayaking tour of the lake which can arranged with one of the tour companies in the area.

6. Check out waterfront

The waterfront of Lake Avandaro (or Malecon in Spanish) is a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing walk and take some photos. It’s also where you can find many restaurants and tour agencies selling different activities like paragliding, boat rides, and ATVs.

I stopped at the Malecon around the sunset and enjoyed watching the sun goes down, as the entire valley was lit up in golden colors. 

7. Shop in the Mercado Artesanias 

The town is known for its artisans, and you can find arts and crafts made from wood, clay, ceramics, and iron at the Artisan Market in the center a few blocks away from the main square.

Calle Joaquin Arcadia Pagaza also has many artisan stalls where you can find handmade crafts made in small towns surrounding Lake Avandaro, including the indigenous Mazahua and Otomi people who create colorful fabrics. 

8. Grab some baked goodies in one of the local bakeries 

When you walk around the old town, you will notice many  panaderias  (local bakeries) that sell everything from pastries to freshly baked bread. It’s a perfect way to start the morning and you can pair it with a cup of hot chocolate, which is delicious.

9. Visit Avandaro 

Avandaro is a wealthy town that’s home to a small downtown with stores, restaurants, and small cafes where you can grab some ice cream and coffee. Avandaro makes for a nice mini trip. 

Things to know about Avandaro Mexico

The area is home to prized real estate, with multimillion-dollar homes overlooking the lake. It’s a quick trip where you can spend a couple of nights glamping or enjoying some of the best hotels in the area like

10. Hike to Cascada Velo de Novia 

Cascada Velo de Nova (or bride’s veil) is one of the highlights of Avandaro, in Vela De Nova Park that can be reached by a quick hike from the entrance. The waterfall is about 35 meters (115 feet) and makes for a great photo background. 

11. Enjoy the view of Lake Avandaro from Mirador La Pena

Mirador La Pena is one of the most popular hikes that provides one of the best overlooks of Lake Avandaro and the entire valley. 

It’s a quick but steep trail with some boulders along the way that you are going to climb over. For a better experience, wear good hiking shoes. Depending on your level of physical fitness, you might want to take a taxi to the beginning of the trail or walk through the town, if you are ready for a workout. 

12. The Great Stupa

Located in the Rancheria Los Alamos, the Great Stupa is the first one in Mexico. The Buddhist monument is 36 meters tall and is the largest stupa in the Western World.

13. Archaeological Museum

Visiting the Archaeological Museum is home to many artifacts dating to the Pre-Hispanic times like jewelry, pottery, and various figurines. 

You can also find various artifacts from the surrounding areas in the state of Mexico that showcase the history of this place and talk about the people that used to live in this area. 

Address : Av. Costera S/N, Sta. María, Ahuacatlán, 51200 Valle de Bravo, Mexico

14. Monte Alto State Park

Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Valle De Bravo, and if you are in the mood for some more of it, you can check out the Monte Alto State Park, an area that offers trails for hiking, mountain biking, as well as paragliding. 

15. Cascada Refugio del Salto Waterfall

El Salto waterfall is another highlight of the area that takes between 20-30 minutes via a marked trail that goes along the river. 

Another option is to take a taxi to the  Misión Grand Valle de Bravo , one of the most beautiful boutique hotels in Valle de Bravo, where you can grab lunch in a beautiful setting right next to the waterfall. 

16. Enjoy the sunset from the Mirador Cruz de Mission 

One of the best spots for watching the sunset, Mirador Cruz de Mission is an overlook is located a short distance from the main plaza (plaza principal). 

To get to Mirador Cruz de Mission, you need to take the road Calle del Deposito and turn to Cruz de Mission. The entire walk takes about 10 minutes. 

Where is Valley De Bravo Mexico?

Valle de Bravo is in the state of Mexico (Estado de Mexico) along Lake Avandaro. It’s approximately 156 km southwest of Mexico City and 76 km west of Toluca.

It’s located near Michoacan , one of the most overlooked destinations in Mexico, home to Morelia , a colonial city and UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Patzcuaro , one of the most beautiful pueblos magicos in Mexico.

If you are staying in the area for a couple of days, take a day trip to Morelia, to experience the hidden gem of Mexico.

How to get to Valle Bravo Mexico

Valle de Bravo is one of the most popular places to visit near Mexico City, and that can be reached in about 2 hours. You can get here from Mexico City by car and by bus. 

One of the options is to take a bus from Mexico City to Toluca, about 30 minutes away, and from there, take another bus.

How far is Valley De Bravo from Mexico City?

Valle De Bravo is about 140 km away from Mexico City. It takes between 2 and 2,5 hours to get there.

Where do I fly into Valley de Bravo? 

You should fly into Mexico City International Airport (MEX), but if you are traveling from one of the destinations within Mexico, you can book a flight to Toluca International Airport (TLC).

✅ CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS

Mexico City to Valle De Bravo by bus 

I can’t speak about what a bus ride is like to Valle De Bravo, because I rented a car in Mexico City to get to Valle De Bravo, but here’s some basic information on the topic:

To get from Mexico City to Valle de Bravo by bus, take an Uber to Terminal de Autobuses de Poniente (Terminal Observatorio).

You will need to buy a ticket for Zinabus , a company that serves the route. You can also buy their tickets online (this way, you get a 10 percent discount). Ticket prices range depending on the time of your trip. 

If you plan to buy tickets at the ticket office, have cash on you, as credit cards are not always accepted. 

Mexico City to Valle De Bravo by car rental

A car rental is my preferred way of traveling from Mexico City to Valle De Bravo. You can rent a car at Mexico City International Airport as soon as you land. 

I recommend (and use) DiscoverCars , one of the most popular platforms for renting cars online, where you can find dozens of vehicles at competitive rates.

✅ BOOK YOUR CAR WITH DISCOVER CARS

All you need to do is type in your travel dates, specify the type of vehicle that you are looking for, and the platform will do all the work for you showing you all the available options. 

One of the best things about booking your vehicle with DiscoverCars is that you can also buy your Mexican car insurance with them which is required to drive a car in the country. 

This way, everything will be taken care of and by the time you arrive at the office, all you need is your documents and a couple of signatures before you can embark on your journey.

What is the drive like from Mexico City to Valle de Bravo? 

The drive from Mexico City will take you at least 2 hours (and possibly a bit more if there’s traffic), and the fastest way to travel is by taking a paid road 15D, which has a tool. Make sure to have Pesos on you to pay for the road because credit cards are not accepted. 

Mexico City to Valle de Bravo Guided Tours

You can also visit Valle De Bravo from Mexico City with one of the guided tours, one of the fastest and most convenient ways to organize your trip, which allows you to skip all of the logistics. 

You can join a group tour from Mexico City, but I suggest a private tour of Valle De Bravo for a better experience so you can have the undivided attention of your guide and show the highlights of this destination during a day tour. 

Best hotels in Valley de Bravo

Valley De Bravo is known for its high-end hotels and glamping, but you can still find many options here for any budget. 

✅ Budget: Mesón De Leyendas Downtown – If you are looking for a cozy stay with a restaurant, a bar, free private parking, and a garden. À la carte breakfast options are available every morning.

✅ Mid-budget: Casa Chichipicas – a beautiful boutique hotel about 4.8 miles from Cascadas Velo de Novia, that offers a home-like stay with a garden, free private parking, and a terrace. The property also has an on-site restaurant, a bar, and a hot tub.

✅ Luxury: Rodavento Boutique Hotel & Spa – a perfect hotel for a relaxed getaway, Rodavento is a resort in the middle of the forest that has a gorgeous setting lake, on-site facilities including a pool, restaurant and bar and welcoming atmosphere.

Valle De Bravo Mexico: FAQs 

Is Valle De Bravo safe?

Valle De Bravo is one of the safest destinations in Mexico, and while it doesn’t have much crime, you should still watch your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings and stay on the cautious side, especially if traveling alone.

If you plan on hiking or adventuring, always keep someone posted about your whereabouts. 

I always recommend buying travel insurance, regardless of which destination in Mexico you are going to visit.

Travel insurance will come in handy if you plan to visit other destinations in Mexico. Safety Wing insurance is the most popular choice among travelers that protects you in case you get sick, lose your luggage or your flight gets canceled. It’s perfect for long-term travelers too.

Another choice is Safety Wing which is suitable for long-term travelers and has several plans. 

Is Valle De Bravo worth a visit?

Valle De Bravo is one of the most charming destinations in Mexico that is often compared to the Hamptons in New York thanks to the expensive real estate and the many opportunities for relaxation and outdoor adventures like hiking, mountain biking, and boating.  

It’s a popular destination for weekend trips and day trips from Mexico City, as it’s perfect t escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and spend time in nature. 

What is Valle De bravo known for?

Valle De Bravo is one of the most popular places to visit near Mexico City that’s known for paragliding, hiking, and the beautiful Lake Avandaro. 

How to get around Valle De Bravo Mexico?

The area is pretty compact, and you can easily explore it on foot. If you want to visit some of the destinations that are further away, like the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, you can catch a taxi. Another popular option for getting around is an ATV, which can be rented from many local businesses. 

How many days do I need in Valle De Bravo?

You can spend as little as one day or as long as a few weeks – it all depends on your plans! If you want to enjoy some of the best things to do in Valle De Bravo like hiking, paragliding, and water activities on Lake Avandaro, plan no less than 3 days to get a good feel for this place.

How many people live in Valle De Bravo?

Valle De Bravo is home to about 61,600 people. 

What is the best time to visit Valle De Bravo?

The area boasts a mild climate year-round, with temperatures staying around between mid- 60’s and low 70s most of the time. The best time to visit is from December through April as the weather stays dry and sunny during these months. 

The area has cool winters, so it’s essential to bring some layers like jackets and sweaters, with January being the coldest month. October through late April is the dry season which has mild sunny weather that’s perfect for enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. 

Summer is the rainy season, which lasts from June through early October, so always keep that in mind when planning your trip. 

Valle De Bravo is one of the most beautiful places in Central Mexico, and if it’s not already on your budget list, you should put it there. The area is renowned for its outdoor scenery and water activities and makes for a perfect escape from the busy capital if you want to enjoy nature and a slower pace of life. 

Whether you plan to spend a few days enjoying some of the best things to do in the area or just visiting on a quick trip, you will love this quaint town along one of the most picturesque lakes in Mexico.

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Lunes a Sábado 10:00 – 18:00 hrs

Tour en Valle de Bravo

Vive la experiencia de conocer los lugares más importantes y emblemáticos que representan a este Pueblo Mágico a través de un Tour en Valle de Bravo

En esta increíble aventura turística del Tour en Valle de Bravo comenzaremos en nuestra tienda al abordar nuestros vehículos para iniciar los Tours con una breve información e historia general del Municipio de Valle de Bravo para dirigirnos al Parque de Interpretación Ambiental Velo de Novia , al llegar realizaremos un pequeño recorrido caminando por un sendero dentro de sus mágicos y míticos bosques de Pinos con alturas mayores a los 40 metros para llegar a los pies de la caída principal de la Cascada Velo de Novia para sentir su refrescante y mágica brisa, posteriormente seguiremos con el Tour en Valle de Bravo para dirigirnos al Centro Ceremonial de los monjes Tibetanos conocido como Stupa de la Paz inmersa en un bosque semi-virgen que te brindara la sensación de libertad y aire puro, donde te contaremos su ancestral cultura milenaria y como realizan sus rituales. Posteriormente seguiremos con los paseos en Valle de Bravo recorriendo la calle más importante de Avándaro a bordo del vehículo y te contaremos sobre el Festival de Rock y Ruedas de Avándaro para llegar a la Cascada del Molino y realizar una pequeña parada continuaremos con la visita a la Iglesia de Santa María Ahuacatlán para conocer al famoso Cristo Negro seguido del Árbol Ahuehuete o Pino conocido como el árbol más viejo de todo el Estado de México lleno de magia con más de 700 años de vida y con un manantial naciente desde eras prehispánicas observador de la historia cede de la primer misa oficiada en Valle de Bravo en Noviembre 1530 por Fray Gregorio Jiménez de la Cuenca después seguiremos con nuestros paseos por el pueblo de Valle de Bravo a bordo de la camioneta para recorrer su bello e inigualable Centro Histórico con antiguos portales creados siglos atrás con fachadas coloniales pintadas de blanco y rojo conociendo también la zona turística del Muelle Municipal o embarcadero de Valle de Bravo 

con sus agradables restaurantes flotantes y observando su imponente alameda municipal con sus asombrosa estructura teatral moderna cede del evento cultural más importante del pueblo conocido como el Festival Internacional de las Almas y finalmente dentro del Tour en Valle de Bravo visitaremos el Mirador con su espectacular vista capaz de ver todo el Pueblo Mágico y el lago de Valle de Bravo donde te llevaras una increíble experiencia desde las alturas y tus ojos serán testigos del encanto de este noble paisaje natural. El mejor de todos los recorridos en Valle de Bravo.

Estos tours en Valle de Bravo los puede realizar toda la familia con niños recién nacidos y adultos mayores o personas con capacidades diferentes.

*Guía *Traslado *Entradas *Platicas *seguro de gastos médicos menores 

Duración (Aproximada)

Todos los días tenemos varias salidas a partir de las 10 am a 2:30 pm  

(Sujeto a disponibilidad bajo previa reservación)

*Este Tour es un recorrido mixto donde algunos puntos los recorremos a pie y otros a bordo de los vehículos *Ropa cómoda para caminar *Gorra *Lentes *Hidratación

Punto de Encuentro

Tienda . Calle Joaquín Arcadio Pagaza #320 Col. Centro Valle de Bravo Estado de México cp. 51200. (Se envía ubicación y nuestro equipo de ventas te orienta a llegar)

Personas Incluidas en el Precio

Esta actividad la puede realizar toda la familia con niños recién nacidos y adu ltos mayores . Pedimos tener en cuenta imprevistos, el tráfico para estar 15 minutos antes del inicio del tour para el registro de responsivas. Todos nuestros tours están sujetos a disponibilidad con una reservación anticipada. Te pedimos cuides tus objetos personales ya que no respondemos por artículos perdidos. Nuestros tiempos de los recorridos son aproximados y pueden llegar a tener variaciones por imprevistos. Deberás de considerar haber realizado una ingesta de alimento mayor a 1:30 hrs previas a tu recorrido. Pedimos consideres el cuidado del medio ambiente y no dejes basura en ninguno de los sitios visitados. Nuestros tours son con grupos de personas. El tour se podrá cancelar en caso de que el cliente se encuentre bajo la injerencia de bebidas alcohólicas. Si se cuenta con malas condiciones climáticas los recorridos serán pospuestos. En dado caso de que se llegue a dañar un equipo deberá resarcir las afectaciones o daños causados. Al reservar estoy consciente y acepto el aviso de privacidad y protección de datos personales. Así mismo al reservar el cliente acepta y está consciente del riesgo que implican las actividades de aventura y deportes al aire libre para deslindar cualquier responsabilidad por parte del prestador de servicios.

No hay devoluciones ni cancelaciones. Los clientes deberán de llegar en su horario agendado ya que de lo contrario no se podrá reagendar el tour o devolver el dinero y perdería su recorrido. Solo contamos con diez minutos de tolerancia. Al reservar se aceptan las políticas de no devoluciones y cancelaciones.

Precio regular: $790

Precio descuento: $650

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Visítanos en: Calle de Joaquín Arcadio Pagaza #320, Santa María Ahuacatlan 51200 Valle de Bravo, Méx

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• Book the tour

Tour TODO en Valle de Bravo

Recorre los puntos más atractivos de valle de bravo , este es el tour todo en valle de bravo en el cual ahorras tiempo y dinero conociendo este pueblo mágico..

Vive la experiencia de caminar en el tour todo en Valle de Bravo en sus calles históricas.

Visitando los puntos más importantes y naturales más importantes del Pueblo Mágico donde conocerás todo en valle en un solo Tour sin perder tiempo.

Es un Tour donde un guía Vallesano te explicara la vida en el pueblo, costumbres y tradiciones. Sabrás de la historia de su fundación de valle de bravo en 1532, así como sus raíces Matlatzincas y como ha cambiado el pueblo a lo largo de la historia.

¿EN QUÉ CONSISTE?

Consiste en visitar, conocer y tomar fotos de los siguientes puntos:

-Stupa de la paz (Avándaro)

-Cascada Velo de Novia

-Cascada del Molino

-Aterrizaje de Parapentes

-Templo del Cristo Negro

-Mirador de la “Peña”

-Mercado de Artesanías

El recorrido es mixto vamos en camioneta y llegando a los puntos bajamos a caminar y recorrerlos. Nos encontraremos con calles llenas de magia y encanto, combinado con la naturaleza única de nuestro municipio.

Valle de Bravo es el municipio con mayor frecuencia turística en el Estado de México, contiene a la cascada más grande del Estado de México, también una de las reservas ecológicas más importantes en el país.

¡No te lo pierdas ahorra tiempo y dinero en el Tour Todo en Valle de Bravo!

HAZ EL MEJOR RECORRIDO POR EL PUEBLO MÁGICO DE VALLE DE BRAVO VISITANDO LOS LUGARES MÁS IMPORTANTES.

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