Night of the Dead Tour

Immerse in the magic of this ancient tradition
in the birthplace of this celebration

PATZCUARO.
Tour Date: Oct 30 to Nov 2, 2026
………………….4 Days 3 Nights

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Tour Highlights
During the tour, you’ll experience guided visits to these iconic places:
• Pátzcuaro City Tour: Explore colonial streets, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks.
• Tzintzuntzan Archaeological Site: Visit the ancient Purepecha capital.
• Santa Clara del Cobre: Watch local artisans create stunning copper crafts.
• Night of the Dead Ceremony: Join local families in the cemetery for the moving tribute to their ancestors.

Read More about the Night of the Dead Ceremony and  Patzcuaro

Pátzcuaro’s Cemetery on the Night of the Dead Celebration

The Night of the Dead, or Noche de Muertos, in Pátzcuaro has its origins in ancient indigenous traditions, particularly from the Purepecha people. It is a deeply spiritual celebration rooted in the belief that the souls of the deceased return to visit their loved ones. This tradition blends pre-Hispanic customs with Catholic influences introduced by the Spanish.
The celebration, which takes place on the night of November 1st into November 2nd, involves families gathering in cemeteries to honor their ancestors. They decorate graves with vibrant marigolds, candles, and offerings of food, drink, and personal mementos to welcome the spirits. The atmosphere is reverent yet festive, as locals spend the night sharing stories, singing, and keeping vigil, creating a profound connection between the living and the dead.

Patzcuaro’s Main Plaza, “Plaza Grande”

Patzcuaro is an undeniably beautiful town full of elegant colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and strong indigenous traditions. The first Bishop of Michoacan, Vasco de Quiroga, not only evangelized and defended the indigenous peoples of Patzcuaro, but he also built schools and hospitals there. Vasco de Quiroga carried out extensive and surprising social work in the town, pitting him against the authorities and even the clergy, whom, with the support of King Charles V of Spain, Quiroga stubbornly resisted.

Eleven Patios Courtyard

Juan O’Gorman’s Mural at Pátzcuaro’s Public Library

House of the Eleven Patios. Originally built in the 18th century, the House of the Eleven Patios was once home to the Dominican Sisters of Saint Catherine of Siena. The building initially boasted eleven courtyards, though only five remain today. One of its standout features is the exquisite baroque-style bathroom, complemented by elegant arches that add to its historical charm.
In the 1960s, the building was rescued and meticulously restored with a new purpose: to become a center for artisans to showcase and sell regional crafts. Today, its remaining courtyards are vibrant spaces filled with exhibitions of local art and craftsmanship, preserving both the spirit of the past and the creativity of the present.
Gertrudis Bocanegra Public Library. Dating back to 1576, this historic building was originally constructed as the Convent of the Augustinians. In 1882, the State Government sold much of the property, and in 1938, under the direction of President Lázaro Cárdenas, it was transformed into the Gertrudis Bocanegra Public Library.
Beyond its historical significance, the library is home to a stunning mural by the renowned artist Juan O’Gorman. Spanning the entire north wall, the mural measures 14 meters high by 12.7 meters wide and vividly depicts the history of Michoacán. This remarkable piece of art adds to the cultural value of the library, making it a must-visit for those interested in history and art.

Santa Clara del Cobre’s Main Plaza.

Santa Clara (Copper Town) is internationally renowned for its exquisite copper craftsmanship, boasting a long tradition of artisanal mastery. For generations, local artisans have honed and perfected techniques for working copper, transforming raw materials from nearby mines into stunning works of art.
Throughout the town, you’ll find a wide variety of copper products, from glazed vases, pots, and plates to saucepans and intricate decorative pieces. The craftsmanship is exceptional, and the prices are quite reasonable considering the skill and labor involved in creating each unique item. Don’t leave without taking home an authentic copper piece, handcrafted 100% by the talented artisans of this remarkable region.

Straw Market in Tzintzuntzan

Tzintzuntzan (Straw & Pottery Market) Tzintzuntzan, meaning “Place of Hummingbirds,” is deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Purepecha people. Once the capital of their empire and the meeting point with European conquistadors, this town now serves as a living tribute to their ancient traditions.
Known for its remarkable craftsmanship, Tzintzuntzan specializes in working with plant fibers, where creativity flourishes. At the bustling market, you’ll find everything from traditional petatillo fish, believed to bring good luck, to a stunning array of basketry, tablecloths, and handcrafted items. You may even discover intricate zoomorphic sculptures of monkeys, horses, or cows, alongside textiles with pre-Hispanic motifs and unique pottery pieces. Each town around Lake Pátzcuaro has its craft, and Tzintzuntzan’s artistry is truly unmatched.

Yácatas archaeological structures at the Tzintzuntzan archaeological site.

Tzintzuntzan Archaeological Site.  Tzintzuntzan, once the capital of the Purepecha Empire, is home to an impressive archaeological site that showcases the region’s rich history. The site features the iconic yácatas—five large, circular pyramids built on a terrace overlooking Lake Pátzcuaro. These structures were used for ceremonial and religious purposes by the Purepecha people. The site offers a glimpse into the architectural ingenuity and cultural significance of this pre-Hispanic civilization, making it a key historical destination in Michoacán.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Night of the Dead Ceremony in Pátzcuaro, a unique celebration that unforgettably honors life and death.