Chautla Castle & Fireflies: Lavender Farm, Soap Workshop, Private Tour

Summary

Chautla Castle gardens, lavender fields and firefly nights near Mexico City

You’ll stroll through Chautla Castle’s gardens, try your hand at making lavender soap on a real farm, snack in a local town, and end up watching thousands of fireflies light up the forest at dusk. With roundtrip pickup from Mexico City and an easygoing local guide along for every step, you’ll feel quietly swept into another rhythm for a day.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I thought the castle outside Puebla would be more like a movie set — but standing in front of Chautla Castle (locals call it Gillow), with its red brick edges and quiet pond, it felt oddly peaceful. Our guide, Ana, told us how English-style gardens ended up here. She pointed at the ducks paddling by and shrugged: “It’s always a little misty in the mornings.” I liked that she didn’t rush us; we just wandered around the old stones and watched a family taking selfies on the bridge. The air smelled faintly of wet grass and something sweet I couldn’t place yet.

The next bit surprised me — we drove to a lavender farm for a soap-making workshop. I tried to pronounce “lavanda” right (Ana laughed at my accent), then got distracted by the rows of purple stretching into the distance. The scent was everywhere — sharp and calming at once — and my hands still smelled like it hours later. Making soap was messier than I expected; my bar came out lopsided but I kind of love it. We sipped some agua fresca before heading on. There was this small town where we stopped for snacks — pan dulce from a bakery window, nothing fancy but so good after all that walking.

By dusk we reached the fireflies sanctuary. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this part of the day trip to Chautla Castle and the fireflies. At first there were just shadows moving in the trees — then suddenly tiny lights started blinking everywhere, like someone shaking out stars right above our heads. Everyone went quiet except for one kid who kept whispering “mira!” every time he spotted another glow. It felt both strange and totally normal to stand there in the dark with strangers just watching bugs do their thing. The drive back to Mexico City was sleepy; Ana handed out cookies while we stared out at passing headlights.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Chautla Castle and Fireflies

• Meet guide and transfer to Chautla
• Guided visit around Chautla Castle
• Soap workshop and lavender field walk
• Transfer to town for snacks and drinks
• Visit Fireflies sanctuary and admire lights
• Relax and return to Mexico City

Top questions

How long is the day trip to Chautla Castle & fireflies?

The tour lasts approximately one full day with return to Mexico City in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this private tour?

Yes, private tours include pickup from your accommodation or chosen location in Mexico City.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, non-alcoholic drinks and snacks are included during your visit.

What languages does the guide speak?

Bilingual guides speak Spanish & English; other languages may be available upon request.

Can I customize this tour if booking privately?

Private tours can be customized within default duration and route—just ask when booking.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; check health recommendations before booking for young kids.

What is included in entry fees?

The price covers entrance to Ex-Hacienda Chautla, lavender farm access/workshop, and firefly sanctuary tickets.

Are there any health restrictions?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip transportation by private vehicle from Mexico City (pickup at your hotel or meeting point), all entrance fees for Chautla Castle, guided visits throughout including a hands-on soap workshop at a working lavender farm, non-alcoholic drinks and snacks along the way, plus bilingual local guides who know these places well—before heading back after watching fireflies fill up the night woods.