Janitzio cemetery closed to tourists for Day of the Dead

The Janitzio island cemetery in Michoacán, Mexico, will be closed to tourists during the Day of the Dead celebrations on November 1 and 2. The restriction is due to ongoing rehabilitation works following a landslide that occurred in August.

While tourists are barred from entering the cemetery grounds, local families will still be permitted access to perform traditional vigils for their deceased. To accommodate visitors, authorities have established a panoramic walkway and a lateral catwalk, allowing tourists to observe the cemetery and the surrounding Lake Pátzcuaro landscape from a safe distance.

The rehabilitation project includes reinforcing the perimeter wall, stabilizing the slope, and constructing a terrace lookout. These efforts are being coordinated by the Government of Michoacán, the National Fund for Tourism Development (Fonatur), and federal tourism authorities.

Despite the cemetery closure, cultural activities will continue on the island, including monumental altars, traditional butterfly net fishing demonstrations, and various artistic performances.