Copper Canyon and the Tarahumara Indians

Copper Canyon (Barranca del Cobre) is 200 interconnected narrow gorges formed by rivers flowing along the western slopes of the Sierra Tarahumara Mountains and occupying ⅓ of the Mexican state of Chihuahua, which are connected into 6 huge canyons. The largest of them is the Urique Canyon. The Mexican railway "Chihuahua el Pacifico" passes through it through a system of 86 tunnels and 37 bridges. All the rivers flow into the Rio Fuerte River, which in turn flows into the Sea of ​​Cortez. Copper has never been mined in large quantities in these places. The canyon was called "Copper" because of the copper-green color of the lichens growing on the walls of the canyon. The Copper Canyon system is 3 times larger than the Grand Canyon in the United States, and 4 of the 6 large canyons are deeper than the Grand Canyon by more than 300 meters. The difference in altitude between the top and the bottom of the canyons is more than 1.5 km, so there is a large difference in temperature in summer or winter. In winter, the tops are covered with snow, and subtropical forests grow at the bottom of the canyons. Bears, deer and pumas live here. On this trip, you will see one of the most amazing natural areas of America. After a day spent among the harsh landscapes, we will go to the wild Batopilas Canyon. You will stay in a Mexican hacienda, go on interesting excursions, see historical sights and unique picturesque nature.

Tarahumara

The Copper Canyon is home to the Tarahumara Indians, one of the largest traditional Indian societies in North America. They are a community of extremely independent people who have preserved their traditional way of life despite all the historical cataclysms. Originally inhabiting most of the state of Chihuahua, the Tarahumara retreated to the Copper Canyon territory to escape the Spanish. The inaccessible region protected them for a long time, but in 1961 a railroad was built. Along the way, the train stops at Tarahumara villages, where you can get acquainted with the life of the Indians.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Los Mochis / El Fuerte. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to a private transfer to El Fuerte, a charming colonial town and the gateway to the Copper Canyon. Evening at leisure. You can stroll the cobblestone streets and dine at one of the restaurants near your hotel.

Day 2: Transfer to the Copper Canyon. After breakfast, we head to the train station to take the El Chepe train to the Serra Madre. This is a luxury train that passes through dozens of tunnels and countless bridges. From the train you can take stunningly beautiful photos or simply admire the picturesque views. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, which takes only 15 minutes. All rooms at the hotel have panoramic views of the canyon. After lunch, there will be time to walk around the area and admire the canyon. Before an evening of relaxation, enjoy a sumptuous Mexican dinner.

Day 3: Transfer to Creel. After breakfast, we return to the train station and take the El Chepe train to Creel, an old town in the heart of the Copper Canyon region, where forestry and mining industries are developed. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. In the main town square, you can buy works of local Tarahumara craftsmen.

Day 4: Transfer to Batopilas. We will drive through Copper Canyon and La Bufa Canyon and arrive in Batopilas. You will check into a luxurious hacienda overlooking the Batopilas River. You can walk into town and see the ruins of Hacienda Sheppard, admire the colonial architecture, or have a beer with the locals at the Swinging Bridge Bar.

Day 5: Batopilas. We will spend the whole day in this amazing town. You will learn a lot about the history of the city, relax by the river, choose one of the day tours or visit the "Lost Temple of Satewo". Having appreciated the grandeur and magical appeal of the city, you will return to the hacienda for dinner.

Day 6: Transfer to Creel. After an early breakfast, we leave Batopilas for Creel by car, admiring the magnificent landscapes along the way. After lunch, free time to relax or explore the city. You can visit local workshops or thermal springs. An excursion to Lake Arareko or to the historic temple Cusarare Mission can be organized.

Day 7: Transfer to Chihuahua. Free time in the morning before leaving Creel for Chihuahua. After lunch, relax or visit the museums and historical sites of this important cultural and economic center of northwestern Mexico. In this city, you will spend your last evening in Mexico.

Day 8: Flight home.