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In the north of Mexico lies the beautiful, remote, rugged canyon system, generically-known as the Copper Canyon.

The largest of the canyons are Urique, Sinforosa and Batopilas which all plunge to depths of over 1,800 meters making them not only as impressive, but deeper than their better-known cousin across the border in the US.

Chihuahua al Pacifico Train

The area is most easily accessed by air from Mexico City to either Chihuahua or Los Mochis and the best way to see the Copper Canyon is by the famous Chihuahua al Pacifico (El Chepe) train that runs between the two cities, making numerous stops along its way. It is a magnificent feat of engineering — 480 kilometers of track have been laid incorporating 180 degree turns, 86 tunnels and 36 bridges to descend from 2,333 meters to sea level. It travels alongside parts of the Copper Canyon and is a real taste of adventure travel in Mexico.

The journey takes 16 hours to complete, but to appreciate the grandeur of the scenery and to enhance your trip we recommend setting off from the colonial outback town of El Fuerte, an hour from Los Mochis. From here board the train and spend several days exploring the region, staying in a couple of places along the train route, such as the tiny mission village of Cerocahui, where you can access magnificent viewpoints over the Urique Canyon.

Weather

The environment up here can be harsh with extreme weather conditions, especially between December and February when snow can fall.

Accommodation

Unlike in other parts of the country, the hotels in the Copper Canyon are far from luxurious with food, heating and service very much on the slow side, and few of the region’s Tarahumara Indians speaking English. Intrepid travelers find this all adds to the experience of Mexico at its ‘Wild West’ best.

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Audley Travel Specialist Tyler

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Places to visit in Copper Canyon Area

Featuring heavily on our experiences of visiting Copper Canyon Area, these selected places are destinations that also prove consistently popular with our travelers. Our specialists can help you choose how to include them in your wider trip, based on your preferences.

Map of Copper Canyon Area

Places & hotels on the map

    Places in and around Copper Canyon Area

    Our expert guides to exploring Copper Canyon Area

    Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Copper Canyon Area, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Copper Canyon Area at its best.

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    Accommodation choices for Copper Canyon Area

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Copper Canyon Area. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.