Copper Canyon

Barranca del Cobre

One of Mexico's most spectacular natural wonders, this vast canyon system is deeper and larger than the Grand Canyon and offers breathtaking vistas and indigenous Tarahumara culture. The famous Chepe train ride through the canyon is one of the world's most scenic railway journeys.

Things to do

• Chepe Train Ride — Board the famous Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico train for a full-day journey through 37 bridges and 86 tunnels with spectacular canyon views.
• Divisadero Viewpoint — Hike to this iconic overlook where three major canyons converge for panoramic vistas of the canyon system's immense scale and depth.
• Batopilas River Trek — Trek down steep switchbacks to the colonial mining town of Batopilas along the Río Batopilas, passing Tarahumara villages and dramatic cliff faces.
• Waterfall Hikes — Explore cascading waterfalls like Basaseachic Falls and seasonal streams that flow through the canyon's lush micro-climates.
• Tarahumara Cave Dwellings Visit — Visit the traditional cliff-side homes and communities of the Tarahumara people who still inhabit the canyon, with local guides ensuring respectful cultural exchange.
• Copper Mining History Tour — Explore the colonial-era Batopilas mines and learn about the region's mining heritage that shaped the area's development.
• Creél Mountain Village Exploration — Wander the alpine pine forests and indigenous markets of Creél, a gateway town offering artisan crafts and authentic mountain hospitality.

Food to try

• Pinole — A traditional Tarahumara drink made from roasted corn flour, water, and sometimes chocolate, consumed by indigenous runners as an energy source.
• Carne Adobada — Slow-cooked pork marinated in local dried chiles and spices, served in mountain villages as a hearty regional specialty.
• Esquites — Fresh corn kernels cooked with cheese, lime, and chiles, commonly sold by vendors at train stations and local markets.
• Quesadillas de Hongos — Handmade tortillas filled with wild mushrooms foraged from the pine forests, a seasonal delicacy in canyon communities.
• Chilorio — Shredded pork cooked down with dried chiles, cumin, and vinegar into a rich paste, typically served with warm tortillas at local fondas.
• Fresh Trout from Mountain Streams — Grilled or pan-fried trout caught from the canyon's cold streams, often prepared simply with lime and local herbs.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Tarahumara Privacy — Always ask permission before photographing Tarahumara people or entering their homes, as they value privacy and may charge a small fee for photos.
• Learn Basic Spanish — While Tarahumara is spoken in the canyon, Spanish is essential for communication with locals and guides; English is rarely spoken outside tourist areas.
• Observe Rarajipari Running Tradition — The Tarahumara are renowned for long-distance running competitions called rarajipari, which you may witness during local festivals or celebrations.
• Support Local Artisans — Purchase handicrafts like woven baskets, wooden carvings, and textiles directly from Tarahumara communities to provide fair compensation for their traditional crafts.