Barranca del Cobre

A massive system of canyons in the Sierra Madre deeper and more extensive than the Grand Canyon, accessible by the famous Copper Canyon Train through stunning mountain scenery. It offers hiking, indigenous Tarahumara culture, and dramatic landscape photography opportunities.

Things to do

• Ride the Copper Canyon Train — Journey on the legendary El Chepe train through 37 bridges and 86 tunnels, descending 2,400 meters into the canyon system with breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre.
• Hike to Basaseachic Falls — Trek to Mexico's second-highest waterfall plunging 246 meters into a stunning canyon gorge, accessible via a scenic 6-kilometer round-trip trail.
• Visit Divisadero Viewpoint — Stand at this famous overlook along the train route to photograph three massive converging canyons with dramatic morning light illuminating the layered geology.
• Explore Tarahumara Indigenous Villages — Visit traditional settlements like Cerocahui or Creel to learn about the Tarahumara (Rarámuri) culture, their crafts, and their enduring presence in these ancestral lands.
• Kayak or Raft the Río Fuerte — Navigate white-water rapids and calm stretches through the canyon floor, experiencing the landscape from water level with towering walls on both sides.
• Photograph from Urique Canyon Floor — Descend into the deepest canyon section to capture dramatic morning mist, indigenous communities, and the raw geological formations of the Sierra Madre.
• Explore Creel Mountain Village — Walk through this highland town serving as the main hub for canyon access, featuring local markets, Mennonite communities, and artisan shops selling indigenous crafts.

Food to try

• Pinole — A traditional Tarahumara drink made from ground corn, seeds, and spices that serves as a staple energy source for long-distance runners in the region.
• Esquites — Roasted corn kernels seasoned with lime, salt, and chili powder, commonly sold by local vendors at train stations and village markets.
• Olla Podrida — A hearty stew of mixed meats, beans, and mountain vegetables slow-cooked in traditional clay pots, reflecting indigenous cooking methods.
• Chorizo with Nopales — Local spiced pork sausage paired with tender cactus paddle strips, a dish reflecting both Spanish and pre-Hispanic culinary traditions.
• Trout from Mountain Streams — Fresh-caught río trout prepared simply grilled or in local sauces, sourced from cold streams running through the canyon system.
• Tejate — A sweet corn-based beverage ground with seeds and served cold, a traditional refreshment for indigenous peoples and travelers in the highlands.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Tarahumara Sacred Sites — Ask permission before photographing indigenous people or entering their communities, as many sites hold spiritual significance and privacy is essential to their culture.
• Learn Basic Spanish — While some English is spoken in tourist areas like Creel, Spanish is essential for deeper canyon villages and shows respect to local communities.
• Arrive Early for Train Departures — The Copper Canyon Train operates on a relaxed mountain schedule; arrive at stations well before posted times as departures can be unpredictable.
• Bring Altitude Adjustment Time — Many areas sit above 2,000 meters elevation; allow a day to acclimate before strenuous hiking to avoid altitude sickness and enjoy the experience fully.