Copper Canyon Mexico: My 10-Day Itinerary 2024

If you’re looking for an offbeat, under-the-radar place to visit in Mexico, Copper Canyon is your answer. Any trip to the Copper Canyon is an adventure — whether you’re planning a trek or just sightseeing on the scenic Chepe train.

Located in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range in Northwestern Mexico, Copper Canyon is a vast network of canyons formed by six main rivers that have carved deep gorges into the rugged terrain. Copper Canyon, known as Barrancas del Cobre in Spanish, sprawls across an area of approximately 25,000 square miles (65,000 square kilometers), making it larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon in the United States.

As the author of Lonely Planet’s new Mexico guidebook, I went on assignment to Copper Canyon and took a deep dive into one of the greatest natural wonders in Mexico. I’ve written a detailed guide to El Chepe train, including how to book tickets, where to stop, etc — now I’m going to share my Copper Canyon itinerary.

copper canyon mexico - copper canyon itinerary

Table of Contents

My Copper Canyon Itinerary
My 10-Day Copper Canyon Itinerary
Copper Canyon Travel Guide

My Copper Canyon Itinerary

Exploring Copper Canyon Mexico

El Chepe train, officially called Ferrocarril Chihuahua Pacífico, is undoubtedly the best way to explore Copper Canyon. The train journey not only offers breathtaking views of the Copper Canyon, but it is also an impressive engineering marvel. The train traverses a network of 37 bridges and passes through an astonishing 86 tunnels along its route.

There are in fact two trains that run the route: the Chepe Express train runs from Creel to Los Mochis (and the other way); while the Chepe Regional train goes from Chihuahua to Los Mochis (vice versa). Chepe Express goes faster and makes 4 stops; while Chepe Regional makes 15 stops and is cheaper.

The main differences between the two trains are the onboard facilities, the stations they service, the schedule, and of course the price. The best way to make the most of your time in Copper Canyon is to take a combination of different trains. [Refer to my Chepe train guide for more details.]

How to Book Your Chepe Train Tickets

You can book Chepe Express train tickets on the Chepe website and get an immediate confirmation. Ignore what some outdated sites say – you no longer need to email and send your credit card details online.

But Regional tickets can only be booked by email ([email protected]) or from the ticket counter at either Chihuahua or Los Mochis station (in advance is recommended). I bought my Regional ticket in Chihuahua 2 days in advance of my trip. Try to buy your ticket as soon as you get to Chihuahua!

Where to Start Your Copper Canyon Itinerary

I recommend starting your journey from Chihuahua (like I did) as the city is a lot more interesting than Los Mochis. Plus, the cowboy vibes and mountain setting of Chihuahua will set the right tone for your Copper Canyon trip. I like going in this direction as there’s an exciting build-up as the train goes from the Chihuahua highlands up into the high-altitude mountains.

Be sure to plan 2-3 days in Chihuahua before your Copper Canyon trip. The city has a rich historical significance and played a crucial role in the Mexican Revolution as the birthplace of Pancho Villa, a renowned revolutionary leader. Be sure to drop by the Museo Histórico de la Revolución, a museum converted from Villa’s house. There’s also a string of impressive colonial and neoclassical architecture in the city — including the Catedral de Chihuahua and the Quinta Gameros, a French-inspired mansion.

How to Get to Chihuahua

The nearest major airport is the Chihuahua International Airport (CUU). It mostly serves major cities in Mexico such as Mexico City, Monterrey and Cancun; the only US cities it serves are Dallas and Denver.

A round-trip flight from New York to Chihuahua costs around US$500 while domestic flights from Mexico City to Chihuahua or los Mochis cost no more than $100 return.

The airport is 18 kilometers (11 miles) from the center. Pay for the official taxi transfers inside the airport; it costs a standard 300 MXN (US$15) for a trip to Chihuahua historical center.

Search for Flights to Chihuahua.

copper canyon mexico - flight to chihuahua

My 10-Day Copper Canyon Itinerary

I spent 10 days in Copper Canyon, traveling from one terminus of the Chepe train to the other (I made 5 stops on the train and spent 1-2 days at each spot). Most people only have 3 or 5 days in the Copper Canyon; some even take the Chepe train straight-through in one day — but the Copper Canyon definitely deserves more of your time!

It was tricky planning this Copper Canyon itinerary because of the train schedules. Is my itinerary perfect? No, but it’s the best plan I could have come up with considering the time constraint. I would have preferred to spend 1 more night in Divisadero and 1 less night in El Fuerte — but the train schedule didn’t allow for that.

Here is a summary of my 10-day Copper Canyon itinerary. I will be giving a day-to-day breakdown below.

Days 1-3: Creel
Day 4: Divisadero
Days 5-7: Urique
Days 8-9: El Fuerte
Day 10: Los Mochis

Itinerary Day 1 : Chihuahua – Creel

Start your Chepe rail journey in Chihuahua and hop on your first train! The Chepe Regional leaves from Chihuahua every Wednesday and Saturday. If you want to follow my itinerary, book a ticket for Wednesday. Your train leaves Chihuahua at 7am and will reach Creel at 12.47pm.

This first leg is not quite as exciting scenic wise and you won’t be traversing the Copper Canyon just yet; so just kick back and enjoy the hypnotic rhythm of train travel! You’ll arrive at Creel at 1pm, so take the chance to explore the charming mountain town by foot.

Wander around Creel

When you leave the train station, you’ll find yourself at the main square. It’s a small plaza flanked by the town church and several shops. Next to the train station, you’ll find Museo Tarahumara, an excellent spot to learn about the Tarahumara people who have inhabited the region for centuries.

The Tarahumara (known locally as Rarámuri, which means ‘those who run fast’) have gained fame for their exceptional longstanding tradition of long-distance running. Don’t miss the next-door Artesanías Misión, a non-profit craft store that sells locally-made Tarahumara arts and craft.

If you have some time, catch a taxi to the lookout point where a Cristo Rey statue stands on a hill 2.3km north of town. Most taxi drivers are happy to wait for 10-15 minutes. For dinner, make sure to try the beef that Chihuahua is so famous for at La Cabaña. [Read my Creel travel guide.]

TIP: If the timing of the train doesn’t fit your schedule, you can skip this first train and take the bus instead. Autobuses del Noroeste and Rapidos Cuauhtemoc run regular services from Chihuahua and the journey takes around 4h15mins. Book your bus trip here.

creel from above - copper canyon mexico itinerary

Where to Stay in Creel

Budget: Hotel Temazcal

This hotel offers comfortable and affordable rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. It is located in the center of Creel, within walking distance of the train station, restaurants, and shops. Check rates.

Mid-range: El Colibri Boutique Hotel & Spa

Located along the main highway, this hotel has new, spanking clean rooms with comfortable beds and modern amenities. The knowledgable owner is more than happy to arrange tours for you. I stayed here and highly recommend it! Check rates.

Luxury: Best Western Plus The Lodge at Creel Hotel & Spa

The best hotel in town features cozy and spacious rooms with rustic decor, a spa, and an on-site restaurant. It’s got a central location right in town, yet its rooms are tastefully designed in a rustic, elegant country style. Check rates.

Itinerary Day 2: Day Trip to the Valleys

Creel’s biggest appeal lie in the surrounding mountains, and you can easily see them in a loop day trip. You can easily hire a taxi driver to bring you around, but taxis are few and far between in a small town like this, so I recommend booking a day tour in advance.

Start your day trip at the Valle de las Monjas (Valley of the Monks), located about 10 miles (17 km) south of Creel. This unique rock formation resembles a group of towering monks, hence its name. Explore the nearby Valle de las Ranas (Valley of the Frogs) and Valle de los Hongos (Valley of the Mushrooms), where you’ll find groups of natural rock formations resembling frogs and mushrooms.

Next, make your way to San Ignacio Arareko, a nearby Tarahumara village. Visit the San Ignacio Mission, a beautiful church with indigenous influences, and take a stroll around the picturesque Arareko Lake. Continue your day trip to the Cusárare Waterfall, where a beautiful waterfall cascades down a lush canyon. Read more on Creel, Chihuahua.

copper canyon mexico - valley of monks creel

Itinerary Day 3: Cascada Basaseachi

Leave the best of Creel for your last day in town! Make a day trip to Cascade Basaseachi, Mexico’s highest full-time waterfall which tumbles 800 feet (246m) to the azure pools below. Located approximately 134 kilometers northwest of Creel, this natural wonder is a 3-hour drive away (each way), so expect to spend a full day here. Rent a car like I did, or book with a local operator such as this one.

There are well-marked trails that lead you to different viewpoints, allowing you to capture memorable photos and enjoy the power of nature. From the top of the falls, you’ll be treated to unparalleled views of the magnificent Candameña Canyon. To truly experience one of Mexico’s most beautiful waterfalls up close, hike down to the base to fully immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural masterpiece. The surrounding area is designated as a protected national park, providing a habitat for various wildlife species including cougars, white-tailed deer, and collared peccaries.

Pack a picnic lunch so you can spend as much time as possible at the falls. The drive to Cascada Basaseachi isn’t difficult, just be prepared for some winding mountain roads.

copper canyon itinerary - cascada baseaseachi

Itinerary Day 4: Creel – Divisadero

It’s time to hop back on the Copper Canyon train! Book the Chepes Regional train for Saturday; it leaves Creel at 12.47pm and arrives in Divisadero at 2.41pm. As the train makes its ascent into the canyon, the landscapes will start to get more and more dramatic. It’s allowed to walk between carriages on the Chepe Regional, so make use of the opportunity to snap pictures from the open gangway.

Divisadero is a highlight of any Copper Canyon itinerary, as it’s perfectly poised on the canyon rim, at an altitude of around 7,800 feet (2,400 meters). The trains stop here for at least 15 minutes, so even if you’re not stopping here, you have time to hop off and walk to the viewpoint just steps from the train tracks. This stop doesn’t have a town, but there’s a bustling food market at the station.

I highly recommend staying at the Hotel Divisadero Barrancas, perched on the canyon rim with jawdropping views. It’s the only hotel at the Divisadero station. Other hotels are located in Areponápuchi (locals call it Arepo), 3.3km away from Divisadero. Arepo is served by the Posada Barrancas station, but only the Chepe Regional train stops here. So if you’ve booked a hotel here, stop at Posada Barrancas instead.

copper canyon itinerary - divisadero views

Head to the Parque Aventuras

Once you alight from the train, hightail it to the Parque de Aventuras Barrancas del Cobre as it closes at 430pm. It’s an easy 0.6 mile (1.5km) walk from the station along a gorgeous canyon-rim trail — or catch a taxi for just 100 MXN (US$5).

The adventure park is a must-see in Copper Canyon; it plays host to the ZipRider, the world’s second-longest zip-line, spanning a remarkable 1.5 mile (2.5km) in length. With seven lines available, you can soar through the air from an altitude of 2400m down to Mesón de Bacajípare, the park’s halfway point from the canyon floor. Book your activities here.

You can also just take a gondola down to Mesón de Bacajipare to drink in an impressive panoramic view. The route is 3 km long and the round-trip gondola ride takes around 45 minutes. The gondola travel every 30 minutes between stations. Otherwise, just drink in the views from the park’s restaurant, which has a huge terrace and transparent glass floor.

copper canyon itinerary - parque aventuras

Prices for Parque Aventuras

Gondola (9.30am-4.30pm): 300 MXN (US$15)
ZipRider (9.30am-3.40pm) : 1,000 MXN (US$50)
Circuit for 7 ziplines (9.30am-2.30pm): 1,000 MXN (US$50)
Via Ferrata (9.30am-3pm): 600 MXN (US$30)

Where to Stay in Divisadero

Budget: Hostal Font’s

A spacious and sparkling clean hostel right by the Arepo station, Hostal Font’s is a great option for budget travelers looking to meet others. There’s a shared kitchen and lots of lounging space. Check rates.

Mid-range: Hotel Barrancas del Cobre

Located next door to Posada Barrancas station, this beautiful hacienda-style hotel has spacious, attractively decorated rooms and gorgeous green gardens. Prices are also surprisingly good. Check rates.

Luxury: Hotel Divisadero Barrancas

This is the ONLY hotel in Divisadero and it’s right outside the train station. I stayed here and found the rooms to be outdated and overpriced, but the spectacular views right outside my window was priceless. They run free guided hikes for guests, as well as other activities like quad-biking and horseback riding. Check rates.

Itinerary Day 5: Divisadero – Bahuichivo

The next morning, rise super early to catch sunrise from your hotel! There are mind-blowing views of the canyon at Hotel Divisadero; if you’re not staying here, take a walk along the canyon-rim trails for spectacular views. There are a couple of hanging bridges and panoramic viewpoints along the trails, which make for an interesting morning walk.

Then catch the Sunday Chepe Express train to Bahuichivo; it leaves Divisadero at 9.55am and arrives at Bahuichivo at 11.25am). The Chepe Express is generally more punctual and faster than the Chepe Regional. There’s also a nice restaurant cabin that serves local delicacies such as chile relleno (stuffed pepper) and tamale de chayote. Meals are surprisingly not too expensive (around 200-300 MXN or $10-15 per dish).

Catch a Bus to Urique

Bahuichivo is a small village consisting of just a few homes, hotels, and a church. From here, most people continue on to Cerocahui or Urique — I recommend going all the way down to the canyon-bottom Urique town as it offers such a contrasting experience and allows you to go deep into the Copper Canyon.

Urique is just 57km from Bahuichivo, but the journey down the treacherous but scenic descent can take up to 3.5 hours on a local bus. You can see from the numerous roadside memorials how many accidents have happened here. There’s a daily bus that goes from Bahuichivo to Urique, it always coincides with the timing of the train. I spoke to my hotel in Urique who made sure the bus driver picked me up from the station.

Enroute to Urique, the driver usually makes a brief stop at the Mirador Cerro del Gallego Cañón de Urique, a lookout point that offers breathtaking views of the Urique Canyon. From this viewpoint, you can see the Urique road winding down to the bottom of the canyon.

Wander around Urique

By the time you get to Urique, it’ll be evening time. Take a leisurely walk along the river and wander around the small village. There’s a small church with colorful papel picado (hanging flags), a town hall, and an old pharmacy that has been converted into a grocery store. Buy some snacks and water at the grocery store for the hike you’ll be doing the next day.

Where to Stay in Urique

Budget: Entre Amigos

This budget-friendly hostel offers basic accommodation and camping surrounded by luscious farmland and beautiful outdoor space. I met a young backpacking couple who stayed here and loved the owners who run it. Check rates here.

Mid Range: Villa del Urike

I stayed at this newish, riverfront hotel and really enjoyed the pleasant location. It has a nice outdoor pool, and spacious brick-walled rooms with rustic decor and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Check rates here.

hotel villa urike - copper canyon mexico

Itinerary Day 6 : Hike around Urique

The next morning, wake up early for a nice, long hike. Urique is an ideal base for hiking, with easy day hikes available along the riverside dirt road. You can choose to walk 7km upriver to the next village of Guadalupe Coronado or hike 4km downstream to Guapalaina. I chose the shorter route and took the road that runs alongside the river. It was a scenic walk as I meandered in the shade of the craggy cliffs. I hardly saw anyone or any cars along the way.

Guapalaina is a tiny, sleepy village; there’s a beautiful trail that leads to the azure natural pool, Charco Verde. I found my way there thanks to three Tarahumara kids I met along the way (speaking Spanish helps!). They were collecting wood to make fire, and allowed me to tag along. I loved talking to them and learning about their lives in such a rural part of Mexico.

The trailhead starts at a farm behind the cemetery — see the location on Google Maps. The hike brings you along the river and deep inside a narrow gorge. Note that swimming is not permitted in the pools, as the water is consumed by the local communities.

Itinerary Day 7 : Bahuichivo – El Fuerte

The next morning, catch the 7am bus back to the Bahuichivo station. Make sure to coordinate with the bus driver on your way to Urique — he’ll stop at your hotel to pick you up.

The Chepe Express train leaves on Tuesdays at 11.25am and arrives at El Fuerte at 3.35pm. This is the most picturesque part of the whole train journey. So definitely get your camera ready and book a good seat. After leaving Bahuichivo, the train hugs the sides of the steep canyons and makes a spectacular zigzag descent into a tunnel above Témoris.

TIP: Since you’re traveling on the eastbound train (Los Mochis to Creel), make sure to book a seat on the RIGHT side for the best views. If you’re traveling westbound (Creel to Los Mochis), book a seat on the left side.

Wander around El Fuerte

You’ll pull into El Fuerte in the late afternoon, so head straight to your hotel for a rest. There will be shared taxis at the train station; they’re cheap and will take you into town (15 minutes away).

El Fuerte was where the legendary Zorro was born. The Hotel Posada del Hidalgo, once a hacienda, is said to be his birthplace and childhood home. Every evening 7pm, the hotel puts on a short show about Zorro. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel you’re welcome to join as long as you order something from the restaurant or bar. There is also a statue of Zorro in their courtyard and the legend is displayed on the wall.

copper canyon itinerary - el fuerte main square

Where to Stay in El Fuerte

Budget: Hotel El Fuerte

Located next to the fort museum, this colorful hacienda-style hotel has seen better days, but offers great value for money with its big rooms. The beautiful patio and lounge area definitely make this a great spot to stay. Check rates here.

Midrange: Mansion Serrano Hotel

This hotel is located just a few blocks from El Fuerte’s main square and it’s housed within a historical complex. Rooms are outdated but spacious and comfortable. I stayed here and wouldn’t mind staying here again. Check rates here.

Hotel Posada Del Hidalgo

This charming hotel is located in a historic building in the heart of El Fuerte’s colonial district. It offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with traditional Mexican decor. The hotel also has a courtyard with a swimming pool and a restaurant that serves regional cuisine. Check rates here.

Itinerary Day 8: Day Trip from El Fuerte

Book a day trip along the Río Fuerte, where you can spot kingfishers, ospreys, and flycatchers on a boat. The river is considered a top birding destination. The boat tour also includes a hike to Cerro de la Máscara (Hill of Mask), where over 300 petroglyphs are found. These 2000-year-old engravings were created by the ancient Yoremes (Mayos) natives.

I booked my day trip with bird-watching guide Miguel Angel Leon (M$350 per person) who was very knowledgable and fun. He has a booth right in front of the Cathedral. His tours usually last for 4 hours.

In the afternoon, head out to explore El Fuerte’s old town. El Fuerte, meaning “the fort” in Spanish, was once a fort. While the original fort is no longer there, a replica has been built on the hill where it once stood. The replica also houses a museum showcasing the history of the city and surrounding area and offers good views of the town and river from the top.

copper canyon itinerary - el fuerte boat trip

Itinerary Day 9: El Fuerte – Los Mochis

Prepare for your last train ride in Copper Canyon! Technically, you’ve already left the canyon behind and this last leg will mainly take you through the flat plains of Sinaloa towards the Pacific coast. The Chepe Express leaves from El Fuerte on Thursdays at 3.35pm and arrives at the last stop, Los Mochis, at 5.40pm.

Los Mochis is a sprawling modern city and honestly nothing to write home about, without many interesting historical attractions or sights. I would suggest staying the night and booking an afternoon or evening flight for the next day.

Itinerary Day 10: Explore Los Mochis

The only interesting spot in Los Mochis is the Benjamin Francis Botanical Garden better known as Sinaloa Park. The lung of the city has a beautiful array of vegetation, ranging from cacti to oriental bonsai. Near the Botanical Garden, you’ll find the contemporary building of Teatro Ingenio and the Trapiche Interactive Museum of Los Mochis, an interactive kids’ museum.

Copper Canyon Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit Copper Canyon

Overall, the best time to visit the Copper Canyon is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild, with comfortable daytime highs around 20-25°C (68-77°F). I traveled the Copper Canyon in mid-November and the weather was only slightly chilly and there was hardly any foreign tourist.

It can get pretty cold in the winter months (December-February) with temperatures ranging from 0-20°C (32-68°F). This is the only spot in Mexico when it actually snows. So if you’re looking to have a white Christmas, this is the place to go! Even though I was there close to winter, the weather was glorious – with sunny skies and comfortable temperatures.

The summer months (June-August) are the hottest, with temperatures ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F). I’d avoid the Mexican holidays such as Semana Santa (Easter) and Dia de Muertos (Day of the Dead), as many Mexicans travel around then.

TIP: It hardly gets crowded in the Copper Canyon, many people seem to be deterred from this region due to the narcos-related crime (more on that later). I barely saw any foreign tourists on my trip! If you’re looking to go off the beaten path, this is it.

Is the Copper Canyon Train Safe?

The Copper Canyon train itself has a good safety record, with no major accidents or incidents reported in recent years. The train is operated by Ferromex, one of Mexico’s largest railroad companies, and undergoes regular safety inspections.

In recent years, there have been isolated incidents of violence in the Copper Canyon region, mostly related to drug trafficking. Drug cartels have long used the remote mountains to plant illicit crops of marijuana and opium poppies.

In the 2000s, the cartels expanded into illegal logging on Raramuri lands, driving out or killing anyone who opposed them. At least a half dozen Raramuri environmental activists have been killed in Copper Canyon. The most recent incident happened in June 2022: two Jesuit priests and a tour guide were murdered in Cerocahui by the cartels.

To ensure the safety of tourists, the Mexican government and local tour operators have implemented a number of security measures, including increased police presence and surveillance along the train route. I personally felt safe on my Copper Canyon trip and didn’t encounter anything risky.

Who Travels on El Chepe Train?

Considering how close the Copper Canyon is to the US border, I was surprised to see very few American travelers. Sadly many foreigners are deterred from traveling around northern Mexico because of the narcos-related crime that plague the region. Most of the violence is still concentrated around the border areas; I personally didn’t feel unsafe at all here.

You will find many Mexican tourists exploring the area (mostly in tour groups). There are a good mix of seniors, multi-generational families and friends. Mexicans in general are so friendly and outgoing; I met many incredible people on the journey — like the trio of ladies from Mexico City who warmly invited me to join them for dinner; the group of older gentlemen whom I watched the sunrise with; and the family who shared with me plenty of tips from Durango.

Best Copper Canyon Tours

I’m a travel writer and seasoned traveler — but planning out the Copper Canyon train trip was tricky even for me. Because different trains run on different days and times, and there are over 15 stations in the route (which one to pick?!), it takes time and effort to draw out a plan and itinerary.

That’s why so many people prefer to travel on a Copper Canyon tour where all the logistics are taken care of. I traveled independently so I don’t have any personal experience to speak of here; these are what I’ve found from research.

Mexico Copper Canyon Tours runs well-priced tours that include all your train tickets, meals, tours and accommodation. They have pretty good reviews. Prices start at US$678 for a 5-day trip.
Copper Canyon Adventures seem to be a more established tour operator with a wide range of tours to choose from, though their tours are more expensive. They also do custom, private tours.
Chepe Explora is an in-house agency from El Chepe who can draw up itineraries for you and offer a full package that include train tickets and hotels.

What to Pack for Copper Canyon Mexico

Regardless of when you visit Copper Canyon, pack lots of layers as it can get really sunny in the day and chilly at night. If you’re taking the Copper Canyon train in winter, you’ll definitely need a proper winter jacket with thermals and thick socks. Make sure you pack a wide-rimmed hat, lots of water, and sunscreen.

I was there in November and kept warm with just my down jacket, fleece and hiking pants. Be sure to read my guide on what to pack for Mexico for more details.

Enjoy Exploring Copper Canyon Mexico!

I hope I’ve helped you plan your own trip by sharing my Copper Canyon itinerary. Feel free to bookmark this page and refer to you along the way or print it out and have it with you on your trip.

Let me know if you have any questions about Copper Canyon Mexico in the comments field below. I’d be more than happy to help you plan your trip!

Read my articles on Mexico below:

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