"Jennifer and her company Copper Moon Travels create tours that are fun, enriching, educational, and, out of the ordinary. Copper Moon Travels imbues in their tours a depth of educational, cultural and historical attributes that are unmatched, imho. Because of Jen's extensive list of contacts we were able to witness two Rarámuri Semana Santa (Holy Week) ceremonies; a rare and not to be missed experience. We stayed at an Eco-Lodge overlooking a canyon full of volcanic spires; awe inspiring. For a travel adventure to remember for a lifetime, book a tour with Copper Moon Travels!!"
- Bill & Pablo (Copper Canyon 2025)"
DATES DURATION DIFFICULTY GROUP SIZE BEGINS & ENDS MEALS
Mar 21 - Apr 3, 2027 13 Nights Easy 12 Max Los Mochis / Chihuahua City 34 (12 B / 7 L / 5 D
TOUR OVERVIEW
Journey deep into the heart of Mexico’s Copper Canyon on an unforgettable cultural and scenic adventure from Los Mochis, Sinaloa to Chihuahua City. Traveling first class aboard the legendary El Chepe Express, with access to the restaurant car and open-air caboose, we traverse one of the world’s great railway journeys through dramatic canyon landscapes and remote mountain communities. Timed to coincide with the syncretic Semana Santa ceremonies of the Rarámuri peoples, this tour offers a rare opportunity to witness colourful and deeply spiritual traditions found nowhere else in Mexico. We will explore both the canyon rim and its depths, staying in spectacular locations including Divisadero, Creel, and the beautiful colonial village of Batopilas. Along the way, we visit Rarámuri settlements during the celebrations, share in local traditions, and spend time at a rustic lodge boasting some of the finest canyon views imaginable. Our journey includes a tram ride over the breathtaking canyon junctions at Divisadero Park, light hiking excursions, visits to historic missions, and a basket-weaving workshop with Rarámuri women. We also spend time in the Mennonite communities of Chihuahua, learning about their unique history, culture, agricultural traditions, and distinctive cuisine that have become an important part of the region’s identity. Leaving the canyon behind, we travel north into the historic Casas Grandes region to explore some of northern Mexico’s most important archaeological and artistic treasures. We visit the cliff dwellings of Cuarenta Casas and the remarkable granary cave of Cueva de la Olla, offering fascinating insights into the ancient Mogollon world. At Paquimé, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, we explore the remains of one of the most sophisticated pre-Columbian civilizations of the North American Southwest. Our exploration continues in Mata Ortiz, where local artisans have revived the ancient ceramic traditions of Paquimé to create some of the finest pottery in Mexico. Here we visit artist studios and workshops, with opportunities to meet master potters and purchase pieces directly from their families. We also spend time in the historic community of Casas Grandes, gateway to this culturally rich region and an important crossroads of indigenous, colonial, and frontier history. We conclude in Chihuahua City with a guided tour of the historic centre and a memorable farewell meal celebrating the rich cultural tapestry, remarkable history, and distinctive flavours of northern Mexico.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
LOGISTICS
14 Days Duration
13 Nights Duration
Hotels (Double Occupancy)
12 Breakfasts
7 Lunches (Drinks separate)
5 Dinners (Drinks separate)
All other meals are separate
Private Transportation
First Class Train Ticket on El Chepe Express
13 Days with Local Expert
1 Boat Ride
ENTRANCE FEES & ACTIVITIES
Visit Mayo-Yoreme Village
Tram Car ride across canyon
Light hiking on canyon rim
Basket weaving with Raramuri women
Observe syncretic Raramuri rituals
Row on Lake Arareko
Visit Mennonite Farm
Entrance to Ancient Paquime
Entrance to Cueva de Olla
Visit Ceramic Artists in Mata Ortiz
IMPORTANT FLIGHT INFORMATION
FROM MEXICO CITY: There is a Volaris flight that departs Mexico City at 6:05 AM arriving at 7:25 AM in Los Mochis. Please book this flight if you are flying on Sunday March 28, 2027. FROM GUADALAJARA: There is a Volaris flight that departs Guadalajara City at 7:14 AM arriving at 7:51 AM in Los Mochis. Please book this flight if you are flying on Sunday March 28, 2027 Tijuana, Mexicali and Monterrery Airports also have direct flights to Los Mochis. If you are unable to arrive by 8:00 AM on March 28, 2027, please arrive one day early. Your guides will already be in Los Mochis, so we can meet for dinner if you are here on time. Please ask us for assistance with your hotels if you would like to stay where we are. DEPARTING FLIGHT FROM CHIHUAHUA CITY: Please book whatever flight makes the most sense for you. You can fly home at anytime on April 2, 2027. Keep in mind, most restaurants do not open for breakfast in Mexico until 8:00 AM, so if you have an early flight, you may want to pick up a yogurt and snacks for the morning.
5 SPECIAL HIGHLIGHTS
1
OBSERVE CULTURAL RITUALS
During Domingo de Ramos
The Mayo-Yoreme Deer Dance (Danza del Venado) is one of the most important ceremonial traditions of the Mayo-Yoreme people of southern Sonora and northern Sinaloa. The dance represents the spirit of the deer, a sacred animal that symbolizes the connection between humans, nature, and the spiritual world. Through graceful movements, the dancer imitates the alertness, beauty, and freedom of a deer moving through the desert and forest landscapes of the Yoreme homeland. Traditionally performed during religious festivals, especially around Holy Week and other community celebrations, the Deer Dance is accompanied by music from flute, drum, harp, violin, and rattles. The dancer often wears a deer head headdress and ankle rattles, while singers and musicians narrate the animal's journey through song. Although the tradition incorporates Catholic elements introduced during the colonial period, its roots are pre-Hispanic and continue to express the Mayo-Yoreme worldview, respect for nature, and commitment to preserving ancestral traditions
2
RIDE THE LEGENDARY RAILROAD
Traversing the Sierra Tarahumara
The El Chepe Express is Mexico’s premier luxury tourist train, traveling through the spectacular Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre) region of northern Mexico. The train follows part of the historic Chihuahua–Pacific Railway, crossing dramatic mountains, deep canyons, bridges, and tunnels between the states of Chihuahua and Sinaloa. Passengers enjoy panoramic views of the Sierra Tarahumara while stopping at destinations such as Creel, Divisadero, Bahuichivo, El Fuerte, and Los Mochis. Introduced in 2017, the Chepe Express offers comfortable tourist, business, and first-class accommodations, along with dining and observation areas. Widely considered one of the world’s great rail journeys, it combines breathtaking scenery with opportunities to experience the culture, history, and traditions of the Rarámuri (Tarahumara) people and the communities of the Copper Canyon region.
3
SYNCRETIC OBSERVATIONS
During Semana Santa
Among the Rarámuri people, the dances performed during Semana Santa (Holy Week) are among the most important ceremonial traditions of the year. More than a performance, the dancing is a form of prayer and a reenactment of the eternal struggle between the forces of good and evil. Participants dance for hours in circles and processions accompanied by drums, flutes, rattles, and chanting, creating a powerful expression of faith, community, and cultural identity. The ceremonies blend Catholic traditions introduced during the colonial era with much older Indigenous beliefs. Dancers portraying the Fariseos (Pharisees) and other ceremonial figures wear masks, body paint, rattles, and traditional regalia as they take part in rituals that symbolize renewal, balance, and the triumph of good over evil. For the Rarámuri, these ceremonies help sustain harmony in the world, strengthen their relationship with the Creator, and mark the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.
4
CABLE CAR RIDE
Across the widest canyon cap
The tram-style cable car at Divisadero Adventure Park offers one of the most spectacular ways to experience the immense beauty of Mexico’s Copper Canyon. Gliding silently above the canyon floor, the cable car travels nearly 3 kilometers (about 1.7 miles) across dramatic cliffs and deep ravines to a scenic viewpoint in the heart of the canyon system. During the 7–10 minute journey, passengers enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Copper, Urique, and Tararecua canyons, with opportunities to appreciate the vast scale of the Sierra Tarahumara and the rugged homeland of the Rarámuri people. It is widely considered one of the highlights of any visit to Copper Canyon, combining unforgettable scenery with a comfortable and accessible adventure.
5
VISIT ANCIENT CITY & GRANARY
In Mogollon Territory
The Mogollon culture was one of the great Indigenous traditions of the American Southwest and northern Mexico, flourishing from about 200 CE to 1450 CE. In present-day Chihuahua, the culture reached its highest expression at Paquimé (Casas Grandes), a remarkable trading and ceremonial center that flourished between the 12th and 15th centuries. Paquimé featured multi-story adobe buildings, sophisticated water-management systems, and extensive trade networks that connected the peoples of the Southwest with Mesoamerica. Archaeological evidence shows the exchange of turquoise, macaws, copper bells, and other valuable goods across vast distances. Another important Mogollon site in Chihuahua is Cueva de la Olla, or “Cave of the Pot,” named for its enormous clay granary shaped like a giant jar. Built within a rock shelter, this ingenious storage structure was used to preserve maize and other crops, demonstrating the agricultural knowledge and engineering skills of the region's inhabitants. Together, Paquimé and Cueva de la Olla illustrate the sophistication of the Mogollon world, highlighting a culture that combined farming, trade, architecture, and adaptation to the rugged landscapes of northern Mexico. During our travels to Casas Grandes, we will visit both of these incredible sites to learn about the mysteries of the Mogollon, before spending some time in Mata Ortiz to collect the famous pottery that was re-invented by the late Juan Quezada.
3 REASONS TO TRAVEL WITH US
1
SMALL GROUP TRAVEL
12 Maximum
This group is limited to 12 guests, which is an intimate group size that isn't too small or too large. It means we can diversify our eating experiences and stay in a couple of smaller hotels that are locally owned and quaint.
2
THIS TOUR IS CULTURALLY IMMERSIVE
And we take you into the canyon base
Very few tour companies bring guests to Copper Canyon during Semana Santa. The combination of large crowds, limited accommodations, and complex logistics makes it a challenging time to operate in the region, and many larger companies simply choose not to. We believe the effort is worthwhile. This journey has been carefully designed to provide a deeply immersive cultural experience, offering a rare opportunity to connect with the living traditions of the Rarámuri people as we travel through their ancestral lands. If you compare itineraries, you'll find that very few ventures descend to the canyon floor. We take you into the heart of the canyon not only because the journey itself is spectacular and the scenery unforgettable, but also because the ceremonies we will witness are genuine community observances rather than performances created for visitors. These are sacred traditions that remain deeply meaningful to the local people. We visit respectfully, obtaining permission in advance and following local customs and protocols, including bringing requested supplies as a gesture of appreciation for being welcomed into the community. Organizing a journey of this nature requires extensive research, careful planning, and the coordination of countless moving parts across a vast and remote landscape. The result is an experience that goes beyond the highlights featured on most Copper Canyon tours. In addition to the stunning landscapes, historic missions, vibrant markets, and traditional villages, our itinerary offers the chance to witness extraordinary expressions of faith and culture that can only be experienced during this special season. We truly hope you will join us for this remarkable adventure and discover a side of Copper Canyon that few travelers ever have the privilege to see.
3
THIS EXPERIENCE IS CURATED
Specifically for you
One of the challenges of designing a Copper Canyon itinerary is balancing the train schedule, the timing of Semana Santa, the long distances involved in navigating canyon roads, and the overall length of the tour. To address these factors, we have carefully curated this journey with two options: one for travelers who wish to experience the canyon crossing itself, and another that includes this three-night extension north to Casas Grandes, where we will explore the ancient Mogollón city of Paquimé, the important trading center of Cueva de la Olla, and the renowned pottery community of Mata Ortiz. While it would certainly be easier for us if everyone followed the same itinerary, we understand that work commitments, family responsibilities, and even beloved pets can limit the time available for travel. We strive to create flexible experiences that accommodate a variety of needs, allowing more travelers to enjoy this remarkable region in a way that works best for them.
TO CONFIRM YOUR TOUR
This tour is priced at $78,890 MXN per person We require a 50% non-refundable deposit to confirm your tour. We accept payments through Wise or traditional bank transfer. If you would like to use a credit card, we charge an extra 5% to cover their processing fees. You may choose to pay the deposit or full trip amount on your credit card by clicking on the appropriate button below. ALL TOURS ARE PRICED IN MEXICAN PESOS. YOUR BANK WILL CONVERT THE AMOUNT FOR YOU. If you would like to use a payment plan, we can invoice you monthly, The balance must be paid in full by the start of the trip. If you are paying the balance through a bank transfer or by credit card, it is due 2 weeks prior to our tour commencement. Otherwise, you may pay the balance with cash upon arrival. Please purchase Travel Insurance to cover any emergencies that could cause you to cancel your trip.
LET'S HIT THE ROAD!
DAY
1
MAYO-YOREME BEGINNINGS
El Fuerte, Sinaloa
MORNING: Welcome to Los Mochis and entrance of Mexico’s iconic Copper Canyon. Please be at the airport this morning by 8:00 AM. If you are staying in Los Mochis on Saturday March 27, 2027 we will pick you up this morning before departing for the airport to pick up the rest of the guests. We will have breakfast at Pan Springs, a popular local breakfast and brunch spot featuring eggs Benedict Norteños, fresh orange juice, cinnamon rolls and more. From there, we are off to visit some local indigenous communities to observe some of their rituals and traditions that commence today, being Domingo de Ramos, which marks the start of Semena Santa. AFTERNOON: This afternoon we will observe cultural rituals before heading to our quaint hotel in El Fuerte for Check-In. We are working with our driver to confirm our lunch plans, but will make sure we get lunch. EVENING: Dinner is scheduled for 6:30 PM with some comical entertainment. This evening, rest and relax early as we will have an early start tomorrow. ABOUT DOMINGO DE RAMOS IN THIS REGION: Among the Mayo-Yoreme people of northern Sinaloa and southern Sonora, Domingo de Ramos (Palm Sunday) marks the formal beginning of Holy Week and the start of some of the most important ceremonies in their annual ritual calendar. Rather than being solely a Catholic observance, it is a unique blend of Indigenous Yoreme beliefs and Christian traditions that developed over centuries. During this period, ceremonial centers become the focus of community life as families, dancers, musicians, and traditional authorities gather to begin the reenactment of the Passion of Christ through a distinctly Yoreme worldview. One of the most striking features of Domingo de Ramos is the appearance of the Fariseos (also called Judíos or Chapayekas), masked ceremonial participants who represent disorder, temptation, and the forces opposed to Christ. Wearing handcrafted masks made from leather or wood and adorned with tenábaris (ankle rattles made from butterfly cocoons), they process through the community accompanied by drums, rattles, and traditional music. Their role is not simply theatrical; they symbolize the eternal struggle between chaos and order, a concept deeply rooted in Yoreme spirituality. Throughout Holy Week, ceremonies continue with processions, dances, prayers, and communal gatherings. Traditional performances such as the Pascola and Venado (Deer) dances help maintain the balance between the spiritual and natural worlds. The ceremonies culminate on Holy Saturday when the Fariseos remove, burn, or discard their masks, symbolizing purification, renewal, and the triumph of good over evil. For the Mayo-Yoreme, Domingo de Ramos is therefore much more than the blessing of palms—it is the opening chapter of a sacred cycle that preserves cultural identity, ancestral knowledge, and community cohesion. MEALS: Breakfast & Lunch included. Dinner is separate
DAY
2
THE LEGENDARY CHEPE EXPRESS
Canyon Rim, Chihuahua
MORNING: This morning, please have your luggage in the lobby by 7:30 AM, as we will load the van before having breakfast. We will depart the hotel by 8:30 AM for the train station, boarding with First Class Tickets for access to the open-air caboose and restaurant car. The Chepe Express is Mexico’s premier passenger train journey, traveling through the spectacular Copper Canyon region between Los Mochis, Sinaloa, and Creel, Chihuahua. Following a historic rail route completed in 1961, the train crosses dozens of bridges and tunnels while traversing dramatic canyons, mountains, rivers, and pine forests of the Sierra Madre Occidental. The modern Chepe Express offers panoramic windows, comfortable seating, dining services, and access to some of northern Mexico’s most stunning landscapes, making it one of the world’s great scenic railway experiences and an important gateway to the culture of the Indigenous Rarámuri (Tarahumara) people. AFTERNOON: Lunch on the train is included. We will spend the majority of the day enjoying the fabulous views, as we traverse the Sierra Tarahumara, including some great engineering feats along the way. We will arrive at the train station at approximately 4:15 PM. We will be required to wait for about 20 mins while the train unloads luggage. From there, we will board a bus to our hotel, which overlooks the canyon rim with breathtaking views, sunsets and a magical morning sunrise. EVENING: Our dinner reservation is at the hotel, so guests can relax in your rooms or hotel lobby, which features a bar and a beautiful patio filled with hummingbird feeders and lovely views. MEALS: All meals are included. Drinks are separate. Please bring cash for your drinks, as they will only issue one bill for our group.
DAY
3
CULTURE IN POWERFUL LANDSCAPES
Canyon Rim, Chihuahua
MORNING: We will request the restaurant has coffee for sunrise for those who would like to run down early for a hot cup to enjoy as the sun appears from behind the canyon walls. We will meet for breakfast at 8:30 AM, departing for the Divisadero Adventure Park by 9:30 AM. The Adventure Park features a tram car that goes across the canyon, and an awesome zip-line for the adventurous adrenaline-rush lovers. There is a colourful handicraft market here, with the famous pine needle baskets and vibrant traditional skirts and blouses worn by Raramuri women. AFTERNOON: We will have lunch at the Adventure Park before enjoying a lovely hike along the canyon rim. For those who struggle with hills, this is the perfect hike for you, as it’s flat and even ground. We will hike to the old train station to enjoy the fantastic scenery, concluding with another small market before we board the bus and head back to the resort. This afternoon, enjoy a fun basket-weaving class with the local Raramuri women. It is very difficult but instructive as to how these baskets are held together. Our last group didn’t manage to weave anything, but we sure enjoyed a lot of laughs with our teachers. This is a fun activity that gives-back to the local women, many of whom walk for 2.5 hours each way, every day, to sell their baskets here. EVENING: Our dinner reservation is in the hotel, so we can relax and enjoy another lovely evening visiting. Our guide is always eager to hike in the vicinity, so those who love to hike can do so with a guide who knows the way. MEALS: Breakfast and Dinner Included. Lunch is separate.
DAY
4
AN OTHERWORLDLY VIEW
Rustic Resort, Chihuahua
MORNING: Please have your luggage ready by 7:30 AM so we can ask the hotel staff to bring them to the van while we have breakfast. We would like to depart by 8:15 AM this morning, as we have a longer day today. We are heading to a small Raramuri community this morning to visit their mission and observe any rituals that may be taking place. AFTERNOON: Upon arriving in the village, we will talk to the community leaders to gain permission to observe any of the rituals taking place today. The Raramuri are not tied to time-schedules are we are used to in our culture, as they respond intuitively to how they feel. This means it is impossible to guarantee that we will be present during any dances today, but we will have the chance to visit the mission and learn about their community. We are bringing a bag lunch for today, so you can eat in the van at leisure. We will depart for our eco-resort no later than 2:30 PM. The commute will take about 2 hours, and we will need to settle-in before dark. The resort is rustic and primitive, but the views are hands-down the very best in all of the Copper Canyon. We would like you to enjoy the magical sunset and sunrise, as this place is filled with magic. EVENING: For those who like trout, the resort has their own trout farm, which is on-site with a waterfall-fed stream that flows through it, keeping it fresh and pristine. The kitchen staff will catch your trout and cook it fresh, served with homemade blue corn tortillas and delicious salsas. This evening we will enjoy exploring the kitchen, as it features a pre-Hispanic granary and several mortal and pestles and other ancient artefacts that were found right here on the property. Due to the rustic nature of this resort, we will only stay here for one night. MEALS: All meals are included. Drinks are separate. We will organize a trip to a liquor store while staying at the Canyon Rim so you can bring some supplies, as this resort is very remote.
DAY
5
THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD
Batopilas, Chihuahua
MORNING: This morning we will enjoy a leisurely breakfast and departure so guests have time to hike down to the waterfall and take in the mesmerizing views. This will give the staff time to bring our luggage up to the van. We will depart at 11:00 AM. AFTERNOON: Most of our afternoon will be spent commuting to Batopilas. We will make a short stop at a wonderful look-out point where artisans will be selling beadwork and other handicrafts. We will have a box lunch today, consisting of Mennonite cheese, salami, bread and some other treats. EVENING: We will check into our lovely hotel in Batopilas before heading to Restaurant Carolina for dinner. MEALS: All Meals Included. Drinks are separate.
DAY
6
RITUAL DANCES OF THE RARAMURI
Batopilas, Chihuahua
MORNING: We will meet this morning at 8:00 AM for breakfast at Restaurant Maria Meche before we head out for a walking tour of Batopilas. Nestled deep within the Copper Canyon region of the Sierra Madre Occidental in the state of Chihuahua, Batopilas was founded in 1708 after Spanish explorer José de la Cruz discovered exceptionally rich silver deposits in the area. The town quickly grew into one of the most important silver-mining centers in colonial Mexico, attracting investors, miners, and merchants from around the world. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, its mines produced enormous wealth, and at its peak Batopilas was among the most prosperous mining communities in North America. In the late 1800s, American entrepreneur Alexander Robey Shepherd modernized the town, introducing infrastructure and helping make it one of the first communities in Mexico to have electricity. Although the mining boom eventually declined, Batopilas retains its historic haciendas, colonial architecture, and mining heritage, and today it is celebrated as a Pueblo Mágico and one of the most fascinating destinations in the Copper Canyon region. AFTERNOON: At around 2:30 PM, we will depart Batopilas for a nearby church where the Raramuri will be gathering for traditional protocols related to Semana Santa rituals. The traditional blessings that precede these observations include blessing instruments that will be used, gifts that are brought as offerings, offering tesquina (a corn-based beer-like beverage) to honoured guests and so-on. We will stay here to observe for a couple of hours. PHOTOGRAPHS: When we observed this ceremony for the first time, the Raramuri authorities only permitted the guides to take a few photographs and some short film but prohibited guests from taking any photos or video with cell phones or cameras. We will be sure to make sure we share what photos we do take with you, as this protocol must be respected. EVENING: We will return to Restaurant Maria Mecha this evening for dinner at 7:00 PM. MEALS: Breakfast Included and Dinner Included
DAY
7
DANCE OF GOOD VS EVIL
Batopilas, Chihuahua
MORNING: This morning we will have breakfast at 8:00 AM at Maria Meche before returning to the Raramuri church, where we will spend a few hours witnessing more of their unique ceremonies. Timing will depend on how the community is feeling, but in general, the visuals and rituals are very interesting. AFTERNOON: We are leaving this afternoon free, due to the timing of ceremonies in this region. Depending on what it happening, guests may choose to stay at the church site or return to Batopilas for some down-time. EVENING: We are leaving dinner open, as Batopilas only has two real options, as of our last visit. This also gives guests the opportunity to live life on your own terms this afternoon. MEALS: Breakfast is included. All other meals are separate.
DAY
8
CUSARARE MISSION
Creel, Chihuahua
MORNING: This morning, please bring your luggage to the lobby by 7:45 AM so we can load the van and say farewell to our hosts. We will head to Restaurant Maria Mecha one last time for their amazing offerings before we depart Batopilas. AFTERNOON: We will stop at the Cusarare Ejido this afternoon, on our way to Creel. Upon arriving in Creel, we can check in and enjoy a walking tour of the small, charming village. We will have a bag lunch today to enjoy during our commute. EVENING: This evening we will have dinner at 7 PM. MEALS: Breakfast & Lunch Included.
DAY
9
THE JESUITS & THE HISTORY THEY LEFT BEHIND
Creel, Chihuahua
MORNING: This morning we will have breakfast at 8:00 AM before departing for an old Mission with significant importance. The Sigochochi Mission, located in the highlands of the Sierra Tarahumara in Chihuahua, was established by Jesuit missionaries during the seventeenth century as part of their efforts to evangelize and work alongside the Indigenous Rarámuri (Tarahumara) people. The mission became an important religious, cultural, and community center, serving scattered mountain settlements throughout the region. Like many Jesuit missions in the Sierra Madre, it combined European religious traditions with local Indigenous influences and played a key role in education, agriculture, and community life. Today, the mission church remains a significant landmark, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Jesuit presence in the Copper Canyon region and the resilience of Rarámuri culture, which continues to thrive in the surrounding communities. We will visit this interesting site this morning. AFTERNOON: This afternoon we will enjoy a relaxing canoe ride on Lake Arareko, complete with a nice picnic by the lakeside. EVENING: This evening marks the final supper for our group, unless everyone decides to join us for our 3 night extension to visit Casas Grandes in Northern Chihuahua. We hope you will, as you will probably only be in this area once in a lifetime, and the offerings of Casas Grandes region are profoundly interesting. (Please check our 13 Nights Copper Canyon tour to read about the extra 3 nights). MEALS: Breakfast and Lunch included.
DAY
10
INTO HUÁPOCA CANYON
Madera, Chihuahua
MORNING: Please have your luggage ready by 7:45 AM. We will help get your luggage to the van, before having breakfast and bidding farewell to this powerful region. This morning we travel to Cuarentas Casas! AFTERNOON: Cuarenta Casas ("Forty Houses") is one of the most important archaeological sites associated with the Mogollon-Casas Grandes culture in the mountains of northwestern Chihuahua. Occupied primarily between 1200 and 1450 CE, the settlement consists of adobe rooms built within natural caves and cliff alcoves overlooking the Huápoca Canyon. Despite its name, the site never actually contained forty houses; early explorers simply estimated the number of visible structures and the name remained. Archaeologists believe Cuarenta Casas functioned as an outlying community connected to the regional center of Paquimé. Its strategic location allowed residents to oversee trade routes, protect valuable resources, and support agricultural activities in the surrounding mountains. The best-known structure, the Cueva de las Ventanas ("Cave of the Windows"), features characteristic T-shaped doorways and multi-room adobe construction. Today, Cuarenta Casas offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who inhabited the rugged Sierra Madre and helped sustain the broader Casas Grandes civilization. The hike to Cuarentas Casas is moderate, as we will descend into Huapoca Canyon, then will need to hike back up. We recommend bringing a walking stick, as some segments of the trail are steep. For those of you who have hiked in the Monarch Butterfly Reserve, this hike is comparable but lower altitude than the Monarch Biosphere, therefore not as hard on the lungs. The distance is also shorter than the Monarch Biosphere requires. We will bring a bag lunch today, so guests can eat at leisure. EVENING: We will check into the hotel and head for dinner, followed by rest. MEALS: Breakfast and lunch Included. Dinner is separate.
DAY
11
MYSTERIES OF THE MOGOLLON
Casas Grandes, Chihuahua
MORNING: Please have your luggage in the lobby by 7:45 AM so we can load the van, have breakfast and depart at around 8:30 AM. We have a 3.5 hour commute to reach the small Pueblo Magico of Casas Grandes. AFTERNOON: We will stop for lunch before entering the magnificent ancient city of Paquime. Paquimé (Casas Grandes) was the largest and most important city of the Mogollon-Casas Grandes culture in northern Mexico, flourishing between approximately 1200 and 1450 CE. Located in what is now northwestern Chihuahua, Paquimé developed into a major center of trade, agriculture, and ceremonial life, linking the cultures of the American Southwest with those of Mesoamerica. The city featured multi-story adobe apartment complexes, sophisticated water-management systems, plazas, ball courts, and workshops for crafting pottery, shell ornaments, and other goods. At its height, Paquimé was the hub of a vast regional network that included outlying settlements such as Cuarenta Casasand Cueva de la Olla. Archaeological evidence reveals extensive trade in turquoise, macaws, copper bells, and other luxury items. The city was eventually abandoned in the fifteenth century, but its impressive ruins remain one of the most significant archaeological sites in northern Mexico. Today, Paquimé is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides a remarkable window into the cultural achievements of the ancient peoples of the Chihuahuan Desert. After we visit the archaeological site, we will visit the museum and check into our hotel. EVENING: We will have dinner and rest MEALS: Breakfast is included. All other meals are separate.
DAY
12
JUAN QUEZADA & THE REVIVAL OF MATA ORTIZ
Casas Grandes, Chihuahua
MORNING: We will meet for breakfast at 8:00 AM, departing by 8:45 AM for the foothills of the mountains to visit Cueva de la Olla. A visit to Cueva de la Olla offers a unique opportunity to understand how the people of the Casas Grandes world lived beyond the great city of Paquimé. Nestled within a dramatic rock shelter in the Sierra Madre foothills, the site contains one of the most extraordinary archaeological features in northern Mexico: a massive clay granary, or cuexcomate, built to store maize and other crops. This remarkable structure demonstrates the ingenuity of the region's inhabitants and their ability to thrive in a challenging mountain environment. While Paquimé reveals the grandeur of an ancient urban center, Cueva de la Olla provides a more intimate look at daily life. Visitors can see the remains of dwellings, characteristic T-shaped doorways, and the giant storage vessel that helped sustain local communities through harsh seasons and periods of drought. The setting is beautiful, the site is rarely crowded, and the experience helps bring the broader Casas Grandes civilization into focus. Together with Paquimé and Cuarenta Casas, Cueva de la Olla completes the story of a sophisticated culture that flourished in northern Chihuahua more than 700 years ago. AFTERNOON: This afternoon we will head to the small village of Mata Ortiz, where artists have revived a modern version of the polychromatic ceramics of the ancient Mogollon. Juan Quezada Celado (1940–2022) was the renowned Mexican potter who revived the ancient ceramic traditions of Paquimé and transformed the village of Mata Ortiz into an internationally recognized center for fine pottery. As a young man, Quezada became fascinated by pottery fragments he found near the ruins of Paquimé and began experimenting with traditional methods, teaching himself how to create vessels using local clays, natural pigments, and hand-building techniques. His extraordinary craftsmanship attracted international attention in the 1970s, and he shared his knowledge freely with family members and neighbors. As a result, Mata Ortiz evolved into a thriving artisan community where hundreds of potters create award-winning ceramics inspired by ancient Casas Grandes designs. Today, Juan Quezada is celebrated not only as a master artist but also as the driving force behind one of the most successful cultural and economic revitalization movements in rural Mexico. We will visit at least two artisan studios this afternoon, where you can see this living art form come to life and have the opportunity to purchase some pieces directly from the artists. EVENING: We will have dinner and rest. MEALS: Breakfast is included. All other meals are separate.
DAY
13
CHIHUAHUA CITY BOUND
Chihuahua City, Chihuahua
MORNING: Please have your luggage in the lobby by 7:45 AM. We will load the van, have breakfast and hit the highway for the colonial centro of Chihuahua City! The commute will take us about 4 hours. AFTERNOON: We will have lunch upon arriving in Chihuahua City, before enjoying a fabulous tour of Chihuahua City Centro. Chihuahua City occupies a surprisingly important place in Mexican history. Founded in 1709 as a mining and trade center, it became a strategic crossroads linking northern Mexico with the rest of the country. The city is perhaps best known as the place where Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, the father of Mexican independence, was imprisoned and executed in 1811 after leading the first uprising against Spanish rule. Later, Chihuahua served as the headquarters of Benito Juárez during the French Intervention, effectively making it the seat of the Mexican Republic for a time. It was also a major center during the Mexican Revolution and the home of Pancho Villa. These pivotal events give Chihuahua City a historical significance far greater than many visitors expect, making it one of the most important cities in the story of modern Mexico. We will visit the opulent Quinta Gameros Mansion, home of legendary Pancho Villa and the Government Palace where Father Hidalgo was executed. EVENING: Tonight we have a fantastic feast planned at one of Chihuahua’s top-rated restaurants. Our Last Supper… MEALS: Breakfast and Dinner are included. Drinks are separate.
DAY
14
HOME SWEET HOME
N/A
MORNING: The hotel will arrange a taxi to take you to the airport this morning. Once we know who is flying home today, we can put you in touch so you can commute together, if possible. MEALS: All meals are separate
"The most memorable journeys are not measured by the places we visit, but by the people who welcome us and the stories they share." - Anonymous
LOGISTICS & OTHER INFO
ACCOMMODATIONS
We have a real mix of accommodations for this tour. From a cliff-side resort with sunrise views to a Troje-style lodge that is quaint, a rustic cave-like dwelling in the most otherworldly landscape and a living museum that is a work of art and history, this trip has more luxury than rustic, but certainly a bit of both!
BANKING
We recommend contacting your bank to inform them you will be travelling out of country. ATM machines are accessible in airports and there is one bank in El Fuerte and Creel. The rest of the places we visit do not have ATM's, so please make sure you bring enough cash! You may use credit cards in select restaurants, but we recommend leaving the tip in cash. Not all international ATM's work in restaurants or stores, but you will be able to withdraw cash from the bank machines. IMPORTANT INFO FOR TAKING CASH OUT OF THE ATM: While you must always accept the "service fee" for using the ATM's, some Mexican banks will also offer you a conversion rate. ALWAYS HIT DECLINE. You will still receive your cash, but your own bank will give you a much better conversion rate.
CLIMATE & ALTITUDE
El Fuerte (Late March) At an elevation of approximately 100 meters (330 feet) above sea level, El Fuerte is typically warm to hot in late March. Daytime temperatures generally range from 28–35°C (82–95°F), while evenings and early mornings are comfortable at 15–20°C (59–68°F). Rain is uncommon, and visitors can expect mostly sunny skies and low humidity. Canyon Rim (Divisadero) & Creel (Late March) Located at elevations of approximately 2,300–2,400 meters (7,500–7,900 feet), Divisadero and Creel enjoy a cool mountain climate in late March. Daytime temperatures are usually pleasant, ranging from 15–24°C (59–75°F), while mornings and evenings can be chilly, often dropping to 0–8°C (32–46°F). Occasional late-season frosts are possible, and layered clothing is essential due to the large temperature swings between day and night. Batopilas (Late March) Situated deep within Copper Canyon at approximately 500 meters (1,650 feet) above sea level, Batopilas enjoys a warm, spring-like climate in late March. Daytime temperatures typically range from 28–34°C (82–93°F), with evenings cooling to 15–20°C (59–68°F). The canyon's lower elevation and sheltered location create a noticeably warmer environment than the canyon rim, making the descent from Creel to Batopilas feel like traveling from a mountain climate into the subtropics in just a few hours.
MEDICAL INSURANCE & EMERGENCY CONTACT
Please purchase medical insurance before you come and send us contact information for your insurance provider AND an emergency contact, in case you are unable to communicate with us. Please send our contact information to a family member or friend in case someone at home cannot get a hold of you.
MOBILITY REQUIREMENTS
This tour does not require a lot of hiking, nor will we walk a lot of hills. That said, at some of the hotels, there are stairs. If you have mobility issues, please let us know so we can discuss this in detail and make sure this is the right fit for you.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Throughout the years, we have endured many cancellations for various emergencies, which has forced us to change our booking policy. Please purchase travel insurance to cover trip cancellation in the event that you suffer a medical emergency, bereavement, climate event etc.
WHAT TO BRING
These are some recommendations for items you may wish to bring for your trip. * Rain poncho or compact umbrella. It doesn't usually rain at this time of year. * Walking Stick * Layered clothing for warm and hot weather. A light jacket is smart to bring. * 2 Pairs of comfortable shoes * Hand Sanitizer * Hat, Sunscreen and Sunglasses * Power Bank for your phone * An open mind!
FAQ'S
1
HOW MUCH CASH SHOULD I BRING?
Handicrafts in the canyons are very inexpensive, but you will want to purchase some baskets. The large baskets are fabulous, and the small ones are perfect for jewelry and gifts. Depending on how much you like to spend, I would consider a budget of $300 - $600 Pesos per day, based on your own experience as a shopper.
2
WHAT IF I DON'T WANT TO PURCHASE ANYTHING?
When we visit the collectives, you are not obligated to purchase anything. Artisans are well aware that many guests will not buy, so please do not feel embarrassed or pressured to purchases pieces you don't truly desire.
3
ARE WE ALLOWED TO TAKE PHOTOS IN THE VILLAGES?
Always ask permission before taking photos of indigenous people, especially their children. When we visit the Raramuri during the Semana Santa ritual, we will not be permitted to take photographs. They permitted the guides last year, so hopefully they will grant us permission again - and we will share them with you.
4
IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK?
The water is safe for brushing your teeth, but please always drink bottled water. Ice cubes are made with purified water across most of Mexico now, so they will be safe.
5
WHAT IS THE STANDARD TIPPING AMOUNT?
We generally recommend tipping your driver around $40-$50 MXN per day, while doubling that for your team leaders, depending on their service. For your hotel or housekeeper, if you ask for cleaning services, we recommend $40-$50 MXN per service. If you are purchasing groceries and someone bags them for you, the average payment is 5 MXN per bag. Our drivers and guides establish their own rates, but tipping is still customary in Mexico, particularly in tourism-based professions. In restaurants, the standard tipping among foreigners is 15-20%. Please do not worry about tipping for meals that are included, as we will cover that! We also encourage our guests to pay all tips in cash whenever possible, as some restaurants do not allow tips to go through on credit or debit cards.
