Chihuahua & The Copper Canyon

Cactus Strewn Deserts, Deep Canyons & Cliff-Top Vistas 

Chihuahua is the largest state in Mexico, surrounded by vast deserts, deep canyon ravines, fertile valleys, and cascading waterfalls - all separated by the Sierra Madre mountain range and once occupied by prolific mining communities, cowboys, bandits, and Mexican revolutionaries. 

Chihuahua is a gateway to the striking Copper Canyon region, which can be explored via the famous Chihuahua-Pacific Railway, also known as El Chepe. The 418-mile track travels over 37 bridges and through 86 tunnels. Routes can start from the state capital of Chihuahua City and end at the colonial sea town of Los Mochis (which also has ferry connections to Baja California). 

There are two types of trains for the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway. The El Chepe Express and El Chepe Regional. El Chepe Express has been hailed as the "luxury tourist train" with first-class ticket holders having access to a bar car, restaurant car and endless panoramic views of the Copper Canyon from a terrace car.  

With 25,000 miles of the Copper Canyon to discover and a chance to disembark the train at a few selected stops, you can spend your days relaxing in hot springs, marveling at waterfalls, and admiring red-coloured canyons from horseback or bike.  

The Area: 

Chihuahua will likely be your start or end point as it is the largest city along the train route and the easiest to access by international and domestic flights. 

Chihuahua city is a mixture of modern industry and colonial architecture. There are plenty of hotel options around the historic centre; from boutique guesthouses to well-known hotel chains. Also, expect to find a thriving nightlife and a bustling shopping hub. Whilst in the capital you must try burritos, quesadillas and carne asada.  

Travelling through Chihuahua state, you will stop at many old mining towns with varying unique characteristics, customs and natural beauty. In Creel, learn about the Tarahumara people. Eat the best seafood in El Fuerte and soak up the best views from the many viewpoints in Divisadero. 

Ultimately, you can also explore the Copper Canyon in many ways and at your own pace. Whatever you choose, you will truly be amazed by this unique landscape.  

Best Time To Go: 

The best time to visit Chihuahua is between September to April. The temperatures are cooler and you will experience less rainfall. The hottest month in Chihuahua is June, with an average high of 33°c and the wettest months are between June and September.  

If you are interested in riding on the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway, we recommend booking in advance to get the best seats and availability of tickets.