Overview

In the grandeur and desolation of Copper Canyon, nature dominates -- a land of steep ups and sharp downs, of spires and rocks, and of abundant vegetation. Four times the size of the Grand Canyon, Copper Canyon is so narrow that the river sees only an hour or two of direct sunlight each day. But this land is more than a natural wonder -- it is home to the reclusive Tarahumara.

Board a moving classroom for a ride in the sky through the most dramatic section of the Chihuahua-Pacifico railroad to discover Copper Canyon, the Barrancas del Cobre. Joined by naturalists and interpreters, learn why this railroad line is a major engineering feat with stops in local villages and missions to meet local Tarahumara people.

For at least 2,000 years the reticent Tarahumara people have lived in the Sierra Madre Mountains of northern Mexico, resisting outside intrusion by retreating, when necessary, to ever more inaccessible territory. Come inside a world that is untouched by time. Local Tarahumara women will demonstrate the making of their famous baskets from pine needles. Learn their simple, traditional way of life including traditional dances and pastimes.

Travel to Creel, a cozy lumber town nestled in the mountains. Stop to view peculiar rock formations that, through millions of years, have come to resemble frogs and mushrooms. Visit the empty churches of San Ignacio Mission where people stand, sit on the floor or dance during services. In Basaseachi National Park, enjoy the tranquility of the famous Basaseachi Fall.

As the sun sets on the canyon, you can’t help but imagine that 1,000 years ago this place looked nearly identical to today, and that eons from now, after the last humans have vanished, only their footpaths and the soot of their fires on cavern walls will mark their existence.