Marvel at the monumental pyramids at Teotihuacan, mysterious ceremonial site of palaces and temples close to Mexico City, which dominated the region for 500 years.
Ride by train through the awesome Copper Canyon, at 200m top to bottom one of the deepest, and longest, on the planet. The bare peaks around are dusted with snow, the forest is subtropical. The lonelytrack clings to the cliff walls, crossing bridges and plunging through tunnels.
The trip starts in Chihuahua, one of the centres of the Mexican revolution: there are three days of magnificent rail journeys (2-7hours each) in comfy carriages with switch-backs enabling climbs and descents and jaw-dropping views over the chasms. Overnight in comfortable hotels en route.
Travel to Baja California, and explore the hidden bays and caves of the Pacific coast by kayak. Spend a day whale-watching (Dec to Apr) in the lagoons and protected waters where the magnificent grey whales mate and give birth.
We’ve been there
"The train climbs into the Copper Canyon, over viaducts and through deep cuttings...sadly, my son thought the best bit was when the train completely demolished a grazing cow, leaving it in pieces by the trackside." Chris Parrott, Journey Latin America Director
Where do you sleep?
12 nights: 2 nights Mexico City (tourist class superior hotel), 1 night El Fuerte, 1 night Urique (simple hotel), 3 nights camping, 1 night Batopilas (tourist class), 1 night El Fuerte, 2 nights La Paz, 1 night Mexico City.
A bit more time?
Extend your stay on the beach on the Baja Peninsula, and visit the deserted islands in the bay.
Weather watch
There are two distinct climatic zones in the region: alpine in the highlands and subtropical in the canyon bottoms. In the mountains Oct to Nov and Mar to Apr have the most moderate temperatures - but even then, temperatures in the bottom of the canyon will be warm. Jul to Sep is the rainy season, when there are afternoon thunder showers. In the canyon the temperature is warm and humid except in the winter. Apr to Jun are the hottest, driest months.
Top Tip
The hotels in Divisadero are close to the edge of the precipice. Rise early that morning and watch the sunlight catch the far rim of the canyon. And don't forget your binoculars. | 
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