The Copper Canyon holidays
The Copper Canyon holidays at a glance
Deep in the Sierra Madre mountains of Mexico’s rugged north-west, the seemingly fathomless Copper Canyon cuts a swathe through barren desert crust, opening up some of the continent’s most spectacular mountain scenery. This is Copper Canyon Mexico at its rawest – a score of ravines and gorges, and as the altitude climbs towards 2,400m, an ever-shifting mix of landscape and vegetation, from snow-dusted peaks smothered in conifers down to sub-tropical citrus groves. The canyon sits deep within Sierra Madre Mexico, the mountain range that gives the whole of the north its dramatic spine.
The canyon is also home to the Tarahumara people, among Mexico’s most traditional indigenous communities, and their presence adds a rich cultural layer to a region already celebrated for its natural beauty. Chihuahua, the city that gave the dog breed its name back in the 19th century, makes a convenient base before or after exploring the canyon, with an historic colonial centre ringed by mountains, canyons and ranches.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday to The Copper Canyon
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
The combination of dramatic landscapes, indigenous culture and one of the world’s great railway journeys makes Copper Canyon one of Mexico’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
When to visit The Copper Canyon
Weather here varies hugely with altitude, so the best time to visit Copper Canyon really depends on what you want from the trip. Spring and autumn tend to offer the most comfortable mix of mild days and clear skies for taking in the views. Deep snow is common at higher altitudes between November and March, particularly around Creel (2,336m) and San Juanita (2,348m), Mexico’s highest town. Evenings turn especially cold in January and February. Down in the canyon’s lower reaches, temperatures can spike as high as 40°C in June, while December can drop below zero after dark – it’s worth packing for both extremes whenever you travel.
These months have the most pleasant temperatures, though at higher altitudes it can drop below zero in December – February. You’ll often find snow in the Copper Canyon rim area during this season. The cooler weather means these months are ideal for hiking and active adventures like zip lining. There is less rainfall during this season, with February – March as the driest months. November is a good time to experience the waterfalls in full flow, as the rainy season has just ended.
These are the hottest months, with temperatures peaking in June at 40°C. Humidity is high and settles at the base of the canyon, obscuring some viewpoints. From June onwards is the rainy season, with July and August being the wettest months. October is a good time to visit waterfalls, which will be in full flow following the rainy season. June – August are busy with plenty of visitors, and in July there is an annual triathlon and a mountain biking competition in Barrancas del Cobre.
Top Things to do in The Copper Canyon
Copper Canyon combines dramatic mountain scenery, unique transport experiences and adventure activities. Whether you’re travelling by railway, cable car or zipline, the region offers countless opportunities to experience its immense scale.
Observe the untamed mountain scenery of the Copper canyon from the air on a zipline and cable car.
Take luxury rail service the Chepe Express through Mexico’s Copper Canyon.
Ride the rails on one of the world’s most awe-inspiring train journeys.
Accommodation in The Copper Canyon
We choose accommodation across the region to make the most of its scenery and transport links, from lodges perched on the canyon rim to colonial-style hotels in Chihuahua. Among our favourites are Posada Barrancas Mirador, set right on the canyon edge, and Posada del Hidalgo, a short way off in El Fuerte.
Cosy, rustic accommodation with extraordinary sweeping views across the breadth of the Mexican Copper Canyon.
Historically significant converted colonial mansion offering evocative accommodation at el Fuerte on Mexico’s Copper Canyon Railway.
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Tailor-Made The Copper Canyon Tours
Prefer to travel on your own terms? We’ll build a trip around your dates, your pace and the things you most want to see – whether that’s a first run at Machu Picchu, a family adventure mixing history and wildlife, or a food-focused journey through Lima and the Sacred Valley. Our Travel Experts can help shape it with you.
Mexico’s Copper Canyon Railway
Places visited: Mexico City · The Copper Canyon
10 days from £3,300
FAQs about visiting The Copper Canyon
The Copper Canyon is one of the most popular destinations, and there’s plenty to think about before you go. Here, our specialists share their best advice.
- When is the best time to visit the Copper Canyon?
Evenings can get very cold in the canyon when temperatures drop below zero, especially in Jan-Feb. Deep snow is very common especially in the area between Creel at 2,336m and Mexico’s highest town, San Juanita (2,348m.)
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What language is spoken in the Copper Canyon?
The main language spoken in the Copper Canyon is Spanish.
- What currency do I need in the Copper Canyon?
The Mexican peso is the main currency used in the Copper Canyon. Acquire your local currency needs before travelling to the canyon. Notes can be withdrawn ATMs in large towns using a UK credit or debit card. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK, and amounts may be lower than permitted in the UK. Casas de cambio exchange dollars cash; rates for Euros and sterling are low.
- What is the time difference between the Copper Canyon and the UK?
The time difference between the Copper Canyon and the UK is GMT -7 hrs.
- What does a visit to the Copper Canyon combine well with?
A visit to Baja California to kayak or watch whales, or just spend some beach time;, there’s a ferry service from near Los Mochis, and flights across the Sea of Cortés.
- How do I get to the Copper Canyon?
Fly from Mexico City to Los Mochis (2hrs) or Chihuahua, 1hr 45mins).
Ready to start planning?
Tell us where you want to go, and we’ll take it from there. No obligation, no sales pitch – just a conversation with someone who knows the region inside out.