Mexico - The Copper Canyon In Style

Days 1 and 2. Outbound via Mexico City

Depart the UK and overnight in Mexico City with a backdrop of very live volcanoes. Fly north to Los Mochis and transfer to the charming colonial gateway of the Copper Canyon, El Fuerte and your restored period mansion - the first of many historic hotels during the trip.

Day 3. The Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad!

All aboard this spectacular world famous train trip into the Sierra Madre Mountains through dozens of tunnels and over countless bridges witnessing the natural transition from coast to high sierra. Take a scenic transfer to the Wild West town of Urique to overnight in a spectacularly situated wilderness lodge perched on the rim of the canyon.

Days 4 and 5. Urique Canyon

Cross the Urique river and ascend rapidly through thorn forest to a beautiful campsite in a grapefruit grove. Walking in the cool shadows of the towering canyon walls you climb up through chapparal and ever-changing vegetation to the top of La Yesca where the views open out into every direction over the stunning Urique Canyon.

Days 6 and 7. Cerro Colorado Canyon

Traverse the whispering pine forests of Piedra Redonda before emerging to sprawling vistas of the meandering Cerro Colorado Canyon. Descend from alpine terrain to a sensational campsite perched high above the river with views of the canyon straight from your tents. Switchbacks bring you through a more tropical flora and you eventually follow the river into the frontier town of Batopilas. Enjoy a well-deserved margarita in your charming hacienda.

Days 8 to 11. Chihuahua and Homeward

Explore the cobbled streets of this atmospheric place before driving up out of the canyon on an incredible climb to Creel, the frontier logging outpost. Overnight here in yet another traditional and colourful inn before transferring to the fascinating town of Chihuahua, one of the most important cultural and historical centres in Mexico. A farewell fiesta sets you on your way for your overnight flight back to the UK.

Baja Whales Option (February only)

Our February departures can include the option to fly out to the Baja Peninsula prior to the hiking trip as per the itinerary below:

Days 1 and 2. Outbound to the Baja Peninsula

Fly overnight to Mexico City and on to the picturesque seaside resort of La Paz.

Days 3 to 7. Espiritu Santo Kayaking

Transfer to the World Heritage site of Isla Espiritu Santo. You will be taught the basics of safe sea-kayaking (applicable for beginners) and then paddle out in your sturdy vessels beneath the volcanic cliffs to the first of many idyllic beach campsites. Explore the beautiful offshore islands and spectacular lagoons where numerous seabirds nest. Experience the thrill of swimming with a large sea lion colony and snorkel amongst thousands of tropical fish. Return to La Paz for a free day browsing the many art and craft shops or try diving, biking...or relaxing.

Days 8 to 10. The Whales of La Paz

The Pacific Lagoons at Lopez Mateos are considered to be one of the finest whale-watching areas in the world. Typically within minutes of arriving into the bay your boat should be surrounded by whales, swimming alongside giving you the opportunity to possibly even pet them! A truly amazing spectacle and a very special experience. Enjoy two days of whale voyages and one last morning in La Paz before catching the ferry across the Sea of Cortez and onto Los Mochis where you join the above itinerary on day 2 at El Fuerte.