11-Day Northern Mexico Tour: Chihuahua to El Fuerte + Chepe Express

If you are looking to discover the northern regions of Mexico comprehensively, consider this 11-day journey from Chihuahua to El Fuerte. Experience stunning landscapes from the Samalayuca Dune Fields to the spectacular Sierra Tarahumara, all while traveling aboard the remarkable Chepe Express. This is an adventure not to be overlooked!

11-Day Northern Mexico Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Chihuahua

Your adventure begins upon landing when we will meet you at the Chihuahua airport and escort you to your accommodation. You'll have the rest of the day to relax or explore the state capital at your own leisure.

Day 2: Chihuahua - Samalayuca Dune Fields - Chihuahua

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, we will depart towards the mesmerizing Samalayuca Dune Fields, known for their golden sands. Here, you'll engage in thrilling sandboarding, gliding down the dunes while enjoying a light snack and taking in the breathtaking views of this unique desert landscape.

As evening approaches, we will return to our hotel in Chihuahua for dinner and a restful night.

Day 3: Chihuahua - Cuauhtémoc - Creel

Post breakfast, we will embark on a trip to Cuauhtémoc, where we will explore the Mennonite Museum and the Cookie House. This informative visit will shed light on the history, traditions, and economic contributions of this community.

We will then proceed towards the majestic peaks of the Sierra Tarahumara, reaching the enchanting Pueblo Mágico of Creel, a location intertwined with the nation’s railroad heritage.

Tonight, we will dine at a local restaurant and stay overnight in Creel.

Day 4: Creel - Copper Canyon Adventure Park - Creel

On this day, after breakfast, we will visit Copper Canyon, taking in panoramic views from Cueva de Doña Catalina, Oteros River viewpoint, and San Luis de Majimachi lookout.

We will then enjoy the exhilarating offerings at the Copper Canyon Adventure Park, including ziplining and hiking to the village of Bacajípare. Following these activities, a delightful picnic with scenic views awaits before we return to Creel for the night.

Day 5: Creel - Lake Arareco - Creel

We'll commence the day with breakfast, then set out to witness the strange rock formations in the Valle de los Hongos, Valle de los Monjes, and Valle de las Ranas. Our journey includes visits to Cueva de San Sebastián, Cascada de Cusárare, and the stunning Lake Arareco, where an enjoyable picnic complete with wine and a campfire awaits.

After some free time in the afternoon, we'll reconvene for an exquisite three-course dinner, featuring ranchero cheese with honey, beef steak with gravy, and cheesecake for dessert.

Day 6: Creel

We begin with a rewarding mountain hike to catch the sunrise and marvel at the panoramic vistas of the Creel Valley. Afterwards, we will return to the hotel for breakfast and have some time to relax.

You will also indulge in a spa treatment—a soothing hot stone therapy complemented by a bottle of wine in a heated jacuzzi. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure!

Day 7: Creel - Cerro del Gallego - Cerocahui - Divisadero

After an early breakfast, we will proceed to the Cerro del Gallego, the deepest and most striking point of the canyon. Here, you can relish a picnic surrounded by stunning views and local wildlife.

Our next stop will be the Cerocahui Mission, established by Jesuits over 340 years ago. To conclude the day, we’ll partake in a tasting session featuring grapes and a charcuterie selection before heading to our accommodation in Divisadero to unwind.

Day 8: Divisadero - Copper Canyon - Divisadero

Upon breakfast at the hotel, we will set out on an 11 mi (18 km) hike along the natural pathways of Copper Canyon. Alongside a knowledgeable guide, you will uncover the untamed beauty of the Sierra and the lifestyle of the Rarámuri people. This day trip includes a picnic lunch and a cable car ride. Dinner will be served back at our hotel in Divisadero.

Day 9: Divisadero - El Fuerte

After an early breakfast, we’ll board the iconic Chepe Express, heading towards El Fuerte in the state of Sinaloa. This scenic journey presents captivating views through tunnels, over bridges, and across deep ravines.

Once we arrive in El Fuerte, you will have the afternoon free to discover this historic colonial town alongside the river. We will then retire to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 10: El Fuerte

We’ll kick off the day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a delightful 2.5-hour long boat excursion along the Fuerte River to see remarkable petroglyphs, ancient stone carvings made by Indigenous groups.

The afternoon is free for your own activities, and in the evening, enjoy a special dinner at the Hotel Posada del Hidalgo, paired with the enchanting Danzante Zorro show. A magical conclusion to the journey!

Day 11: Departure from El Fuerte - Los Mochis

After breakfast at the hotel, we will take you to the Los Mochis airport at the scheduled time so you can board your return flight. Until next time!

Accommodation During the Tour

The tour includes a 10-night stay at the following accommodations:

• Chihuahua (2 nights): 4-star Hotel Central Boutique or similar
• Creel (4 nights): 4-star Hacienda Don Armando Boutique & Spa or similar
• Divisadero (2 nights): 5-star Hotel Mirador or Hotel Divisadero Barrancas or similar
• El Fuerte (2 nights): 4-star Hotel Torres del Fuerte or similar

Pricing & Room Options

• For reservations of two adults and one child, the rate applies for two adults sharing a double room, with an option for one child.
• For bookings including one adult and one child, the pricing will be for one adult in a single room and one child.