The Copper Canyon – Barrancas del Cobre – is one of Mexico’s most jaw-dropping landscapes: a network of canyons in the Sierra Tarahumara of Chihuahua that is larger and, in places, deeper than the Grand Canyon. It is the great reward of the western border route, reachable by car from Chihuahua city or by the famous El Chepe train.
Getting there
The road trip runs from Chihuahua city southwest into the highlands to Creel, a Magic Town that serves as the canyon’s base. From Creel it is a short drive to Divisadero, where the canyon opens up in full – with cable cars, ziplines, and viewpoints on the rim. The roads climb and twist through pine forest, so take them slowly and only in daylight, and fuel up in Creel.
The El Chepe train alternative
If you would rather not drive the mountain sections, the El Chepe railway – one of the world’s great train journeys – crosses the Sierra between Los Mochis on the coast and Chihuahua, stopping at Divisadero and Creel. Many travelers combine the two: drive part of the route and ride the rails for the most spectacular stretch.
The canyon and its people
The Barrancas del Cobre are home to the Raramuri (Tarahumara), famed long-distance runners who live in the canyon country. Beyond the viewpoints there are waterfalls, hot springs, lakes, and hiking. It is high country – cool, even cold in winter – so pack layers.
Permits and insurance
This is deep mainland Mexico, so carry your full vehicle import permit, FMM, and Mexican auto insurance throughout. Get your insurance before you travel and review the documents checklist.
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Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Copper Canyon by car?
Drive from Ciudad Juarez south to Chihuahua city on Highway 45D (about 3.5 hours), then southwest into the Sierra to Creel and the Divisadero rim. The mountain roads are winding, so drive them in daylight.
Is Copper Canyon bigger than the Grand Canyon?
Yes. The Barrancas del Cobre is a network of canyons that is larger overall, and deeper in places, than the Grand Canyon, set in the Sierra Tarahumara of Chihuahua.
What is the El Chepe train?
El Chepe is the railway that crosses the Sierra between Los Mochis and Chihuahua, stopping at Divisadero and Creel. It is a famous alternative to driving the most rugged canyon stretches.
Do I need Mexican insurance to drive to Copper Canyon?
Yes. It is mainland Mexico, so you need Mexican auto insurance, an FMM, and a full vehicle import permit – the same documents required across the country.