Mexico's Copper Canyon

Day 1

Early afternoon flight to Phoenix, 1 night. Meet your fellow SLV travelers and step on guide for trip orientation and welcome reception. Get a good night's sleep, our adventure starts bright and early in the morning. Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Tempe

Day 2

Your adventure begins bright and early as we journey south from Phoenix and Tucson, watching the scenery shift from Sonoran landscapes to the rugged charm of the Chihuahua Desert. After a lunch stop, we cross the border into Mexico - Bienvenido's!

Our first destination is the UNESCO - designated archaeological site of Paquime, a once-thriving hub of the Mogollon culture. Wander among the maze-like adobe walls, ceremonial mounds, and striking structures like the House of the Cross, believed to have been both temple and observatory, and the House of the Serpent, with its storied past. 

Before reaching our hotel, we'll visit the artisans of Mata Ortiz, world-renowned for their intricate pottery - each piece a modern echo of ancient craftsmanship. This first day blends history, culture, and the spirit of the open road, setting the tone for the days to come. Hotel Hacienda - (FB,L,D)

Day 3

We journey to Chihuahua, proud capitol of its state and a city deeply woven into the fabric of the Mexican Revolution. Stroll into the heart of the Centro Historico, where every corner seems to whisper stories of the past. Admire the graceful Plaza de Armas, the elegant cathedral's twin towers, and the State Capitol Building, home to sweeping murals that vividly bring local history to life. Courtyard by Marriott (FB,D)

Day 4

The morning begins with an intimate look into the life of Mexico's most legendary revolutionary at the Historical Museum of the Mexican Revolution - once the home of Pancho Villa himself. After stepping through these storied rooms, we set off for Posada Barrancas, perched dramatically on the rim of the Copper Canyon. Pause for lunch enroute, arriving in time to settle into our hotel, savor a hearty dinner, and breathe in the crisp mountain air as evening blankets the canyon rim. Hotel Mirador - 2 nights (FB,L,D)

Day 5

This morning, immerse yourself in the artistry and traditions of the Tarahumara people during a fascinating discussion of their unique crafts and cultural heritage. Then, head to the canyon rim for a once-in-a-lifetime view before boarding the aerial tram. Glide across and descend nearly 4,500 feet into the canyon's core, surrounded by sweeping vistas that reveal the immensity of this natural wonder. The rest of the day is dedicated to exploring the seven interconnected gorges - collectively known as the Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre,) - and uncovering the geological forces that shaped them over millions of years. (FB,L,D)

Day 6

Step aboard the legendary Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad and settle in for one of the world's great train journeys. We roll out from Posada Barrancas at nearly 7,500 feet, gradually descending into the sun-warmed foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains. The route threads through dozens of tunnels and soars over towering bridges, each bend revealing fresh, panoramic vistas. Arrive in El Fuerte. Descent to El Fuerte (FB,L,D)

Day 7

This morning, we journey to the Mayo village of Navojoa for an intimate home visit. Here, we're welcomed into the rhythms of daily life from ceremonial dances set to the heartbeat of traditional instruments, to the warmth of homemade tortillas fresh off the griddle (and yes, you can try your hand at making them). Later, our path winds through fertile Sierra Madre farmlands to the colonial gem of Alamos. Tonight, dinner is a vibrant celebration of music and dance that captures the spirit of the region. La Mansio (FB,L,D)

Day 8

With cobblestone streets underfoot and a local guide by your side, the morning unfolds in Alamos, a designated National Monument. After lunch, we drive through the rich agricultural landscapes of Sonora toward San Carlos, where the desert meets the sea. Arriving in time for dinner, we settle in for an overnight stay. Marinaterra Hotel & Spa - 2nights (FB,L,D)

Day 9

Today begins on the water: a private cruise across the glittering Sea of Cortez. Keep your eyes open - conditions permitting, you might spot graceful dolphins, curious sea lions, pelicans in flight, or even a sea turtle gliding below. Back on land, we explore the Guaymas Pearl Farm to uncover the art and science behind pearl oyster cultivation, from delicate farming techniques to grading and quality selection. We wrap the day at Mirador, a sweeping viewpoint. (FB,D)

Day 10

Our last day in Mexico begins with an early departure, tracing a path northward through Mexico's vibrant landscapes. Enroute, we pause in cosmopolitan Hermosillo, where the graceful colonial cathedral rises over the city and the Government Palace's multicolored murals vividly narrate the history of the Sonoran region.

From here, the open road leads us across the golden expanses of the Sonoran Desert, its wide skies and cactus-studded horizons marking the final stretch of our journey. We re-enter the United States through Nogales, Arizona, and by late afternoon arrive in Phoenix to check into our hotel. Embassy Suites by Hilton Phoenix Tempe (FB,L)

Day 11

Savor a leisurely morning, making the most of the hotel's amenities and one last taste of vacation ease. Later, transfer to the airport for your afternoon flight back to Sacramento, bringing home memories of an unforgettable journey.