Planning the Best Time of Year For a Train Tour of Mexico’s Barrancas Del Cobre

The best time to visit Mexico’s Barrancas del Cobre is between November and April for its cooler temperatures, reduced rain, and less busy travel season.

The Barrancas Del Cobre, or Mexico’s Copper Canyon, stands as one of the most stunning natural landscapes in all of North America. It remains a must-visit destination for any lover of the great outdoors, attracting thousands of visitors from across the world each year. Not only does it offer picturesque views of Mexico’s incredible natural landscapes, but it also remains a hub of outdoor adventure perfect for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Known as one of the most vast and expansive canyon systems in the world, these natural wonders are available for viewing on Mexico’s train system, known as El Chepe. The many elaborate canyons make up what is known as the country’s Sierra Madre Occidental, offering some of the most incredible natural landscape views available anywhere in North America.

Learn more about visiting this incredible travel destination alongside the travel experts from Caravan.

What You Can Learn From This Article

Here is a quick summary of the details you will learn from this article:

• Learn The Details of The Barrancas Del Cobre
• Timing Your Trip For The Best Experience
• Temperatures and Rainfall Considerations
• Details Regarding Riding The El Chepe

Learn About All That The Barrancas Del Cobre Has To Offer

Find answers to common questions regarding travel throughout The Barrancas Del Cobre.

What Are the Barrancas Del Cobre?

Sometimes referred to generally as the Copper Canyon, the Barrancas del Cobre is an elaborate system of canyons stretching across Mexico’s Sierra Madre Occidental, extending through Chihuahua on the Northwestern coast of Mexico. It’s 65,000 square kilometers of landscape that remains home to endless wildlife, including some of the most picturesque natural landscapes found anywhere in the world. 

These rolling hills are also home to the Indigenous Tarahumara people, a community well known for their running abilities, living closely in harmony with nature in the cool and temperate mountain regions. sometimes migrating deep into the canyon system during the winter months. Travel groups often facilitate trips through the canyon region that include stops that allow visitors to connect directly with these indigenous communities. Many of the landscapes offer a golden and green copper hue, especially at sunset, making it a remarkable destination for any appreciator of the great outdoors.

The Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico, or the “ChePe,” remains one of the most unique ways of exploring the canyon system, running directly through Chihuahua and Los Mochis. The historic and charming train ride sees visitors navigate through elaborate canyon systems, appreciating the views in comfort, all while enjoying some food and drink.

What Is The Best Time of Year To Explore Mexico’s Barrancas Del Cobre?

The fall months, just after the conclusion of Mexico’s rainy season, offer some of the most lush landscapes where wildlife is known to be active, along with cooler and more comfortable daytime nature experiences. 

Birdwatchers and those looking to view wildlife should consider booking alongside a travel group that can provide multiple stops, including the opportunity for nature hikes. Many wildlife hikes require a guide, helping you visit areas known for experiencing nature. The area remains known for its different microclimates, often influenced by seasonal rains and high altitudes.

This is not to say that visiting this area year-round isn’t a great idea. The Ultra Maratón Caballo Blanco remains an incredibly unique cultural festival held in Urique, Chihuahua, during late February and early March. What was once a cultural tradition of the indigenous Tarahumara people has now grown into an ultramarathon hosting runners from across the world.

How Do Temperatures and Rainfall Vary by Season in Barrancas Del Cobre?

The Barrancas del Cobre remains a unique travel destination for its variety of different climates, dependent on the elevation, and the travel season.

	Temperatures	Rainfall
Winter	Cold and dry season, where some higher altitudes can even experience frost.	Generally reduced rainfall in comparison to other seasons. Less rain means clearer skies.
Spring	Hot and dry temperatures throughout the canyons.	Reduced rain and clear skies.
Summer	Hot and humid temperatures.	Rainy season with cloudy skies and reduced visibility.
Fall	Reduced rain and comfortably warm.	Reduced cloud coverage with lush environments after the rainy season.

What Are The Pros and Cons of Shoulder vs High Season for Train Travel?

Shoulder Season: The canyon landscapes during shoulder seasons, including late Fall and early Spring, are generally less busy, but with cool temperatures and improved visibility for viewing during your train ride throughout the Barrancas Del Cobre.

High Season: High season, just after Mexico’s rainy Summer season, offers vibrant and lush natural landscapes, including waterfalls that are fully flowing. The area remains hot and dry during these seasons, known for a busier tourist season with larger crowds at popular tourist destinations.

How Does Daylight Impact The Views of The Barrancas Del Cobre?

Barrancas Del Cobre offers different viewing experiences depending on available sunshine.:

• Early Mornings: Expect stunning early morning sunrises where beams of sunlight rush across the natural landscapes. Experience some of the most magnificent glowing sunrises in picturesque canyon landscapes.
• Daytime Viewings: As the natural sunshine increases throughout the day, many of the colors of the canyons continue to brighten, improving viewings.
• Afternoon and Sundown: As the sun sets, expect unique color pallets painted across canyon skies that look like they are out of a postcard. Some of the most incredible landscape colors can be viewed as Mexico’s sun paints the skies with powerful colors.

How Long Is The El Chepe Train Ride?

The full train ride is known to run over eight hours, but there are options for shorter viewings.

Is The El Chepe Train Ride Safe?

Yes.

Travelers concerned about safety should consider booking with a private travel group such as Caravan. The group tour options of the Copper Canyon can facilitate every detail of travel arrangements, ensuring your safety through every step of the journey. Further, private travel groups can help you learn more about the destination itself, where guides can provide insight and education regarding every detail of the tour.

What is The El Chepe Train Ride Experience Like? 

Experiencing the historic rail system throughout this great part of Mexico sees travelers traverse through many different tunnels and bridges, slinking directly through the canyon landscapes. The train offers panoramic window views, reserved seats, and access to a fully-stocked bar and terrace for exceptional viewings. The observation car is a unique feature that offers some of the most stunning views found anywhere throughout the train. Food and drink are available, sometimes included in the price. 

Is The El Chepe Accessible?

The El Chepe train ride is known to have limited accessibility and could prove challenging for those in wheelchairs. Guests who require assistance are encouraged to collaborate directly with a travel group that maintains knowledge of each station and car, helping those with additional needs enjoy the experience.

Is The El Chepe Train Ride Good For Families?

Yes. 

The El Chepe welcomes families and group travelers, including many different age groups, such as children and seniors.

Is The El Chepe Worth Visiting Any Time of Year?

Yes.

The microclimates experienced throughout Mexico’s Barrancas Del Cobre can offer varying degrees of visibility, but exceptional views all year long. The Copper Canyon adventure park is known to be open all year long, offering a variety of outdoor activities that could change depending on the weather. Consider booking a trip that includes stops throughout the area.

Have Caravan Lead The Way

Private group travel offerings made available from Caravan ensure you can focus on the enjoyment of your trip, rather than planning and booking train rides or other accommodations. Leave the complexities of booking such a trip to those who specialize in these matters, ensuring your safe travel throughout the beautiful country of Mexico.

Caravan’s ten-day tour of the Copper Canyon includes many stops along the way, helping you connect with indigenous cultures, experience vast natural landscapes, and all while facilitating outdoor adventure activities. Here at Caravan, we work tirelessly to ensure your full enjoyment throughout the  Barrancas Del Cobre. Learn from those who have visited these destinations before and experience the incredible natural landscapes of these one-of-a-kind travel destinations.

Ready to book? Let’s get started!

Caravan travel agents are standing by. Many of our private tours book up quickly, so reach out to us today to learn more. Call us directly at 1 (312)-321-9800, or 1-800-CARAVAN, and inquire about available tour groups in Mexico.