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Copper Canyon, deep in the Sierra Madre Mountains, is a land of magnificent, wild ravines and stony, forested highlands. It has received much flattering attention from outdoor writers and naturalists. An incredible variety of ecosystems distinguish the region. The highlands are home to impressive stands of old-growth pines and an amazing diversity of oaks. The area's plunging gorges and canyons give rise to wild rivers, towering waterfalls and sub-tropical forests.
From the pine forest high on the plateau at 2600 metres, down through to the unique sub-tropical vegetation along the Urique River, Copper Canyon has a rich mix of plants, birds and other animals. Migratory and endemic birds, several large mammal species and numerous reptiles inhabit the area.
We will take one of the most breathtaking and famous train rides in the world, the Chihuahua al Pacifico, through miles of spectacular scenery along canyons deeper than the Grand Canyon. Many visitors go for this experience alone.
Some 40,000 Tarahumara Indians make this area their home, and are famous for their culture and arts and crafts. We'll stay at nicely appointed lodges, oases of comfort in a rugged landscape. We'll sip margaritas and enjoy magnificent vistas and close-ups of hummingbirds. We'll hike well-worn trails to ancient rock formations and waterfalls along paths where painted redstarts "dance" and elegant trogons sing.
Join Quest leader David Milsom on this winter escape to the high Sierras of Northern Mexico. |
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| FACTS: |
| • | 11-day trip |
| • | Maximum of 14 participants |
| • | Start and finish in Los Mochis, Mexico |
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| HIGHLIGHTS: |
| • | The Chihuahua al Pacifico train ride |
| • | Hiking well-worn trails to ancient rock formations and waterfalls |
| • | Descending from the pine forest high on the plateau at 2600 m, down through to the unique sub-tropical vegetation along the Urique River |
| • | Witnessing the culture and arts and crafts of the Tarahumara Indians |
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| ACTIVITY LEVEL: |
| • | Moderate. The trails, footpaths and back roads that we use in our explorations of the areas are usually well worn and easy to walk. Some do, however, follow the contours of the hills and valleys and a few have steep inclines. Such paths have to be traversed carefully but are accessible to anyone who has normal walking ability and stamina. Sturdy trail shoes or boots are strongly advised. We also recommend a trekking pole for extra balance and safety. Please note that we will be at an elevation of 2600m. |
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| ACCOMMODATIONS: |
| Rio Vista Lodge |
| Porochi Inn
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| Uno Lodge |
| Sierra Lodge |
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| ITINERARY IN BRIEF: |
| Day 1: |
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Arrive in Los Mochis |
| Day 2: |
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El Fuerte: walking tour |
| Day 3: |
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El Fuerte: river float |
| Day 4: |
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"Chihuahua al Pacifico" railway
to Bahuichivo |
| Day 5: |
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Urique Canyon and village |
| Day 6 - 7: |
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Cerocahui, Uno Lodge, Copper Canyon Rim |
| Day 8: |
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Drive to Cusarare |
| Day 9: |
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Cusarare Falls, Jesuit Mission |
| Day 10: |
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Creel to El Fuerte by train |
| Day 11: |
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Depart Los Mochis |
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 David is an expert naturalist who has travelled throughout Europe, North and South America. He is a keen nature photographer with an excellent knowledge of birds, mammals and butterflies. David has led Quest trips to Newfoundland, Texas, Colorado, England, Galapagos Islands, Tunisia, Spain and Canada's High Arctic and the Antarctic.
416-633-5666 / 1-800-387-1483
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Our participants say...
...we really enjoyed our recent trip to Copper Canyon with Don Shanahan. He was a great leader - giving us time to do things and not rushing us. We enjoyed the mix of scenery, birding and culture among the Tarahumara. The local guides were very good and we felt very comfortable.
Denise O. and Gord G.
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