Chihuahua & the Copper Canyon: Travel Guide
The city of Chihuahua is the gateway to the Copper Canyon and the El Chepe train — a historic northern capital surrounded by the vast canyons of the Sierra Tarahumara.
Why visit Chihuahua?
The city of Chihuahua is the capital of Mexico's largest state and the usual starting point for one of the country's great adventures: the Copper Canyon and the El Chepe train. The city itself has a handsome colonial center, the Pancho Villa museum and nearby caves, while the Sierra Tarahumara to the west holds canyons deeper and larger than the Grand Canyon.
How to get to Chihuahua from the US
Chihuahua International Airport (CUU) has direct flights from some US cities (such as Dallas) and easy connections through Mexico City, Monterrey or Ciudad Juárez. The El Paso, Texas border is roughly a 4–5 hour drive north. Many travelers come specifically to ride the El Chepe train west toward Los Mochis.
Best time to visit
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are ideal for the city and the Copper Canyon. Summers are hot in the city, and winters can bring cold and even snow in the high canyons.
Top things to do in Chihuahua
Ride the El Chepe (Chihuahua al Pacífico) train through the Copper Canyon — one of the world's great rail journeys. In the city, walk the Plaza de Armas and the 18th-century Cathedral, visit the Pancho Villa Museum (Quinta Luz), and see the nearby Nombre de Dios Caves. Out west, the canyon towns of Creel and Divisadero are the main bases for hiking and viewpoints.
Where to stay
Stay near the historic center in the city of Chihuahua, or out in the canyon at Creel or on the rim at Divisadero if you are riding the Chepe and exploring the Sierra.
Is Chihuahua safe for tourists?
The state of Chihuahua carries a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” advisory from the US Department of State. The Copper Canyon rail route and its main towns are a well-established tourist corridor. Many travelers visit the city of Chihuahua and the Copper Canyon without incident by flying in, staying in the main areas and avoiding intercity travel at night, but you should review the current US State Department Mexico Travel Advisory before you go.
Northern Mexico: Nearby Destinations
Chihuahua is the departure point for the adventure in the Copper Canyon, one of the world's largest canyon systems. The famous Copper Canyon Railway (El Chepe) runs through the Sierra Tarahumara. Monterrey is another major northern city with impressive natural parks. Check our Mexico travel information guide and vacation packages.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Chihuahua?
The city of Chihuahua is in northern Mexico, capital of the country's largest state. The El Paso, Texas border is about a 4–5 hour drive north.
How do I get to Chihuahua from the US?
Fly into Chihuahua International Airport (CUU), with some direct US flights (e.g., Dallas) and connections through Mexico City or Monterrey.
What are the Copper Canyons and the El Chepe train?
The Copper Canyon (Barrancas del Cobre) is a canyon system larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon. The El Chepe train crosses it between Chihuahua and Los Mochis — one of the world's great rail journeys.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). Summers are hot in the city and winters can be cold or snowy in the high canyons.
Is Chihuahua safe for tourists?
Chihuahua carries a Level 3 ‘Reconsider Travel’ advisory. The Copper Canyon rail corridor is a well-established tourist route; review the current US advisory and its area notes before you go.