Mexico’s Copper Canyon
November 16, 2026 thru November 25, 2026
Experience an awe-inspiring Copper Canyon tour. Discover historic towns, sail the Sea of Cortez, and ride through the Sierra Madre on a scenic train journey. Immerse yourself in the Tarahumara culture, explore Chihuahua’s historic sites, and witness the ancient beauty of Paquime. This journey offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, capturing the essence of Mexico’s rich heritage.
This is a High Altitude Tour with elevations exceeding 7,000 feet
Transportation
One way air transportation return from TUS-ABQ
Transportation
Motorcoach/Transfers
Includes motorcoach transportation from ABQ
Transportation
Copper Canyon Train
Duration
10 days, 9 nights
Activity Level 3
Moderate
This tour includes unlevel walking surfaces, stairs w/out rails and a hotel with NO elevator
Meals
22 meals (8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners) included
Availability
Available
Documents Required
Passport
Elevation
This is a High Altitude Tour with 7,000+ feet altitudes
Tour Highlights
- Hermosillo Sightseeing
- Cruise on the Sea of Cortez
- Guaymas Pearl Farm
- Sierra Madre Occidental
- Alamos Guided Walking Tour
- Copper Canyon Train
- Tarahumara Indians Cultural Presentation
- Copper Canyon Aerial Tramway
- Chihuahua City Tour
- Archeological Site at Paquime
- Mata Ortiz Pottery Demonstration
Inclusions
- One way air transportation on return from TUS to ABQ
- Motorcoach transportation from ABQ
- All transfers & motorcoach transportation
- 9 nights hotel lodging
- 22 meals (8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners) included
- Admissions & tours as described
- Marine Excursion on the Sea of Cortez
- Aerial Tramway in the Canyon
- Services of a Tour Director
- Services of a bilingual tour guide
- Baggage Handling at hotels (for one piece)
- Taxes & gratuities for included items
- Mexican Visa entry fee
- SUN TOURS Tour Escort with 20+ Passengers
Day 1 – Depart Albuquerque for Nuevo Casa Grandes
We depart early in the morning for a scenic drive south, crossing the border into Mexico Bienvenidos! Enjoy a midday stop for lunch along the way as the journey continues through stretches of the vast and rugged Chihuahua Desert. By afternoon, arrive at the remarkable archaeological site of Paquimé, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate adobe architecture and ceremonial mounds. Explore the maze-like ruins, including the House of the Cross, thought to have served as both a temple and an observatory, and the House of the Serpent. Conclude the day with a visit to local potters in the nearby village of Mata Ortiz before heading to the hotel for the evening.
Meals included: (L, D)
Day 2 – Chihuahua
Travel to the city of Chihuahua, capital of the state and a key player in the Mexican Revolution. Upon arrival in the afternoon, explore the vibrant “Centro Histórico,” where you’ll visit the Plaza de Armas, the majestic cathedral, and the State Capitol Building, home to striking murals that vividly portray the region’s rich and turbulent history.
- ***Elevations of 4,650 feet and higher
Meals included: (B, D)
Day 3 – Posada Barrancas
This morning, visit the Historical Museum of the Mexican Revolution, formerly the residence of the legendary revolutionary Pancho Villa. Then set out for Posada Barrancas, perched along the rim of the breathtaking Copper Canyon, with a lunch stop along the way. Arrive at the hotel in time for dinner and an overnight stay.
- ***Elevations of 7,350 feet and higher
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 4 – Copper Canyon with Aerial Tramway
Begin the morning with a fascinating discussion on the interpretation and cultural significance of Tarahumara arts and crafts. Then head to the rim of the majestic Copper Canyon and board the aerial tram, which carries you across the vast expanse and descends nearly 4,500 feet into its dramatic depths—offering an unforgettable perspective on this natural wonder. Spend the rest of the day exploring the area, learning about the powerful geological forces that shaped the seven interconnected gorges collectively known as the Copper Canyon, or Barrancas del Cobre.
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 5 – El Chepe Express to El Fuerte
After breakfast, Depart Posada Barrancas aboard the famed Chihuahua al Pacífico railroad and embark on a breathtaking journey through the Sierra Madre Mountains. As the railcar descends from nearly 7,500 feet to sea level, you’ll pass through a series of dramatic tunnels and towering bridges, offering sweeping panoramic views along the way. Arrive in the charming colonial town of El Fuerte nestled in the foothills below.
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 6 – Navojoa to Álamos, Sonora
Today, depart El Fuerte and journey to the indigenous Mayo village of Navojoa. During a special home visit, gain insight into Mayo traditions and daily life. Experience ceremonial dances accompanied by traditional instruments, and take part in a hands-on tortilla-making demonstration. Continue through the fertile farmlands of the Sierra Madre Mountains to the picturesque colonial town of Álamos. This evening, enjoy dinner enhanced by a vibrant cultural presentation of
music and dance.
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 7 – Walking Tour in Álamos, San Carlos
Following breakfast, we take a morning stroll in the streets of Los Alamos with a local guide who introduces us to the history of this colonial city, a designated National Monument. After lunch, we travel through the rich farmlands of Sonora before arriving in San Carlos for dinner and overnight.
Meals included: (B, L, D)
Day 8 – Sea of Cortez Cruise / Guaymas Pearl Farm / Mirador Escénico
After breakfast, we board a private boat for a scenic cruise across the stunning Sea of Cortez. Weather permitting, keep an eye out for marine wildlife such as turtles, dolphins, pelicans, and possibly even sea lions. After the cruise, visit the Guaymas Pearl Farm for an inside look at the delicate process of pearl oyster cultivation, including grading and quality selection. Then continue to Mirador, a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the Sea of Cortez. Return to the hotel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure before gathering for dinner this evening.
Meals included: (B, D)
Day 9 – Return to US with overnight in Tucson
We depart early this morning for a full day of travel. Along the way, stop in the vibrant city of Hermosillo to visit the colonial-era Cathedral and the Government Palace, adorned with colorful murals that depict the rich history of the Sonoran region. Continue the journey north through the sweeping landscapes of the Sonoran Desert before crossing back into the United States via Nogales, Arizona. Upon arrival in Tucson, check into your hotel where we will lodge until our ABQ return flight on Day 10.
Meals included: (B)
Day 10 - Return to ABQ
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer to the airport for our return flight to ABQ.
Meals included: (B)
Itinerary subject to change. **Passport Required!**
Fun Facts
Sea of Cortez
The Sea of Cortez, also known as the Gulf of California, is home to over 900 varieties of fish and more than 2,000 species of marine invertebrates, making it one of the most diverse seas on the planet.
Tamahumara Indians
The Tarahumara are famous for their long-distance running ability, often covering distances of over 100 miles (160 kilometers) in their traditional foot races and hunting practices. They run in simple sandals known as "huaraches" made from recycled tires and leather.
Copper Canyon
Despite its name, Copper Canyon does not have significant deposits of copper. The name comes from the copper-green hue of the canyon walls, especially when seen in the light of the sunrise or sunset.
Copper Canyon Aerial Tramway
One of the highlights for visitors is the Copper Canyon Aerial Tramway (Teleférico Barrancas del Cobre), which offers one of the most dramatic views of the canyon. It's one of the longest and highest cable cars in the world, providing a unique perspective of the canyon's depth and grandeur.
Package Pricing
$4,345 per person
Double occupancy
Deposit: $250
$5,185 per person
Single occupancy
Deposit: $250
Final Payment Due:
July 9, 2026
Deposit: N/A
Price Includes
• One way air transportation on return from TUS to ABQ
• Motorcoach transportation from ABQ
• All transfers & motorcoach transportation
• 9 nights hotel lodging
• 22 meals (8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners) included
• Admissions & tours as described
• Marine Excursion on the Sea of Cortez
• Aerial Tramway in the Canyon
• Services of a Tour Director
• Services of a bilingual tour guide
• Baggage Handling at hotels (for one piece)
• Taxes & gratuities for included items
• Mexican Visa entry fee
• SUN TOURS Tour Escort with 20+ Passengers
Booking Policy
**Passport Required!**
Cancellation Fees:
- None through July 9, 2026
- $250: July 10 – August 10, 2026
- 60%*: August 11 – September 9, 2026
- 100%* after September 9, 2026
*Fee as percentage of total package price.
We pride ourselves on great service and an enjoyable experience for all and will go over our booking policies after you make your request for booking. If you’d like to learn more about our booking policies before your trip, give us a call at (505) 889-8888, or visit our Booking Policies page.
Travel Insurance
In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to help protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injhttps://www.pleasurebenttours.com/book-your-tour/travel-insurance/ury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. TRAVEL PROTECTION STARTS AT $469. Please click here for more information.
ITINERARY
For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events, hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency, and airline information.
The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Level 3: Moderate
Expectations: Expect a moderate amount of walking, 2-3 hours of walking each day. There will be time to rest on the coach and between attractions. To enjoy this tour, you should be prepared to walk slightly longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or ship excursions. The daily pace and timing can fluctuate significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. There may be some changes in altitude or temperatures.
Appropriate for: Most travelers beginning with those who are moderately fit, lead semi-active lives, are comfortable participating in long days of activities and expect some physical exertion without the use of a cane or walker mobility aid.
AIRLINE TICKETS
You will be issued your boarding pass the morning of our departure, after your arrival at the Albuquerque International Airport. If you have a frequent flyer number, or a TSA number, please call our office at least 3 days prior to the tour to ensure we can note these in your reservation.
If you are joining the tour from locations other than Albuquerque, we can make other arrangements for you to join the tour. Please call our office for more details.
AIRPORT SECURITY
Do not forget to bring your government issued picture ID to show at the airport. A passport is required for travel outside of the United States. If you do not have the proper ID, the airline will turn you away.
BAGGAGE
We have arranged for handling for one piece of luggage per person regarding the skycaps (where available) and hotels. If you check through luggage note that the maximum weight for the checked piece of luggage is 50 pounds and maximum size is 62 inches (length + width + height). If your bag weighs over 50 pounds the airlines will levy an extra fee that you will be responsible to pay. If you feel the need to lock your checked through luggage and your bag is searched, your lock could be damaged in the process. You can purchase a TSA (Transportation Security Administration) accepted and recognized lock at any luggage store. Make sure you ask for a TSA approved lock. These locks are the kind that TSA screeners can open by using a special tool without breaking. Passengers can carry-on 1 bag (dimensions are limited to 10x16x24 inches), plus a personal type bag, like a purse. We advise that you pack your carry-on lightly. There are restrictions regarding your carryon baggage and contents due to enhanced security measures. If you have further concerns, please visit the TSA's Web-site at www.tsa.gov. There is room inside the motorcoach for your hand carried bag.
CHECKED BAGGAGE FEES
On our airline for this tour, passengers may be assessed a fee per checked in bag, by the Airlines, upon checking in for the flight.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.
GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE
The traditional end-of-tour gratuity to your tour director is included. All hotel porterage and airport skycap (when available) fees are included. We also include the gratuities for the coach drivers. Maid tips are not included.
LODGING REQUESTS
If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.
Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour, you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.
TRAVEL REQUESTS
We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.
RESPONSIBILITY
SUN TOURS acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.
WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS
The average daytime high temperatures during our stay in Mexico is typically in the middle 70’s and the average night-time temperature is usually middle 50’s. When we are on or close to the Sea those temperatures drop 5-10 degrees or more. Typically, the air is much more humid than in Tucson and we can expect some Fall storms. Please be sure to bring a sweater and/or rain jacket, along with good walking shoes and a hat. There are no dress codes for the areas we take you on this tour.
Always check a reliable weather forecast specific to the exact location you plan to visit in Southern Mexico to prepare appropriately.
Call 505.889.8888 to Book Today!
If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.
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