Barrancas del cobre: discover this great treasure from el fuerte
Located in the northwestern state of Sinaloa, El Fuerte is one of Mexico's magical towns that combines history, colonial architecture and a unique connection with nature. This destination is not only a jewel of the past, but also the gateway to one of the most impressive natural wonders of the country: the Copper Canyon.
If you want to make a roadtrip through Chihuahua, car rental is the best decision to discover every corner of this state. With the flexibility that a vehicle gives you, you can travel from the Copper Canyon to the magical towns, archaeological sites and unique natural landscapes, at your own pace and without depending on fixed schedules.
What to do in El Fuerte?
In this magical town of Sinaloa you should dedicate part of your time to get to know its history, culture and gastronomy. Do you want to know what you can do in El Fuerte?
Historical center
Walking through downtown El Fuerte is like stepping back in time. Its streets, colorful facades, colonial portals and tree-lined plazas create a picturesque atmosphere. Among the most outstanding sites are the Plaza de Armas, the Sagrado Corazón de Jesús parish church and the Municipal Palace.
Mirador del Fuerte Museum
Built in a replica of a 17th century fortress, this museum has an interesting collection on the history of the city, the indigenous peoples of the region and the legend of Diego de la Vega, better known as El Zorro, who, according to some accounts, was born here.
Boat ride on the Fuerte River
This river is great for a leisurely boat or kayak tour. You will be able to observe local birds and vegetation. If you like nature and photography, don't miss this activity!
Living traditions of the Yoremé peoples
In the surroundings of El Fuerte live Yorem communities, native peoples with roots in the Mayan culture and a living identity that preserves and reinvents their traditions. Some of their communities open their doors to those who wish to get closer to their cosmovision, through community experiences guided by the Yoremes themselves, where it is possible to visit ceremonial centers and learn directly from their ancestral knowledge.
Regional gastronomy
There are several restaurants with typical dishes from northern Sinaloa. Be sure to try the machaca with egg, tamal de elote, chilorio and shrimp with garlic mojo or zarandeados.
Local handicrafts
El Fuerte has a great handicraft tradition, especially in embroidered textiles, ceramics and palm objects. Buying products made by Yorem artisans is a way to support the local economy and take home an authentic souvenir.
The Chepe Train
El Fuerte is one of the stations of the famous Chepe, the tourist train that crosses the Sierra Tarahumara and connects Sinaloa with Chihuahua. Traveling on the Chepe is one of the best tourism experiences in Mexico. This journey reveals spectacular landscapes, canyons, hanging bridges and the beauty of the Copper Canyon.
Las Barrancas del Cobre: A natural treasure.
Located in the heart of the Sierra Madre Occidental, it is one of the most impressive landscapes in Mexico. This system, known as the Barrancas del Cobre, is made up of more than 20 interconnected canyons that, together, surpass in depth and extension the famous Grand Canyon of Arizona. What distinguishes these canyons is their ecological richness: a fascinating mix of pine forests, monumental rock formations and unique biodiversity.
How to get from El Fuerte to Barrancas del Cobre?
If you like driving, you can take the highway: the distance between El Fuerte and Barrancas del Cobre is approximately 264 km and the estimated travel time is about 6 hours and 50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. It is important to keep in mind that some routes can be mountainous and with sharp curves, so it is recommended to drive with caution and, if possible, during the day.
What to do in Barrancas del Cobre?
Visiting Barrancas del Cobre combines adventure, culture and breathtaking landscapes. We tell you what are the must-do activities to make the most of this destination in Chihuahua.
Barrancas del Cobre Park
This is one of the great attractions, where you can enjoy zip lines, hanging bridges, staircases and the Barrancas del Cobre cable car, one of the longest in the world, with three kilometers of travel over the canyon.
Outdoor activities
For the more adventurous, Barrancas del Cobre offers activities such as hiking, rappelling, mountain biking and climbing. Bird watching and landscape photography are also very popular.
The Rarámuri
The Rarámuri communities, the original inhabitants of this area, bring an invaluable cultural richness to the experience. Through their crafts, customs and ancestral celebrations, it is possible to establish an authentic connection with Mexico's deepest roots.
From Creel to Barrancas del Cobre
Many travelers come to the region through the magical town of Creel, an ideal base for exploring the Barrancas del Cobre. The distance from Creel to Barrancas del Cobre is approximately 45 kilometers, which allows you to get there in just over an hour by car. To make this trip, the most advisable is car rental in Chihuahua: you will get to know its magical towns and all that the region has to offer. During the trip, you can visit places like Divisadero, where the viewpoint offers a view that encapsulates the immensity of the canyons.
When to visit the Copper Canyon?
The Copper Canyon can be appreciated no matter what season you visit. If you are attracted by the intense green landscapes, September and October are the most recommended months. If you prefer to admire the contrast of snow over the canyons, January and February are good options, although snowfalls are not always guaranteed. During the summer, it is ideal to wear cool and comfortable clothing. To travel to El Fuerte and continue on to the Copper Canyon is to immerse yourself in an experience that has it all: history, architecture, living culture, and breathtaking nature. With your own car, tour the most beautiful magical towns of Chihuahua and enjoy a complete travel experience.