How to Visit Copper Canyon by Train – Updated 2019
Journey through the Copper Canyon by train and experience one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
The Copper Canyon is one of Mexico’s lesser-known gems. Situated in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, this canyon system is larger, and in some places deeper, than the Grand Canyon. The majority of the landscape in inaccessible but in the mid-1960s, after nearly 60 years of on and off construction, the painstaking process of laying railway tracks through the canyons was completed. Now, the train known as El Chepe is an important form of transportation for locals and the absolute best way for tourists to explore some of the most stunning views in all of Mexico.
As El Chepe chugs along its 653 km (405 mi) of track, a journey which takes anywhere from 9 to 16 hours, it crosses over 37 bridges and through 86 tunnels. It climbs to an elevation of 2400 m (7900 ft) and descends to sea level, passing through diverse and stunning scenery along the way. Among its stops are at least 5 towns worth visiting where you’ll have opportunities for adventure, hiking, learning about new cultures and taking in the magnificent landscapes.
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The Copper Canyon Train – El Chepe
The Ferrocarril Chihuahua al Pacífico, better known as El Chepe, is one of the only commuter trains in Mexico but it’s also the best way for tourists to visit the remote and awe-inspiring Copper Canyon.
The 653 km (405 mi) of track runs between Chihuahua, Chihuahua and Los Mochis, Sinaloa with 5 notable towns in between. Although the trip can be completed in just one day it is well worth extending the journey to last a few days or even a few weeks. Stopping and spending a few nights in the towns along the way is what makes a visit to the Copper Canyon so special.
As of May 2018, a brand new, luxury express train has been added to the daily schedule meaning there are now two ways to visit the Copper Canyon by train.
The older train is now known as Chepe Regional, and the new luxury train is called Chepe Express. There are a few significant differences:
- The stops. This is probably the most significant difference between the two trains. The Chepe Regional makes 13 stops between Chihuahua and Los Mochis for both tourists and local commuters. The Chepe Express only runs between Los Mochis and Creel and only stops at 2 tourist destinations in between.
- The schedule. Both the Chepe Regional and Chepe Express run in opposite directions every other day (except Wednesdays). The Chepe Express, as its name implies, completes its route much faster than the Chepe Regional and arrival times, therefore, differ between each train. The schedules can be tricky and are explained in detail and with images below.
- The price. When the Chepe Express was first rolled out the ticket prices were 3 to 5 times greater than those for the Chepe Regional. However, a recent schedule change has also resulted in significantly cheaper Express prices. It’s still more expensive than the Regional but it’s now much more reasonable. You can find more details about the prices below.
- The comfort. Although I would not consider the Chepe Regional to be uncomfortable, it is an older train with basic amenities including washrooms and a dining car. The new Chepe Express, however, is a luxury train complete with a bar car, a panoramic viewing car and a restaurant car.
Choosing which train to take will very likely be determined by your schedule, itinerary and flexibility. Neither train runs on a daily basis so you’ll want to carefully plan your trip beforehand. The next section will outline the train schedules in detail.
Copper Canyon by Train – Chepe Schedules and Routes
This part can be a little confusing so in order to keep things as clear as possible this section is divided into three parts: Chepe Regional train schedule and route, Chepe Express train schedule and route, followed by a combined train schedule for both directions of travel.
Chepe Regional Train Schedule and Route
The Chepe Regional runs in both directions between Chihuahua and Los Mochis and makes all the stops for both locals and tourists. However, it does not run every day.
From Chihuahua towards Los Mochis, trains only run on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. From Los Mochis towards Chihuahua, trains only run on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Below are detailed timetables for each direction for the main tourist stops.
CHIHUAHUA towards LOS MOCHIS
Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays ONLY
| Destination | Arrival/Departure |
|---|---|
| Chihuahua | 6:00 am |
| Cuauhtémoc | 8:25 am |
| Creel | 11:47 am |
| Divisadero | 12:42 pm |
| Posada Barrancas | 1:41 pm |
| Bahuichivo | 3:12 pm |
| El Fuerte | 7:19 pm |
| Los Mochis | 9:28 pm |
LOS MOCHIS towards CHIHUAHUA
Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays ONLY
| Destination | Arrival/Departure |
|---|---|
| Los Mochis | 6:00 am |
| El Fuerte | 8:19 am |
| Bahuichivo | 12:24 pm |
| Posada Barrancas | 1:46 pm |
| Divisadero | 1:50 pm |
| Creel | 3:39 pm |
| Cuauhtémoc | 7:07 pm |
| Chihuahua | 9:34 pm |
In my experience, the trains are almost always a little behind schedule but it’s recommended that you show up at least 20-30 minutes before the train is scheduled to arrive.
Chepe Express Train Schedule and Route
The information below has been updated to reflect the Chepe Express schedule change as of January 11th, 2019.
The Chepe Express runs in both directions between Creel and Los Mochis. It does not go all the way to Chihuahua and only makes stops at Creel, Divisadero, El Fuerte and Los Mochis.
From Creel to Los Mochis, trains only run on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. In the opposite direction, from Los Mochis to Creel, trains only run on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. This is the reverse schedule of the Chepe Regional.
Below is the train schedule for all the Chepe Express stops in both directions.
CREEL towards LOS MOCHIS – Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays ONLY
| Destination | Arrival/Departure |
|---|---|
| Creel | 7:30 am |
| Divisadero | 8:47 am |
| El Fuerte | 2:24 pm |
| Los Mochis | 4:35 pm |
LOS MOCHIS towards CREEL – Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays ONLY
| Destination | Arrival/Departure |
|---|---|
| Los Mochis | 7:30 am |
| El Fuerte | 9:44 am |
| Divisadero | 3:20 pm |
| Creel | 5:14 pm |
Weekly Train Schedule for Chepe Regional and Express
The tables below show the arrival times for all Chepe trains (Regional and Express) at the main tourist destinations over the course of any given week. There is one table for each direction of travel.
Chihuahua towards Los Mochis
| Day | Train | Chihuahua | Creel | Divisadero | Bahuichivo | El Fuerte | Los Mochis |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 11:47 am | 1:41 pm | 3:12 pm | 7:19 pm | 9:28 pm |
| Tuesday | EXPRESS | – | 7:30 am | 8:47 am | – | 2:24 pm | 4:35 pm |
| Wednesday | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Thursday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 11:47 am | 1:41 pm | 3:12 pm | 7:19 pm | 9:28 pm |
| Friday | EXPRESS | – | 7:30 am | 8:47 am | – | 2:24 pm | 4:35 pm |
| Saturday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 11:47 am | 1:41 pm | 3:12 pm | 7:19 pm | 9:28 pm |
| Sunday | EXPRESS | – | 7:30 am | 8:47 am | – | 2:24 pm | 4:35 pm |
You may need to scroll left and right to view the entire table.
Los Mochis towards Chihuahua
| Day | Train | Los Mochis | El Fuerte | Bahuichivo | Divisadero | Creel | Chihuahua |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | EXPRESS | 7:30 am | 9:44 am | – | 3:20 pm | 5:14 pm | – |
| Tuesday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 8:19 am | 12:24 pm | 1:50 pm | 3:39 pm | 9:34 pm |
| Wednesday | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Thursday | EXPRESS | 7:30 am | 9:44 am | – | 3:20 pm | 5:14 pm | – |
| Friday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 8:19 am | 12:24 pm | 1:50 pm | 3:39 pm | 9:34 pm |
| Saturday | EXPRESS | 7:30 am | 9:44 am | – | 3:20 pm | 5:14 pm | – |
| Sunday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 8:19 am | 12:24 pm | 1:50 pm | 3:39 pm | 9:34 pm |
You may need to scroll left and right to view the entire table.
The information above was accurate at the time of writing. Always double check the schedule on the Chepe website before making a purchase.
Copper Canyon by Train – Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary between the two trains and between the two classes within each train.
The Chepe Regional is split into two classes: Economic and Tourist. The difference is that the Economic class is primarily used for local commuters and tickets cannot be reserved. These tickets are purchased on the train the day of travel. Economic ticket holders do not have access to the dining car. Tourist class ticket holders have access to the dining car but the food is not included in the price.
The Chepe Express is also split into two classes: Tourist and Executive. Tourist class tickets provide access to the restaurant car and the bar car but food and drinks are not included in the ticket price. Executive class tickets include access to the restaurant plus a meal, access to the bar car and access to the panoramic viewing car.
The image below will give you an idea of the differences between the 4 options and the prices for a one-way ticket across the entire route. Note that the Chepe Express does not go all the way to Chihuahua.
*Prices in USD were calculated using an exchange rate of 0.054 MXP per 1.oo USD. The USD prices will vary depending on the exchange rate.
Chepe Regional Ticket Prices
Chepe Regional Economic
Economic tickets are like a form of public transportation; they’re purchased on-the-go and you cannot make reservations. A single trip from Chihuahua to Los Mochis is much cheaper than the Tourist class, however, if you wish to stay at any of the towns along the way you will need to purchase each segment of your trip individually. Individual segments vary in price and you can obtain these prices by sending an email to [email protected]
Economic tickets are best for those who do not wish to be tied to specific dates.
Economic tickets are not recommended during high season (July, August, Christmas and Easter week), as the train is usually quite full. If there is no room you won’t be able to board.
Chepe Regional Tourist
Purchasing a Tourist ticket entitles you to deboard at three different stations. For example, purchasing a ticket from Chihuahua to El Fuerte means you can also get off at Creel, Divisadero and Bahuichivo along the way. Because of the train’s schedule, however, you would need to stay in each town for at least 2 nights. Remember, the train only runs on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays in that particular direction.
You will need to declare which stops you plan to disembark and the exact dates when you purchase your tickets. More information on how to purchase tickets below.
If you wish to get off at more than three stops then you’ll be charged for the additional segments at a slightly higher rate. These rates can be found on the Chepe website.
You can mix and match Tourist and Economic tickets to save money if you plan to make more than three stops.
HOT TIP: Taking a bus between El Fuerte and Los Mochis is only $70 MXP. You can save money and you won’t miss any spectacular views.
Below are price tables for the Chepe Regional Economic and Tourist classes. These tables display prices from Chihuahua to the corresponding destinations. For individual segment prices see the Chepe website or send an email to [email protected] asking for the Economic prices.
Economic
| Chihuahua to: | Price (MXP) |
|---|---|
| Cuauhtémoc | 385 |
| Creel | 860 |
| Divisadero | 1,028 |
| Posada Barrancas | 1,040 |
| Bahuichivo | 1,161 |
| El Fuerte | 1,657 |
| Los Mochis | 1,891 |
Tourist
| Chihuahua to: | Price (MXP) |
|---|---|
| Cuauhtémoc | 667 |
| Creel | 1,490 |
| Divisadero | 1,781 |
| Posada Barrancas | 1,801 |
| Bahuichivo | 2,012 |
| El Fuerte | 2,870 |
| Los Mochis | 3,276 |
Chepe Express Ticket Prices
Chepe Express Tourist and Executive
Purchasing a Chepe Express ticket in either class entitles you to deboard at two stops in between your start and end point. For example, if you purchase a ticket from Creel to Los Mochis, you can also get off at Divisadero and El Fuerte along the way. As the train does not return for another two or three days, you’ll need to stay for a minimum of 2 night in each town, or use an alternative mode of transportation.
As with the Chepe Regional, you’ll need to declare which stops you plan to disembark and the exact dates when purchasing the tickets.
Unlike the Regional, the Chepe Express offers a discount for round-trip tickets if you need to get back to your starting point.
Below are the price tables for the Chepe Express Tourist and Executive classes. The tables display the prices from Creel to the corresponding destinations and the prices for a round-trip. For individual segment prices visit the Chepe website.
Tourist
| Creel to: | One-Way (MXP) | Round-Trip (MXP) |
|---|---|---|
| Divisadero | 728 | 1,013 |
| El Fuerte | 3,075 | 4,298 |
| Los Mochis | 3,743 | 5,243 |
Executive
| Creel to: | One-Way (MXP) | Round-Trip (MXP) |
|---|---|---|
| Divisadero | 1,163 | 1,628 |
| El Fuerte | 4,920 | 6,893 |
| Los Mochis | 6,000 | 8,400 |
How many days do I need to see the Copper Canyon by train?
This, of course, will depend on many factors. How much time do you have? What do you want to see? What activities would you like to do?
If you’re on a tight schedule it’s possible to see some great sights in the Copper Canyon in just a couple of days but I’d highly recommend spending at least a week travelling through the Canyons and towns nestled within them.
Below is an example itinerary and a great starting point for planning a trip. Click on any destination to learn more about what to see and do in that location.
Sample One-way itinerary from Chihuahua towards Los Mochis:
Day 1 – Chihuahua – Creel
Day 2 – Creel
Day 3 – Creel – Divisadero (Posada Barrancas)
Day 4 – Divisadero – Bahuichivo (Cerocahui)
Day 5 – Cerocahui
Day 6 – Bahuichivo – El Fuerte
Day 7 – El Fuerte – Los Mochis (Topolobampo)
Use this as a starting point for your planning and add or take away destinations to suit your schedule and budget. You can also save time and money by taking a bus between Creel and Divisadero or between El Fuerte and Los Mochis, and you won’t miss any spectacular views. See the Additional Information section below for more details about substituting buses for the train in certain areas.
The Copper Canyon Train Stations
Chihuahua
If you’re traveling through Copper Canyon by train Chihuahua will very likely be your start or end point. It’s the largest city along the Chepe route and the easiest to access by international or even domestic flights. There is an interesting history to explore here and you can learn more about it by clicking on the photo or title.
Creel
One of Mexico’s “Pueblo Mágicos” this little town on the outskirts of the Copper Canyon has a wide and unique assortment of nature to explore and a variety of ways to do it. Whether you prefer to hike, bike, ATV or drive you’ll appreciate a visit to the Valley of the Frogs, relaxing in the beautiful surroundings of the Recohuata Hot Springs or taking a trip to Cusárare Falls. You’ll also have an opportunity to discover the Rarámuri culture first-hand. Click the photo or title to learn more about Creel.
Divisadero and Posada Barrancas
These are two different train stops but they are very close together.
At Divisadero everyone will have an opportunity to exit the train for 15 minutes to snap some photos at a lookout point. This is the best spot for stunning views of the Copper Canyon ravines. There is one hotel at this stop if you want to spend a night but there are more hotel options at the Posada Barrancas stop.
There are a few tourist attractions accessible from either town you choose to stay in. These include a cable car, zip lines (including the fasted and longest in the world), bike rides, ATV, and rock climbing.
Bahuichivo Station
From the Bahuichivo stop you can travel to either Cerocahui or Urique. Both towns are deep in the Tarahumara Mountain Range.
Cerocahui is a 20 minute car ride from the Bahuichivo stop. Trekking or horsebacking riding to the Cerocahui Waterfalls is a popular activity in this area. You can also book a tour to the Gallego Hill viewpoint for some breathtaking views of the Canyon system.
Urique is about a 2 and a half hour ride away from the Bahuichivo stop. The route through the mountains is beautiful but not for the faint of heart! It’s also possible to trek here from Cerocahui. Once there take in your surroundings while cooling off in the river.
El Fuerte
Another of Mexico’s “Pueblos Mágicos” located in the state of Sinaloa on the banks of the Fuerte River. El Fuerte is known for its fort, for which the city is named after. It’s also known as the birthplace of the legendary Zorro. You can visit both buildings – the fort is now a replica and a museum and Zorro’s childhood home is a hotel. Click the image or title to learn more about El Fuerte.
Los Mochis and Topolobampo
Los Mochis itself isn’t a terribly exciting or picturesque city but it is a handy hub if you are arriving from or want to travel to Baja California, Guadalajara or elsewhere in Mexico. The close-by port of Topolobampo is a much better place to visit and tour around or catch a ferry to La Paz, Baja California Sur. Enjoy the beach, take a dip in the ocean, eat fantastic seafood or book a tour of the Farallón natural reserve. Click the title or image to learn more about Los Mochis and Topolobampo.
The Copper Canyon Train Stations
Chihuahua
If you’re traveling through Copper Canyon by train Chihuahua will very likely be your start or end point. It’s the largest city along the Chepe route and the easiest to access by international or even domestic flights. There is an interesting history to explore here and you can learn more about it by clicking on the photo or title.
Creel
One of Mexico’s “Pueblo Mágicos” this little town on the outskirts of the Copper Canyon has a wide and unique assortment of nature to explore and a variety of ways to do it. Whether you prefer to hike, bike, ATV or drive you’ll appreciate a visit to the Valley of the Frogs, relaxing in the beautiful surroundings of the Recohuata Hot Springs or taking a trip to Cusárare Falls. You’ll also have an opportunity to discover the Rarámuri culture first-hand. Click the photo or title to learn more about Creel.
Divisadero and Posada Barrancas
These are two different train stops but they are very close together.
At Divisadero everyone will have an opportunity to exit the train for 15 minutes to snap some photos at a lookout point. This is the best spot for stunning views of the Copper Canyon ravines. There is one hotel at this stop if you want to spend a night but there are more hotel options at the Posada Barrancas stop.
There are a few tourist attractions accessible from either town you choose to stay in. These include a cable car, zip lines (including the fasted and longest in the world), bike rides, ATV, and rock climbing.
Bahuichivo Station
From the Bahuichivo stop you can travel to either Cerocahui or Urique. Both towns are deep in the Tarahumara Mountain Range.
Cerocahui is a 20 minute car ride from the Bahuichivo stop. Trekking or horsebacking riding to the Cerocahui Waterfalls is a popular activity in this area. You can also book a tour to the Gallego Hill viewpoint for some breathtaking views of the Canyon system.
Urique is about a 2 and a half hour ride away from the Bahuichivo stop. The route through the mountains is beautiful but not for the faint of heart! It’s also possible to trek here from Cerocahui. Once there take in your surroundings while cooling off in the river.
El Fuerte
Another of Mexico’s “Pueblos Mágicos” located in the state of Sinaloa on the banks of the Fuerte River. El Fuerte is known for its fort, for which the city is named after. It’s also known as the birthplace of the legendary Zorro. You can visit both buildings – the fort is now a replica and a museum and Zorro’s childhood home is a hotel. Click the image or title to learn more about El Fuerte.
Los Mochis and Topolobampo
Los Mochis itself isn’t a terribly exciting or picturesque city but it is a handy hub if you are arriving from or want to travel to Baja California, Guadalajara or elsewhere in Mexico. The close-by port of Topolobampo is a much better place to visit and tour around or catch a ferry to La Paz, Baja California Sur. Enjoy the beach, take a dip in the ocean, eat fantastic seafood or book a tour of the Farallón natural reserve. Click the title or the image to learn more about Los Mochis and Topolobampo.
Copper Canyon by Train – Buying Chepe Regional Economic Tickets
Economic tickets can only be purchased one day in advance or on the train.
To buy them in advance you’ll need to go directly to the ticket office at either the Chihuahua or Los Mochis stations. There are no ticket sales offices at any of the intermediate stops. Note that your tickets will not have an assigned car or seat; these will be determined upon boarding the train.
As these tickets can’t be purchased more than one day in advance, you’ll only be able to purchase one segment of your trip at a time. The next segment can be purchased on the train.
To buy your tickets on the train in Chihuahua or Los Mochis, join the queue at the entrance of the station. An attendant will ask you how many people are in your party and assign you a car number and seats. Once the journey begins, authorized personnel will charge you for the tickets (cash only).
If you purchased your tickets the day before then just show an attendant at the station and you’ll pass to the front of the line where you’ll be assigned a car and seat number.
To buy onward Economic tickets at the intermediate stops you will have to wait for the train to arrive. Once you’ve boarded you can purchase your tickets from an attendant. Just remember the Chepe Regional train doesn’t run every day.
Seats are usually available in the Economic class but in high season (July, August, Christmas and Easter week) you may run into difficulties. Economic is primarily for local commuters so if it’s full you won’t be able to board.
Copper Canyon by Train – Buying Chepe Regional Tourist and Express Tickets
Chepe Express (Tourist and Executive) and Regional Tourist tickets must be purchased in advance as these tickets are not sold on the train or at any intermediate stops along the Chepe route. You’ll also need to print your tickets.
During high season (July, August, Christmas and Easter week) it’s advisable to purchase your tickets at least 3 weeks in advance.
You can purchase your Chepe Express or Regional Tourist tickets by phone, email or by going to the station in either Los Mochis or Chihuahua if you’ll be there a few days before you plan to leave.
I’ve tried calling to book tickets on multiple occasions and no one has ever answered the phone but in theory you can book tickets by calling 011 52 614 439 7212, or +52 1 614 439 7212. If you’re in Mexico and calling from a local line use 01 (614) 439-7212.
If you don’t speak Spanish then email will be the easiest way to book your tickets but the process can take a few days.
To purchase your tickets via email follow these steps:
1. Send an email to [email protected] (and to be safe cc [email protected]) with the following information:
- The full name(s) and age(s) of each passenger
- Which class you’d like (Regional Tourist, Express Tourist or Executive)
- The station where you’ll start your trip and the date
- The station where you’ll end your trip and the date
- Stops you will make in between and the dates
It’s also a good idea to fill out the form on the Chepe website with the same information as above. You can find the form by clicking this link: http://www.chepe.com.mx/contacto
2. You’ll receive a confirmation email similar to the document here. It’s important to note that this email does NOT contain your tickets.
Double check that the information highlighted in GREEN is correct. This is your itinerary and names of passengers. You may need to show photo ID with matching names upon boarding the train.
The date highlighted in YELLOW is your payment deadline. If no payment is received by that date your reservation will be cancelled.
If you are already in Mexico or will be before the payment deadline then you can pay at a Banamex Bank. In this case, you’ll need the information highlighted in BLUE.
If you want to pay by credit card (MasterCard or Visa only) you can respond to the email asking for a link to pay online.
…Bienvenido a bordo… Su reservación está confirmada con la Clave CHXXXXX , pero su boleto será emitido hasta que realice su pago.
Tiene hasta el día 18-11-2018 para pagar y enviar su comprobante, de lo contrario su reservación se cancelará
Datos bancarios:
Monto a depositar: $5,729.99
Banco: Banamex
Cuenta: 557775
Sucursal: 870
A nombre de: Ferrocarril Mexicano S.A. de C.V.
Referencia: 333390
CLABE: 0021 8008 7005 5777 54
Detalles de la reservación
Esta tarifa incluye solo el traslado en tren de pasajeros de 2 personas en el siguiente itinerario y máximo 2 piezas de equipaje por persona que no excedan los 25 kg. cada una. Consulta mas detalles sobre costos por equipaje extra en Términos y Condiciones
Itinerario:
Train Station Origin Station Destination
20-11-2018 CHIHUAHUA CREEL
22-11-2018 CREEL EL FUERTE
Nombres de los pasajeros:
Full Name Type Passenger
PASSENGER 1 NAME ADULT
PASSENGER 2 NAME ADULT
Al momento de abordar se le requerirá a cada uno de los pasajeros su identificación oficial con fotografía. Agradeceremos verifique bien sus datos personales como de viaje ya que cualquier cambio que solicite después de hacer su pago ocasionará un costo extra.
Importante: Recuerde que es muy importante enviar su comprobante de pago para que su reservación no sea cancelada, enviar a: [email protected]
3. Payment by credit card.
After requesting a link to pay online you should receive an email with a link (enlace) to start the payment process. Click the “enlace” and once again, double check that the information is correct.
If all looks good you can agree to the terms and conditions by checking the box at the bottom and clicking the button “Confirmo y deseo hacer el pago“. This will bring you to the payment page. You can use the image here as a reference when filling out this form.
Once your payment is received you’ll get another email, this time containing your tickets. You’ll need to print these before boarding El Chepe.
Additional Information
Best Time to Travel Copper Canyon by Train
The best time to visit Copper Canyon by train is September-October just as the rainy season is winding down and the weather is still fairly warm. That said, the Copper Canyon can be enjoyed any time of year but it is worth noting that in April and May most of the rivers have dried up and waterfalls are often just trickling.
Bus Routes
You can traverse the entire Copper Canyon route by bus if you want but it wouldn’t be terribly comfortable and you’d miss the stunning panoramas seen from El Chepe. Below are a few of the routes that might help save money or time without missing the most incredible views from the train.
- Chihuahua – Creel: The scenery isn’t as beautiful as it is from El Chepe and it won’t be as comfortable or as fast but it will be cheaper and there are more departure times in both directions. You will have two bus options: Rápidos Cuauhtémoc or Autotransportes Turísticos del Noroeste.
- Creel – Divisadero/Posada Barrancas: This is a short bus ride and you can even do a round-trip thereby staying in Creel rather than Barrancas or Divisadero. Autotransportes Turísticos del Noroeste is your best option with a station in the centre of Creel a few steps from the train station.
- El Fuerte – Los Mochis: This stretch really isn’t worth doing by train. You won’t miss any scenery and you’ll save time and money travelling by bus. The bus leaves El Fuerte from the Municipal Market on Benito Juarez Avenue. There are no posted schedules but buses leave approximately every 30 minutes. Click here for more details about getting to and from El Fuerte.
Travel Insurance
Due to government travel advisories, not all travel insurance policies provide coverage for travel in the Copper Canyon. Make sure you purchase the right policy for your trip. Click here to learn more about travel insurance specifically for the Copper Canyon.
Valuables
Many of the hotels throughout the Copper Canyon do not contain room safes and front desk staff will not assume responsibility for valuable items left with them. For this reason, I always travel with a LOCTOTE bag, which is a slash proof sack that can be secured to many fixtures. I find it brings me peace of mind when leaving my passport, camera, laptop or other valuables in my hotel room. It’s also great for the beach!
You can learn more about this super handy product by clicking here.
Ubers and Taxis
In the small towns, you can easily arrange a safe taxi ride via your hotel. In the larger cities, like Chihuahua and Los Mochis, you may find that you want to hail a cab to get from one attraction to another, or to the airport, etc. In these cases, I find that ordering an Uber is the easiest and safest way to get around.
If you don’t already have an Uber account, you can click the link below to sign up with my promotion code and receive $2 off your first 3 rides.
Hi Kayla, I really appreciate your website. Can you make recommendations for Bahuichivo – Cerocahui? We will take the El Chepe Regional from El Fuerte to Bahuichivo on Sunday, Sept. 1. We’ll be there two nights waiting for the El Chepe Regional en route to Divisidero/Posada Barrancas. You mentioned it’s a small town. Do you have recommendations for where to stay and what to do there? Also, can I pay you to look over our complete itinerary to make comments before I actually book air fare and make reservation??? Let me know. Thanks so much.
Thank you for the lovely comments, Betsy!
So far, your itinerary sounds great and aligns with the Chepe Regional schedule. As much as I appreciate your offer to have me review your itinerary, I must decline as I’ve got quite a few projects on the go at the moment.
In Cerocahui, there’s a wonderful hotel called Hotel Jade. I’ve provided a link to their site below, however, it’s best to book them over the phone as they’re not on booking.com and the internet service in Cerocahui is unreliable, so they may not be able to respond to emails.
Hotel Jade: http://hoteljade.com.mx/hotel/
The owners are incredibly friendly and you can arrange for them to pick you up at the station in Bahuichivo.
Once in Cerocauhui, there are plenty of hiking options, and/or, you can arrange a tour to Mirador Cerro del Gallego, which is a viewpoint overlooking the Urique Canyon. Very picturesque, but make sure you have the stomach for the ride up there!
I hope I’ve been able to help you with your planning and I wish you a wonderful trip!
Hello!
Thank you very much for putting on this site. It’s really informative. If possible, I would like to ask some questions. I’ve read about Cerocahui nearby Bahuichivo. Do you know if that part is worth while to see? Or is Divisadero as nice of even more beautiful? Of course everything is nice, but we have to make decisions :).
We are planning to go end of july/beginning of august. Just for the experience we would love to take economic. It that possible from El Fuerte to Creel? I cannot find ‘El fuerte’ in the initiary of the economic train. I have read though, that you don’t recommend the economic train in high season. Do you think it is possible to just go to the station and if it’s full, to book a regional at the station? Or do we need to purchase the regional tickets in advance? We are not sure when we get there, so it will be a little bit last minute.
I hope you can help us in making a decision.
Thanks for you respons in advance!
Monica
Hi Monica,
Thanks for your comment and questions!
First, Cerocahui is lovely but very small. It’s a great place to start a trek down into the Urique Valley, or just relax in a tiny town barely touched by tourists. However, if you’re tight on time and need to choose between Divisadero and Cerocahui, I’d suggest Divisadero.
Second, the trains can be confusing! The Chepe Regional has two classes – Economic and Tourist, and it definitely travels between El Fuerte and Creel. You can click the links below to find my pages on each town:
El Fuerte – https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-el-fuerte-sinaloa/
Creel – https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-creel/
In addition, here is a link to the Chepe website with the schedules:
http://www.chepe.com.mx/preguntas-frecuentes
Lastly, as far as buying Economic Class tickets on the train, it is a risk as these spots are primarily for local commuters. If it’s full, you may be able to buy Tourist Class tickets if you’re in Chihuahua or Los Mochis, but you cannot buy those tickets at any of the stations in between. If you’re heading to Copper Canyon during the summer, Christmas or Easter, I’d recommend trying to plan out your itinerary ahead of time and make reservations.
Keep in mind that some of those routes are doable by bus, in case you can’t get a train ticket. The one train ticket you will need is between El Fuerte and Creel (or Divisadero).
I hope you enjoy planning and have a wonderful time!
I have a question regarding making hotel reservations via booking.com versus direct through the hotel. Are there any issues with reservations? thank you, Olivia Sullivan
Hi again!
I’m not aware of any issues with booking directly through the hotels, especially if you speak Spanish. However, I’d be reluctant to give any credit card information over the phone or through email. I do like using Booking.com for payments.
We are planning a trip (there are 4 of us) to the Copper Canyon October 9, 2019. we will start our trip via Chihuahua. In making our plans we are thinking of taking El Chepe all the way to El Fuerte and staying there a couple of days before we head back and stay in Creel and Divisadero as well. We are wondering if this time of year there are any problems in getting tickets on the regional train since it is not the tourist train. We would appreciate your feedback. Thank you, Olivia Sullivan
Hi Olivia,
Thank you for your question!
I wish I could give you a definite answer, but unfortunately, I’m not sure. October is the best time to visit the Copper Canyon (weather-wise), so this may attract a lot of people. My guess is that you’d be ok to buy Chepe Regional Economy tickets on the train, but if you can purchase Tourist Class ahead of time, I’d advise doing so.
Happy planning and I hope you have a fantastic trip!
Hi David,
firstly I’ve found your website very informative. We are going to travel with friends who are meeting us in San Miguel de Allende and this was the trip we we’re planning, any suggestions or comments are appreciated. Plan to Los Mochis and take the regional tourist ticket and get off in Creel. We would take the train on a Tuesday to Creel. Stay there a couple of days a take a guided trip to the Adventure park as well as other sites(Copper Canyon Tours) and Friday take the 3:39 from Creel to Chihuahua. Say there until Sunday and fly back to San Miguel. Comments?
Thanks
Ira Goldman
Hi Ira,
Thanks for the comments!
Your itinerary sounds great! My one suggestion would be to take a bus or taxi from Los Mochis to El Fuerte, and catch the train from there. Even if you only get to spend a few hours there, it’s a very cute colonial town worth seeing, and a nicer place to spend a night than Los Mochis.
Have a fantastic time!
Hello question, husband and I arrive Thursday Oct 3 to Chihuahua. If we take bus to Creel, can we take Express from Creel on Friday Oct 4 at 730 am and go to Los Mochis for night and then come back to Creel on Saturday Oct 5 at 730 am? We have to be in Chichuahua on Monday to fly out.
Hi Nancy, that’s a good question.
You could take the Express from Creel to Los Mochis on Friday and return on Saturday, however, you’d be spending most of those two days on the train and not have much of a chance to appreciate the towns along the route.
I’d suggest modifying your itinerary a bit. I’ve listed two suggestions below:
Option 1. Take a bus to Creel on Thursday, then catch the Express to El Fuerte on Friday morning. Spend the night in El Fuerte (as it’s much nicer than Los Mochis). Catch the Express on Saturday morning and get off at Divisadero. Spend the night there and catch the Regional on Sunday, as this will take you all the way back to Chihuahua.
Option 2. Take the bus to Creel or Divisadero on Thursday. Spend Thursday and Friday night in one or both of these towns. Then, if you’d still like to see El Fuerte or if you want to see the incredible views from the train on the way to El Fuerte, catch the Chepe Regional train to El Fuerte on Saturday and return to Chihuahua via the Regional on Sunday (this will be a very long train ride).
There are more options of course, but either of the two above will allow you to see more of the towns along the way, which I think are very much worth it. I’ve included some links below to places you can stay in the towns I mentioned:
Chihuahua – https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-chihuahua/#hotels
Creel – https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-creel/#hotels
Divisadero – https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-divisadero-mexico/#hotels
El Fuerte – https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-el-fuerte-sinaloa/#hotels
Whatever you choose, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time.
Happy planning!
Kayla, I’m trying to get an itinerary together and am interested in several points:
1:Possibly will take a taxi from Chihuahua to Creel only because of time constraints on a Sunday night and then after 1 night in Creel, go on a 3 day, 2 night trip to Batopilos with 3 Amigos. So Sunday night taxi, Monday and Tuesday nights Batopilos and Wed night in Creel and Thursday to Divisadero train or bus and Friday from there after 1 night in Posadas Barranca or Divisadero to El Fuerte and on to mexico City from Los Mochis on the Sunday. Obviously we’re not trying to do it on the cheap and may mean mixing Regional and Express trains. Is it better to take bus to Divisaderoand just 1 train to el Fuerte from time management point of view? OR
2:Forget Batopilos and the taxi and do train/bus to Creel on the Monday and spend 2 nights there touring; then bus to Divisadero on Wednesday and 2 nights there in adventure park and hiking and then train to El Fuerte Friday and weekend there.
Which allows us to see the canyons from up close better?
Hi David,
Your itineraries both sound great. If I had to choose one for you, I’d go with your first one, which includes Batolpilas. The town is just incredible and you won’t be disappointed.
Once back in Creel, I would suggest taking a bus to Divisadero as it’s a short ride, it’ll give you more flexibility and you won’t miss much by not taking the train. The most amazing views are between Divisadero and El Fuerte.
My only concern for you is finding a taxi that will take you from Chihuahua to Creel. I’d recommend arranging that ahead of time just to ensure they will and can do that, as I believe it’s a 5-6 hour drive.
If you end up taking the tour with 3 Amigos, I’d love to hear about it as I’ve never used them. Whatever you choose, I hope you have a wonderful time!
We are starting our Mexico journey in Matzatlan, so we are looking at taking a bus and getting on the El Chepe Express in Los Mochis, or can that not be done to get to the Copper Canyon trip? If the train trip into Copper Canyon ends in Creel can we get train for bus from there? We read it is not a safe state to travel, so we don’t want to be staying in cities near Chihuahua. I also read somewhere the El Chepe Express arrives about 4 p.m.in LosMochis, so is there a bus line you recommend we can get on in the evening and go all night to arrive in Guadalajara the next day? We will be traveling for two months in Mexico, so we will each have a larger suitcase and backpack. Busses allow that right?
Hi Leigh & Karen, I’m so glad you’re planning to incorporate the Copper Canyon into your 2-month Mexico adventure!
From what I understand, you’re itinerary is Mazatlán –> Copper Canyon (round-trip) –> Guadalajara. I hope I got that right.
There is a bus company called TAP that runs between Mazatlán and Los Mochis. You can certainly bring a suitcase or large backpack but you’ll likely need to leave it in the storage under the bus.
Once is Los Mochis, I think your best bet is to do a round-trip on the Chepe Express. Otherwise, you’ll need to take the Chepe Regional train or a bus to Chihuahua in order to catch a flight to Guadalajara. There are buses from Chihuahua to Guadalajara but they are long and expensive.
After your Chepe Express round-trip, when you’re back in Los Mochis, you can use the same TAP bus line to get to Guadalajara. However, it may be worth checking Calafia Airlines or Volaris as a flight may be similar in cost but much faster.
You can click the link below for more information about connecting in Los Mochis:
https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/topolobampo-and-los-mochis-sinaloa/#getthere
I also have pages on the other Chepe Express stops
El Fuerte: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-el-fuerte-sinaloa
Divisadero: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-divisadero-mexico/
Creel: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-creel/
I hope you two have an amazing time!
Hi,
Thank you so much for your information. I am planing to take this great train trip in June for 4-5 days. I enjoy more about the train Journey buy maybe stop one place. Which place has the best views (photography is my thing) and experience, would you suggest? If I take the train from Chihuahua regional train and stop some where for a night (maybe Divisadero), can I change the express train next day rather wait for 2 days back to the same train, can I get the ticket in the stations when I am there or I need to pre-book first? I’d like take the express train all the way but hassle to get Creel first.
I am from Australia and travel to Dallas and then to Mexico then central and South America, Should I fly from Dallas to Chihuahua or Los Mochis to take the train trip? Any different for the scenery? Is safe for female does not speak Spanish travel alone on the train?
Thank you in Advance!
Hi Hanna, thanks so much for the great questions!
First, I think Divisadero has the most breathtaking views of the canyons, so you’ll definitely want to spend some time there taking photos. You can find out more about Divisadero by clicking the link below:
https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-divisadero-mexico/
Second, you can definitely take both the Chepe Regional and Chepe Express, however, you’ll end up paying a little more than if you were to travel on just one train. Another option may be to take a bus from Chihuahua to Divisadero (you’ll need to transfer in Creel), then catch the Express onward from there.
You will need to pre-order your Express tickets as there’s nowhere to buy them in the towns along the Chepe route. You can buy Chepe Regional Economic tickets onboard if the train isn’t full.
When it comes to choosing where to start your Chepe journey, I prefer to head from Chihuahua towards Los Mochis as the scenery just keeps getting better. Of course, it’s going to be amazing either way and I would decide based on flight availability and where you’re heading afterwards. For example, if you’re going to La Paz or Mazatlan after the Copper Canyon, then it would be best to start in Chihuahua and end in Los Mochis. If, on the other hand, you’re going to Mexico City or Oaxaca, it might be best to end in Chihuahua as there are probably more flight options from there.
Lastly, there are usually other tourists on board the train and Chepe staff so you’re not alone. I’ve never felt unsafe on the train but it’s always good to take precautions when travelling anywhere. You can learn more about safety tips for the Copper Canyon by clicking on this link: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/copper-canyon-mexico-safety/
I hope you have a fantastic time!
HOLA! Which direction is best? I’m planning to do a family trip July 23(1 week). THNX
Hi Elia, thanks for the comment!
I think Divisadero is a must, especially with a family, as the Adventure Park will be very exciting for all ages. Not to mention, Divisadero has some of the best canyon views. Follow the link below to learn more about Divisadero:
https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-divisadero-mexico/
Creel will also have a lot of great outdoor activities that would suit a family vacation. You can learn more about Creel by clicking the link below:
https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-creel/
Happy planning, Elia!
Great site! Leaving Beautiful BC for Chihuahua in a week.
Thanks for the compliment, John. I hope you have a wonderful trip!
We are traveling on bicycles and we will be near Creel the end of February/early March. Are bicycles allowed on the trains? Thanks for all your hard work!
Hi Meilani,
The Chepe Regional doesn’t have any specific area for bicycles and they may not allow them on if the trains are full. The Chepe Express does have a dedicated luggage car so you may have better luck with that.
I’d love to know how you fared with the bikes as I’ve received this question before and I currently don’t have a solid answer.
I need help I have emailed the email address on the website 10 days ago to get tickets and i have not been able to get a response. I have tried calling with no luck i will be there in 3 weeks and would love to know i have reservations. Any suggestions?
Hi Mark,
I’m sorry to hear about this inconvenience. March can be a busy time for El Chepe and it would be best to have those reservations in advance.
Have you tried contacting Chepe through their website? Here is a link to their contact form:
http://www.chepe.com.mx/contacto
If you haven’t already tried the numbers on my website, you can give them a try: 011 52 614 439 7212, or +52 1 614 439 7212. They also provide this phone number on the Chepe site: 01800 1224 373.
I believe there are only 2 people working in the ticketing office at any given time so it can be difficult to get a hold of someone. You may have better luck in the mornings, between 8 and 10 am (MST) and avoid calling during lunch hours.
Be persistent and continue to send those emails. Someone should get back to you eventually.
Best of luck!
Gosh I am not sure what I am missing, but will you please confirm the cost of a Tourist ticket between El Fuerte to Creel on the Chepe Regional? I am looking for round trip price in MXP. We are planning our visit in March. Thanks so much!!
Hi Julie, thanks for the comment!
Chepe doesn’t really sell round trip tickets for the Regional train, at least not with a discount like they do with the Chepe Express.
However, you should still be able to plan a round trip between El Fuerte and Creel. Below is a link to Chepe ticket prices:
http://www.chepe.com.mx/assets/pdf/esp/TarifaChepeRegional.pdf
Creel to El Fuerte, one-way, should cost 1,380 MXP for a Tourist Class ticket. This should also entitle you to get off at a couple of stops in between (maybe Bahuichivo and Divisadero!). Just be careful about planning because the Regional train doesn’t run every day.
Happy Planning!
Your site has been very informative. We are close to booking our train tickets from Creel to El fuerte, your bus info and booking online has been very helpful.
we are going in January.
Thank you so much for the wonderful feedback, Bernadette! I’m so glad the site was helpful and I hope you have an excellent trip! And don’t forget, the Chepe Express schedule will be changing as of January 11th, 2019.
Hello Kayla,
I am planning to visit Copper Canyon in Feb 2019.
Tentative schedule is board Chepe Express on 12th Feb at 7:30am… spend Tuesday in Divisadre – stay the night in Divisardro ( any economical hotel suggestions?) – Explore Canyon again on Wed & board a train in the afternoon/evening for El Fuerte & spend a night in El Fuerte – Explore El Fuerto on Thu & board a train to Los Mochis in the late afternoon/ evening -arrive in Los Mochis on Thu night & spend a nigh & spend 2 nights in Los Mochis…Board a train back to Creel on Saturday morning to arrive in creel on Saturday evening…..
In order to cater to this iteneriary what can you suggest for train journet?
what hotels do you suggest?
please feel free to make suggestions to make this trip more worthwhile & economical….
Thanks & Regards,
Viva
Hi Viva! I’d be happy to make some suggestions to make your trip more economical!
To truly save money I’d suggest riding the Chepe Regional exclusively, as it’s much cheaper. You can read more about the difference between the Regional and the Express by clicking this link -> https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/visit-copper-canyon-train/#tickets
As for hotels, you can find my suggestions for Divisadero here -> https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-divisadero-mexico/#hotels
I also have suggestions for Creel: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-creel/#hotels
El Fuerte: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-el-fuerte-sinaloa/#hotels
and Los Mochis: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/topolobampo-and-los-mochis-sinaloa/#hotels
If you’re starting your journey in Creel then you can take a bus over to Divisadero, as it gives you more flexibility than the train and is a bit cheaper. I’d also suggest taking a bus between El Fuerte and Los Mochis to save money.
Find more information about transport between these two cities by clicking here -> https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-el-fuerte-sinaloa/#getthere
Your current itinerary doesn’t quite line up with the train schedules (the Chepe can be very confusing!). Hopefully this link to the timetables can help you plan your itinerary.
Link to timetables -> https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/visit-copper-canyon-train/#combinedSchedules
Please let me know if you have any specific questions once you’ve worked out the itinerary.
Greetings from Toronto:
Wonderful site.
Do the trains run everyday including Xmas Day & Boxing Day?
Thanks\Les
That’s a great question, Les! I’m almost certain that the trains run on their regular schedules throughout the year, regardless of holidays. When you book your tickets the company should let you know for sure whether this is the case. Just remember, The Chepe Regional doesn’t run in the same direction every day, only the Chepe Express does that (until Jan. 11th, 2019, when the Express schedule will change).
Also, keep in mind that Christmas is actually a very busy time in the Copper Canyon so be sure to book your hotels ahead of time. I find the best deals are at Booking.com.
Are dogs allowed on the train, and in hotels?
Hi Paula! As far as I know, dogs are, unfortunately, not permitted on EL Chepe. However, I’ve reached out to the company to find out for sure and I’m waiting for their reply. I’ll post it here as soon as I find out.
does the train still take vehicles Los Moches to chihuahua
Thanks for your inquiry, Roger. Unfortunately, El Chepe doesn’t transport vehicles, just people. The tracks are used by freight trains, but I’m not sure if they will transport individual vehicles and may only work with large companies. You can check out their site here: https://www.ferromex.com.mx/
Thanks a lot for these informations. Very helpful !
Do you know if it’s possible to board with unboxed bicycles in the Regional train ? We are in low season, the train will not be full, but on the Chepe website they allow only one luggage…
Hey! Thank you so much for your comment!
I’m not entirely sure about bicycles but I’ve never seen one and as there’s no luggage car on the Chepe Regional I doubt they’d allow them. I’d suggest contacting Chepe directly to be sure. Here is a link to their contact page: http://www.chepe.com.mx/contacto
Sounds interesting. How to connect from El Paso?
Thanks for your comment, Aaron!
There’s a bus that runs between El Paso and Chihuahua. From Chihuahua, you can catch El Chepe. Here’s a link to a page with a bit more information: https://www.visitcoppercanyon.com/things-to-do-in-chihuahua/#getthere
This is unbelievably informative but I’m still a bit confused. We are in Chihuahua tonight and want to take the Express train tomorrow disembarking at Divisadero for one night then going on to El Fuerte the following day. I see now that won’t work because we would have to be in Creel at 6AM rather than here in Chihuahua. My question is, do you know if we can buy our Express tickets here in Chihuahua tomorrow morning ( to board the following day in Divisadero to El Fuerte ) but go ahead and take the Regional to Divisadero tomorrow? We have already booked our room at the Posada Barrancas for tomorrow night.
I realize you may not see this message but thank you either way. Awesome and informative site.
I’m so sorry I wasn’t able to respond earlier. I hope everything worked out for you. If you read this and you feel like sharing your experience I’d love to hear it as it will certainly help me write future articles and help other readers plan their trip.
Wow! This was nice and thorough. I’ve been thinking about doing it for years. BTW I found you through Travel Blogger Buzz.
Thanks for the comment! I really hope you get to make the trip, it’s such a fantastic experience 🙂