Then fly across to the Mexican mainland and for a rail journey to the rim of one of the world's greatest canyons — the Copper Canyon. For centuries, it was known only to a few adventurous and determined outsiders and until the railroad's completion just over four decades ago, the Copper Canyon could only be reached through an arduous journey by burro or on foot. It's a thrilling ride, and you'll enjoy it in comfort aboard the Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad.
| Day-by-Day Itinerary |
|
||
 |
|||
|
DAY 1 — U.S./Los Cabos/La Paz,
Mexico/Embark Ship
We’ll embark the ship in the
afternoon. Since this area is known for its spectacular sunsets,
make sure to take some time on deck. Soon after embarkation, our
Captain will point the ship north into the Sea of Cortez. (D)
|
|
DAY 2 — Isla Santa Catalina
Search for whales in the waters
south of Isla Carmen, an area that has proven to be one of the
best for finding blue whales, and often bottlenose and common
dolphins. Visit Isla Santa Catalina, famous for its giant barrel
cactus and rattleless rattlesnake. The protected bay of our
anchorage is also an excellent site for snorkeling. With a full
afternoon here there is time for swimming, snorkeling, hiking
and kayaking. (B,L,D)
|
|
DAY 3 — Exploring the Sea of Cortez
Today, we explore some of the dozens
of islands of the Sea of Cortez. Today is a day with the luxury
of no specific plan. We may spend the morning whale watching in
the waters around Isla Danzante, an area that has proven to be
one of the best for finding blue whales, bottlenose dolphins and
common dolphins. Rich in nutrients, the Sea of Cortez is home to
a huge variety of fish: king angelfish, surgeonfish, butterfly
fish, damselfish and the beautifully colored parrotfish. Explore
one of the many lovely, uninhabited islands such as Isla San
Jose or Isla Santa Catalina, famous for the 12-foot wavy barrel
cactus. Whether walking, kayaking or watching from the Bridge,
you’ll observe the great diversity of bird life — ladder-backed
woodpeckers, Costa’s hummingbirds, Gila woodpeckers and verdin.
(B,L,D)
|
|
DAY 4 — Islas Los Islotes and
Espiritu Santo
With deeply indented shorelines and
dramatically eroded cliff faces, Islas Los Islotes and Espiritu
Santo are two of the most beautiful islands in the Sea of
Cortez. Swim and snorkel here. Don mask, flippers and snorkel
(which we’ll provide with as much guidance as you need) and
experience the thrill of swimming with the curious sea lions.
Observe the impressive geological past of these islands from a
kayak: see tons of compacted volcanic ash covered with
solidified lava floods just yards from the shore. Brown
pelicans, gulls, wandering tattlers, great blue herons and
boobies are all part of the landscape. It is also home to the
endemic black jack rabbit — with any luck, we may spot one.
There are possibilities for long walks or lazy beachcombing.
Finish the day with a beach barbecue complete with campfire and
a star-filled sky. (B,L,D)
|
|
DAY 5 — La Paz/Disembark Ship/El
Fuerte
Disembark La Paz and to Los Mochis,
then board motor coaches for the ride to El Fuerte. This lovely
small town is a place of quiet charm, with cobblestone streets
lined with buildings from the colonial era, and lovely town
square. This afternoon, we have the choice of taking a float
trip on the El Fuerte River or a bird walk during which our
Naturalist. We spend the night at the Posada del Hildago, a
former colonial mansion built in 1890. (B,L,D)
|
|
DAY 6-7 — Copper Canyon
Days 6-7 - Copper Canyon This
morning board the famed Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad. Our
journey takes us from just above sea level to almost 8,000 feet
in a little more than six hours, crossing deep ravines and
passing through more than 70 tunnels and over 35 trestles before
emerging onto a breathtaking scenes. Later arrive at the rim of
Copper Canyon and check in to the Mirador. The hotel sits near
the highest point of the canyon, overlooking the breathtaking
scenery below.
During the afternoon and the following day, there will be plenty of time for leisurely walks along the rim, long hikes down into the canyon itself or simply relax and enjoy the view. Located far below are the dwellings of the Tarahumara Indians, who have managed to maintain many of their pre-Columbian traditions into the present day. (B,L,D) |
|
DAY 8 — Copper Canyon/Chihuahua
After watching sunrise over the
canyon, there’s time for a last walk along the canyon’s rim.
Later board our motor coach, stopping briefly in the town of
Creel, a busy little place with the rustic atmosphere of an old
frontier town. After arriving at our hotel in Chihuahua, we’ll
enjoy a farewell dinner and a folkloric dance performance by a
talented local troupe. (B,L,D)
|
|
DAY 9 — Chihuahua/Return U.S.
After breakfast, we'll head to the
airport for your flight to US (B)
|
