(6 days, 5 nights)

Day 1: El Paso, Casas Grandes
Early this morning we enter Mexico at Juarez and drive South through Chihuahua, the largest and one of the richest states in Mexico. Cross the Janos river passing extensive peach and apple orchards and on to Nuevo Casas Grandes, the commercial center for this thriving region. A short distance from here are the Paquime Ruins. During the afternoon we will tour the brand new Museum of the northern Cultures and Paquime Archaeology Site, where both Pueblo Indian and Mesoamerican influences are evident in the buildings, ceremonial monuments and the large ball court. Before returning to the hotel for diner we will drive by the Mormon Community, and see how these people preserve their traditional and religion customs. Hotel Hacienda or Piñón. (D)

Day 2: Casas Grandes, Creel
After breakfast we will continue on to Creel, the gateway to the most primitive and nomadic tribe of Indians in North America. The Tarahumara Indians. On our way to Creel we will stop to visit the Mennonite Community of Cuauhtemoc. It was settled by the Mennonnites shortly after the Mexican Revolution and has been developed as one of Mexico´s leading agricultural areas. Our local tour includes a traditional lunch at a Mennonite´s home, if the family is available. Overnight hotel Villa Mexicana or similar. (B, L)

Day 3: Creel, El Fuerte
This morning, during our walking tour of Creel we will have a chance to visit the museum and the Mission store to view original Indian crafts. This afternoon we board the train for our rail rip through the rugged terrain across Mexico´s Sierra Madre Mountains to Divisadero. The view of the three Canyons that comprise the Copper Canyon makes Divisadero ("The Divide") an unforgettable stop on your trip across the mountains. This area is four times larger than the Grand Canyon and gives visitors many memorable vistas of the pristine mountains wilderness. Our rail trip will continue through the Copper Canyon and on to the colonial town of El Fuerte for our two nights stay. La Posada, or similar. (B, L)

Day 4: Touring El Fuerte
Today we will enjoy the charming colonial town of El Fuerte ("The Fort"). It was established during the Spanish occupation to protect soldiers from Indian attacks. You will visit the colonial period City Hall and the Main Plaza on your leisurely walking tour of El Fuerte. This afternoon we will do some bird watching along the El Fuerte River. (B)

Day 5: El Fuerte, Divisadero
Board the train this morning and admire the beautiful scenery on the return trip. The train winds and bores its way through tunnels of the Tarahumara range of the Western Sierra Madre. This afternoon explore the mountains and canyons where the shy and primitive Tarahumara Indian hunters live in crude log cabins and caves. The mysterious canyons conceal in their depth Indian caves and villages, old Spanish mines and modern villages. This afternoon our Guide will lead a leisurely walk along the rim to view the beautiful sunset over the Canyon. Hotel Divisadero Barrancas or Mansion Tarahumara. (B, L, D)

Day 6: Divisadero, Chihuahua
Use your free time this morning to bargain with the Tarahumara Indians who sell their handicrafts near the hotel. After breakfast we travel by motorcoach or van to the city of Chihuahua for a city tour, visiting Pancho Villas home, the Cathedral, the Spanish aqueduct, murals at the State Capitol and residential districts. Tonight join our escort for a Mexican farewell dinner, special entertainment and an overnight stay at the Radisson Casa Grande Hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 7: Chihuahua, El Paso
It's time to return. You will depart at 8:00 am for the El Paso Airport. Arrive at approximately 1:30 p.m. (B)

Included: Chihuahua-Home of Pancho Villa, Divisadero-Copper Canyon overlook, Casas Grandes Archaeology site, El Fuerte Colonial Village, Creel and old Lumber and mining town, Meet the Tarahumara Indians, Mennonite settlements in Cuauhtémoc, Mormon settlements in Casas Grandes, Late model van or coach, Profesional bilingual guide, 12 Meals are included.

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