Northern Mexico

Six states in northern Mexico, best known for the vast Copper Canyon and its scenic train, the Sonoran Desert and the urban landscape of Monterrey.

Scope: Following the seven-region travel division of Mexico, the north comprises six states—Sonora, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas and Durango—a vast, arid belt along the US border. Highlights: Chihuahua's Copper Canyon is a system of many deep canyons that is larger overall than the Grand Canyon in the US. Creel is the base for exploring, the Divisadero viewpoint has a cable car and high-altitude adventure activities, and the canyons are home to the Rarámuri (Tarahumara), famed for their long-distance running. The Chepe scenic train, linking Chihuahua with Los Mochis on the Pacific coast, is a world-famous scenic railway. Monterrey, the capital of Nuevo León, is Mexico's third-largest city, set against the backdrop of Cerro de la Silla, with rock climbing in Huasteca Canyon nearby. Sonora offers desert landscapes, the Pinacate volcanic crater and the beaches of Puerto Peñasco. Durango was once a filming location for Westerns. Classic itineraries: The Chepe train plus Copper Canyon in 4–6 days, with overnight stays in towns along the way; 2–3 days around Monterrey. Getting there and around: Board the train at Chihuahua City or Los Mochis; Monterrey, Chihuahua and Hermosillo all have flights. Notes: Security is poorer in some border cities and on remote roads, so check the latest travel advisories before you go, drive in daylight where possible and use reputable transport.

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