This is a convenient outline of the projected schedule of activities for your tour. The itinerary can be folded  to fit purse or coat pockets. Please carry it with you.... In order to offer the best possible arrangements, it may be necessary to adjust the daily  schedule in accordance with weather conditions, train delays, holidays, etc.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: We strongly suggest that you carry your air ticket, traveler checks and any medication with you, rather than packing them in checked luggage. Remember, a picture ID is required for airline check in.

 INCIDENTALS: At all hotels throughout the tour, please check with the hotel cashier for personal charges on your account. You are responsible for payment of meals not included and personal incidental charges prior to departure. 

WEATHER INFORMATION: Average temperature in the northern part of Mexico in the spring is approximately 86º F maximum and 67º F minimum. Average monthly precipitation is 0.2”. In the fall it is approximately 83º F maximum and 75º minimum. Average monthly precipitation is 1.4”. Remember “average” means that temperatures or precipitation can go above or below the numbers given. Northern Mexico shares in the extreme temperature conditions of the United States; cold in the winter and  warm in the summer. We suggest you check the world forecast in the USA Today newspaper or, if available to you, The weather channel about a week before your tour to get a feeling for what the current temperature and conditions are in the region. This more than anything, will assist you in making your clothing decisions.

MEXICAN CUSTOMS: While in Mexico you must carry with you valid proof of citizenship (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, notarized affidavit or current US passport) along with an official Mexican tourist permit. ( The Mexican tourist permit will be obtained as soon as you cross the border).

MINORS: Mexican Government regulations require that minors (under 18 years of age), regardless of citizenship, who are not accompanied by both natural  parents or legal guardians, must have a notarized statement of permission to enter Mexico, from the parent(s)/guardian(s) not accompanying minor(s) This notarized statement and a Mexican Tourist permit must be carried while in Mexico.

ALTITUDES: Be aware of higher altitudes in Mexico, specially around the Copper Canyon. The rim of the Canyon has an altitude of 7,500 feet.

CLOTHING: Nights are cool (cold in the winter)  in Chihuahua and the Canyon areas; other stops along the route are usually warm year-round. Spring and fall are the most pleasant seasons for travel through Copper Canyon. Bring a wrap regardless of the time of year as El Divisadero is about 7,500 feet above sea level. Please dress for comfort, bring good walking shoes and travel light.
MAIL: All mail (including postcards and letters) should be sent airmail whether you are mailing to another country or just within Mexico. You must use Mexican stamps or the Mexican post office will not deliver, nor will they return it to you.

WATER: To be on the safe side, do not drink the water unless it is bottled water, or you are in a first-rate hotel. Do not order drinks with ice cubes unless its a first-rate hotel or restaurant. Do not brush your teeth  or wash fruit with tap water.

HOTEL FACTS: All appliances (electric shaver/hair dryer, etc.) will work throughout Mexico. There may be some problem at the small hotels where the current may not be as strong (50-cycle) and your appliance wont work quite as efficiently. Men should pack a safety razor to be on the safe side as you never know when the current might go off.
Water faucets particularly in older out of the way places are marked with a “c” stands for “caliente” or HOT. The “f” stands for “frio” or cold

WHAT  CAN LEGALLY BE TAKEN INTO MEXICO: (Only for persons over 18 years) 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of pipe tobacco, 3 litters of wine or liquor , a photo or movie or video camera. One additional camera for persons residing outside of Mexico; 12 rolls of film or video cassettes.

WHAT CAN LEGALLY BE BROUGHT BACK INTO THE US: Up to $ 400.00 USD in merchandise duty-free provided this merchandise is for personal use or for friendship gifts. Each adult may bring one quart of liquor, beer or wine and one carton of cigarettes. Miniature liquor bottles cannot  be brought back through Texas gateways. Be careful about purchasing an exotic skin handbag, shoes or wallet. It may be from an endangered species. Tortoise shell articles are not allowed to enter the US for this reason.

Previous clients who have taken the Copper Canyon tour suggest the following  packing list.

For personal use...

 Wet onesHat or visor
 Sunscreen
 Alarm Clock
 Wash cloths
 10-$ 1 USD bills
 Small flashlight
 Insect repellent
 Purse size facial tissues since most smaller hotels do not dispense them.
 Snacks for long train rides and late meals.
 Common medicine; aspirin, pepto-bismol, cold remedies, band aids, etc.
 Small toys for Tarahumara children and ball points pens pencils for children & adults. Used clothes for children infant junior high age.

This is your chance to visit one of the few remaining frontiers in North America and learn about the area’s history, culture and heritage. The comfortable lodges and small hotels reserved, are selected for their location and  might be rustic and rather basic. If you are an adventurer,  have an open mind, and are possessed with wanderlust then you will enjoy our Copper Canyon tour and we are glad you are joining us for the adventure !
The Chihuahua al Pacifico Railroad, (Now Ferromex) schedules are subject to weather conditions or other unexpected delays. at times the train is delayed for hours. Even in first class, which most Americans use, the train offers a rustic trip best appreciated by those with an adventurous spirit.

DOCUMENTS THAT YOU NEED TO CROSS THE BORDER TO MEXICO:

 Valid Passport OR
 Certified Birth Certificate
 NO notarized copies