Chepe Express: A Journey Through Mexico's Sierra Tarahumara, From Summer Cascades to Autumn Wine

Crossing the heart of Mexico's Sierra Tarahumara aboard the Chepe Express is more than just a train ride; it's an immersion into one of the ten most spectacular railway journeys globally. This route, an engineering feat traversing majestic canyons, bridges, and tunnels, transforms magically with the changing seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year.

Traveling during the summer brings a vibrant green transformation to the landscape, with heavy rainfall creating impressive temporary waterfalls that are a sight unique to this season. The forests around Creel burst with various shades of green, and the mornings near Lake Arareko are particularly mystical. In El Divisadero, where the canyons of Urique, Tararecua, and Copper meet, a daily "cloud factory" phenomenon occurs, with clouds ascending in the morning and releasing rain over the forest canopy in the afternoon.

Autumn, on the other hand, paints the sierra in warm, golden tones and coincides with the traditional grape harvest at the Hotel Misión in the historic town of Cerocahui. This period offers a unique fusion of local culture and wine celebration. During this season, the Ralámuli people, the indigenous stewards of this land, cultivate their crops, a practice deeply rooted in their ancestral traditions.

The stretch connecting Creel, Divisadero, and Bahuichivo is widely considered the most breathtaking section of the Chepe Express route. Creel, a Pueblo Mágico, serves as a primary base for exploring the region's forests, waterfalls, and indigenous culture, with attractions like the Valley of the Monks and nearby Cusárare waterfall. Divisadero offers unparalleled views of the Copper Canyon, while Bahuichivo provides access to the historic Misión Cerocahui and the stunning Urique Canyon.