Family Adventure in Copper Canyon

A Day of Awe and Art

Today was a day of embracing the raw, untamed beauty of the Copper Canyon and diving deeper into the heart of Rarámuri culture. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the magic of authentic travel experiences with all of you.

The day began, as most of our days here have, with breakfast at Restaurante El Barranco. By now, Maximilian, Elena, and I feel like regulars. The familiar aroma of Mexican coffee and the friendly faces of the staff always make for a comforting start. We enjoyed a hearty breakfast of huevos rancheros, fueling up for our adventure to Cascada Basaseachi. I swear, Elena could eat huevos rancheros every day and never tire of them.


Experience authentic Mexican cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Restaurante El Barranco in Parque Barrancas del Cobre.

The drive to Cascada Basaseachi was stunning. The landscape shifted from quaint villages to dramatic cliffs and valleys. As we got closer, the anticipation grew. I had read so much about this waterfall, the highest in Mexico, and I was eager to see it with my own eyes. The air was crisp and cool, a welcome contrast to the warmer days we’ve experienced earlier in our trip. Being here in December, the winter air added a touch of magic to the scenery.

Finally, we arrived. And wow. Pictures simply don’t do Cascada Basaseachi justice. The sheer power and height of the falls are breathtaking. The water plunged down the cliff face with a thunderous roar, creating a misty spray that kissed our faces. Elena was mesmerized, pointing and chattering excitedly about the ‘big, big waterfall!’ Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, was busy capturing the scene with his camera, trying to find the perfect angle to convey the scale of it all. I just stood there, soaking it in, feeling incredibly small and humbled by the force of nature. I am glad we packed our weather-appropriate clothing, since it can get quite chilly near the waterfall [cite: TripEssentials].


Discover the breathtaking Cascada Basaseachic, a stunning waterfall in Chihuahua, Mexico, perfect for hiking and nature exploration amidst scenic landscapes.

We spent a good couple of hours exploring the area around the falls. There are several viewpoints offering different perspectives, each more stunning than the last. We even took a short hike along one of the trails, enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding canyon. The combination of the towering pines and the deep canyon walls was simply awe-inspiring. I made sure to take lots of photos; these are memories I want to cherish forever.

“Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like standing in awe before a natural wonder.”

After our fill of nature’s grandeur, we headed to Artesanias 100% Originales, a local shop I had read about that promises authentic Rarámuri crafts. I was eager to support the local artisans and find a unique souvenir to take back home. The shop was a treasure trove of colorful textiles, intricately woven baskets, and hand-carved wooden figures. Each piece told a story, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Rarámuri people.


Explore the authentic craftsmanship at Artesanias 100% Originales in Creel, where every piece tells a story of tradition and culture.

I was particularly drawn to the textiles. The vibrant colors and intricate patterns were mesmerizing. I learned that each design has a specific meaning, often representing elements of nature or aspects of Rarámuri life. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-woven blanket with a geometric pattern that the shopkeeper explained symbolized the mountains and rivers of the Copper Canyon. I can already imagine it draped over our sofa in Bielefeld, a constant reminder of this incredible journey.

Elena, of course, had her eye on the wooden figures. She picked out a small, brightly painted carving of a bird, declaring it her ‘travel buddy.’ Maximilian, meanwhile, was fascinated by the baskets, marveling at the skill and precision of the weavers. He bought a small, sturdy basket, perfect for holding his collection of loose change.

Shopping at Artesanias 100% Originales was more than just buying souvenirs; it was an opportunity to connect with the local culture and support the artisans who are keeping traditional crafts alive. It’s these kinds of experiences that make travel so rewarding.

For lunch and dinner, we found ourselves back at Restaurante El Barranco [cite: DayRestaurants]. It’s become our go-to spot for delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine. Today, I tried the Lomo Saltado, and it was absolutely delicious. The stir-fried beef tenderloin was perfectly cooked and the combination of onions, tomatoes, and aji amarillo was bursting with flavor. Maximilian opted for the Aji de Gallina, which he declared was the best he’s ever had. Elena, true to form, stuck with her beloved quesadillas.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the canyon, we made our way back to our lodging. The drive was peaceful, filled with a sense of contentment and gratitude. Today was a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion, a day that nourished both our bodies and our souls.

I’m particularly happy that we decided to visit during the off-season. While the weather can be a bit unpredictable, the lack of crowds has allowed us to truly connect with the landscape and the local people. Plus, there’s something magical about experiencing the Copper Canyon in the quiet stillness of winter.

Back at our accommodation, I spent some time reflecting on the day’s adventures. I’m constantly amazed by the diversity and richness of Mexican culture. From the towering waterfalls to the intricate crafts, every corner of this country has something unique and special to offer. And I feel so fortunate to be able to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore more of the Copper Canyon itself [cite: Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I’m particularly excited about hiking some of the trails and taking in the panoramic views. Maximilian is keen to try some local craft beers at Amigo Bistro & Galeria [cite: Itinerary of Tomorrow], and Elena is already asking if we can go back to the waterfall. I have a feeling tomorrow will be another day filled with adventure and discovery.

As I sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude. This trip to the Copper Canyon has been everything I hoped for and more. It’s been a chance to reconnect with my roots, to share my culture with my family, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And I’m so excited to continue sharing these experiences with all of you.

Before I sign off, I wanted to share a little anecdote from today’s shopping trip. As I was admiring the textiles at Artesanias 100% Originales, I struck up a conversation with the shopkeeper, a kind, elderly woman with twinkling eyes. She told me that she had been weaving since she was a little girl, learning the craft from her grandmother. She said that each piece she creates is a reflection of her heart and soul. Her words resonated deeply with me, reminding me that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with the people who call those places home. It’s moments like these that make travel so meaningful.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from the heart of the Copper Canyon. Stay tuned for more adventures tomorrow!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention! We saw posters in town advertising the Festival de las Cascadas in Ocampo. It sounds like a fun event with music and local artists. Unfortunately, it already took place in August, but it's something to keep in mind if you're planning a trip to the area next year!