Remote & Rugged Landscapes
Imagine standing on the edge of a vast desert where the horizon stretches out endlessly under a brilliant sky. The air is crisp, and the silence around you feels almost mystical. This is no ordinary journey; this is the Desert and Canyonlands Tour in Chihuahua—an adventure that takes us deep into the heart of one of México’s most remote and rugged landscapes.
This isn’t just a tour; it’s a 12-day odyssey into the rugged unknown. We’ll venture into the Chihuahuan Desert with its arid flat plains and then continue our expedition deep into Chihuahua’s multiple canyons which covers an area four times larger than Arizona’s Grand Canyon.
This is a land of stark contrasts as long straight roads navigate the flat barren desert regions and then morph into winding canyon roads with its many switchbacks. On clear nights both in the desert and canyon regions, our eyes will tilt upward to view the vast dark blue sky which has become a canvas for the Milky Way’s shimmering brilliance.
Our Journey Begins in Chihuahua City – But Only for a Day
Our adventure begins in the historic city of Chihuahua, a place steeped in the stories of México’s past. We’ll wander around the centro plaza area, explore the home of a well-known Mexican revolutionary by the name of Pancho Villa, and visit a statue honoring a famous movie actor from the past who grew up here. The next morning we’ll leave the comfort of the city behind, trading paved streets for rugged, unpaved roads that lead us into the wilds.
About 20% of the roads on this journey are unpaved, a testament to the remoteness of the places we’re about to explore. These are the less traveled back roads where other tour companies rarely (if ever) advertise trips to visit these rustic regions of Chihuahua state.
Chihuahuan Desert & the Mystical Zone of Silence
As we venture deeper into the Chihuahuan Desert, we’ll encounter the Zone of Silence, a mysterious and otherworldly place where radio signals falter and the natural world takes on an eerie silence. This enigmatic region has long been the subject of legends and scientific curiosity. Standing in its midst, our small group of travelers can’t help but feel a soothing sense of isolation.
It’s here under the vast night desert sky where we’ll experience the purest form of stargazing. The Milky Way stretches across the heavens in all of God’s glory. It’s a sight that is quite simply – Amazing!
Deep into the Canyonlands of Chihuahua
From the desert sands, our journey takes us into the depths of México’s rugged canyonlands. There are actually many V-shaped canyons that merge together to cover a staggering 25,000 square miles. As we travel deep into its interior, we’ll discover a labyrinth of rock formations, steep cliffs, hidden waterfalls, secluded trails, a scattering of small villages, and many awe inspiring scenic vistas.
The Rarámuris: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter
This adventure isn’t just about the surrounding wilderness and past history. It’s also about the present day people who call it home. We’ll visit a very small village of the Rarámuris, an indigenous group known for their extraordinary endurance and deep connection to the land.
Meeting the Rarámuris in their homes is a humbling experience. Through our bilingual host guide, we’ll be able to ask them questions to learn more about their way of life, their traditions, and their unwavering spirit in the face of a challenging environment. They in turn can ask us questions as well about where we come from and about our way of life.
This up-close interaction encounter will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where distinctly different cultures from different countries and environments come together for a shared learning experience!
Thermal Pool Soaking & Traditional Cleansing Ritual
In the midst of this rugged terrain, we’ll also find moments of unexpected comfort and tranquility. Imagine soaking in a natural thermal pool hidden deep in a desert cave where the warm waters can soothe our body and mind. We will also share together a relaxing but heat intensive experience by participating in a Temascal cleansing ritual. It’s a powerful spiritual tradition that connects us to the ancient traditions of the region.
Sleep in a Cave
And then there’s the night we’ll spend in a cave hotel—an experience that blends the primitive allure of sleeping within these massive rock formations with the comforts of modern amenities. This is not just a place to rest; it’s a moment to truly immerse ourselves in the landscape and to feel the peacefulness of being in the middle of nowhere.
Following the Footsteps of Pancho Villa, Silver Mining & the Mexican Mennonites
We’ll also uncover the history that has shaped this remote region. In the town of Parral, we’ll again walk in the footsteps of Pancho Villa by visiting the exact spot where the life of this legendary revolutionary figure came to an abrupt end in a brutal ambush which occurred there.
From the tales of the Mexican Revolution to the stories told in the old silver mining town of Batopilas to the quiet strength of the Mennonite community in the town of Cuauhtemoc, the echoes of history resonate in many corners of this largest state in México.
Speaking of the Mennonites, we’ll have a special invitation to partake in a typical meal of bread, cheese, sausage, and sweets in one of their family’s homes. At that time we can learn about their unique way of life and how they have successfully built many thriving businesses in this northern region of México.
Step into the Wild
The Desert and Canyonlands Tour in Chihuahua is not just a vacation—it’s an adventure that challenges us to step outside our comfort zone, to embrace the wild beauty of México’s largest state, and to connect with the people and places that make this region so unique. It’s a rugged exploration expedition that few will ever experience.
An Outdoor Adventure for Intrepid Travelers
Whether we’re marveling at the stars in the Zone of Silence, hiking through deep canyons that seem to never end, hanging on as we endure the bumpy and winding dirt roads from our sturdy van, or sharing stories with locals over a traditional meal, our journey will be a true exploration adventure for our small group of intrepid travelers as we venture into one of México’s most remote desert and canyon regions.
Ready to Take the Road Less Traveled?
If the call of adventure echoes within you, urging you to break free and explore the unknown, then our 12-day Desert and Canyonlands Tour in Chihuahua is your gateway to México’s most untamed and breathtaking landscapes. Join us on a journey where the wild whispers secrets, and hidden treasures await the bold.
For more details and to book your spot, visit our tour website: Back Roads of Chihuahua │Desert & Canyonlands Tour – 12 Days