Creel

A Magical Town enveloped in the majestic nature of the Sierra Tarahumara, offering a unique adventure of exploration and discovery.

Location

Creel is located 257 km from the capital city of Chihuahua.

Culture

Home to the Rarámuri people, it stands out for its rich cultural heritage.

Nature

Surrounded by unique rock formations, forests, and waterfalls.

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Discover Creel: Heart of the Sierra Tarahumara

Creel, a picturesque Magical Town that offers a unique experience full of culture, nature, and adventure. This charming place, initially founded as a railway station, has transformed into a must-visit tourist destination for those traveling on the famous «Chepe» train.

Known for its stunning gateway to the Copper Canyon, Creel is not just a small town but a portal to a world of beauty, history, and traditions.

Weather and when to visit Creel

The ideal time to visit Creel depends on what you want to do. From June to August (high season) is perfect for enjoying good weather and nature.

On the other hand, January, February, November, and December (low season) are cooler and quieter months.

How to get to Creel

This Magical Town is accessible by plane, road, and the iconic Chepe train, about 257 km from the capital, offering a journey through truly stunning landscapes that will serve as your gateway to the famous Copper Canyon.

What to do in Creel

Creel is a hidden treasure in Chihuahua, where visitors can marvel at the Valley of the Monks, explore the Copper Canyon, and immerse themselves in an extraordinary natural environment, ideal for hiking, photography, and outdoor adventures.

Things you should know about Creel

When you’re planning to visit Creel, it’s crucial to be well-prepared with practical information.

From managing cash to choosing the right clothing, knowing these details will ensure a more comfortable and enriching experience in this picturesque Magical Town.

Where to sleep in Creel

Creel has established itself as a popular tourist destination, offering a varied selection of accommodations for all budgets and preferences.

Many of the lodging options are located in the town center, a convenient location due to its easy access to other attractions.

Cuisine and shopping

The Magical Town of Creel invites you to a unique culinary and craft journey, where the richness of flavors meets local creativity and art.

The local cuisine offers ancestral typical options, while shopping becomes an exploration of the authenticity and talent of the Rarámuri artisans.

Creel: Charm and Tradition

A place where history and natural beauty intertwine, Creel invites you to live authentic experiences in a magical setting.

Pueblos Mágicos de Chihuahua - Creel

2340m

Altitud of Creel

4+

Size of the Copper Canyon compared to the Grand Canyon.

49 mi (80 kms)

Distance of the endurance race that the Rarámuris do.

creel

Weather and when to visit Creel

  • Spring (April – May):

    54°F to 59°F (12°C to 15°C), shoulder season, ideal for outdoor activities.

  • Summer (June – August):

    62°F to 63°F (17°C to 18°C), high season, perfect for exploring.

  • Autumn (September-October):

    54°F to 59°F (12°C to 15°C), shoulder season, autumnal landscapes.

  • Winter (January – March):

    29°F to 48°F (-2°C to 9°C), low season, very calm.

  • End of Autumn and Winter (November – December):

    37°F to 47°F (3°C to 8°C) ,low season, less tourists.

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How to get to Creel from Chihuahua City

  • Train (Chepe):

    • Cost: Approximately $1,000 to 2,500 pesos .
    • Duration of the trip from Chihuahua: Around 5 horas and 45 minutos.

  • Taxi:

    • Cost: Around $6,000 pesos considering up to 3 passengers.
    • Duration of the trip: Approximately 3 horas and 45 minutos.

  • Bus:

    • Cost: Approximately $300 pesos.
    • Duration of the trip: 4 hours.
    • Companies: Autotransportes Turísticos del Noroeste, Autobuses Rápidos Cuauhtémoc.

  • Plane:

    • Cost: Approximately $7,000-$8,000 pesos per person, minimum 4 passengers.
    • Companies: Aerococonor, Aerolíneas Chihuahua al Pacífico, Aerojet or Vivevolando.
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What to do in Creel and surroundings 

  • Arareko Lake: A peaceful lake surrounded by forests, perfect for boat rides and enjoying nature.

  • Tarahumara Museum of Popular Art: Offers a deep look into the history, art, and local traditions.

  • Valley of the Monks, Frogs, and Mushrooms: Unique rock formations that rise majestically, ideal for hiking and photography.

  • San Sebastian Cave: This cave is one of the few inhabited Tarahumara caves that visitors are allowed to enter. You’ll see what life is like for people in this region.

  • San Ignacio Mission: A Jesuit mission known for its architecture.

  • Copper Canyon Adventure Park: Enjoy pure adrenaline with activities like zip-lining, cable cars, and hiking, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

  • Recowata Hot Springs: Relax in a natural oasis of warm waters surrounded by forested landscapes, perfect for rejuvenation and connecting with nature.

  • Cristo Rey Viewpoint: Admire panoramic views of Creel from a high point with an imposing statue, ideal for photos and reflection.

  • Cusárare Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall with a 30-meter drop, surrounded by a forested landscape, perfect for a peaceful excursion.

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Practical information of Creel

  • Financial Preparation: It’s important to carry enough cash, as in Creel and along the Chepe route, ATM options are limited and credit cards are not always accepted.

  • Connection and disconnection: Internet and phone connections can be irregular, which offers a perfect opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural experience. Make sure to communicate your arrival time to your hotel, especially if you need transportation from the station.

  • Appropriate clothing: Temperatures in the Sierra Tarahumara can be extreme, so it is essential to bring appropriate clothing for the cold in winter or a jacket for cooler nights, even in summer.

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Creel - Magical Towns

Where to sleep in Creel – Recommended Hotels

  • The Lodge At Creel Eco – Hotel & Spa. Offers a rustic and comfortable experience in Creel. With rooms that combine charm and comfort, and a relaxing spa, it is the ideal retreat for those seeking rest and adventure in the Sierra Tarahumara. ($$). Click here to see prices and book.

  • La Troje de Adobe. Known for being a cozy and simple hotel, it stands out for its cleanliness and hospitality. Its central location, close to the Chepe station, makes it perfect for exploring local attractions with ease and comfort. ($). Click here to see prices and book.

  • Hotel Ecológico Temazcal. Offers a calm and harmonious atmosphere, standing out for its sustainable practices and commitment to the environment. It’s perfect for a conscious lodging experience in touch with nature. ($). Click here to see prices and book.

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Cuisine and shopping in Creel

  • Cuisine in Creel:

    The cuisine in Creel is a delicious blend of tradition and modernity. The local dishes stand out for their fresh ingredients and a distinctive homemade touch.

    Some traditional restaurants, like Restaurante Verónica or Restaurante Lupita, have been operating since the 70s and 80s and are an integral part of the local culture.

    Moreover, there are new restaurants that offer exquisite cuts of meat and traditional pizzerias with wood-fired ovens, rounding out the culinary offerings.

  • Shopping in Creel:

    Creel is an ideal destination for purchasing Rarámuri crafts, especially the finely woven basketry. You will also find textiles, ceramics, and handcrafted jewelry.

    Local markets and stalls around the Copper Canyon offer these authentic cultural treasures, directly supporting the local communities.

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