Have a hankering to visit Mexico this fall or winter? Two of the leading tourist organizations that cater to boomers and seniors continue to offer great deals on train trips, plus scenery and archaeological journeys to fascinating parts of Mexico.
Road Scholar Copper Canyon Trips – Various Lengths
Road Scholar, formerly Elderhostel, has several departures from October through January to Copper Canyon and Casas Grandes, two northern Mexico destinations that have long been popular with Americans.
The 11-night, 12-day “Copper Canyon and Casas Grandes: History of the Ancients” includes many meals and allows visitors to embrace the Copper Canyon of the Sierra Tarahumara. It includes a ride on the Chihuahua-Pacific Railway, called by some the most scenic rail journey in North America, as well as a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Casas Grandes where the tour visits the Paquime archeological site. Travelers also get a chance to participate in Mata Ortiz pottery-making, some of the most valuable contemporary pottery in the Southwest, and to experience Share Mayo Indian traditions through music, dance and tortilla making with residents.
Another northern Mexico Road Scholar trip of 11 nights and 12 days that is less expensive and has departures starting in January is called “Land of Contrast: From Texas Through Northern Mexico's Copper Canyon.” Among the most popular Road Scholar trips, it starts in Texas, and includes a train ride on the Chihuahua railway. In addition, experts help visitors trace the volcanic activity that shaped the Davis Mountains, Sierra Madres, and Copper Canyon systems.
This trip is rated as less strenuous than the Casas Grandes one. Still, the group examines diverse landscapes, ecosystems, and the unique flora and fauna of the Chihuahuan Desert. It also introduces the history and culture of this region’s people, from the Tarahumara and Mayo people to the Mennonites to the Mestizo.
A third choice is a similar trip that is only 7 nights and 8 days but still includes the scenic train ride and exploration of the region.
Grand Circle Copper Canyon Trips
Travelers who prefer Grand Circle Travel, a well-known outfitter catering to seniors, can choose a winter departure date for Copper Canyon on a 14-day escorted journey that begins in Tucson.
Highlights includes a ride aboard the Chihuahua-Pacific train and Spanish lessons. It covers visits to Paquime for a close look at the archaeological sites plus Chihuahua and Pancho Villa's former home. Visitors spend a day in the village of Mata Ortiz and visit a potter's home.
All of these northern Mexico trips are affordable, with prices ranging from $1,400 to $2,800.
Grace Lichtenstein - I prefer "seasoned" to "senior" but whatever term you use, I have been an outdoor adventurer for most of my adult years. I am a cycling ...
