The Tarahumara People of Copper Canyon, Mexico

When it comes to Mexico, most people tend to associate travel with beachside resorts, or the urban attractions of Mexico City. However, traveling off the beaten path can lead to experiences that are truly unique, including seeing some of Mexico’s native tribes’ one-of-a-kind cultures.

The Tarahumara people are inhabitants of Copper Canyon Chihuahua, located in Northern Mexico. They live off the land and isolate themselves from modern civilizations, retaining a cosmological and spiritual world view that includes working and living in harmony with nature.

Copper Canyon tours from companies like Eco AlterNATIVE Tours can be the only way to experience Tarahumara culture without impeding on their way of life. Touring Copper Canyon Chihuahua with a Tarahumara Indian guide with studies in Anthroplogy, visitors get to see the culture at work, as well as get access to some of the best sights for taking in the natural vistas unique to the region. This area is renowned for its mountain ranges – and of course, the canyon it is named after. In fact, for those who like to see impressive natural formations, the Copper Canyon is actually larger than and deeper than the United States’ Grand Canyon.

An amazing thing about the Tarahumara culture is their desire to live according to their own beliefs, and a willingness to refuse modern conveniences in favor of a civilization based in culture and nature. They tend to migrate with the changes of season, seeking out higher, cooler ground in the hot Mexico summers, and lower, warmer areas during the winter. They are spiritual, believing that harmony with natural surroundings is key to life, which is particularly admirable in a region that has in recent years been the focus of both deforestation and mining activity. The consequences of these activities is that much of the area’s natural wildlife and greenery are now threatened by extinction.

They have retained their traditional language, quite a feat considering Spanish became the native language of the country after the Spanish invasion in the 16th century. However, the Tarahumara people retain use of and knowledge of the language – which is inspired by Aztec. Interestingly, there are multiple dialects within the language itself, with researchers estimating five or more.

That is why Copper Canyon tours led by experienced and knowledgeable locals can be the best way to see this area of Mexico – without affecting the environment or the Tarahumara people with any negative or harmful activities. Unfortunately, large tour companies often take big groups to these unexplored regions, leaving trash and remnants of their visit once they leave. This means that conservation efforts in the region are impeded. Again, a native tour guide is the only way to ensure that no footprint is left in the area.

When it comes to unique travel experiences, seeing – and appreciating – a natural environment and untouched culture is among the most sought-after. However, finding the right ways to do it will ultimately lead to the most success, so look for ways to explore Copper Canyon without harming it.