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Trip
Highlights: Famous Chihuahua-al-Pacifico Railroad, Culture of
Tarahumara Indians, Rugged Backcountry, Spectacular Desert Islands,
Whale Watching in Bahia Magdalena
Rates: $4,099 - $6,199
Ship Name:
Spirit of Yorktown
- Small Ship
Passengers: 102
Introduction
Known as "Mexico's Grand Canyon," the
Copper Canyon is four times larger and nearly 1,000 feet deeper than its
Arizona counterpart. And, the Canyon is rich with Tarahumara Indian
culture as it is with amazing vistas. An adventure by rail through the
heart of the canyon to the heights of the Sierra Tarahumara is a
spectacular continuation of your Sea of Cortes cruise. Following seven
days at sea, enjoy a five-day visit to this magnificent work of nature,
including the towns of Chihuahua, Creel, and El Fuerte.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Cabo San Lucas
Transfer from Los Cabos Airport to your Hospitality Room at Cabo's
inner harbor. Board your ship and sail into the Sea of Cortés.
Day 2: Isla Espiritu Santo
This 23,383-acre island near La Paz is centred in one of the most
biologically diverse marine areas in the world and is a major
environmental success story. Several plants and animals are found
nowhere else in the world, including the blacktailed jack rabbit and
antelope squirrel. Drop anchor at Espiritú Santo's Bahía Bonanza for a
day ashore. Take a guided walk among the tangle of exotic cacti, or
swim, snorkel, and kayak the crystal clear sea here that supports 900
species of fish. No need to bring snorkel gear or wetsuits as gear will
be provided to you. D
Day 3: Whale Watching
This whole day is spent pursuing up-close viewing of marine life. The
Sea of Cortés is home to huge schools of common and bottle-nosed
dolphins, as well as humpback, minke, fin, and blue whales. From
mid-January to mid-March, hundreds of gray whales congregate in the
shallow lagoons of Bajašs Pacific shore. When we're told the whales are
present, we'll cross the peninsula by motorcoach to Puerto Adolfo Lopez
Mateos. There, board an outboard-equipped panga to observe the grays,
who have migrated some 6,000 miles from Alaskašs Bering Sea to mate,
give birth, and rear their young. When whales are not present there due
to varied migration patterns, you will look for whales in the Sea of
Cortés.
Day 4: Island Exploration
Guided by the weather and tides, visit one of the beautiful and special
islands of the Sea of Cortés. Exploration will possibly include nature
hikes, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Day 5: Loreto
Founded in 1697, Loreto's Nuesta Seņora de Loreto Mission was the
original mother church from which all the other California missions were
founded, eventually leading as far north as Sonoma, California.
A museum adjacent to the mission displays artifacts and paintings from
Bajašs colonial era. Stroll the streets and plazas of this picturesque
seaside village, capped by a reception with musical entertainment at the
mission.
Day 6: Los Islotes & Isla Partida
Los Islotes is a steep seamount punctured by sea caves. Blue-footed
boobies reside on the cliffs, and a large colony of California sea lions
haul out on the rocks below. Weather permitting, swim and snorkel as the
female sea lions and their curious young pups float about you in the
sea. Continue to Isla Partida nearby, to hike the islandšs rugged
canyons, kayak up-close to rock-walled headlands, or just relax on the
beach.
In the sheltered cove of Ensenada Grande, the silky, sandy bottom
shelves out very gradually for hundreds of feet, as gentle waves lap
onto the mangrove-backed beach.
Day 7: La Paz to Los Mochis
Enjoy a leisurely morning touring La Paz on your
own. Explore the shops, gelaterias, and the miles-long waterfront
malecon (promenade). Experience a traditional fiesta, complete with
Mexican food, music and dancers. Depart after the fiesta to the ferry
dock outside of La Paz for a ferry ride to Los Mochis. Overnight at Los
Mochis hotel. BLD
Day 8: Los Mochis to El Fuerte
Meet your guide late this morning and begin your
tour to Copper Canyon. Stop at the Maya Indian village of Tehueco for a
traditional dance performance. Travel to the Posada del Hidalgo Hotel in
El Fuerte. Visit the City Hall, the oldest church, and the Main Plaza on
a leisurely walking tour. BLD
Day 9: Copper Canyon (Sierra Tarahumara) by Rail
Transfer to the Chihuahua-al-Pacifico Railroad to begin the ascent into
the Sierra Madres, travelling east through coastal plains. The Sierra
Tarahumara is a maze of 200 gorges combining to form six interconnecting
canyons. You will rise over 8,000 feet, crossing deep ravines and
passing through more than 68 tunnels. Upon arrival at Divisadero,
transfer to your hotel, situated near the rim of the Urique Canyon.
Day 10: Copper Canyon
After breakfast travel by motorcoach to Cusarare to visit the Jesuit
Mission and the new museum featuring recently restored 16th, 17th and
18th century paintings collected by the Jesuit missionaries. While
there, stop next door at the Tarahumara boarding school for a chance to
interact with the children. After lunch in Creel, you will have the
opportunity to wander around the small rustic town and enjoy the unique
rock formations that surround the area. Overnight at your rim hotel.
Day 11: Motorcoach to Chihuahua
Descend from the mountains by motorcoach to Chihuahua, the capital city
of the State of Chihuahua. Along the way, stop for lunch. Visit the
Museum of the Revolution, formerly the home of Chihuahua's most famous
citizen, Pancho Villa. Don't miss the cathedral -- the organ was brought
from Germany with sculptures originating from Italy. Tonight, celebrate
your explorations with a farewell dinner.
Day 12: Depart from Chihuahua Airport
Transfer to the Chihuahua Airport for your trip home.
Notes:
Steinbeck Cruise: 1/9/2010
Sail in the company of a Steinbeck
scholar as you steep yourself in the extraordinary journeys of famed
author John Steinbeck and marine biologist Ed Ricketts, whose voyage of
exploration and understanding sparked the creation of The Log from the
Sea of Cortez. Rediscover the charm and mystery that has enchanted
readers and captured the imaginations of explorers as you sail a scenic
coastline, virtually unchanged since Ricketts' and Steinbeck's 1940
expedition.
Included:
Transportation and shore
excursions as indicated in itinerary; meals aboard ship or where
indicated; transfer of passenger and two pieces of baggage at all points
during the cruise; taxes, port charges, and fees $278 per person;
Service charges to all personnel onboard the vessel.
Not
Included:
Airfare from your home city and return; Passport and
visa fees; Air departure taxes; fuel surcharge.
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