Things to do in Posada Barrancas and Divisadero, Mexico
Finding things to do in Divisadero, Mexico, will not be difficult. Posada Barrancas and Divisadero are the most iconic stops along the Chepe route as this is where you’ll find the most spectacular panoramic views of the Copper Canyon system.
Divisadero and Posada Barrancas are two different Chepe stops but they are only separated by about 5 km (3 mi). This page refers primarily to Divisadero but due to its close proximity to Posada Barrancas, almost all the information can be applied to both stops unless stated otherwise.
So what’s the difference between the two?
Divisadero, whose name means lookout or viewpoint, is exactly that: an incredible lookout point of the canyon system. The only other things that exist here are the station itself, with a few food and handicraft stalls, and one hotel situated on the very edge of the canyon wall.
Posada Barrancas is the name of the nearby station, which is located in the small town of Areponapuchi. While it does have some areas with wonderful views it is more often frequented for its wider variety of affordable accommodations.
However, the entire area around both stops has little to offer in terms of amenities. There’s no town centre and barely any restaurants aside from those in the hotels. Staying near either of these two stops means you’ll likely be eating at your hotel.
There may be a lack of amenities but there is no lack of adventure at these stops. In 2010 an adventure park was built in the area allowing visitors to experience the Copper Canyon with a shot of adrenaline. The park is now the top attraction in the area with options for all ages and adventure levels.
Divisadero and Posada Barrancas sit at an altitude of about 2200 m (7500 ft) and can get cold once the sun goes down and during the winter months.
- November-February: daily highs are between 15 and 20°C (59 to 68°F) while nights drop between 0 and 5°C (32 and 41°F), with occasional, light snowfall in January and February.
- March-May and September-October: daily highs are 23-30°C (73-86°F) while nights are between 5 and 12°C (41 and 54°F). March to May are the driest months, while September and October are the tail end of the rainy season and will be very lush.
- June-August: daily highs are between 25 and 35°C (77 and 95°F), and the night time temperature averages 15°C (59°F). This is the rainy season with short but heavy daily showers.
The best time to visit Divisadero is September to October as the rainy season will be ending leaving behind a lush, green landscape, but the views are mind-blowing whatever time of year you choose to visit.
Despite the lack of amenities around these two stops, Divisadero often ends up being the highlight of many travellers’ Copper Canyon journey. Don’t miss this incredible location!
Table of Contents
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Where is Divisadero?
Divisadero and Posada Barrancas are both located in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. They can be found roughly 300 km southwest of the state capital, the city of Chihuahua.
The two stops, separated by only a few kilometres, are situated at the halfway point between Chihuahua and Los Mochis along the Chepe route.
The map shows the major transportation hubs (mentioned below), as well as the major sites mentioned in the section Things to do in Divisadero.
How to get to Divisadero, Mexico
Please be aware that there are planned changes to train fares and schedules as of January 10th, 2020.
This site will be updated shortly after the new details are released.
The two main forms of transportation to or from Divisadero are train and bus. If coming from the Chihuahua/Creel direction, then you’ll have both of these options. However, if coming from the Los Mochis direction then the train is your only option.
How to get to Divisadero, Mexico, by Train
As of May 2018, there are two different train options in the Copper Canyon: Chepe Regional and Chepe Express. The Chepe Regional stops at both Divisadero and Posada Barrancas but the Chepe Express only stops at Divisadero. Below are the details for arriving or departing Divisadero or Posada Barrancas by train.
If you’d like to know more about how to buy Copper Canyon train tickets, the differences between the Chepe Regional and the Chepe Express, Chepe ticket prices and train schedules, click here to visit our page: How to Visit Copper Canyon by Train.
From Chihuahua/Creel Towards Los Mochis
The Chepe Regional arrives at Divisadero Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 1:41 pm. El Chepe waits at Divisadero for 15-20 minutes to give passengers time to get off and take photos at the lookout a few meters from the station. The viewpoint is absolutely stunning but it’s not the only one and if you’re staying in the area you’ll have other photo opportunities.
After the short break, El Chepe continues on to Posada Barrancas, arriving there at 1:52 pm. From there it continues on to Bahuichivo and eventually completes its journey in Los Mochis.
The Chepe Express arrives at Divisadero on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 8:47 am. After a quick stop, it continues on to El Fuerte and eventually completes its route in Los Mochis.
Below is a Copper Canyon train schedule for travel in the Chihuahua to Los Mochis direction. The Divisadero and Posada Barrancas stops have been highlighted.
Day | Train | Chihuahua | Creel | Divisadero | Posada Barrancas | Bahuichivo | El Fuerte | Los Mochis |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Monday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 11:47 am | 1:41 pm | 1:52 pm | 3:12 pm | 7:19 pm | 9:28 pm |
Tuesday | EXPRESS | – | 7:30 am | 8:47 am | – | – | 2:24 pm | 4:35 pm |
Wednesday | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
Thursday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 11:47 am | 1:41 pm | 1:52 pm | 3:12 pm | 7:19 pm | 9:28 pm |
Friday | EXPRESS | – | 7:30 am | 8:47 am | – | – | 2:24 pm | 4:35 pm |
Saturday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 11:47 am | 1:41 pm | 1:52 pm | 3:12 pm | 7:19 pm | 9:28 pm |
Sunday | EXPRESS | – | 7:30 am | 8:47 am | – | – | 2:24 pm | 4:35 pm |
You may need to scroll left and right to view the entire table.
From Los Mochis Towards Chihuahua
The Chepe Regional, coming from Bahuichivo, arrives at Posada Barrancas on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays at 1:46 pm. From there it continues on to Divisadero, arriving at 1:50 pm. El Chepe waits at Divisadero stop for 15-20 minutes so that passengers can deboard and enjoy the view only a couple of meters from the station. The train then continues on to Creel and eventually Chihuahua.
The Chepe Express, coming from El Fuerte, arrives at Divisadero on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 3:20 pm, and after 15-20 minutes, it continues on to its final destination of Creel.
Below is a comprehensive Copper Canyon train schedule for travel in the Los Mochis to Chihuahua direction. The Divisadero and Posada Barrancas stops have been highlighted.
Day | Train | Los Mochis | El Fuerte | Bahuichivo | Posada Barrancas | Divisadero | Creel | Chihuahua |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Monday | EXPRESS | 7:30 am | 9:44 am | – | – | 3:20 pm | 5:14 pm | – |
Tuesday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 8:19 am | 12:24 pm | 1:46 pm | 1:50 pm | 3:39 pm | 9:34 pm |
Wednesday | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
Thursday | EXPRESS | 7:30 am | 9:44 am | – | – | 3:20 pm | 5:14 pm | – |
Friday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 8:19 am | 12:24 pm | 1:46 pm | 1:50 pm | 3:39 pm | 9:34 pm |
Saturday | EXPRESS | 7:30 am | 9:44 am | – | – | 3:20 pm | 5:14 pm | – |
Sunday | REGIONAL | 6:00 am | 8:19 am | 12:24 pm | 1:46 pm | 1:50 pm | 3:39 pm | 9:34 pm |
You may need to scroll left and right to view the entire table.
For more information about how to buy Copper Canyon train tickets, the differences between the Chepe Regional and the Chepe Express, Chepe ticket prices and train schedules, click here to visit our page: How to Visit Copper Canyon by Train.
How to get to Divisadero, Mexico, by Bus
There are two bus companies, Autotransportes Turísticos del Noroeste and Rápidos Cuauhtémoc, that run multiple buses each day between Divisadero and Creel.
Catch a Bus from Creel to Divisadero
Noroeste buses leave Creel for Divisadero every 2 hours between 10:30 am and 6:30 pm. Rápidos buses have 4 daily departures between 10:15 am and 6:15 pm.
The two stations are next door to each other, right beside the train tracks (see Creel map).
Catch a Bus from Divisadero to Creel
From Divisadero to Creel Noroeste has 4 daily buses between 7:30 am and 3:30 pm. Rápidos buses also leave 4 times a day between 7:00 am and 3:30 pm. Passengers are picked up right beside the Divisadero train stop (see map above), but it’s best to wave the driver down as they may not stop otherwise. You can purchase your ticket directly from the driver.
For Posada Barrancas, the pickup area is marked on the map above. Prices are the same and times will be very similar to the Divisadero pickup times as it’s only a few kilometres away. Just flag down the driver to ensure a pickup.
Tickets are $50-55 MXP one way.
Things to do in Divisadero, Mexico
As the name suggests (Divisadero means ‘lookout’), the views are the top things to do in Divisadero. Taking in the scenery and surroundings is a wonderful way to relax but if you also want some excitement make sure you leave some time for the Adventure Park and its many activities, including the longest and fasted zip line in the world. Hiking and mountain biking are also offered at the Adventure Park.
All the attractions found in Divisadero, Mexico, are divided into two below: the viewpoints and the Adventure Park.
*scroll left or right to view entire table*
Hotels in Divisadero, Mexico
As Divisadero is a lookout point, not a town, there’s only one hotel near this Chepe station. Although it offers incredible views, it isn’t cheap and it’s booked solid come major holidays, especially Semana Santa (Easter), Christmas and Valentines Day. It’s a good idea to book this place a few weeks in advance any time of year.
Hotel Divisadero Barrancas
Situated on the edge of a canyon wall this hotel offers breath-taking views of the canyons whether you’re sitting outside in the fresh air or cozying up inside on a couch. There is a restaurant and bar on site but expect high prices, as it’s the only place in the area to eat.
Hotels in Areponapuchi, Mexico
There is a wider variety of hotels to choose from in Areponapuchi, the town around Posada Barrancas. Keep in mind that the town is very small and simple with essentially no restaurants or stores, so you’ll likely be eating most of your meals at your hotel.
If you’re arriving on the Chepe Express you’ll get off at Divisadero as the train doesn’t stop at Posada Barrancas. Be sure to arrange a pick-up with your hotel at Divisadero.
Below are a few recommendations to suit different budgets.
High Budget
Hotel Mirador Posada Barranca
Like the hotel at Divisadero, this one is set on the edge of a canyon wall and anyone who’s stayed here can’t say enough about the phenomenal views. Plus most rooms have their own terrace with a canyon view and indoor fireplace. There’s also a restaurant and bar on site.
This site contains affiliate links. Making a booking or purchase through one of these links does not affect prices but I’ll make a small commission. Income from these links helps me continue to grow the site and keep it up to date. If you find the site helpful, consider booking your hotels using the links on the site. It’s much appreciated!
Additional Information for Divisadero, Mexico
Below are some general tips from personal experience. If you have travelled in Mexico or Copper Canyon and have any other tips please feel free to leave a comment at the bottom of the page!
Itineraries for Divisadero, Mexico
Deciding how much time to spend in Divisadero will vary greatly among travellers. If you’ve got lots of time you may want to spend a few nights just soaking up the scenery and relaxing (I’ve met travellers who’ve spent a week just at this one stop!). If you’re on a tighter time schedule you can see most of what Divisadero has to offer in 1 night. Others may even decide to see Divisadero as a day trip from Creel.
Below are a few itineraries for those on a tighter time schedule. The 1-night itinerary assumes the traveller is arriving on El Chepe, which arrives at similar times regardless of which direction it is travelling.
Daytrip from Creel
- Catch the 10:15 am Rápidos Cuauhtémoc bus to Divisadero
- Get off at Divisadero Station ~11:15 am
- Stroll along the stone path towards the Adventure Park
- Arrive at the Adventure Park around noon
- Spend about 2.5 hours enjoying the Parks activities
- Around 2:30 pm head back along the stone path towards Divisadero station
- Grab some gorditas for lunch at the station
- Flag down the last bus heading towards Creel at 3:30 pm
Staying 1 Night
Day 1: Arrive at Divisadero/Posada Barrancas between 1:40 and 3:20 pm
- Check-in at hotel
- Walk or hire a ride to Hotel Mirador Posada Barranca
- Walk along the trail just behind the hotel
- Return to Hotel Mirador for drinks/hot chocolate on the terrace
- Walk back to your hotel
- Dinner and evening in your hotel
Day 2: Depart Divisadero/Posada Barrancas between 1:40 and 3:20 pm
- Breakfast at your hotel
- Hire a ride to the Adventure Park at 9:00 am (pre-arrange a pick-up around 1:00 pm from Divisadero station)
- Spend a few hours at the Park
- Walk north along the stone path towards Divisadero station
- Have some gorditas for lunch
- Catch your ride back to the hotel to check-out
- Be at the train station about 15 min before your departure time
Wow, what a great website you’ve made. Thank you.
I’m looking to take my family (with two teen boys) on El Chepe over winter break between Christmas and New Years I imagine that would be the busiest time of year. How busy should I expect it to be? How far in advance should I purchase tickets and reserve hotel rooms? Or…would it be a big hassle during that time and would you recommend that I push this bucket-list trip off until another time of year when it wouldn’t be so busy?
Hi Julian, thanks so much for the lovely compliment on the site!
I’ve never been through the Copper Canyon at Christmas but I think it would be magical. Sometimes it snows in Divisadero, which would be beautiful! Then, head a few hours down the tracks and you’re in a tropical climate in El Fuerte!
It’ll definitely be busy at Christmas, but doable. I would start booking hotels as early as possible. If you use Booking.com, you can book today, if you want, then cancel your bookings later if you change your plans. Just check the fine print, but most don’t have a cancellation fee.
I would also try to book your train tickets by early October, or sooner if possible, just to be sure.
Enjoy the planning and I’d love to hear how Christmas is in the Copper Canyon!
Hello Kayla! Thank you very much for your website. It has a lot of information, I had never found before the same website which contains whole information about some sity/country attraction.
I have a question to you/ We are going to visit canyon with el Chepe approx. in the end of November (I want to mention that we live in Cancun and our kids (8, 5 and 2 y.o.) go to local school, so we can go somewhere during their vacation days). We prefer to use el Chepe express, not regional. We want to visit the most attractive place on this route. We have about a week (+/- 2 days) from 11.22.2019 to 12.01.2019. We are thinking about to start our jorney from los Mochis, but we are not sure that this is a right way. So I kindly ask you to help us to create a correct route. For example (as I see): arrive in Los Mochis and spend one day there, then take a bus and get el Fuerte and spend one day there. Then take a el Chepe Express and go to Divisadero to spend there maximum 2 days. Then we can take el Chepe regional or express to get Creel to look some attractions there, and then to take el Chepe regional to reach Chihuahua and to spend sometime in this town and go back to Cancun. Thank you very much in advance.
Hi Antonina, thanks for your comment!
It’s tough to make an exact itinerary if you’re unsure of how many days you have to travel. I’d suggest making 2 or 3 itineraries, one to fit each travel period that you may have.
You can certainly start in Los Mochis and head up to Chihuahua, or turn around in Creel and head back to Los Mochis to make it a round trip.
I think Divisadero and Creel will be the most interesting towns for kids, especially the Adventure Park in Divisadero. Just keep in mind that there are a lot of areas along the canyon wall that do not have fences, so keep the little ones close!
This page should help you with planning exactly which days you can catch the trains and in which direction, as it has all the scheduling details.
https://visitcoppercanyon.com/visit-copper-canyon-train/#schedules
Just make sure you check the Chepe website closer to your departure date to ensure there haven’t been any changes.
Happy planning and I hope you and your family have a wonderful time in the Copper Canyon!
Thank you very much for your reply. We will try to create the our best route)))
Like the other commenters ,just want to give my thanks. Have you traveled from Los Mochis to La Paz on the ferry? I’m thinking of going from Chihuahua to Los Mochis than catching the ferry over. Thoughts?
Thank you so much for the compliment, Enrique!
I have travelled from Los Mochis to La Paz, but opted for a flight. The ferry schedule is a little inconsistent and the flights were cheap so it seemed the better decision at the time. I flew Califia Airlines in case you want to check them out.
La Paz was fantastic and I hope to expand the site to include travel information to Baja California Sur soon. In the meantime, you can follow this link to get some information about Los Mochis and how to get there:
https://visitcoppercanyon.com/topolobampo-and-los-mochis-sinaloa/
I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Great info and job putting it all together. I’m finding it very helpful, thanks! A couple of questions, I’m planning on traveling from Creel – El Fuerte and wanted to spend just one night in Posada Barrancas, so would arrive on the Economica and then get the Primera the following morning. Is it possible as far as you know to get tickets in that manner, or could I just jump on Primera and buy a ticket onboard? Traveling early May, so doesn’t sound like peak time. Thanks.
Hi Mike, thanks for the comment!
Staying only one night in any of the Copper Canyon towns along the Chepe route means you’ll need to use both trains, the Chepe Regional and the Chepe Express. If you plan to travel Creel to El Fuerte using only the Chepe Regional (Economica or Tourista – previously Primera), then you can only travel on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. This means you’ll need to stay 2 or even 3 nights.
Alternatively, you can stay one night, then catch the Chepe Express to El Fuerte. It runs between Creel and El Fuerte on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Note that neither train runs on Wednesdays.
For the Chepe Express, you’ll definitely need to purchase tickets in advance. This can be done online or in person at the Chihuahua station.
For the Chepe Regional, you technically need to purchase Tourista tickets in advance. However, many people have been able to purchase them once on board, so long as it’s not busy. As for Economica tickets, those can almost always be purchased on board so long as it’s not full.
You can click the link below to see detailed information about the train schedules, prices and how to purchase tickets.
https://visitcoppercanyon.com/visit-copper-canyon-train
Hope that helps and happy planning!
Great site! Thank you for compiling all this information and sharing it with the world.
Do you have recommendations of where to stay in Los Mochis, preferably a hotel that provides shuttle service from the airport and in the morning to the train station.
Thanks for the comments, Sandra!
You can click the link below to see my hotel recommendations in Los Mochis. I’m not sure about shuttle services but if it’s not offered then Uber is a great option and very inexpensive in Los Mochis.
https://visitcoppercanyon.com/topolobampo-and-los-mochis-sinaloa/#hotels
Happy planning!
Very informative. Thanks.
You set me on the right path!
Thank you so much for the comment. I’m so glad I was able to help. Have an excellent trip!