Mexico Guide
The north
Rich in legends of the country's revolutionary past, Mexico's northern borderlands, known for their spirit and fervour, are perhaps best symbolized by unruly son and folk hero Pancho Villa. Harsh, barren and sparsely inhabited, the area is far less visited than the country's tourist-saturated southern states. This doesn't mean, though, that it is without points of interest. Rugged and untamed, the north is home to deserts, mountains, seamy frontier towns and modern cities, as well as a proud and hospitable people deeply rooted in ranching culture.
Highlights
1 Paquimé Fantastic ruins that are more than worth the five-hour trip from Chihuahua.
2 The Copper Canyon railway The journey through Chihuahua state's rugged canyons offers one of the world's most incredible train experiences.
3 Creel and the Sierra Tarahumara For some great adventure and a look into Mexico's past, hike to the Rarámuri villages around Creel.
4 Durango Star in your own Wild West duel at the John Wayne film sets of Villa del Oeste.
5 Monterrey Art and culture reign in this bold, modern city, where superb museums and the bohemian Barrio Antiguo await.