Copper Canyon - Travel Logistics

El Paso, Texas
The trip will meet at 6:30 am at Quality Inn and Suites, 6099 Montana Ave, El Paso, Texas 79925, 915-772-3300. You will need to spend the night before in El Paso. The hotel has a complimentary breakfast.
We will also hold an orientation meeting in the Quality Inn lobby at 8:30 pm the night before your trip. If you cannot attend this meeting, leave a message for the Western Spirit guides at the Quality Inn desk, phone 915-772-3300. Thank you.
If you prefer to fly to Chihuahua, we can suggest transportation from Chihuahua to Creel, where you can meet us on the evening of Day 1. You can also arrange your return shuttle on Day 8 with the same service. Please contact us for details and to let us know that you won't be meeting us in El Paso.

GETTING TO EL PASO

-Flying to El Paso
You can easily book a flight to El Paso, TX from most of the cities in the United States. United Airlines www.ual.com , Delta Airlines www.delta.com, American West www.americawest.com, American Airlines www.aa.com, Continental Airlines www.continental.com

-Taxi Service in El Paso
Rick's Taxi 518-523-4741

-Flying to Chihuahua, Mexico
Gral. Roberto Fierro International Airport offers flights via Aeromexico, Continental, Delta and Mexicana airlines.

-Shuttle to Creel
Best Western in Creel offers shuttles from Chihuahua to Creel, about three hours. We can help you arrange this shuttle and coordinate with other arriving guests. As an estimate, their six passenger vehicle is $150 US one way from Chihuahua to Creel and their 10 passenger van is $250 US one way. Prices may vary if you’re traveling with your bike.

The most convenient place to stay is the Quality Inn and Suites, where the trip meets.

Quality Inn and Suites
$55
915-722-3300
Mention that you are on a Western Spirit trip, they have quoted the $55 rate for a standard room.

You will receive a tour packing list with your tour confirmation package. Be sure to bring everything on this list. Weather in the high elevations and canyon bottom can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed! Please pack all of your gear in a medium to large duffel bag. It will ride in the trailer. If you have any questions about anything on the list, please call us.

To ship your bike UPS, send it to Crazy Cat Cyclery 2625 N. Mesa St., El Paso, TX 79902, (915) 577-9666. It is critical that you include your name, "Western Spirit Cycling" and tour date on the outside of the box. They will assemble your bike and deliver it to the hotel prior to your trip. After the trip, we will deliver your bike back to the bike shop so they can box it at ship it home to you. It is imperative to have your bike finely tuned and cleaned before your tour so you know it is in top running condition. There are few bike shops in Mexico!

We rent 2006 Specialized FSR full suspension bikes for $40/day.

You must have a valid Passport to enter Mexico. You can obtain a passport application at your local post office. You need to allow at least 6 weeks to process the application. If you already have a passport, please check the expiration date.
No visa is necessary, but a tourist card will be issued at the border. Do not lose your tourist card, as it must be turned in when you leave Mexico. At this time there is an entry fee of $21 USD required at the border. You may use a credit card or cash; please have exact change.

Minors: Minors traveling with only one parent or guardian MUST have a notarized letter of consent from the other/both parents to take the minor out of the country.

The Mexican monetary unit is the peso. At this time, (November 2006) the Peso is worth approximately $11.11 to one US Dollar. We would suggest bringing around $200.00 dollars for souvenirs, meals that are not included, drinks, etc. Try to bring some of it in small denominations. You can change it in Creel during the first two days of the trip, but no where else in the canyon. Some shops and restaurants will accept US Dollars, but they usually don't give you a very good rate.

Consult your local health department for the latest immunization requirements, and recommendations, for entry into Mexico. You should also consult your physician at least six weeks before your trip. A comprehensive medical kit will accompany each bike ride and our guides hold an appropriate wilderness first-aid certificate and are experienced in dealing with a range of medical problems associated with adventure travel.