Mexico: Copper Canyon and Pacific — Central America — Pura Aventura Active Holidays in Comfort 2008/9

Mexico copper canyon and pacific Actively explore Mexico's beautiful and varied scenery on this small group adventure. Sea kayak and swim with dolphins and sea lions in the wildliferich waters of the Sea of Cortez. Interact with grey whales in their breeding grounds off the white beaches of the Baja California. Take the spectacular train ride to the rim of the Copper Canyon and hike the world's largest canyon system with your expert guides. brief itinerary united states "A once in a lifetime experience. It was like having three holidays in one, each week was memorable. Thank you for a superb holiday." Connie BW, 2006 MEXICO Mexico City Pura Aventura Holiday Location Combine hiking, kayaking and whale watching in one exciting holiday. Kayak, snorkel and swim the clear, warm waters of the Baja California. Meet grey whales in their Pacific breeding grounds. Hike through some of the world's most spectacular canyon scenery. � Day 1 Arrive in the Baja California. � Day 2 Kayak in the Sea of Cortez, camp on the beach tonight. � Day 3 Kayak through clear water amidst dolphins and sea lions. � Day 4 Spend today kayaking the coves around the island. � Day 5 Swim and snorkel with playful sea lions then return to town for the night. � Day 6 Full day to relax and stroll along the waterfront of La Paz. � Day 7 Travel by boat into the shallow lagoons where grey whales nurse. � Day 8 Spend more time with the whales. � Day 9 Cross the Sea of Cortez by ferry. � Day 10 Take the transpacifico railway for a stunning journey up to the Copper Canyon. � Day 11 Hike through the canyon following narrow trails of the Tarahumara people. � Day 12 Walk in the shadow of canyon walls. � Day 13 Walk down into the main canyon. � Day 14 Hike down rugged switchbacks to a frontier mining village. � Day 15 Drive up and out of the canyon to the town of Creel. � Day 16 Explore and relax before heading out to the city of Chihuahua. � Day 17 Travel home. How active? This is an active and, at times, strenuous holiday. Sea kayaking is a relaxed experience on stable, two-person ocean going kayaks. Paddle close to the shore in search of colonies of sea lions and pods of dolphins or even whales. No experience is necessary but you should be reasonably confident in the water. Whale watching in Magdalena Bay is from small motor boats. The hike down into the Copper Canyon involves several days of walking into the sub-tropical heat of the deep canyon. Although a team of porters and mules carry bags, this is a remote wilderness area so a love of hiking and an adventurous spirit are essential. How comfortable? This holiday combines stays in comfortable, small hotels and inns with wilderness camping. In the towns and villages you will stay in a variety of characterful ha�ienda-style hotels and lodges. The camping both on the Baja California and in the Copper Canyon is `wild', so there are no permanent facilities. Everything you need is carried in and out. In all cases the kit is portaged and meals are prepared for you but it is part of the experience to pitch in and help with the smooth running of the camp. This small group holiday has a maximum of 12 people, plus guides. sounds perfect? For details of what's included and more information see the detailed itinerary on our website or call us for a copy. For dates and prices see the enclosed sheet. To check availability please call us on 0845 22 55 058 or email info@pura-aventura.com. Not quite right? For a varied adventure further south, try our Patagonia's Pirenwinkul holiday (p6) in Chile; our Northeast Blend holiday (p46) in Brazil or our Andes to Amazon holiday (p34) in Peru. For a less active wildlife experience, take a look at our Galapagos Island Cruise (p40) or our Antarctic Cruise holiday (p22). WhY Pura 54 ? This holiday lets you see the real beauty of Mexico with its wonderful variety of scenery, wildlife, activities and culture. Your holiday includes various elements of community-based tourism. The whale watching is run by co-operatives of fishermen who have now turned their hand to conservation. Find out more online at www.pura-aventura.com

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