Batopilas Getting there & around

Getting there & away

There’s just one road in to town, and it’s not for the faint of heart. It slithers down the side of the canyon following the outline of a Christmas tree (with a much longer fall to the floor). The cheapest trip is on the 20-seat public bus from Creel, which is usually crowded and takes at least five hours (M$180, Monday to Saturday). It is not advisable to return to Creel on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday – on these days, the ‘bus’ is actually a much more cramped seven-seat Chevy Suburban, and the driver crams as many people in as possible (11 and a baby on our occasion). Though it goes all the way to Chihuahua (M$370, eight hours) on these days, it is extremely uncomfortable and shockingly unsafe. Additionally, passengers to Chihuahua get priority seating over those going to Creel. Both depart from the front of the church at 5am. You can also rent a truck and drive, though it’s not recommended as the road is very steep and narrow. Better to join a tour group or hire an experienced driver in Creel.