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Tarahumara Runners in the Copper Canyon
Cerocahui, Mexico
Tarahumara runners are some of the best long-distance marathoners in the world. While exploring Mexico’s Copper Canyon, I attempted to go running with them.
Northern Mexico’s rugged Sierra Madre mountains are home to the indigenous Tarahumara (Rarámuri) people. During the 16th century they retreated deep into these formidable canyons to escape slave raids by Spanish conquistadors.
For hundreds of years they remained isolated from the outside world growing their own corn, potatoes, and beans while living in caves. A complex network of trails links the various Rancheras — small communities of 3-7 families who share work & farmland.
Trail running to deliver messages between families is a major part of their lifestyle. Running was also important for hunting animals, chasing down deer until they were too exhausted to escape a Tarahumara arrow.
They call themselves Rarámuri which translates to “the running people”.
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Ultra-Running Champion Miguel Lara
Born To Run?
Like many others, I first learned about the Tarahumara after reading Christopher McDougall’s bestselling book “Born to Run“. It explores the life & running habits of the tribe while arguing that modern running shoes damage human beings more than they help us.
So visiting the Tarahumara homeland and meeting them in person was kind of a big deal for me. I’m not much of a runner, but was excited to learn from them. I arrived in the town of Bahuichivo after a beautiful train journey through the Copper Canyon.
From there we traveled to San Isidro Lodge above the village of Cerocahui by way of a steep, rough, and winding dirt road.
Then I met Miguel Lara & Leonardo Cleto from the Tarahumara tribe.
These guys have been running their whole lives, starting when they were kids competing in rarajipari races. It’s a traditional Tarahumara game where contestants kick a wooden ball down mountain trails for hours (or days).
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Comparing Our Huarache Sandals
Running For Fun
Both Miguel & Leonardo were clad in zapetas (loin cloths) and traditional huarache sandals made from tires and leather straps. They quickly noticed I was wearing huaraches too, although mine are a pair of Luna Sandals made in the US.
The sandals mold to your foot, providing just enough protection from the terrain without interfering with natural movement.
All three of us took off for a short morning run through the forest. Miguel & Leonardo ran fast and light over the rough trails, making it look easy. They ran with short strides, fluid speed, and landed on the balls of their feet rather than heels. Watching their legendary technique up close was quite a treat.
But it was their attitude that brought a smile to my face.
Running is not a chore for the Tarahumara. It’s just fun. I could feel their joy running alongside them. It was infectious. We only went a short distance but I was hooked.
Running for exercise is one thing, running for fun is completely different.
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Running for Fun with Leonardo
Tarahumara People
Not only are the Tarahumara some of the most skilled long-distance trail runners alive, 22 year old Miguel Lara is arguably the best in the whole tribe at the moment. He’s won most of the races he’s competed in.
In fact I just learned he placed 2nd last weekend in the Ultra Caballo Blanco, Micah True’s famous 60 mile trail race held in the Copper Canyon.
Running with the Tarahumara has directly contributed to my renewed interest in the sport. I logged quite a few miles jogging through the rocky canyons of the Sierra Madre during the rest of my trip. And I had a lot of fun doing it.
Actually just writing this post has inspired me.
It’s 10pm right now, but I think I’ll strap on my huaraches & go for a run. ★
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Accommodation: San Isidro Lodge
Company: Authentic Copper Canyon
Packing Guide
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Book Your Flight
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Rent A Car
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Book Accommodation
Booking.com is my favorite hotel search engine. Or rent local apartments on Airbnb ($35 discount!). Read my post for tips on booking cheap hotels.
Protect Your Trip
Don’t forget travel insurance! I’m a big fan of World Nomads for short-term trips. Protect yourself from possible injury & theft abroad. Read more about why you should always carry travel insurance.
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READ MORE MEXICO TRAVEL TIPS
I hope you enjoyed my story about running with Mexico’s Tarahumara Indians! Here are a few more wanderlust-inducing articles that I recommend you read next:
- Ready to party in Mexico? Here are my top things to do Cancun.
- Road tripping the Riviera Maya? Read my favorite things to do in the Yucatan.
- Save money on your vacation with my ultimate guide to budget travel in Mexico.
- Stay safe out there with these important travel safety tips everyone should know.
- Upgrade your camera with my useful guide to the best travel cameras for any budget.
Are you a runner? Every heard of the Tarahumara?