Mexico’s Copper Canyon is the ancestral home of the private, self–sufficient Tarahumara Indians. They are often described as being the most primitive Indian tribe in North America. They are closely related to the Pima Indians of southern Arizona.

In the winter they live in caves, and move into small log cabins in the summer. In the evening if you gaze at the canyon wall you’ll see what looks like stars flickering, which is actually the light from the fires in the caves.

Originally inhabitants of much of the state of Chihuahua, Mexico upon the arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors, they were forced to retreat to the Copper Canyon. Their population diminished over the years by disease, drought and poverty is estimated at 50,000 to 70,000. In that they are so reclusive it is near impossible to get an accurate count.

Tarahumara is a Spanish corruption of the word Raramuri, which means “running people.” Tarahumara Indians are the world’s strongest long distance runners, running up to 125 mile non-stop and have been known to go 600 miles in 6 days. They hunt deer and turkeys by chasing them to a point where the game collapses from exhaustion.

The Indians prefer to run bare-foot or wear huaraches which are made from rubber tire soles with leather thong ties.

They say they don’t make friends as two bad things can happen to friends, they argue or fight and sadly, friends die. Among the Tarahumara everything belongs to everybody, private property doesn’t exist, so they share food and housing. A man calling at someone’s home will make his presence known before approaching. If women are alone he will not enter the home. Unless married, men and women generally talk to one another only when necessary and then at a distance with averted faces.

The traditional garb for men is a white breechcloth. The women often wear their entire wardrobe. They may have as many as 7 very colorful skirts on and switch when they want.

It’s impossible not to fall in love with the Tarahumara children. Their toy chests are devoid of Tonka Trucks, Lego’s or Barbie dolls. They make games from whatever is available to them, sticks, stones whatever. They don’t steal your money they steal your heart.

As you leave the Tarahumara Indians take with you words that refer to their customs and environment: “I greet you as the Dove that warbles, I wish you health and happiness with your loved ones.”