- Cananea is a city located in the northern state of Sonora, Mexico. It is situated about 65 miles southwest of the state capital, Hermosillo, and close to the international border with Arizona, United States. Cananea is known for its history in copper mining and is home to one of the largest open-pit copper mines in the world. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it a popular destination for tourists. Cananea also has a significant population of indigenous people, particularly the Yaqui tribe, who contribute to the city's cultural diversity.