Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
6 Days Starting and ending in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Visiting: Albuquerque, Santa Fe
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AF-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Experience the magic of New Mexico with the Enchanted New Mexico tour, featuring the world-renowned Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Begin your journey in Albuquerque with a welcome drink and an enlightening presentation from a local balloonist. Witness the breathtaking Mass Balloon Ascension and enjoy a traditional New Mexican lunch. Explore the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Travel the scenic Turquoise Trail to Santa Fe, where you'll visit historic sites and the Museum of International Folk Art. Discover the ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument and savor a farewell dinner with live Mariachi music. Conclude your adventure with a transfer to Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. Accommodations include stays at the DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque and the Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Albuquerque,New Mexico
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque
ARRIVE IN ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO Welcome to Albuquerque! At 6 pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. You’ll also enjoy a special presentation from a [LF] local Balloonist, who will educate you on the sport of ballooning and what you’ll experience.LOCAL FAVORITECULTURE & TRADITION Enjoy a presentation from a special guest that has been a balloon pilot since the 70’s. Hear the history of the fiesta, his experience, and what special things to look for during the next day’s Mass Ascension. ALBUQUERQUE-CITYSCAPE.jpg
Day 2: Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
ALBUQUERQUE Up, Up & Away! Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. Then, visit a [LF] traditional New Mexican restaurant for a festive lunch and margaritas. This evening, catch the popular Balloon Glow, where all balloons fire up their burners and light up at the same time, and the amazing After-Glow Fireworks show. (B,L)NOTE: Schedule of activities vary from year-to-year and can be impacted by weather. Your Tour Director will be able to confirm the exact schedule of activities on tour.LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Be treated to an authentic New Mexico experience with a traditional southwestern lunch and margaritas served in a popular Albuquerque restaurant. New Mexican dishes, from enchiladas and chili rellenos to salsa and sopapillas are served in a festive atmosphere in true local style.TOUR HIGHLIGHT INSPIRING SIGHTS Look skyward as hundreds of hot air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of colors, all led by a balloon flying the American flag to the music of The Star-Spangled Banner. What began as a gathering of 13 balloons more than 47 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world. While on the balloon grounds, enjoy breakfast at the Chasers Club followed by a visit to the International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, and spectacle of ballooning.ALBUQUERQUE-BALLOONFIESTA.jpg
Day 3: Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque
Meals Included: Breakfast
ALBUQUERQUE Ancient Arts & Modern Sciences This morning, learn about New Mexico’s legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project, with a guided tour of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The museum provides an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science from the origins of atomic theory to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine. Then, visit the fascinating museum and crafts market of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Tonight is at leisure. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY & HERITAGE Explore the inspiring crafts and museum exhibits collectively run by the 19 New Mexico pueblos (villages). Here, you will learn about the history, background, and life of what now comprise the 19 pueblos of New Mexico.ALBURQUEQUE-PEPPERS.jpg
Day 4: Albuquerque,Santa Fe
Location: Santa Fe
Accommodation Name: Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast
ALBUQUERQUE–SANTA FE Southwestern Jewels Today, travel along the [LF] Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe. This scenic drive passes through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, past wide-open spaces, and dramatic scenery. Arrive in Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the U.S. Experience this city up close as you embark on a city sightseeing tour, including the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s “Miracle Stairway.” Next, take a captivating glimpse into the diversity of folk art from around the world. The Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe allows you to explore a vast collection of traditional textiles, ceramics, paintings, and other unique objects that showcase the rich cultural heritage of different regions and communities. (B) LOCAL FAVORITELEGENDARY LIVES The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway covers 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos along this historic trail named for the aqua-hued turquoise first mined by the early Pueblo people.SANTA-FE-STREET-SCENE.jpg
Day 5: Santa Fe
Location: Santa Fe
Accommodation Name: Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SANTA FE. EXCURSION TO BANDELIER Santa Fe Tastes and Sounds This morning, visit to explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings, and the museum at Bandelier National Monument. Return to Santa Fe Plaza for lunch at a celebrated local restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the plaza. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner with live [LF] entertainment. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITECULTURAL GEMS Enjoy a wonderful dinner to celebrate your Southwestern adventure along with the joyous sounds of traditional Mariachi music. Hear the voices of traditional singers and musicians who perform this beautifully rich music in the tradition of celebrating the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the Mexican people. BANDELIER-NATIONAL-MONUMENT.jpg
Day 6: Santa Fe,Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends at Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. Schedule departing flights after 11 am.
SANTA FE–ALBUQUERQUE Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends at Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. Schedule departing flights after 11 am.(B)SANTA-FE-SHOP.jpg
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque and Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner are included.
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Welcome Drink
Enjoy a welcome drink on the first day.
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Balloon Fiesta
Experience the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, including the Mass Balloon Ascension, Balloon Glow, and After-Glow Fireworks show.
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Local Presentations
Special presentations from a local balloonist and other local experts.
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Museum Visits
Guided tours of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
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Scenic Drive
Travel along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe.
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City Sightseeing
City sightseeing tour in Santa Fe, including San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s 'Miracle Stairway'.
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Museum of International Folk Art
Visit the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe.
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Bandelier National Monument
Explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from Albuquerque International Sunport Airport are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Notes
The Globus Family of Brands insurance does not allow us to arrange hot air balloon rides for our guests. Hot air balloon rides should be scheduled on Day 2 of the tour and any missed sightseeing will not be refunded. Balloon Fiesta schedule of events are subject to change and will be confirmed on tour. Guests should be prepared for sustained walking and standing. The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta is also included as a special departure on the Historic Trains of the Old West (Tour NCS).
Accommodation
In Albuquerque, stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque, and in Santa Fe, enjoy the Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza.
Mode of Transport
Travel between Albuquerque and Santa Fe along the scenic Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, with stops at various cultural and historical sites.
Check out our Q&As
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What can I expect during the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta?
During the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, you will experience the pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the Mass Balloon Ascension, where hundreds of hot air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a rainbow of colors. In the evening, you can enjoy the Balloon Glow, where all balloons light up simultaneously, followed by the After-Glow Fireworks show.
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What kind of cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a presentation from a local balloonist about the history and experience of ballooning, a visit to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to learn about the history and life of the 19 pueblos of New Mexico, and a farewell dinner with live traditional Mariachi music.
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What historical sites will we visit in Santa Fe?
In Santa Fe, you will visit the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s 'Miracle Stairway.' You will also explore the Museum of International Folk Art, which showcases a vast collection of traditional textiles, ceramics, paintings, and other unique objects.
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What is the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway?
The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway is a scenic drive that passes through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, past wide-open spaces, and dramatic scenery. It covers 15,000 square miles in central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe, and passes through historic mining towns like Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos.
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What will we learn at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History?
At the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History, you will learn about New Mexico’s legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project. The museum provides an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science, from the origins of atomic theory to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily, two lunches, and one dinner. You will also enjoy a traditional southwestern lunch with margaritas at a popular Albuquerque restaurant and a farewell dinner with live entertainment in Santa Fe.
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What should I know about the schedule of activities during the Balloon Fiesta?
The schedule of activities during the Balloon Fiesta can vary from year to year and may be impacted by weather. Your Tour Director will confirm the exact schedule of activities on tour.
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What is the significance of the Bandelier National Monument visit?
At Bandelier National Monument, you will explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings, as well as visit the museum to learn more about their history and culture.
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What should I consider when scheduling my departure flight?
Your vacation ends at Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. You should schedule your departing flights after 11 am to ensure you have enough time to reach the airport from Santa Fe, which is approximately 1.5 hours away depending on traffic.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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