Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

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6 Days From

$3266

$2877

Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

6 Days Starting and ending in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Visiting: Albuquerque, Santa Fe

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

AF-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Special Events

From: $3266 $2877 Operator discount: -$390 -12%

NB: Prices correct on 07-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

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

  • Welcome presentation from a local balloonist in Albuquerque

  • Experience the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

  • Visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

  • Explore the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

  • Travel along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe

  • Sightseeing tour in Santa Fe including San Miguel Mission and Loretto Chapel

  • Visit Bandelier National Monument and explore ancient cliff dwellings

  • Enjoy a festive farewell dinner with live Mariachi entertainment in Santa Fe

Places You'll See

Doubletree By Hilton Albuquerque

Hilton Of Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Doubletree By Hilton Albuquerque

Hilton Of Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Itinerary

Expand All

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 FAVORITE
CULTURE & 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 FAVORITE
LOCAL 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 FAVORITE
LEGENDARY 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 FAVORITE
CULTURAL 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

  • Accommodation

    Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque and Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza.

  • Meals

    Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner are included.

  • Welcome Drink

    Enjoy a welcome drink on the first day.

  • Balloon Fiesta

    Experience the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, including the Mass Balloon Ascension, Balloon Glow, and After-Glow Fireworks show.

  • Local Presentations

    Special presentations from a local balloonist and other local experts.

  • Museum Visits

    Guided tours of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

  • Scenic Drive

    Travel along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe.

  • 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'.

  • Museum of International Folk Art

    Visit the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe.

  • Bandelier National Monument

    Explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Flights to and from Albuquerque International Sunport Airport are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.

  • Optional Activities

    Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • 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.

  • 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.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
$3266 $2877

Operator discount: -$390

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
$3266 $2877

Operator discount: -$390

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 07, 2026
$3557 $3103

Operator discount: -$455

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 09, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
$3557 $3103

Operator discount: -$455

Prices last published on 07-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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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