Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Albuquerque

Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Albuquerque

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10 Days From

$3499

$3149

Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Albuquerque

10 Days Starting in Phoenix, United States and ending in Albuquerque, United States

Visiting: Phoenix, Grand Canyon National Park, Moab, Arches National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Durango, Taos, Santa Fe, Albuquerque

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

DCTSAZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $3499 $3149 Operator discount: -$350

NB: Prices correct on 15-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a vibrant journey through the Colorful Trails of the Southwest, starting in Phoenix and concluding in Albuquerque. This cultural adventure takes you through iconic landscapes such as the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and Arches National Park. Experience the rich heritage of the Navajo Nation with exclusive tours and traditional meals, and explore the ancient adobe dwellings of Taos Pueblo. Enjoy scenic drives through Sedona's Red Rock Country and the High Road Scenic Byway. Stay in charming accommodations like the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, and savor local flavors with included breakfasts and dinners. Engage with local communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives, making this journey not only memorable but meaningful. Whether you're marveling at the geological wonders or immersing yourself in Native American culture, this tour offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Must-see Highlights

  • Explore the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Taos Pueblo, Nambe Pueblo Village, the Navajo Nation in Page
  • Visit Scottsdale, Mesa Verde National Park, Cameron Trading Post, Horseshoe Bend Lookout, Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Durango, Taos and Santa Fe
  • Scenic Drive through Sedona's Red Rock Country, Oak Creek Canyon, Grand Canyon National Park's Desert View Drive, Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway and the High Road Scenic Byway from Taos to Santa Fe
  • View Cliff Palace dwelling at Mesa Verde National Park, Desert Viewpoint

Make Travel Matter®

Grand Canyon: At Desert Viewpoint Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage Site learn about the 11 Grand Canyon tribal communities. Discover Native crafts watching a carpet weaving demonstration, or you may enjoy traditional song and dance performances. Your visit and donation provide a continuous source of funding for the on-going development of the Cultural Heritage Site while allowing guests to engage directly with Indigenous community members. The experience directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities and Goal 11: Responsible Production and Consumption.

Monument Valley: Travel to Monument Valley for a cookout lunch with members of the Navajo Nation. Take off-road vehicles to the cookout site where you’ll enjoy a delicious steak and chicken dinner with a chance to try traditional Diné (Navajo) tacos and fry-bread. This experience advances UN Global Goal 10: Reduce Inequalities.

Monument Valley: Immerse yourself in the landscape of the Navajo people journeying through the desert to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park accessing roads, places, sites that are closed to the general public. Get a feel for the land and its people climbing aboard an open-air, all-terrain vehicle to explore the valley with your Navajo guide as you pass its towering sandstone buttes and mesas, many of which have been featured in prominent Western films including John Wayne’s ‘Stagecoach’. Your exclusive Navajo Tribal Park tour with a Navajo guide helps preserve the integrity of the land and culture. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reducing Inequalities.

Taos: Visit Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World's Heritage Center as well as a National Historic Landmark and one the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the country. Best known for is iconic, multi-storied adobe buildings, built roughly 1,000 years ago. About 150 Puebloans live within the pueblo full time. The Taos Tribal Council, which owns the pueblo, does not allow any modern convenience inside the pueblo, such as running water or electricity.

Be My Guest

Grand Canyon National Park: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience at Shash Dine Eco Retreat on the Navajo Nation. Meet your hosts Baya and Paul for an under-the-stars, traditional meal of mutton stew, frybread, vegetables, melon, coffee and Navajo tea. Your local dining experience is enhanced by Navajo storytelling by storyteller and award-winning Diné recording artist Eli Secody, whose fun and fascinating stories are steeped in his Dine’ roots. Cap off the evening walking up to a remarkable vista on the very land where Baya can trace her lineage back over 20 generations.

Trafalgar Difference

Durango: Stay at The Strater Hotel, adorned with beautiful handcrafted woodwork, housing the largest collection of American Victorian walnut antiques. It's Durango's Historic Landmark Hotel, showcasing stories of the old west and mining times.

Places You'll See

Grand Canyon National Park

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Phoenix And Scottsdale

Location: Phoenix

Accommodation: Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch

Accommodation Name: Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in sun-kissed Phoenix and transfer to Scottsdale at your leisure. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner.

Day 2: See The Red Rocks Of Sedona Connect With Locals

Pete Burns
Lara Pseudonym

Location: Grand Canyon National Park

Accommodation: National Park Lodges Grand Canyon

Accommodation Name: National Park Lodges Grand Canyon

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your first stop today is in the artists' enclave of Sedona – surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. You’ll travel through Oak Creek Canyon next, with its rocky red cliffs, then venture to the UNESCO-listed Grand Canyon National Park, where a Local Specialist will share the canyon’s many geological marvels. Tonight, you’ll have an opportunity to overnight at one of the lodges inside the park.

Day 3: Take In The Sights Of The Grand Canyon Make Travel Matter

Pete Burns
Lara Pseudonym

Location: Grand Canyon National Park

Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Don’t miss an unforgettable experience: Rise early for an optional flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon and then trace the scenic South Rim of the Grand Canyon along Desert View Drive. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as we visit Desert View's Pueblo-style Watch tower and support the development of the Desert View Inter-tribal Heritage Center. Later, we’ll stop at Cameron Trading Post. Finally, we'll take a walk to the rim of Glen Canyon to Horseshoe Bend. Finish the day connecting to the soul of the land over a Be My Guest experience on the Navajo Nation, hosted by Dine tribe local Baya, her husband Paul and storyteller Eli Secody.

Day 4: Take A Scenic Drive To Moab Make Travel Matter

Location: Moab

Accommodation: Hyatt Place Moab

Accommodation Name: Hyatt Place Moab

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Depart Page for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience tour in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Afterwards, settle into the surrounds of buttes and mesas for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience outdoor lunch prepared by Diné (Navajo) tribe members who share stories about their people and their connection to Monument Valley. Then, continue to Moab on a scenic drive where you can sit back and enjoy views of the desert southwest. The evening is yours to explore Moab's Main Street.

Day 5: Admire The Landscape Of Arches National Park

Location: Arches National Park

Accommodation: Hyatt Place Moab

Accommodation Name: Hyatt Place Moab

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, discover how the forces of wind and rain have shaped the enchanting landscape of Arches National Park in the stunning formations that they are, with countless perfect photo opportunities. Later, journey to Canyonlands National Park to connect with nature even more. We visit the Island in the Sky - a mesa resting 1,000 feet (305 meters) above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views over the dramatic sandstone formations.

Day 6: Discover The History Of Mesa Verde Stays With Stories

Location: Mesa Verde National Park

Accommodation: Strater Hotel, Durango

Accommodation Name: Strater Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

We arrive in the UNESCO-listed Mesa Verde National Park to delve into the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Explore their beautifully preserved sandstone dwellings. This evening, in Durango, your Stay with Stories is historic Strater Hotel. You’ll have the evening at leisure to explore the historic town of Durango.

Day 7: Dive Into Durango Make Travel Matter

Location: Durango

Accommodation: Strater Hotel, Durango

Accommodation Name: Strater Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy free time in Durango today, or you may take a scenic drive along the Million Dollar Highway from Ouray and Silverton. If you’re lucky, enjoy a truly unforgettable step back in time, on a ride aboard the coal-fired, steam-powered narrow-gauge train (booked independently). The train chugs along rails that were originally laid at the end of the 19th century, winding through a spectacular wilderness which would be inaccessible by car. If you're feeling more adventurous, opt for a white-water rafting trip on the Animas River.

Day 8: Unlock The Legacy Of The Taos Pueblo

Location: Taos

Accommodation: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Accommodation Name: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast

The journey continues along the High Road – Santa Fe Scenic Byway, a picturesque route in Northern New Mexico that stretches approximately 56 miles from Santa Fe to Taos. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit one of the greatest Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the Southwest. Be immersed in the fascinating adobe dwellings and take a walk through Taos Pueblo, a Native American community that has been continuously inhabited for the last 1,000 years. Meet your Taos tribal resident guide and explore the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. Later, arrive at the hotel, ideally located two short blocks from Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza.

Day 9: Explore The Unique Culture Of Santa Fe Make Travel Matter

Location: Santa Fe

Accommodation Name: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you'll have a full free day to explore Santa Fe at your leisure. Perhaps visit the iconic Georgia O'Keeffe Museum on your terms or explore one of the many chocolate shops and art galleries just steps away from your hotel. You can enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many acclaimed restaurants before you cap off your trip with a dinner at your hotel.

Day 10: End Your Journey In Albuquerque

Location: Albuquerque

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our journey through desert landscapes comes to an end, make your own way to Albuquerque Airport.

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities

  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

  • All transport and transfers shown

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

  • Optional Experiences and free time

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Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 9 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Dive Into Culture

  • Grand Canyon National Park: The great outdoors is your classroom today when you meet geologist Canyon Tim for an enlightening talk about the Grand Canyon at the South Rim . Having over 30 years of geological experience, Tim’s fascinating talk reveals how this natural marvel was formed millions of years ago and how the different layers that make up the Colorado Plateau are still visible today.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with luxury air-conditioned coaches equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. All transport and transfers are included, providing seamless travel between destinations.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations including the Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch, National Park Lodges Grand Canyon, Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell, Hyatt Place Moab, Strater Hotel in Durango, and Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza, each offering unique charm and comfort throughout your journey.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a cookout lunch with members of the Navajo Nation in Monument Valley, a traditional meal at Shash Dine Eco Retreat on the Navajo Nation, and a visit to Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, there are opportunities to learn about the Grand Canyon's tribal communities and enjoy storytelling by a Navajo artist.

  • How does the tour support local communities?

    The tour supports local communities through MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, which include visiting the Desert View Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage Site and participating in activities that provide funding for the development of cultural heritage sites. The tour also includes experiences that support the Navajo Nation and the Taos Pueblo community.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The tour offers accommodation in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. Notable stays include the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, which is adorned with American Victorian walnut antiques, and lodges inside the Grand Canyon National Park.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities available such as a flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon, a ride on a coal-fired, steam-powered narrow-gauge train in Durango, and a white-water rafting trip on the Animas River.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes breakfast daily, up to half of your evening meals, and a special outdoor lunch prepared by Diné (Navajo) tribe members in Monument Valley.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

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

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Sunday - Tuesday

Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 29, 2025
$3499 $3149

Operator discount: -$350

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May 18, 2025 - May 27, 2025
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Operator discount: -$350

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Operator discount: -$355

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Operator discount: -$364

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Operator discount: -$364

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$3262
Prices last published on 14-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 trafalgar 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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