New Mexico is one of those places on Earth with legendary qualities, from centuries old cultures to diverse landscapes, to its tasteful cuisine. Open your eyes to its scenic natural splendour, its distinctive art and architecture, and its historic sites. Explore at your own pace its charming local villages and the unique qualities of its capital city, Santa Fe. Every evening, relax in the glow of a splendid southwestern sunset.

Join us on this escorted tour to some of New Mexico's most beautiful landscapes and heritage sites. We will visit two distinct areas of New Mexico: first, the mountains and valleys north of Albuquerque, including Taos and Santa Fe. Next we continue south past the majestic Sandia Mountains to the major landmarks of the Organ Mountains and White Sands, anchored by the second largest city, Las Cruces.

Our program –

• 2 nights Taos
• 3 nights Santa Fe
• 3 nights Las Cruces

ITINERARY

Sat. Oct. 25
Meet at Albuquerque national airport. From here, the majestic drive north takes us through scenic red rock canyons to Jemez Springs and on to Valley Grande, one of the largest volcanic valleys, to Los Alamos, the birthplace of the atomic bomb. In startling contrast, visit the 12th century ancestral pueblo ruins at the Bandelier National Monument. Arrive late in the day at Taos and settle in to our hotel before a welcoming cocktail. Dinner and evening at leisure.

Sun. Oct. 26
In the morning, visit Taos Pueblo, one of the largest multi-storied pueblo structures in the United States that remains as it was before the Spanish Conquest. After lunch, enjoy a historic tour which includes the Kit Carson Home and Museum and the restored Martinez hacienda. The evening can be spent exploring the central plaza and enjoying Taos restaurants, shops and galleries.

Mon. Oct. 27
Depart Taos after breakfast and travel south to the Rio Grande gorge, a “mini Grand Canyon” without the tourists. Dropping down from the mountains, we will explore the charming villages of Truchas with its wonderful church, and Chimaya, famous for its weaving tradition and legendary shrine, and have lunch en route. Arrive in Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico, by mid-afternoon. After settling in your hotel, enjoy dinner at your leisure at one of Santa Fe's celebrated restaurants.

Tue. Oct. 28
In the morning, we enjoy a guided tour of Santa Fe. After lunch visit some of the city's highlights such as the Palace of the Governors, the oldest public building in the United States, and the famed Loretto Chapel and its “miraculous staircase.” Later in the afternoon, take a stroll down Canyon Road and savour the architecture and ambience of the city and the over 250 art galleries.

Wed. Oct. 29
In the morning, we recommend a hands-on culinary class at the Santa Fe School of Cooking, or a personal tour of one of the city's famed art galleries. Afterward, leave the Plaza for lunch and enjoy spectacular mountain views at the Museum Hill Cafe. In the afternoon, explore any or all of the four world-class museums at Museum Hill.
Dinner and evening at leisure.

Thu. Oct. 30
Depart Santa Fe after breakfast and travel the Turquoise Trail through the remnants of 19th century mining districts where this gemstone, along with gold, coal and lead, was formerly extracted. Travel through the sleepy town of Cerillos where Western movies have been filmed, and stop at Madrid, an old coal-mining town rescued in the 1970's by visiting artists and artisans. Enjoy the views of the majestic Sandia Mountains on our way south. Arrive in Las Cruces by late afternoon and check in at our hotel. Dinner and evening at leisure.

Fri. Oct. 31
After breakfast, travel to the glowing gypsum dunes of the White Sands National Monument, 245 square miles of stark white sand created by the evaporation of an ancient sea. Discover the amazing life forms that have adapted to this environment and after our tour, enjoy a picnic lunch. Return in the afternoon for a tour of a lovely desert-designed home overlooking the Rio Grande and a sunset reception. Dinner and evening at leisure.

Sat. Nov. 01
In the morning, we visit the annual Renaissance Craft Faire, a splendid showcase of southwestern artists, craftsmen and performers dressed in 16th Century English attire. In the afternoon we will visit Old Mesilla, a historic Spanish village, and explore its adobe buildings, including the courthouse from which Billy the Kid escaped. Tour the charming Fountain Theatre before our farewell dinner at the gourmet Double Eagle on the plaza.

Sun. Nov. 02
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to Albuquerque airport for the flight home.

COST AND INCLUDED FEATURES:

Cost:
Per person twin share $ 1990.00 CAD/ $1250.00 USD (based on minimum 15 passengers)
Single supplement – on request

Included Features:

• 8 nights accommodation with private facilities
• Breakfast daily
• 2 lunches
• Farewell dinner
• Reception in private home overlooking the Rio Grande
• Ground transportation as per itinerary
• Guided sightseeing and entrances fees as per itinerary
• Taxes and service charges
• Fully escorted