New Mexico Balloon Fiesta & Pueblo Cultural Tour - 5 Days
5 Days
Albuquerque
Albuquerque
***
Southwest Adventure Tours
This tour of destinations around Albuquerque, New Mexico, is tailored to attend the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. After attending the festival, our tour will immerse you in the Puebloan Cultures of New Mexico, spend a day in the Southwest art mecca of Santa Fe, and visit Chimayo and Taos.
Go on this tour to enjoy the rich, diverse, and vibrant cultures of New Mexico as you experience one of the greatest visual spectacles on Earth. During this 6-day journey, you will not only be thrilled by the Balloon Fiesta, but you will also be touched by the enduring Pueblo Cultures that have existed for centuries and continue to thrive today. It is truly a Land of Enchantment!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Albuquerque
The "Land of Enchantment" welcomes you, as you arrive in beautiful Albuquerque today *(Please arrive by 3:00pm). Meet your Southwest Adventure Tours tour director and transfer to your hotel. After some time to settle in, join the group for a fun welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Balloon Fiesta – Turquoise Museum – Old Town Albuquerque
Today you will learn why Albuquerque is called the Balloon Capitol of the World as you experience the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Depart for an early morning transfer to the Fiesta Field to witness the Dawn Patrol and have breakfast at the Chasers Club. The Dawn Patrol began at Balloon Fiesta in 1978, when two California balloonists developed position lighting systems that allowed them to fly at night. Dawn Patrol pilots take off in the dark and fly until it is light enough to see landing sites. Just at dawn when the winds are calmest, watch the Mass Ascension in a rainbow of colors. Later this morning, visit the Turquoise Museum where you will enter the museum through a mock mine tunnel and see the veins and nugget formations just as if you are a miner. Learn about rare specimens and the process of grinding and shaping the stones before time at leisure in the gift shop.
Once finished, enjoy a drive through Albuquerque, "The Jewel of the American Southwest," on your way to historic Old Town with some free time to explore hidden courtyards, stroll under covered portals and shop at the many fine specialty stores and galleries around the Plaza on your own. Old Town's tree-lined plaza and charming adobe buildings and churches are sure to delight the sightseer and the shopper! After an exciting day, return to your hotel with the rest of the evening free to relax and have dinner on your own.
Day 3: Sandia Peak Tram – Pueblo Cultural Center – Evening Glow & Afterglow Fireworks Show
Begin your day with one of the best views of the city as you ride the Sandia Peak Tramway. Overlook the valley and enjoy views of the balloons traveling through the valley as you ascend and descend from its 10,387 foot crest. See first-hand the landscape that became the home of the Ancestral Pueblo and Pueblo people for thousands of years. Once finished you will experience a fascinating introduction to the way of life enjoyed by America's first "apartment dwellers," the Pueblo tribes of the Southwest. During your visit to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, you'll see their artifacts and crafts and learn a little about the cultural and religious customs that have helped preserve this society for over l,000 years. There are multiple experiences to be had including dancing and craftsmen at work. After your lunch you will return to your hotel with a little time to relax. This evening you will get to enjoy dinner at the Chaser Club with direct access onto Fiesta Field for the evening festivities like the Twilight Twinkle Glow™, Special Shape Glowdeo™, Night Magic Glow™, or Balloon Glow™, and AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show. These evening events start when all the balloons fire their burners and light up at the same time. It is perhaps the most spectacular single moment in all of Balloon Fiesta. The evening glows are followed by New Mexico's most spectacular fireworks display. Together they are Balloon Fiesta's most popular events.
Day 4: Turquoise Trail - Santa Fe
This morning, enjoy a drive along the Turquoise Trail, named for the exquisite mineral that was once mined here. The drive leads you the real-life ghost town of Madrid. Madrid looks exactly like a ghost town should, with its rows of empty, ramshackle houses that once were the homes of three thousand miners and their families. The only sign of life now is the artists who come to paint this picturesque place, and who display their wares to the interested buyer. Continue through Santa Fe to Chimayo, home to the Santuario de Chimayo and where the descendants of Spanish weavers and woodcarvers still ply their crafts. After a stop to observe the artisans, continue your scenic drive to the world class resort town of Taos. Founded in 1617 by the Spanish, Taos has kept its Spanish and Indian influences. Arrive at Taos Plaza with free time to wander the streets, enjoying the local cuisine, unique atmosphere, and browse the offerings of many artists who have come here to capture the allure of this delightful place. Then visit Taos Pueblo, a village that has been inhabited for more than 800 years, and whose adobe structures have changed little since the first Spanish explorers saw them in 1540's. As you return to Santa Fe, stop for a scenic view of the Rio Grande, a legendary river that cuts a distinct path through the history of the Southwest. Check into your Santa Fe hotel with the evening free for dinner on your own.
Day 5: Santa Fe
Today enjoy a full day exploring and experiencing the first state capitol in the United States, "The Royal City of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis," better known as Santa Fe. Founded in l609, the city offers many historic and scenic delights. Begin your day with an intimate tour of Santa Fe. Your tour will be a walking tour to the many famous sights including the historic Santa Fe Plaza with a view of the Palace of the Governors, the Loretto Chapel, a miniature model of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and the oldest church in New Mexico and more. After you are done the afternoon will be yours for lunch on your own and free time to explore the many wonderful shops and art galleries on your own. Take a chance to stroll through the Indian Market, where native arts and crafts are available directly from the artists who created them. This evening you will join the group for a special farewell dinner as you finish exploring this enchanting land.
Day 6: Farewell
After breakfast, transfer to the Albuquerque International Airport for your departure home.
Please book flights that depart after 8:00am.
Includes
- 5 nights in handpicked 3 star hotels
- Comfortable 14-pax Mercedes Benz sprinter vans
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver, Tour Director and local guides gratuities
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Balloon Fiesta Event Policy Disclaimer
Please note that admission to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® is governed by the event’s own terms and conditions.
Purely Escorted Tours & Southwest Adventure Tours does not issue refunds for any Balloon Fiesta sessions that are cancelled, postponed, or modified by the event organizers due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Please note: if balloons are able to inflate for a static display but do not launch, this does not constitute an official cancellation under Balloon Fiesta policy.
By booking this tour, you acknowledge and accept these terms as set by the Balloon Fiesta organizers and Southwest Adventure Tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Southwest Adventure tours specialise in small group experiences - usually between 7 and 13 passengers.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Southwest Adventure Tours offers comfortable transportation in our fleet of well-maintained Mercedes Sprinter Vans, Ford Transit Vans, Chevy Express/GMC Savanah Vans and Motorcoaches. All vehicles are 2014 or newer and we are continually updating our fleet.
- Vehicles are thoroughly inspected before, during and after your tour for any safety or comfort concerns
- Vehicles are deep cleaned at the beginning of each tour as well as each day after your adventure. Each vehicle has its own cleaning kit, masks, and safety gear
- Customized seating to afford the best viewing experience
- Vans seat 13 plus a driver for the ultimate small group atmosphere
- Our Driver/Guides are required to have a valid DOT Health Certificate as well as basic CPR- many of our guides have taken the extra step and earned their Wilderness First Responder Certification!
Whilst vehicles do not have on-board bathroom facilities, regular stops will be scheduled in enroute.
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are not included for your Travel Director or driver, these can be given at your discretion locally at the end of the tour.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.