Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Albuquerque

Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Albuquerque

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10 Days From

$3262

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Colorful Trails of the Southwest, starting in Phoenix and concluding in Albuquerque. This tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon and the iconic red landscapes of Monument Valley to the cultural depths of the Navajo Nation and Taos Pueblo. Traverse scenic byways through Sedona's Red Rock Country and explore the geological wonders of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Enjoy unique cultural interactions, including a traditional Navajo meal under the stars and a guided exploration of Taos Pueblo. Stay in charming accommodations like the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, and savor local flavors with included meals. This tour not only showcases breathtaking landscapes but also supports sustainable tourism and cultural preservation, making it a journey that truly matters. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Explore the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, the Navajo Nation in Page, Taos Pueblo, and Nambe Pueblo Village.

  • Visit Scottsdale, Cameron Trading Post, Horseshoe Bend Lookout, Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Durango, Taos, and Santa Fe.

  • Scenic drive through Sedona's Red Rock Country, Oak Creek Canyon, and Grand Canyon National Park's Desert View Drive.

  • View the Cliff Palace dwelling at Mesa Verde National Park.

  • Experience a cookout lunch with members of the Navajo Nation in Monument Valley.

  • Discover the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people at Mesa Verde National Park.

  • Explore Taos Pueblo with local specialists who call Taos Pueblo home.

  • Enjoy a traditional meal and storytelling at Shash Dine Eco Retreat on the Navajo Nation.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome to Phoenix and Scottsdale

Location: Phoenix, Scottsdale

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 dinner.

Day 2: See the Red Rocks of Sedona Connect with Locals

Location: Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, 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

Location: Grand Canyon National Park, Glen Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Navajo Nation

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 you visit Desert View's Pueblo-style Watch tower and support the development of the Desert View Inter-tribal Heritage Center. Later, you’ll stop at Cameron Trading Post. Finally, 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 Diné tribe local Baya, her husband Paul.

Day 4: Take a Scenic Drive to Moab Make Travel Matter

Location: Page, Monument Valley, 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, Canyonlands 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, Durango

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, Million Dollar Highway, Ouray, Silverton, Animas River

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: Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo, Santa Fe

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, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

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. Lunch on your own, indulging in the culinary offerings of one of Santa Fe’s acclaimed restaurants, and later, savor a dinner back at your hotel.

Day 10: End Your Journey in Albuquerque

Location: Santa Fe, Albuquerque

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your journey through desert landscapes comes to an end. Bid adios to your newfound friends.

What's Included

  • Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver

    An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.

  • Cherry-picked Hotels

    Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are all tried and trusted.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included.

  • Hotel Tips and Taxes

    All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered.

  • Sightseeing and Extras

    Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are part of the tour.

  • Audio Headsets

    Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing.

  • Transport and Transfers

    All transport and transfers shown in the itinerary are included.

  • Luxury Coach

    Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.

  • Optional Experiences and Free Time

    Optional experiences and free time are available during the tour.

  • Hotel Substitutions

    On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Optional Tours

    Optional tours and activities not mentioned in the inclusions are not included.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end points are not included.

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 and comfort with luxury air-conditioned coaches equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless transfers and transportation throughout the tour, including scenic drives and optional experiences.

Accommodation

Experience a blend of comfort and history with stays at Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch, National Park Lodges Grand Canyon, Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell, Hyatt Place Moab, Strater Hotel, and Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza, offering unique local charm and modern amenities.

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.

Iconic Experience

  • Grand Canyon National Park: One of the seven natural wonders of the world and the second most visited national park in the United States. Explore the Visitor Center and get familiar with the history of the Grand Canyon, grab a coffee at a local café and take a walk along the Rim Trail. Keep your camera on-hand as you explore some of the 278 miles of the Colorado River and adjacent canyonlands at one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world with unmatched vistas along its rim.
  • Oak Creek Canyon: Drive through Coconino National Forest on one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., offering a picture perfect view of the surrounding red-rock and Ponderosa Pine forest between Sedona and Flagstaff, Arizona.
  • Glen Canyon Dam: Enjoy a walk to the rim of Glen Canyon where you will get the chance to visit Horseshoe Bend.
  • Monument Valley: Board a 4x4 vehicle and navigate the iconic red valley landscape guided by a member of the Navajo Nation and Local Specialist.
  • Arches National Park: Nature's creations spring to life at Arches National Park, home to the greatest concentration of natural arches in the world. Some 2,000 natural sandstone arches can be found within the boundaries of the national park. On your visit, unlock all the science and history of how these 6,000 natural sandstone arches were formed by rain and wind. Take in the sights of Delicate Arch and Balanced Rock while admiring the ever-changing landscapes as you traverse the park.
  • Canyonlands National Park: There’s no better spot to witness the power of the Colorado River carving through rocky red landscapes than at Canyonlands National Park. Take in the views from the Green River Overlook, and be inspired by the vast expanse of high desert canyons at Grand Viewpoint.
  • Mesa Verde National Park: There’s no better place to learn about the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people than at Mesa Verde National Park. View the carvings in the sandstone of the canyon walls at the several hundred of these dwellings – astounded by the history presented before you. This UNESCO-listed park also features thousands of well-known preserved archaeological sites. Take in the sites of this protected area as you ride along the Mesa Top Loop and Cliff Palace Loop, where you can see the magnificent Cliff Palace.
  • 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.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several unique cultural experiences such as a visit to the Desert View Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage Site at the Grand Canyon, where you can learn about the 11 Grand Canyon tribal communities and enjoy traditional song and dance performances. In Monument Valley, you will have a cookout lunch with members of the Navajo Nation and explore the valley with a Navajo guide. Additionally, you will visit Taos Pueblo with local specialists who call it home, gaining insight into the history and current life of the pueblo. ...more ...less

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

    The tour offers stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. Notably, in Durango, you will stay at The Strater Hotel, which is adorned with beautiful handcrafted woodwork and houses the largest collection of American Victorian walnut antiques. This hotel is a historic landmark showcasing stories of the old west and mining times. ...more ...less

  • Are there any special dining experiences included in the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a special dining experience at the Shash Dine Eco Retreat on the Navajo Nation, where you will enjoy a traditional meal under the stars with hosts Baya and Paul. The meal includes mutton stew, frybread, vegetables, melon, coffee, and Navajo tea, accompanied by Navajo storytelling by Eli Secody, a storyteller and award-winning Diné recording artist. ...more ...less

  • What activities are available at the Grand Canyon during the tour?

    At the Grand Canyon, you can enjoy an optional flightseeing tour over the canyon, trace the scenic South Rim along Desert View Drive, and visit the Desert View's Pueblo-style Watchtower. You will also have the opportunity to explore the Visitor Center, walk along the Rim Trail, and learn about the canyon's geological marvels from a local specialist. ...more ...less

  • What is the significance of the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences on this tour?

    The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences on this tour are designed to support local communities and promote sustainable tourism. For example, visiting the Desert View Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage Site at the Grand Canyon helps provide funding for its development, while the cookout lunch and guided tour in Monument Valley support the Navajo Nation. These experiences align with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, such as reducing inequalities and promoting responsible production and consumption. ...more ...less

  • 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. ...more ...less

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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

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Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$3262 (USD)
Prices last published on 11-Apr-2025

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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Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Albuquerque

10 Days Starting in Phoenix, USA and ending in Albuquerque, USA

Visiting: Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sedona, Oak Creek Canyon, Grand Canyon National Park, Glen Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, Navajo Nation, Page, Monument Valley, Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Durango, Million Dollar Highway, Ouray, Silverton, Animas River, Santa Fe, Taos Pueblo, Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, Albuquerque ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

DCTSAZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $3262 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 11-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

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