10-Nights Southwest Native Trails End Santa Fe

Trafalgar

• 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
• 10 Breakfast (B)
• 2 Lunch (L)
• 3 Dinner (D)

• Santa Fe: Visit Nambé Pueblo, a Native American community in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains famous for its public ceremonies and traditions, strong agriculture, traditional textiles and world-renowned pottery. Once the primary cultural and religious center for the northern New Mexican pueblo communities, Nambé Pueblo has existed at this site since the 14th century. Take in the sprawling land of nearly 20,000 acres of towering cottonwoods, junipers, scrub oak and an occasional outcropping of sandstone on your cultural visit including lunch with the community elders.

• : Visit Trujillo's weaving shop and admire the New Mexico weaving tradition that dates back to Spanish Colonial times. Learn about the Trujillo family, whose members have been weavers in the Chimayo tradition for eight generations.

• Albuquerque: Home to one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America, featuring designs and symbols carved onto volcanic rocks by Native Americans and Spanish settlers 400 to 700 years ago. These images are a valuable record of cultural expression and hold profound spiritual significance for contemporary Native Americans and for the descendants of the early Spanish settlers.
• Albuquerque: Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center in Albuquerque, gateway to the 19 Pueblos. Learn about the pueblo from ancient times to modern day through the museum and art galleries.
• : See the graceful red sandstone arch geological formation for which the capital is named Tségháhoodzání (Window Rock). The small Memorial Tribal Park is not only home to Window Rock, but also to the Veterans Memorial, built to honour the many Navajo people who served in the U.S. military.
• Canyon De Chelly National Monument: See an ancient community built into a sandstone cliff as you peer over the edge of the White House Overlook to see the mastery of Ancient Puebloan construction. Watch nature defy gravity when you encounter Spider Rock and hear the legend of the mythical Spider Woman who is said to live in this towering stone spire.
• Bluff: Visit Hovenweep National Monument, one of the most intriguing pre-historic settlements in the Southwest, known for its six major villages and more than 300 additional sites within the National Monument.
• Taos: Experience Taos Plaza, a Historical Landmark and artist colony in the heart of the Taos Historic District, home of 65 galleries, shops, restaurants, and 21 landmarks.
• Taos: Explore Taos Pueblo with Local Specialists who call Taos Pueblo home. Gain insight into the history of the pueblo and what it is like to live there today.
• : Cross the Rio Grande Bridge, a steel deck arch bridge, roughly 600 ft above the Rio Grande and one of the highest bridges in the United States.
• Taos: Journey through arid landscapes as you travel along High Road, a cultural and geographical feast for the eyes. Arrive in Santa Fe, the 'City Different' and one of UNESCO's Creative Cities Network, as City of Design and City of Crafts and Folk Art.

• Chaco Canyon National Historic Park: Stop at the Chaco Culture National Historical Park Visitor Center, and enjoy a picnic lunch with a Local Specialist.
• Canyon De Chelly National Monument: Meet a Navajo Local Specialist and take 6X6 vehicles to the bottom of Canyon De Chelly for the most incredible natural sites.
• Monument Valley: Make Travel Matter on a journey through the desert to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where you will board all-terrain vehicles to explore the valley with your Navajo guide.
• : Visit the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum, Southwest Colorado's leading archaeological museum, displaying exhibits on archaeology, local history and Native American cultures.
• Santa Fe: Meet Emigdio Ballon the agricultural director at the Tesuque Pueblo Community Farm. Learn about this Indigenous community and their efforts to achieve food sovereighty by preserving heirloom seeds and by growing their own food.
• Santa Fe: Visit the 50-acre property on a private tour with local specialist to see some of Allan Houser's most amazing works known for his magnificent sculptures and paintings depicting various Indigenous tribes.

• : Explore Pueblo Bonito "Great House" and the North Rim scenic drive with a Local Specialist
• : Visit Petroglyph National Monument, Chaco Canyon National Historical Park, Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, Hovenweep National Monument, Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, Canyon de Chelly National Monument, Monument Valley Tribal Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Durango, Taos Pueblo, Santa Fe, Tesuque Pueblo, Bandelier National Monument
• : View Square Tower Unit at Hovenweep, Chaco Canyon's White House, Bandelier National Monument
• : Scenic Drive along Colorado's Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway

• Gallup: Your Stay with Story is the historic home to many starlets from the 'Western" genres of the 1930's - 40s.
• 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...

  Featured Destinations

  Albuquerque Albuquerque Albuquerque, New Mexico, could be the place to fulfill dreams of a southwestern getaway. A centuries-old Spanish church anchors the city's plaza, chili-pepper-spiked delicacies are found on almost every menu, and residential neighborhoods are chock-full of both real adobe houses (made of mud and straw) and adobe-style look-alikes (made of concrete and stucco). Albuquerque is New Mexico's largest city and definitely different from other cities in the state: It is a bustling, working town that doesn't run the risk of becoming too precious or too exclusive. Albuquerque's size has also helped it to develop a fine lineup of attractions, such as the Albuquerque Zoo and Old Town Albuquerque—many of which are located close together near the downtown area. Even if you don't have a lot of time to spend in town, you can see several excellent sites in the span of a short drive and a few hours.	Destination Guide
  Chaco Culture National Historical Park Chaco Culture National Historical Park Certain ancient places—the Egyptian pyramids come to mind—capture the imagination with their enduring majesty and mystery. Chaco Canyon is one of those places. Located in the northwest corner of the state, these ruins were built over a period of three centuries (AD 900-1200) and are considered one of the pinnacles of Ancestral Pueblo culture. At its peak, Chaco Canyon was the center of a vast trade network that spread over a large portion of the Southwest. The park includes 13 major pueblos, a network of once-busy highways, and hundreds of smaller sites. The surrounding area has 2,000-plus ruins scattered across an area of 30 sq mi/85 sq km. Within Chaco Canyon itself, nine multistoried dwellings remain, including the best-known, Pueblo Bonito. Constructed of sandstone blocks, this enormous urban structure once had more than 650 rooms. Another highlight in the canyon is the very large kiva (ceremonial meeting hall) at Casa Rinconada. Be aware, though, that a visit to Chaco Culture National Historical Park requires some forethought. Its location is somewhat remote, quite a distance from the nearest major highways. In fact, getting to the park, through either the north or south gates, requires driving about 20 mi/35 km of dirt road—be sure to call ahead to check on road conditions. Stop for gas, food and supplies before you turn off the main highway. Campsites are located in the park—we highly recommend an overnight stay in this ancient dwelling place. Accommodations are also available in Farmington, Gallup or Grants. 105 mi/170 km northwest of Albuquerque.	Destination Guide
  Canyon de Chelly Canyon de Chelly Reflecting one of the longest continuously inhabited landscapes of North America, the cultural resources of Canyon de Chelly include distinctive architecture, artifacts, and rock imagery while exhibiting remarkable preservation integrity that provides outstanding opportunities for study and contemplation. Canyon de Chelly also sustains a living community of Navajo people, who are connected to a landscape of great historical and spiritual significance. Canyon de Chelly is unique among National Park service units, as it is comprised entirely of Navajo Tribal Trust Land that remains home to the canyon community. NPS works in partnership with the Navajo Nation to manage park resources and sustain the living Navajo community.	Destination Guide
  Monument Valley Monument Valley A window into the Navajo Nation's culture rests in Monument Valley of the Colorado Plateau. For over 250,000 years sandstone masterpieces towers between 400 - 1,000 feet high photographed with scenic clouds, casting shadows, and spellbinding shapes.	Destination Guide
  Durango Durango Durango was established in 1881 as a frontier mining town. But many of the old-time settlers discovered they got more out of the scenery than the mines. Nestled in the Animas River Valley, in the afternoon shadows of the San Juan Mountains, people still get pretty much the same feeling. There’s something about being where picture-postcard beauty circles like an old wagon train. It tends to slow folks down a notch or two and let their best side catch up to them.	Destination Guide
  Taos Taos This town tucked into the Sangre de Christo Mountains, 70 mi/113 km northeast of Santa Fe, has attracted artists since the late 1800s because of its beautiful setting and dramatic light. Today, it's still full of artists, galleries and travelers who want to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the relaxed, creative vibe. There is an interesting mixture of three cultures—Native American, Hispanic and Anglo. To get to the roots of the town's character, start with Taos Pueblo, which was there centuries before the town of Taos. The first view you get of the historic pueblo village is unforgettable—a jumble of adobe buildings posed in front of Taos Mountain. Back in the town of Taos, be sure to visit the plaza, which is ringed by shops and restaurants. The Kit Carson Home and Museum is nearby and contains period furnishings and artifacts related to Carson, the controversial explorer and "Indian fighter" who lived for a time in Taos. Carson and several other important Taos residents are buried in the cemetery in Kit Carson Park. The town is also home to El Monte Sagrado, an ecoresort complete with plush rooms, fine dining and an exciting bar scene. The resort reuses much of its water and relies on solar power. Several museums showcase the town's artistic legacy. They include the Millicent Rogers Museum (strong collection of Native American and Hispanic artists) and the Harwood Museum of Art (works by prominent figures in the Taos arts scene). The homes of two artists, Ernest L. Blumenschein and Nicolai Fechin, have been converted into museums. If the atmosphere of the town inspires you to create your own works (but you need a little help), art workshops are offered in the area. One of the best-known figures associated with Taos is English author and artist D.H. Lawrence, who spent time in the area in the 1920s, shortly before his death. A shrine dedicated to his memory is located northwest of the city (take Highway 522, and look for the signs—you'll have to make a dusty drive up a dirt road to get there). Some of Lawrence's paintings are on display in the manager's office of the La Fonda Hotel, on the plaza in Taos. The hotel features a restaurant run by nationally acclaimed chef Joseph Wrede. Buildings of historic and architectural interest in the area include the Hacienda Martinez, an imposing 21-room hacienda decorated in early-1800s style. The Mission San Francisco de Asis at nearby Ranchos de Taos was built in 1730 but exhibits a much-admired simplicity of form that looks absolutely contemporary. You may have seen the church in photographs by Ansel Adams or paintings by Georgia O'Keeffe. Folks visiting in June can take part in the annual re-mudding of the church, which allows parishioners and strangers to help preserve the church. Travel north on Highway 64 out of town to reach the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, which is perched 650 ft/198 m above the river. You can park at either end and take a walkway out onto the bridge, but those with a fear of heights will find it terrifying. If you're up for a little adventure, Route 507—not the best of roads but passable—takes you down through the gorge itself. In summer, adventurers can board rafts to shoot the white-water rapids of the Rio Grande. In winter, skiers will find varied and challenging slopes at Taos Ski Valley, the state's pre-eminent ski resort. The ski experience in Taos is unique because of the blend of European-style accommodations and group-oriented skiing. Ski lessons for all visitors, from tots to experts, are encouraged. These sessions, coupled with family-style dining in the base lodges, create an extremely friendly atmosphere. With a variety of deep-powder bowls, gladed runs and steep chutes, the mountain has a reputation for being tough: There are beginner and intermediate trails, but they tend to be a bit more difficult than at many other resorts. Of the resort's 72 trails, more than half are rated expert. Snowboarding is not permitted at Taos Ski Valley. The area also offers great cross-country skiing. Enchanted Forest has more than 25 mi/40 km of trails, and Wheeler Peak Wilderness Area has ungroomed trails for the more adventurous. Accommodations at the resort lodges at Taos Ski Valley are more utilitarian than luxurious, but the quality of service is outstanding. Space is limited, so reservations should be booked at least a year in advance for the peak season. It's also possible to stay in the town of Taos and drive to the slopes, but it can be a long trip, especially if the winding road to the ski valley is covered in snow. If you want to make a stop on the way, the charming village of Arroyo Seco has some shops and restaurants. Frequent skiers often rent condos or houses rather than stay in hotels. Skiers have several other options in the area. Both Angel Fire Resort in Angel Fire and Red River Ski Area in the town of Red River have downhill slopes, and both permit snowboarding (unlike Taos Ski Valley). From Taos, you can drive to Red River and Angel Fire on the "Enchanted Circle" route (formed by Highways 522, 38 and 64). It makes a scenic day trip at any time of year. Be sure to stop at the Vietnam Veterans National Memorial near Angel Fire. Some of the annual events in Taos include the Spring Arts Celebration (art shows, auctions and a three-day arts and crafts fair—May); the Taos School of Music Summer Chamber Music Festival (concerts, seminars and open rehearsals—June-August); the Taos Pueblo Feast Day (with vespers and a mass, sundown dance and an arts fair—29-30 September); the Hot-Air Balloon Festival (October); and the Taos Pueblo Dances (including the eloquent Tiwa deer dance—December-January). Of special note is the Christmas Eve procession at Taos Pueblo, featuring bonfires and the carrying of a likeness of the Virgin Mary through the village.	Destination Guide
  Santa Fe Santa Fe Even though Santa Fe is capital of New Mexico, the state's third largest city, and has been around longer than all but one other city in America, it is still relatively unknown to many U.S. travelers. The city history spans almost 400 years yet much of Santa Fe is unexpected, including its Rocky Mountain climate and geography and the cultural diversity created by a mix of Native American, Hispanic and European traditions. Theater, dance, and music all play a significant role in Santa Fe's past and present and the importance of art has made the city one of the country's largest art markets. Surrounded by millions of acres of National Forest and public land, the city offers diverse outdoor activities. For the sightseer, the beauty of the area offers an amazing diversity of scenery and places to discover. Take some time to do some world class shopping or investigate why the city is a major center for alternative healing. Every visitor should explore the local cuisine.	Destination Guide

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  Valid Date Ranges

  May 2024

  05/18/2024

  05/28/2024

  $3,995 per person

  June 2024

  06/15/2024

  06/25/2024

  $3,995 per person

  September 2024

  09/14/2024	09/24/2024	$4,050 per person
  09/28/2024	10/08/2024	$4,095 per person

  Prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability and change without notice. Prices reflect land only accommodations, airfare is additional. Blackout dates/seasonal supplements may apply. Itinerary and map subject to change. Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking. 
  * For single travelers purchasing the twin-share option, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
  * Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).

  All fares are quoted in US Dollars.