From Ruins to Roswell: A Two-Week Adventure in New Mexico

Day 1: Arrival in Albuquerque

Arrive at Albuquerque International Sunport and meet your private guide who will transfer you to your hotel. Spend the day exploring Old Town, home to some of the most historic buildings in the city. Visit the San Felipe de Neri Church, one of the oldest churches in the state. Then, head to the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center to learn about the Pueblo people's rich heritage and traditions. Return to your comfy hotel for dinner and rest. 

Day 2: Albuquerque Exploration

After breakfast, take the Sandia Peak Tramway, which takes you to the top of the Sandia Mountains, offering stunning views of the city. Later, head to the Rio Grande River for a sunset cruise and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. Return to your hotel for dinner. 

Day 3: Enchanted Circle Drive

Today, take the Enchanted Circle Drive in your private car, an 83-mile loop that passes through some of the most scenic areas of the state. Start in Taos and head to the town of Red River, known for its stunning mountain views and ski slopes. Then, drive to Eagle Nest Lake, a popular spot for fishing and water sports. Afterward, head to Angel Fire, a charming town that offers plenty of outdoor activities. Finally, return to Taos for dinner.

Day 4: Visiting Toas

After breakfast, stop by the historic Taos Pueblo, which has been continuously inhabited for over a thousand years. In the afternoon, visit the Kit Carson Home and Museum, which tells the story of the legendary frontiersman. End your day with a stroll through the Taos Plaza, where you'll find shops, galleries, and restaurants, where you will enjoy a premium dinner, before retiring you your hotel.

Day 5: Taos Ski Valley

Drive to Taos Ski Valley, a popular ski resort nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Take a ski lesson, rent equipment, or simply enjoy the mountain views from one of the resort's many restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, a stunning steel bridge that spans the Rio Grande River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding canyon. Return to Taos for dinner.

Day 6: Bandelier National Monument

Start your day by driving to Bandelier National Monument (a two-hour drive), a stunning landscape of ancient ruins, stunning rock formations, and lush valleys. Explore the park's hiking trails, including the Main Loop Trail, which takes you to the ruins of a 700-year-old village, and the Tsankawi Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After hiking, have a picnic lunch at one of the park's scenic spots. Return to your hotel for rest and dinner.

Day 7: Journey to Santa Fe

After breakfast, hit the road to Santa Fe (a one-hour private drive), the capital of New Mexico. Explore the Santa Fe Plaza, the heart of the city, and check out some of the oldest buildings in the state. Visit the New Mexico Museum of Art, which houses some of the best contemporary and historic art in the state. Then, visit the famous Santa Fe Opera House, famous for its world-class performances and stunning architecture. In the evening, head to Canyon Road, home to some of the best art galleries and restaurants in the city, and enjoy the flavors of New Mexico. 

Day 8: Another day in Santa Fe

Start your day with a visit to the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum, which houses the largest collection of her work in the world. Afterward, explore Santa Fe's historic district, which is filled with adobe buildings and art galleries. End your day with a sunset hike at the Atalaya Mountain Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Day 9: White Sands National Park

Hop on a four-hour drive south to White Sands National Park, where you'll find a stunning landscape of white gypsum sand dunes. Walk the Dune Life Nature Trail, which teaches you about the unique plants and animals that call the park home. In the evening, catch the sunset from one of the park's scenic viewpoints and check into the park lodge for dinner and rest.

Day 10: Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Drive to Carlsbad Caverns National Park (a three-hour drive), where you can explore a network of underground caves filled with stunning rock formations. Take a guided tour of the main cave or hike one of the park's surface trails. In the evening, witness the park's famous bat flight, where thousands of bats emerge from the cave at dusk. Rest and have dinner at the Park's comfy lodge.

Day 11: Exploring Roswell

End your trip with a visit to Roswell (a two-hour drive), famous for the alleged UFO crash that occurred in 1947. Visit the International UFO Museum and Research Center, which tells the story of the Roswell Incident and explores the broader history of UFO sightings. 

Day 12: Drive to Las Vegas

Drive to the historic town of Las Vegas, which is home to some of the best-preserved Victorian architecture in the country. Visit the Montezuma Castle, a stunning former hotel that has been converted into a university, and explore the town's many art galleries and antique shops. In the evening, have dinner at one of the town's many restaurants.

Day 13: Chaco Culture National Historical Park

Hop on a three-hour private drive to Chaco Culture National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once home to a thriving Native American civilization. Explore the park's many ruins, including the Pueblo Bonito, which was once the largest building in North America. Take a guided tour to learn about the park's rich history and culture. Return to your hotel for dinner.

Day 14: Departure

After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to New Mexico as your private guide transfers you to the Albuquerque International Sunport for your departure flight.

FAQs

What is the best time of year to take this trip to New Mexico?

The best time to visit New Mexico is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. Summers can be hot and winters can be cold, so plan accordingly.

Is this trip suitable for families with children?

Yes, this trip offers a mix of outdoor activities, historic sites, and cultural experiences that are suitable for families with children of all ages.

Do I need to be in good physical shape to enjoy this trip?

There are some hiking trails and outdoor activities involved in this itinerary, but they are generally suitable for people of moderate fitness levels. However, if you have any concerns about your physical abilities, please speak with your private guide before embarking on any activities.

What kind of accommodation is included in this itinerary?

The itinerary includes a range of accommodations, including hotels and lodges, that offer comfortable amenities and convenient locations for exploring the surrounding areas.

Can I make changes to the itinerary to fit my interests?

Yes, this itinerary is customizable and can be tailored to your interests and preferences. Just let your private guide know what you would like to see and do, and they will work with you to create a personalized itinerary.