Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
6 Days
Visiting: Arrive In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Santa Fe. Excursion To Bandelier, North America
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AF-2025
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$2982
$2716 (USD)
Operator discount: -$190
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$77
Tour Overview
Whoever said “Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows” never visited the enchanting state of New Mexico or attended the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Artists, writers, and poets have long been inspired by the hues of hot pinks, deep purples, and flaming oranges that dance daily across the mystical southwestern sky. But for one week in October, chasing rainbows becomes even easier as hundreds of hot air balloons take flight and turn the already stunning atmosphere into a kaleidoscope of dizzying color. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may be the largest balloon event in the world, yet its Mass Ascension, fiery Balloon Glow, evening fireworks, and other beloved rituals aren’t the only highlights on this vibrant New Mexico vacation. Visits to artsy Santa Fe, and the Miracle Stairway are equally uplifting.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Albuquerque,New Mexico
Location: Arrive In Albuquerque, New Mexico
ARRIVE IN ALBUQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO Welcome to Albuquerque! At 6 pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. You’ll also enjoy a special presentation from a [LF] local Balloonist, who will educate you on the sport of ballooning and what you’ll experience.LOCAL FAVORITECULTURE & TRADITION Enjoy a presentation from a special guest that has been a balloon pilot since the 70’s. Hear the history of the fiesta, his experience, and what special things to look for during the next day’s Mass Ascension. ALBUQUERQUE-CITYSCAPE.jpg
Day 2: Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
ALBUQUERQUE Up, Up & Away! Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. Then, visit a [LF] traditional New Mexican restaurant for a festive lunch and margaritas. This evening, catch the popular Balloon Glow, where all balloons fire up their burners and light up at the same time, and the amazing After-Glow Fireworks show. (B,L)NOTE: Schedule of activities vary from year-to-year and can be impacted by weather. Your Tour Director will be able to confirm the exact schedule of activities on tour.LOCAL FAVORITELOCAL TASTES Be treated to an authentic New Mexico experience with a traditional southwestern lunch and margaritas served in a popular Albuquerque restaurant. New Mexican dishes, from enchiladas and chili rellenos to salsa and sopapillas are served in a festive atmosphere in true local style.TOUR HIGHLIGHT INSPIRING SIGHTS Look skyward as hundreds of hot air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of colors, all led by a balloon flying the American flag to the music of The Star-Spangled Banner. What began as a gathering of 13 balloons more than 47 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world. While on the balloon grounds, enjoy breakfast at the Chasers Club followed by a visit to the International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, and spectacle of ballooning.ALBUQUERQUE-BALLOONFIESTA.jpg
Day 3: Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Meals Included: Breakfast
ALBUQUERQUE Ancient Arts & Modern Sciences This morning, learn about New Mexico’s legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project, with a guided tour of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The museum provides an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science from the origins of atomic theory to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine. Then, visit the fascinating museum and crafts market of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Tonight is at leisure. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORY & HERITAGE Explore the inspiring crafts and museum exhibits collectively run by the 19 New Mexico pueblos (villages). Here, you will learn about the history, background, and life of what now comprise the 19 pueblos of New Mexico.ALBURQUEQUE-PEPPERS.jpg
Day 4: Albuquerque,Santa Fe
Location: Albuquerque, Santa Fe
Meals Included: Breakfast
ALBUQUERQUE–SANTA FE Southwestern Jewels Today, travel along the [LF] Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe. This scenic drive passes through the foothills of the Sandia Mountains, past wide-open spaces, and dramatic scenery. Arrive in Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the U.S. Experience this city up close as you embark on a city sightseeing tour, including the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s “Miracle Stairway.” Next, take a captivating glimpse into the diversity of folk art from around the world. The Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe allows you to explore a vast collection of traditional textiles, ceramics, paintings, and other unique objects that showcase the rich cultural heritage of different regions and communities. (B) LOCAL FAVORITELEGENDARY LIVES The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway covers 15,000 square miles in the heart of central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Drive back into history through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos along this historic trail named for the aqua-hued turquoise first mined by the early Pueblo people.SANTA-FE-STREET-SCENE.jpg
Day 5: Santa Fe. Excursion To Bandelier
Location: Santa Fe. Excursion To Bandelier
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SANTA FE. EXCURSION TO BANDELIER Santa Fe Tastes and Sounds This morning, visit to explore the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings, and the museum at Bandelier National Monument. Return to Santa Fe Plaza for lunch at a celebrated local restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the plaza. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner with live [LF] entertainment. (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITECULTURAL GEMS Enjoy a wonderful dinner to celebrate your Southwestern adventure along with the joyous sounds of traditional Mariachi music. Hear the voices of traditional singers and musicians who perform this beautifully rich music in the tradition of celebrating the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the Mexican people. BANDELIER-NATIONAL-MONUMENT.jpg
Day 6: Santa Fe,Albuquerque
Location: Santa Fe, Albuquerque
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends at Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. Schedule departing flights after 11 am.
SANTA FE–ALBUQUERQUE Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends at Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. Schedule departing flights after 11 am.(B)SANTA-FE-SHOP.jpg
Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Notes
Guests should be prepared for sustained walking and standing. Schedule of Fiesta events are subject to change and will be confirmed on tour. The Albuquerque Airport is approximately 1.5 hours from Santa Fe depending on traffic. Schedule departure flights accordingly.The Globus Family of Brands insurance does not allow us to arrange hot air balloon rides for our guests. There is an opportunity while on tour for guests to make their own arrangements at the balloon field. Guests will need to make their own way to/from the grounds via ride-share or taxi as riders are generally required to be there prior to the Opening Ceremonies. You can recommend that they use the information provided by the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta’s website to make arrangements prior to their tour: http://www.balloonfiesta.com/guest-guide/balloon-rides. Hot air balloon rides should be scheduled on Day 2 of the tour and any missed sightseeing will not be refunded. Tour Operations must be advised in advance by August 1st at the latest as alternate entry passes may be required.
Accommodation
Albuquerque:DoubleTree by Hilton AlbuquerqueSanta Fe:Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Check out our Q&As
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
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Dates & Availability
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Friday - Wednesday
Oct 11, 2024 - Oct 16, 2024Friday - Wednesday
Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 89 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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