Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
6 Days Starting and ending in Albuquerque, New Mexico
Visiting: Albuquerque, Santa Fe
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AF-2026
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through New Mexico with the "Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta" tour. Begin your adventure in Albuquerque, where you'll be welcomed with a special presentation by a local balloonist. Experience the awe-inspiring Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, featuring the Mass Balloon Ascension and the mesmerizing Balloon Glow. Delve into history at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and explore the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Travel the scenic Turquoise Trail to Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the U.S., and discover its rich cultural heritage through a city tour and visits to renowned museums. Enjoy a day of leisure in Santa Fe, with options to explore Bandelier National Monument or various cultural museums. Conclude your journey with a festive farewell dinner accompanied by a traditional Mariachi performance, before departing from Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. This tour promises a blend of vibrant culture, breathtaking sights, and unforgettable experiences.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Albuquerque,New Mexico
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque
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 shares fascinating stories on the sport of ballooning. LOCAL FAVORITECULTURE & TRADITION Enjoy a presentation from a special guest who 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.
Day 2: Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton 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 50 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.
Day 3: Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton 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). Learn about the history, background, and life of what now comprise the 19 pueblos of New Mexico.
Day 4: Albuquerque,Santa Fe
Location: Albuquerque, Santa Fe
Accommodation Name: Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza
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.
Day 5: Santa Fe
Location: Santa Fe
Accommodation Name: Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
SANTA FE Spend your day your way in Santa Fe This morning, explore Santa Fe with your choice of included excursions. Return to Santa Fe Plaza for lunch at a celebrated local restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the plaza. Join your Tour Director this evening for a festive farewell dinner featuring a traditional [LF] Mariachi performance. (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.TAKE YOUR PICK Explore your way today with your choice of excursions: SACRED GROUNDS Join a guided tour of Bandelier National Monument and Museum. Learn about the ancient Anasazi Puebloans and their cliff dwellings and explore more of history of the rugged canyon country in the museum at Bandelier National Monument. OR: TRADITIONS & TREASURES Experience your choice of exceptional museums with the New Mexico Culture Pass. The entrance pass includes access to the International Folk Art Museum, Contemporary Native Arts Museum, New Mexico Museum of History, and the National Museum of the American Indian.
Day 6: Santa Fe,Albuquerque
Location: Albuquerque
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends at Albuquerque International Sunport Airport. Schedule departing flights after 11 am.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque and Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner are included.
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Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Experience the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, including the Mass Balloon Ascension, Balloon Glow, and After-Glow Fireworks show.
What's Not Included
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Hot Air Balloon Rides
The Globus Family of Brands insurance does not allow us to arrange hot air balloon rides for our guests.
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Missed Sightseeing Refunds
Any missed sightseeing due to scheduling hot air balloon rides will not be refunded.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 1 dinnerNotes
Accommodation
In Albuquerque, stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Albuquerque, and in Santa Fe, enjoy the Hilton of Santa Fe Historic Plaza.Mode of Transport
Travel along the scenic Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, experiencing the breathtaking landscapes and historic sites along the way.Check out our Q&As
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What special event is featured on the second day of the tour?
On the second day, you will experience the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, including the pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies, the Mass Balloon Ascension, the Balloon Glow, and the After-Glow Fireworks show.
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What can I expect during the welcome event on the first day?
On the first day, you will meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink at 6 pm and enjoy a special presentation from a local balloonist who will share fascinating stories about the sport of ballooning and the history of the fiesta.
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What activities are included in the Santa Fe portion of the tour?
In Santa Fe, you will travel along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway, take a city sightseeing tour including visits to the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel’s 'Miracle Stairway'. You will also visit the Museum of International Folk Art and have the option to explore Bandelier National Monument or various museums with the New Mexico Culture Pass.
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What is the focus of the visit to the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History?
The visit to the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History focuses on New Mexico's legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project, and provides an objective view into the past, present, and future of nuclear science.
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What is the significance of the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway?
The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway is a historic route that covers 15,000 square miles in central New Mexico, linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. It passes through the mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos and is named for the turquoise first mined by the early Pueblo people.
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What cultural experience is included in the farewell dinner?
The farewell dinner includes a festive meal with a traditional Mariachi performance, celebrating the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the Mexican people through music.
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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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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 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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