Savor the wonders of nature when you explore the American Rockies and immerse yourself in the the vibrant and rich culture of the Southwest. You’ll taste traditional southwestern cuisine in Albuquerque and visit one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America. You’ll follow the Rio Grande as it winds its way through a narrow canyon and red-rock cliffs before rising to a spectacular view of the river gorge and rich landscape of Taos valley. You’ll stop at Garden of the Gods where you’ll delight in one of the most photographed landscapes in the state. This tour is a paradise for history buffs and cultural explorers alike.
On this smarTours American Road Tour, enjoy the convenience of a thoughtfully planned itinerary and carefully selected accommodations combined with the freedom and flexibility to travel from the comfort of your own car (or rental car)! We’ll have scheduled guided tours along the way to tell you about the rich history and culture of each destination and you’ll share this experience with other like-minded smarTours travelers!
Itinerary at a Glance
3 nights Albuquerque
1 night Santa Fe
3 nights Colorado Springs
Tour Highlights
Visit Colorado’s ‘Garden of the Gods’
Experience the American Rockies and Southwest
Taste traditional Southwestern cuisine in Albuquerque
Scenic drive along the Rio Grande and the Turquoise Trail
Explore Albuquerque, Santa Fe, and Colorado Springs
Visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
See one of the largest petroglyph sites in North America
Activity Level: Discoverer
Your Tour Includes
Carefully selected accommodations
9 meals: 7 breakfasts & 2 dinners
Thoughtfully planned meet-ups, group meals & excursions
Sightseeing tours & entrance fees as per itinerary
Local welcome guide
Parking at hotels
All applicable taxes
smarTours® Activity Levels
We believe world travel is for everyone! That’s why nearly all
of our tours are designed to accommodate any fitness level. If you
are wondering if a tour’s activity level is suited for you,
please contact a member of our team at
1.800.337.7773.
Discoverer
Comfortable pace. Involves minimal physical activity, such as
climbing some stairs, walking for up to two hours at a time on
primarily level ground and periods of standing.
Explorer
A step up. Calls for moderate physical activity, including climbing
stairs, walking up to two miles (possibly on uneven surfaces and/or
hills) and standing for an hour or longer.
Adventurer
Moderately active. Requires walking longer distances and standing
for longer periods of time. You may encounter hills and uneven
surfaces on several days, as well as longer days in general.
Of our three tours ranked in this category, two include Machu
Picchu.
Click the Day by Day itinerary above (or swipe on mobile devices) to see the experiences that await on each day of your tour.
ADDITIONAL TOUR DETAILS:
Before you depart, we’ll send you detailed tour information including directions, meeting times, routes, places of interest, recommendations, and more. We look forward to being your trusted guide on this remarkable journey.
We’re also monitoring the situation in these states very closely and will provide additional details about our hygiene and safety guidelines before you depart. These include social distancing practices, optional meet-ups and/or meals, and more.
Arrive in Albuquerque
Welcome to Albuquerque! When you arrive at the hotel, you’ll find a Welcome Desk with a “smarTours” sign and your local Tour Guide will be there to answer any questions you may have. That evening, you’ll join the other smarTours travelers for a welcome dinner.
Nativo Lodge or similar | Dinner
Albuquerque
Today you’ll explore Albuquerque. Your day includes admission to the ‘Indian Pueblo Cultural Center’ – a world-class museum and cultural center, created as a place where Pueblo people can tell their story. As the gateway to the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, the center is a necessary first stop for visitors to New Mexico, providing and introduction for understanding the state’s landscape, legacy and story of continuance. The center offers an exciting schedule of cultural, educational and community activities. In addition, a visit to historic Old Town offers a unique look into New…
Today you’ll explore Albuquerque. Your day includes admission to the ‘Indian Pueblo Cultural Center’ – a world-class museum and cultural center, created as a place where Pueblo people can tell their story. As the gateway to the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, the center is a necessary first stop for visitors to New Mexico, providing and introduction for understanding the state’s landscape, legacy and story of continuance. The center offers an exciting schedule of cultural, educational and community activities. In addition, a visit to historic Old Town offers a unique look into New Mexico’s Spanish past. You might choose to stroll the Plaza, dine at one of the many restaurants, shop for unique gifts from the Southwest in one of the stores or galleries, or simply relax on a quiet hidden patio.
| Breakfast
Albuquerque
Today your exploration of Albuquerque continues with a visit to ‘Petroglyph National Monument’, 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. Admission is included.
| Breakfast
Albuquerque/Santa Fe
This morning, you’ll venture onto the Turquoise Trail, the National Scenic Byway linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Named for the rich turquoise deposits found throughout the area, and offering views of the Sandia Mountains and Cibola National Forest, this byway carves through wild rock outcroppings and a couple of old mining towns. Founded on the ruins of an abandoned Indian village, Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital city, is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and steeped in history. Set against a back drop of landscape that inspired its own Georgia O’Keeffe’s…
This morning, you’ll venture onto the Turquoise Trail, the National Scenic Byway linking Albuquerque and Santa Fe. Named for the rich turquoise deposits found throughout the area, and offering views of the Sandia Mountains and Cibola National Forest, this byway carves through wild rock outcroppings and a couple of old mining towns. Founded on the ruins of an abandoned Indian village, Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital city, is nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and steeped in history. Set against a back drop of landscape that inspired its own Georgia O’Keeffe’s startlingly colorful paintings, this is a paradise for history buffs and cultural explorers. You’ll have ample leisure time this afternoon which provides you with the perfect opportunity to explore world-renowned art galleries, celebrated landmarks, or shop for authentic creations you just won’t find anywhere else. We also highly recommend the ‘New Mexican Flavors Tour’ optional tour. This is the only food tour company in Santa Fee that is truly locally owned and operated.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Santa Fe or similar | Breakfast
Santa Fe/Taos/Garden of the Gods/Colorado Springs
Today you’ll travel from Santa Fe to Taos where you’ll follow the Rio Grande as it winds its way through a narrow canyon and red-rock cliffs before rising to a spectacular view of the river gorge and rich landscape of Taos valley. In Taos, you’ll visit the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark Taos Pueblo, whose multi-story adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over a 1,000 years. Admission is included. Guided tours are optional but highly recommended. Heading north from Taos into…
Today you’ll travel from Santa Fe to Taos where you’ll follow the Rio Grande as it winds its way through a narrow canyon and red-rock cliffs before rising to a spectacular view of the river gorge and rich landscape of Taos valley. In Taos, you’ll visit the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark Taos Pueblo, whose multi-story adobe buildings have been continuously inhabited for over a 1,000 years. Admission is included. Guided tours are optional but highly recommended. Heading north from Taos into Colorado, you’ll discover the scenic beauty and favorable climate that has lured visitors to Colorado Springs for years. You’ll stop at Garden of the Gods where you’ll delight in one of the most photographed landscapes in the state. Take a moment to soak in the dramatic views of the foothills and 300-foot towering red sandstone rock formations set against a backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak and brilliant blue skies.
Hyatt Place Colorado Springs/Garden of the Gods or similar | Breakfast
Colorado Springs
Today you’ll enjoy a 2.5 hour guided walking tour of Colorado Springs where you will have the chance to visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (free admission for this museum), City Hall, Acadia Park, Boulder Street Gallery, St. Mary’s Cathedral, McAllister House Museum, Grace & Stephen’s Episcopal Church, American Numismatic Association Money Museum and the Fine Arts Center. You’ll also visit nearby ‘Manitou Springs’ – unlike its much larger neighbor, this small town in the Rocky Mountains foothills has rejected urbanization. Instead, Manitou Springs –…
Today you’ll enjoy a 2.5 hour guided walking tour of Colorado Springs where you will have the chance to visit the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum (free admission for this museum), City Hall, Acadia Park, Boulder Street Gallery, St. Mary’s Cathedral, McAllister House Museum, Grace & Stephen’s Episcopal Church, American Numismatic Association Money Museum and the Fine Arts Center. You’ll also visit nearby ‘Manitou Springs’ – unlike its much larger neighbor, this small town in the Rocky Mountains foothills has rejected urbanization. Instead, Manitou Springs – now a National Historic District – remains a charming hippie-era haven filled with art galleries, funky boutiques and outdoor cafes.
| Breakfast
Colorado Springs
Today is free to enjoy the beauty and adventure of Colorado Springs. If you feel a need for speed, then plan a visit to the U.S. Air Force Academy. The academy is a must for any lover of the movie ‘Top Gun’. Your first stop should be the Visitor Center, which offers a brief yet informative introduction to the academy and self-guided maps. From there, you are free to explore areas like the Cadet Chapel, the Honor Court and Falcon Stadium. Tonight, share stories and photos with your fellow travelers over dinner and a glass of wine at the farewell dinner….
Today is free to enjoy the beauty and adventure of Colorado Springs. If you feel a need for speed, then plan a visit to the U.S. Air Force Academy. The academy is a must for any lover of the movie ‘Top Gun’. Your first stop should be the Visitor Center, which offers a brief yet informative introduction to the academy and self-guided maps. From there, you are free to explore areas like the Cadet Chapel, the Honor Court and Falcon Stadium. Tonight, share stories and photos with your fellow travelers over dinner and a glass of wine at the farewell dinner.
| Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Colorado Springs
Today you will enjoy your last breakfast and then say good-bye to Colorado as you head home filled with lasting memories and a new appreciation for this vibrant, historic region.
Rates are per person based on double occupancy. Single room supplement is $499
Please note that all optional tours and excursions must be prepaid to smarTours in advance of departure
Reservations and Payments
Reservations can be made by phone (1-800-337-7773) and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 per person non-refundable, non-transferable deposit which must be received at the time of reservation*. A second non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $300 is due 60 days after the date of your reservation. Full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. *If the reservation date is within 70 days of the final payment due date, both first and second deposits are due at the time of reservation. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.
Optional ToursCustomize your trip with these optional tours.
All optional tours must be pre-booked and prepaid to smarTours in advance of departure.
This 3-hour optional tour includes a walking tour featuring 4 restaurants with regional delicacies and one specialty foodie shop. The tour includes all food & drink pairings. The New Mexican Flavors company is the only food tour company in Santa Fe that is truly locally owned and operated. 10:45 AM – 1:45 PM
WHAT ARE AMERICAN ROAD TOURS?
smarTours American Road Tours is a hybrid of a self-drive road trip with guided tour elements that we are known for. Travelers have the freedom to drive at their own convenience with scheduled meet-ups with other smarTours travelers. smarTours has done all the planning by booking exciting, iconic routes, carefully selected accommodations, and guided tours & admissions.
TRANSPORTATION
Airfare and ground transportation are not included on this tour. Travelers may choose to drive their own car from city to city or to rent a car independently. Friends and families may choose to drive together or separately and can book separate accommodations with smarTours.
Need to rent a car? As a smarTours traveler, you can save up to 25% with Avis Car Rental when traveling on one of our American Road Tours. For more information, please visit avis.com/smartours.
NATIONAL PARK FEES
National Park Fees are not included. For some parks entry is per vehicle and/or per person. For Park Entrance fees, click here. Some travelers may wish to purchase an annual or lifetime pass. For more information about the America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass or Lifetime Pass, please click here.
FINAL DOCUMENTS
Before you depart, we’ll send you detailed tour information including directions, meeting times, routes, places of interest, recommendations, and more. We look forward to being your trusted guide on this remarkable journey.