Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2024

Included Features

• Free parking with roundtrip transfers to a local airport* (will not be offered if group air is from Harrisburg International Airport)
• Roundtrip airfare from a local airport to Albuquerque, NM (will be an early morning departure)
• Roundtrip transfers - airport/hotel
• Services of and gratuities for the Southwest Adventure Tours Tour Director/Driver
• Sightseeing as stated in itinerary by Mercedes Sprinter Vans (or similar)
• 5-night hotel accommodations
• Meals: 5 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches & 3 Dinners
• Tour entrance fees as stated in the itinerary
• All local taxes, hotel service charges & porterage for one suitcase per person
• Services of a Discoveries Ride Along Host to and from the airport

Highlights

• Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
• Dawn Patrol
• Old Town Albuquerque
• Albuquerque Museum
• Sandia Peak Tramway
• Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
• Twilight Twinkle Glow™
• AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show
• Real-life ghost town of Madrid
• Chimayo
• Turquoise Trail to Taos
• Taos Pueblo
• Santa Fe Tour

Itinerary

Friday, October 4, 2024: Travel to Albuquerque 

Transfer to a local airport for a flight to Albuquerque, New Mexico (This will be a very early morning pickup. This transfer will not be offered if your flight is out of Harrisburg International Airport). Upon arrival at Albuquerque International Sunport, you will be met by your Southwest Adventures Tours Director/Driver who will take you to your hotel. After some free time to relax, rejoin your group for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Uptown (or similar), Albuquerque (Dinner)

Saturday, October 5, 2024: Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Today you will learn why Albuquerque is called the Balloon Capital of the World as you experience the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Depart for an early morning (approximately, 4:30am) transfer to the Fiesta Field to witness the Dawn Patrol and have breakfast at the Chasers Club. The Dawn Patrol began at the Balloon Fiesta in 1978, when two California balloonists developed position lighting systems, which allowed them to fly at night. Dawn Patrol pilots take off in the dark and fly until it's light enough to see landing sites. At dawn when the wind is most calm, watch the Mass Ascension in a rainbow of colors. Later this morning, take a drive through Albuquerque, "The Jewel of the American Southwest," on your way to historic Old Town where you will visit the Albuquerque Museum which focuses on the art, history and culture of Albuquerque. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore hidden courtyards, stroll under covered portals and shop and eat at the many fine specialty stores, restaurants and galleries around the Plaza on your own. Old Town's tree-lined plaza and charming adobe buildings and churches are sure to delight the sightseer in all of us!  After an exciting day, return to your hotel with the rest of the evening free to relax and have dinner on your own. (Breakfast)

Sunday, October 6, 2024: Sandia Peak, Puebloan Cultural Center & AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show

This morning, join the group for an experience high above the valley as you ride on the Sandia Peak Tramway for spectacular views. You will ascend one of America's most stunning urban peaks. Reaching the 10,378-foot crest of the Sandia Mountains, an 11,000 square mile panoramic view awaits you. It's an elevation of the body, mind and soul in a mere 15 minutes. Then experience a fascinating introduction to the way of life enjoyed by America's first "apartment dwellers," the Pueblo tribes of the Southwest. At the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, you will see artifacts and crafts while learning about the cultural and religious customs that have helped preserve this society for over 1,000 years. Return to your hotel with some time to relax. Then you're off to Balloon Fiesta Park to enjoy dinner at the Chaser Club with direct access onto Fiesta Field for the Twilight Twinkle Glow™ and AfterGlow™ Fireworks Show. The Twilight Twinkle Glow™ starts when all the balloons fire their burners and light up at the same time. It is perhaps the most spectacular single moment in the entire Balloon Fiesta. The balloon glow is followed by New Mexico's most spectacular fireworks display. Together they are Balloon Fiesta's most popular events. (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Monday, October 7, 2024: Chimayo, Taos & Santa Fe

Today, we are off to Santa Fe! The Turquoise Trail (or High Road), named for the exquisite mineral that was once mined here, leads you to your first stop of the day, the real-life ghost town of Madrid. Madrid looks exactly like a ghost town should, with its rows of empty, ramshackle houses that once were the homes of three thousand miners and their families. The only sign of life now is the artists who come to paint this picturesque place, and display their wares to the interested buyer. Continue through Santa Fe to Chimayo, home of the Santuario de Chimayo, a National historic landmark, and where the descendants of Spanish weavers and woodcarvers still ply their crafts. After a stop to observe the artisans, continue your scenic drive to the world class resort town of Taos. Founded in 1617 by the Spanish, Taos has kept its Spanish and Indian influences. Arrive at Taos Plaza with free time to wander the streets, enjoying the local cuisine, unique atmosphere, and browse the offerings of many artists who have come here to capture the allure of this delightful place. Then visit Taos Pueblo, a village that has been inhabited for more than 800 years, and whose adobe structures have changed little since the first Spanish explorers saw them in the 1540's. As you return to Santa Fe, stop for a scenic view of the Rio Grande, a legendary river that cuts a distinct path through the history of the Southwest. Check into your Santa Fe hotel with the evening free for dinner on your own. Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott (or similar), Santa Fe. (Breakfast & Lunch)

Tuesday, October 8, 2024: Santa Fe

Today enjoy a full day exploring and experiencing the first state capitol of the United States, "The Royal City of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis," better known as Santa Fe. Founded in 1609, the city offers many historic and scenic delights. Begin your day with an intimate tour of Santa Fe, a walking tour to the many famous sights including the historic Santa Fe Plaza with a view of the Palace of the Governors, the Loretto Chapel, a miniature model of the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, and the oldest church in New Mexico and more. The afternoon will be yours for lunch and free time to explore the many wonderful shops and art galleries on your own. Take a chance to stroll through the Indian Market, where native arts and crafts are available directly from the artists who created them. This evening you will rejoin the group for a special farewell dinner as you finish exploring this enchanting land. (Breakfast & Dinner)

Wednesday, October 9, 2024: Journey Home

After breakfast, transfer to the Albuquerque airport for your flight and transportation back to Central PA. (Breakfast)

*Hotels and itinerary are subject to change at any time without advanced notice and/or compensation.

Activity Level 3:
This tour requires moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours as well as walking slightly longer distances, upstairs, or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.

General Information

Travel Documents:

A valid government issued photo I.D. (drivers license or Passport) is required for airport security.

As travel requirements are rapidly changing due to COVID-19, final requirements will be communicated prior to departure.

Payment:

Deposit of $250 per person will confirm your reservation. Final payment is due to AAA by  June 21, 2024.

Cancellation Penalties:

Deposit date to day of departure-    $25 per person, plus.....
After June 21, 2024-                        100% non-refundable

Flight:

Air arrangements are handled by the tour operator. Seat assignments cannot be confirmed until the tour operator releases names to the airline(s) 30 days prior to departure. Specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed. Some flights may contain code share agreements.

Insurance:

For your protection, AAA recommends travel insurance. Pre-existing medical conditions may be waived with proper coverage if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of initial deposit only. Other conditions may apply; ask your travel agent. AAA recommends Allianz.

Clothing/Climate:

Temperatures for New Mexico in October average in the high 60s during the day with cooler mornings and evenings. Pack for a variety of temperatures. Casual clothes that can be layered work best. Comfortable walking shoes and a small umbrella are recommended.

Baggage:

One suitcase per person will be allowed. You may also bring a carry-on bag small enough to fit under your seat. Baggage fees are not included in the price of the trip. Baggage fees and other charges may be directly assessed by airlines or airport.

Travel Assistance:

For personal comfort, group participants who need assistance are required to have a traveling companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing those needing assistance.

GRP12124

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