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On this Southwest USA tour, each day is a cultural and natural adventure. You’ll stay inside Grand Canyon National Park, explore ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park and natural arches near Moab, and ride a 4x4 through Monument Valley’s landscapes with a member of the Navajo Nation.
On this Southwest USA tour, each day is a cultural and natural adventure. You’ll stay inside Grand Canyon National Park, explore ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park and natural arches near Moab, and ride a 4x4 through Monument Valley’s landscapes with a member of the Navajo Nation.
Sun-kissed Phoenix kickstarts your journey through America's stunning Southwest. You'll have the day on your own to recover from your travels, then meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception later this evening.
Your first stop today is in the artists' enclave of Sedona – surrounded by red-rock buttes, steep canyon walls and pine forests. You’ll travel through Oak Creek Canyon next, with its rocky red cliffs, then venture to the UNESCO-listed Grand Canyon National Park, where a Local Specialist will share the canyon’s many geological marvels. Tonight, you’ll have an opportunity to overnight at one of the lodges inside the park.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - National Park Lodges
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Easy on the Asphalt (60 minutes)
A “Sedona snapshot” with great photo opportunities! Join us on this informative and relaxing, yet breathtaking, tour of some of Sedona’s most magnificent overlooks, featuring many of the most photographed sites in all of Arizona. This is an on-road tour. The Chapel may be substituted during the busy season due to traffic. Approx. duration: 1 hours
Adult Price: $49.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Old Bear Wallow
An exclusive experience as our jeep tour operator is the only company permitted by the U.S. Forest Service to take you on this historic trail - climb this early stagecoach route along Schnebly Hill Road through Bear Wallow Canyon, just below the Mogollon Rim to enjoy stunning views of Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon 2000ft below. Step onto Munds Wagon or Huckaby Trail and hear stories of Sedona's early pioneer days. Approx. duration: 1 hour
Adult Price: $49.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 3
Take In The Sights Of The Grand Canyon
Don’t miss an unforgettable experience: Rise early for an optional flightseeing over the Grand Canyon and then trace the scenic South Rim of the Grand Canyon along Desert View Drive. Visit the Desert View's Pueblo-style Watchtower offering views of the Grand Canyon, the Colorado River, and the Painted Desert. We’ll all stop at Cameron Trading Post, founded in 1916 for Navajo and Hopi trading, to browse through handicrafts and perhaps sample traditional Native American fry bread. Take a walk to the rim of Glen Canyon to Horseshoe Bend Lookout point where the Colorado River has carved a horseshoe-shaped river meander on the sandstone canyon walls. This evening, join an optional experience for a bird’s eye view from atop one of the desert Southwest’s most fascinating features with a helicopter flight to the top of Tower Butte. Begin by flying eastward taking in views of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, and incredible Horseshoe Bend before ascending Tower Butte. Stand 5,000 feet above sea level and marvel at the 360-degree views as Glen Canyon, Lake Powell, Padre Bay, the Grand Staircase Escalante, and the LeChee Rock unfold before you.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
*North Canyon Tour Helicopter Flight, Bell Aircraft (April 1 - October 31)
Your tour takes you over the Kaibab National Forest and into the deepest portion of the Grand Canyon, through the Dragon Corridor, and continues to the North Rim, where you view the incredible geological differences between the North and South Rims. During your return to the South Rim, enjoy breathtaking views of temples, shrines and rock formations sculpted by time while flying above the widest portion of the mighty Colorado River. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 25-30 min
Adult Price: $219.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
*Grand Kingdom EcoStar Helicopter Flight
Fly the EC 130, the “newest and quietest” helicopters in the Grand Canyon with larger windows, and all seats facing forward. Embark on this 45-50 minute tour of the Eastern Grand Canyon that combines with the renowned beauty of The North Canyon tour. Enjoy spectacular views of the Painted Desert and Colorado River. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 40-50 minutes.
Adult Price: $319.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
*Grand Discovery South Rim Airplane Tour
The original air tour of the Grand Canyon and the best value! Board an ultra-quiet small aircraft for a 40-45 minute Grand Discovery flight over the Grand Canyon. The Vistaliner airplanes feature oversize windows that make every seat the best seat and allows for post card quality pictures! This tour covers the most famous and beautiful parts of the Grand Canyon including the Eastern Zuni Corridor, the Confluence and the North Rim and returns through the Western Dragon Corridor. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 40-50 minutes.
Adult Price: $159.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 4
Take A Scenic Drive To Canyonlands National Park
Depart Page and drive through Navajo Tribal Lands to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, the largest reservation in the United States with over 17 million acres of land between Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico. Dive Into Culture as you board a 4x4 vehicle and navigate the iconic red valley landscape guided by a member of the Navajo Nation and Local Specialist. Pause and settle in surrounded by buttes and mesas in this sacred land for a Connect With Locals outdoor chicken and steak barbeque lunch prepared by a Navajo tribe member as they share stories about the Dineh (Navajo) people and their connection to Monument Valley. Then continue to Moab on a scenic drive from Monument Valley where your Travel Director will share intel on some of the sights you’ll see along the way. Sit back and enjoy views of the San Juan River, Mexican Hat, Bluff, and the Abajo "Blue Mountain" and La Sal Mountains. Your time in Moab—the gateway city to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National park, and the Colorado River—kicks off with a hearty Be My Guest Dinner at Canyon Steak and Waffle. So much more than a place to refuel after a day of exploring, this is your chance to sit down and learn about local life through our host and restaurant owner Shawn Welch. Shawn shares her story and connection to the diner as you learn about growing up in Moab and how she’s come to own and operate an authentic American diner.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Springhill Suites by Marriott Moab
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Be My Guest
Day 5
Admire The Landscape Of Arches National Park
This morning, discover how the forces of wind and rain have shaped the enchanting landscape of Arches National Park. Later, journey to Canyonlands National Park.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Springhill Suites by Marriott Moab
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 6
Discover The History Of Mesa Verde
We arrive in the UNESCO-listed Mesa Verde National Park to delve into the history and culture of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Explore their beautifully preserved sandstone dwellings. This evening, in Durango, your Stay With Story is historic Strater Hotel. You’ll have the evening at leisure to explore the historic town of Durango.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - The Strater
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 7
Dive Into Durango
Enjoy free time in Durango today. Perhaps, enjoy a truly unforgettable step back in time, on an optional ride aboard the coal-fired, steam-powered narrow-gauge train. The train chugs along rails that were originally laid at the end of the 19th century, winding through a spectacular wilderness which would be inaccessible by car. If you're feeling more adventurous, opt for a white water rafting trip on the Animas River.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
*Delicate Arch Hike
*Delicate Arch is one of the most famous arch formations in the country, it is on the Utah license plates and is one of the most enduring symbols of the American West. The trail to see Delicate Arch up close and personal is 3 miles round trip and climbs 480 feet. It is a steady uphill trail with some uneven terrain and rocks. Dramatic views abound and include Wolfe Ranch Cabin and a wall of Ute Indian petroglyphs. A waiver will be required to partake in this optional hike and guests must consider weather conditions, their health and fitness levels in addition to carrying adequate water (2-3 liters pp is recommended), a hat, appropriate footwear and plenty of sunscreen. Approx. Duration: 2 hours
Adult Price: $29.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Durango And Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway
This historic train constructed in 1882 has been in continuous operation for 135 years. The Durango train winds through spectacular & breathtaking canyons in the remote wilderness of the two-million acre San Juan National Forest for an unforgettable adventure. Experience the adventure of traveling by a coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive on the same tracks miners, cowboys and settlers of the Old West took over a century ago. Relive history with the sights and sounds of yesteryear for a truly spectacular journey. Approx. duration: 3.5 hours
Adult Price: $103.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Mountain Waters Rafting
Take a 2-hour raft trip through Durango on the Animas River. Approx. duration 2hrs.
Adult Price: $48.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 8
Unlock The Legacy Of The Pueblo
This morning’s drive takes you through the towns of Pagosa Springs and Chama. Then you will visit one of the greatest Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the Southwest. Immerse into the fascinating cliff dwellings and take a walk along the canyon and volcanic mountains that surround this park and learn about the history of the people that inhabited this area around 1,000 years ago. The journey continues along the High Road – Santa Fe Scenic Byway, rich in history, art and culture. Arrive at the hotel, ideally located two short blocks from Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Inn and Spa at Loretto
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 9
Taste The Unique Culture Of Santa Fe
Join your Local Specialist this morning on a guided tour of Santa Fe. Experience this city where Spanish, Native American and Old West influences all combine to form a city with its own exclusive culture and character. See many of the city’s major sights before you have the rest of the day to pursue your own interests. Perhaps venture down the artistic hub of Canyon Road lined with galleries, visit some of the city’s top museums, or shop for Native American art and handicraft. This evening enjoy a Be my Guest Farewell dinner hosted by Stephanie Ramirez at her Flamenco Cabaret. Enjoy a lively evening celebrating Santa Fe's Spanish heritage with music, dancing and great food. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® with your visit, as Stephanie runs a Non-profit organization Entre Flamencos that teaches the art of Flamenco to disadvantaged children in her community.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Day 10
End Your Journey In Albuquerque
Our journey through desert landscapes at its end, take a group transfer to Albuquerque.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Easy on the Asphalt (60 minutes)
A “Sedona snapshot” with great photo opportunities! Join us on this informative and relaxing, yet breathtaking, tour of some of Sedona’s most magnificent overlooks, featuring many of the most photographed sites in all of Arizona. This is an on-road tour. The Chapel may be substituted during the busy season due to traffic. Approx. duration: 1 hours
Adult Price: $49.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 2
Old Bear Wallow
An exclusive experience as our jeep tour operator is the only company permitted by the U.S. Forest Service to take you on this historic trail - climb this early stagecoach route along Schnebly Hill Road through Bear Wallow Canyon, just below the Mogollon Rim to enjoy stunning views of Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon 2000ft below. Step onto Munds Wagon or Huckaby Trail and hear stories of Sedona's early pioneer days. Approx. duration: 1 hour
Adult Price: $49.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
*North Canyon Tour Helicopter Flight, Bell Aircraft (April 1 - October 31)
Your tour takes you over the Kaibab National Forest and into the deepest portion of the Grand Canyon, through the Dragon Corridor, and continues to the North Rim, where you view the incredible geological differences between the North and South Rims. During your return to the South Rim, enjoy breathtaking views of temples, shrines and rock formations sculpted by time while flying above the widest portion of the mighty Colorado River. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 25-30 min
Adult Price: $219.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
*Grand Kingdom EcoStar Helicopter Flight
Fly the EC 130, the “newest and quietest” helicopters in the Grand Canyon with larger windows, and all seats facing forward. Embark on this 45-50 minute tour of the Eastern Grand Canyon that combines with the renowned beauty of The North Canyon tour. Enjoy spectacular views of the Painted Desert and Colorado River. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 40-50 minutes.
Adult Price: $319.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
*Grand Discovery South Rim Airplane Tour
The original air tour of the Grand Canyon and the best value! Board an ultra-quiet small aircraft for a 40-45 minute Grand Discovery flight over the Grand Canyon. The Vistaliner airplanes feature oversize windows that make every seat the best seat and allows for post card quality pictures! This tour covers the most famous and beautiful parts of the Grand Canyon including the Eastern Zuni Corridor, the Confluence and the North Rim and returns through the Western Dragon Corridor. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 40-50 minutes.
Adult Price: $159.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
*Delicate Arch Hike
*Delicate Arch is one of the most famous arch formations in the country, it is on the Utah license plates and is one of the most enduring symbols of the American West. The trail to see Delicate Arch up close and personal is 3 miles round trip and climbs 480 feet. It is a steady uphill trail with some uneven terrain and rocks. Dramatic views abound and include Wolfe Ranch Cabin and a wall of Ute Indian petroglyphs. A waiver will be required to partake in this optional hike and guests must consider weather conditions, their health and fitness levels in addition to carrying adequate water (2-3 liters pp is recommended), a hat, appropriate footwear and plenty of sunscreen. Approx. Duration: 2 hours
Adult Price: $29.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Durango And Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway
This historic train constructed in 1882 has been in continuous operation for 135 years. The Durango train winds through spectacular & breathtaking canyons in the remote wilderness of the two-million acre San Juan National Forest for an unforgettable adventure. Experience the adventure of traveling by a coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive on the same tracks miners, cowboys and settlers of the Old West took over a century ago. Relive history with the sights and sounds of yesteryear for a truly spectacular journey. Approx. duration: 3.5 hours
Adult Price: $103.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Mountain Waters Rafting
Take a 2-hour raft trip through Durango on the Animas River. Approx. duration 2hrs.
Adult Price: $48.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Notepad Icon You must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to travel
About this trip
About this trip
What's included
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon
9 nights
Accommodation
Trip Summary Meals Icon
13 Meals
1 Lunch, 1 Welcome Reception, 2 Be My Guests, 9 Breakfasts
Trip Summary Transport Icon
On-trip Transport
All transport shown. VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
The Trafalgar difference
Connect With Locals
Enjoy a hosted BMG dinner at Canyon Steak and Waffle hosted by Shawn Welch. She worked as a server for many years before purchasing her own old-style diner.
Enjoy Spanish culinary and a passionate performance of music and dance celebrating the Spanish heritage of Santa Fe.
Enjoy an outdoor BBQ cookout prepared by a Navajo surrounded by buttes and mesas in their sacred lands at the Monument Valley Tribal Park.
Dive Into Culture
Board a 4x4 vehicle and navigate the iconic red valley landscape guided by a member of the Navajo Nation and Local Specialist.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Stephanie runs a Non-profit organization Entre Flamencos that teaches the art of Flamenco to disadvantaged children in her community.
Stays With Stories
Stay at The Strater Hotel, adorned with beautiful handcrafted woodwork, housing the largest collection of American Victorian walnut antiques. It's Durango's Historic Landmark Hotel, showcasing stories of the old west and mining times.
Sightseeing highlights
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Explore the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Bandelier National Monument and Santa Fe with a Local Specialist.
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Visit Scottsdale, Grand Canyon National Park, Monument Valley, Mesa Verde, Arches National Park, Moab, Durango, Taos and Santa Fe
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Scenic Drive through Sedona's Red Rock Country, Oak Creek Canyon, Grand Canyon National Park's Desert Scenic Drive, Monument Valley Tribal Park, Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway and the High Road Scenic Byway from Taos to Santa Fe
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
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All transport and transfers shown
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Optional Experiences and free time
Live, unedited & independent traveller reviews
Colourful Trails of the Southwest End Albuquerque trip reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
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The Tour Director and Coach Driver were very professional and accomodating.
Trip Rating
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4
Ease of travel, selection of destinations and provision of interesting information.
The tour was exciting. Accommodations were very nice, although most breakfast meals were cold. Our tour director, Todd was great. He was very knowledgeable about the areas we visited and shared many historical facts. Our coach driver Adrian was very personable, and pointed out highlights along the way. Chris our Wellness Coordinator provided very little value. He missed many opportunities for providing wellness information during the tour.
The tour was exciting. Accommodations were very nice, although most breakfast meals were cold. Our tour director, Todd was great. He was very knowledgeable about the areas we visited and shared many historical facts. Our coach driver Adrian was very personable, and pointed out highlights along the way. Chris our Wellness Coordinator provided very little value. He missed many opportunities for providing wellness information during the tour.
If you are looking even further ahead, this trip is available to book in 2023. Visit our website for dates and today’s best prices.
[CIRCLE] These departures include admission to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta will have an additional night in Albuquerque.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
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Your selected departure date will feature some seasonal itinerary changes to what is displayed. Click 'VIEW ITINERARY' below to see full details.
Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them.
What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional) Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.
