Experience the Southwest in ways you've never imagined. From magnificent natural scenery to varied and unique cultures, this venture immerses you in the beauty of the area and is an experience you'll treasure for a lifetime.
Arrive in Salt Lake City and transfer independently to your hotel where you will meet your Tour Director in the evening. Salt Lake City is a beautiful, vibrant city that offers unparalleled access to remarkable history and warm hospitality. If time permits, this afternoon enjoy views of the State Capitol building and visit downtown’s famed Temple Square, home to the 6-spired Salt Lake Temple and domed Tabernacle of the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. This evening we recommend dining at The Roof Restaurant (optional). The Roof offers an extravagant buffet and inspiring views of the Salt Lake Valley and Temple Square.
Heading south this morning, you’ll pass through Provo, home to Brigham Young University, en route to Canyonlands National Park. Today you will see a wilderness of countless canyons & fantastically formed butted carved by the Colorado River & its tributaries. Rivers divide the park into four districts: the Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze & the Rivers themselves. We will visit some of the most scenic spots in the Island in the Sky mesa that rests on sheer sandstone cliffs over 1,000 feet above the surrounding terrain. Continue on to Moab for your stay tonight.
Today we visit Arches National Park, one of Utah’s Mighty 5. Once in the park, you’ll discover a landscape of contrasting colors, landform and textures unlike any other in the world. With over 2,000 natural stone arches, in addition to hundreds of soaring pinnacles and giant balanced rocks, this red rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations and inspire you with its most unique scenery. Return to hotel in the late afternoon.
Crossing into Arizona where traces of a rich history, miles of cacti in every size, shape and style, and natural wonders mark the awesome terrain, you’ll make your way to Chinle, gateway to Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Located entirely on Navajo tribal lands and known for its steep canyon walls dotted with hundreds of ancient pueblo ruins, Canyon de Chelly reflects one of the longest continuously inhabited landscapes in North America. Here, distinctive architecture, artifacts and picturesque vistas of rocky outcroppings are all remarkably preserved, providing a peek into the lives of the canyon’s earliest inhabitants.
Leaving Chinle, today’s journey takes you through the Navajo Reservation and dramatic lands of western New Mexico to Gallup. Having barely changed since Route 66’s heyday, Gallup serves up a slice of Americana rarely seen nowadays along with one of the best strips of neon signs you’ll see anywhere on the old route. Continue to the heart of New Mexico, Albuquerque. A visit to historic Old Town offers a unique look into New Mexico’s Spanish past. 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.
This morning, 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. Ample leisure time this afternoon provides the perfect opportunity to explore world renowned art galleries, celebrated landmarks, or shop for authentic creations you just won’t find anywhere else.
Traveling from Santa Fe to Taos you’ll follow alongside 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, 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. Heading north from Taos into Colorado, you’ll discover the scenic beauty and favorable climate that has lured visitors to Colorado Springs for years. Stop at Garden of the Gods where you’ll delight in one of the most photographed landscapes in the state. Imagine 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.
Returning to Denver you will have ample free time to explore more of the city’s must-sees, including the U.S. Mint, 16th Street Pedestrian Mall, Larimer Square, City Park, Denver’s largest park offering stunning mountain views, and much more.
Inclusion
+ 4 complimentary breakfasts*
+ Capture the unique desert landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
+ Traverse the ancestral and present day lands of the Navajo tribe.
+ Take in the spectacular scenery of red rocks while discovering Colorado’s ‘Garden of
the Gods’.
+ Experience the diverse culture, cuisine, and landscapes of the American Rockies
and Southwest.
Exclusion
International airfares
Optional activities
Other meals, drinks, tips and other personal expenses or services not specified on the program
Personal equipment
Travel insurance
Gratuities
Voluntary tips for guides or drivers
Travel and medical insurance
Any items not mentioned as included
Note
Hotels Used
Salt Lake City - Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites / Salt Lake City - Downtown*
Moab - Main Stay Suites Moab near Arches National Park*
Chinle - Holiday Inn Canyon De Chelly
Albuquerque - Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn
Santa Fe - Best Western Plus Inn of Santa Fe*
Colorado Springs - Hyatt Place Colorad
*Complimentary breakfast offered by a hotel may be discontinued at any time with or without notice.
ALL DEPARTURE DATES ARE GUARANTEED TO OPERATE.
EXPERIENCE MORE (OPTIONALS) Rates available on request + Get a little adventurous with jet boat ride on the Colorado River
+ Explore both the natural and manmade beauty of Canyon de Chelly with a local Navajo guide
