Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Santa Fe

Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Santa Fe

Papago Park in Phoenix
Phoenix

Papago Park in Phoenix

Day 1
Scottsdale Arizona desert landscape,USA
Scottsdale

Scottsdale Arizona desert landscape,USA

Day 1
Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Days 2-3
Cathedral Rock, Sedona Arizona
Sedona

Cathedral Rock, Sedona Arizona

Day 2
Moab

Arches National Park under the milky way in Moab

Day 4
Canyonlands National Park

Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park

Day 5
Arches National Park

Arches National Park

Day 5
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Durango

Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango

Days 6-7
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park

Day 6
Durango, Colorado
Durango, Colorado

Durango, Colorado

Day 7
Taos Pueblo New Mexico
Taos

Taos Pueblo New Mexico

Day 8
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Days 8-10

Map
101 Views
10 Days From

$3262

$2936

Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Santa Fe

10 Days Starting in Phoenix, United States and ending in Santa Fe, United States

Visiting: Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sedona, Grand Canyon National Park, Glen Canyon, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Durango, Santa Fe, Taos

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

DCTSSZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $3262 $2936 (USD) Operator discount: -$326

NB: Prices correct on 11-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant landscapes of the American Southwest with the "Colorful Trails of the Southwest End Santa Fe" tour. This cultural adventure begins in Phoenix and takes you through iconic destinations such as the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and Arches National Park. Experience the rich heritage of the Navajo Nation with exclusive tours and traditional meals, and explore the ancient dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park. Enjoy scenic drives through Sedona's Red Rock Country and the High Road Scenic Byway to Santa Fe. Stay in charming accommodations, including the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, and savor local flavors with included meals. With expert guides and luxury transport, this tour offers a seamless and enriching exploration of the Southwest's natural wonders and cultural treasures.

Highlights

  • Explore the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Taos Pueblo, Nambe Pueblo Village, and the Navajo Nation in Page.

  • Visit Scottsdale, Mesa Verde National Park, Cameron Trading Post, Horseshoe Bend Lookout, Moab, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Durango, Taos, and Santa Fe.

  • Scenic drive through Sedona's Red Rock Country, Oak Creek Canyon, and Grand Canyon National Park's Desert View Drive.

  • View the Cliff Palace dwelling at Mesa Verde National Park.

  • Experience a cookout lunch with members of the Navajo Nation in Monument Valley.

  • Immerse yourself in the landscape of the Navajo people at Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

  • Explore Taos Pueblo with local specialists who call Taos Pueblo home.

Places You'll See

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Durango, Colorado

Durango, Colorado

Loretto Inn, Santa Fe

Loretto Inn, Santa Fe

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome to Phoenix and Scottsdale

Scottsdale Arizona desert landscape,USA
Papago Park in Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona
Scottsdale Arizona desert landscape,USA
Downtown Phoenix, Arizona
Scottsdale Arizona desert landscape,USA
Scottsdale Arizona desert landscape,USA

Location: Phoenix, Scottsdale

Accommodation: Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch

Accommodation Name: Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch

Meals Included: Dinner

Arrive in sun-kissed Phoenix and transfer to Scottsdale at your leisure. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner.

Day 2: See the Red Rocks of Sedona Connect with Locals

Hiker descends cliff edge trail in Grand Canyon's North Rim
Cathedral Rock, Sedona Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park
A view from Boyton Canyon in Sedona.
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park
Kayaking on the Colorado River.
Kayaking on the Colorado River.
A view from Boyton Canyon in Sedona.
Cathedral Rock, Sedona Arizona
Hiker descends cliff edge trail in Grand Canyon's North Rim
Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Sedona, Grand Canyon National Park

Accommodation: National Park Lodges Grand Canyon

Accommodation Name: National Park Lodges Grand Canyon

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 3: Take In The Sights Of The Grand Canyon Make Travel Matter

Hiker descends cliff edge trail in Grand Canyon's North Rim
Grand Canyon National Park
Grand Canyon National Park
Hiker descends cliff edge trail in Grand Canyon's North Rim
Grand Canyon National Park
Kayaking on the Colorado River.
Kayaking on the Colorado River.
Grand Canyon National Park

Location: Grand Canyon National Park, Glen Canyon

Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell

Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Don’t miss an unforgettable experience: Rise early for an optional flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon and then trace the scenic South Rim of the Grand Canyon along Desert View Drive. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as we visit Desert View's Pueblo-style Watch tower and support the development of the Desert View Inter-tribal Heritage Center. Later, we’ll stop at Cameron Trading Post. Finally, we'll take a walk to the rim of Glen Canyon to Horseshoe Bend. Finish the day connecting to the soul of the land over a Be My Guest experience on the Navajo Nation, hosted by Diné tribe local Baya, her husband Paul and storyteller Eli Secody.

Day 4: Take a Scenic Drive to Moab Make Travel Matter

Arches National Park, Moab
Visitors enjoying the Double Arch rock formation in Arches National Park
Arches National Park under the milky way in Moab

Location: Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Moab

Accommodation: Hyatt Place Moab

Accommodation Name: Hyatt Place Moab

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Depart Page for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience tour in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Afterwards, settle into the surrounds of buttes and mesas for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience outdoor lunch prepared by Diné (Navajo) tribe members who share stories about their people and their connection to Monument Valley. Then, continue to Moab on a scenic drive where you can sit back and enjoy views of the desert southwest. The evening is yours to explore Moab's Main Street.

Day 5: Admire the Landscape of Arches National Park

Canyonlands Nat. Park, USA
Canyonland scenic highway
Arches National Park
Canyonland scenic highway
Arches National Park
Arches National Park
Arches National Park
Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park
Arches National Park
Canyonlands Nat. Park, USA
Arches National Park
Mesa Arch, Canyonlands National Park

Location: Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park

Accommodation: Hyatt Place Moab

Accommodation Name: Hyatt Place Moab

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, discover how the forces of wind and rain have shaped the enchanting landscape of Arches National Park in the stunning formations that they are, with countless perfect photo opportunities. Later, journey to Canyonlands National Park to connect with nature even more. We visit the Island in the Sky - a mesa resting 1,000 feet (305 meters) above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views over the dramatic sandstone formations.

Day 6: Discover the History of Mesa Verde Stays With Stories

Durango, Colorado
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Mesa Verde National Park
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Durango, Colorado
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Durango, Colorado
Durango, Colorado

Location: Mesa Verde National Park, Durango

Accommodation: Strater Hotel, Durango

Accommodation Name: Strater Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 Stories is historic Strater Hotel. You’ll have the evening at leisure to explore the historic town of Durango.

Day 7: Dive into Durango Make Travel Matter

Durango, Colorado
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Durango, Colorado
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Durango, Colorado
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Narrow Gauge Railroad near River in Durango
Historic steam engine train travels from Durango
Durango, Colorado

Location: Durango

Accommodation: Strater Hotel, Durango

Accommodation Name: Strater Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy free time in Durango today, or you may take a scenic drive along the Million Dollar Highway from Ouray and Silverton. If you’re lucky, enjoy a truly unforgettable step back in time, on a ride aboard the coal-fired, steam-powered narrow-gauge train (booked independently). 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.

Day 8: Unlock the Legacy of the Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo New Mexico
Loretto Inn, Santa Fe
Loretto Inn, Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico, downtown skyline
Taos Pueblo New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico, downtown skyline
New skyline in Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico
New skyline in Santa Fe

Location: Santa Fe, Taos

Accommodation: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Accommodation Name: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast

The journey continues along the High Road – Santa Fe Scenic Byway, a picturesque route in Northern New Mexico that stretches approximately 56 miles from Santa Fe to Taos. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit one of the greatest Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites in the Southwest. Be immersed in the fascinating adobe dwellings and take a walk through Taos Pueblo, a Native American community that has been continuously inhabited for the last 1,000 years. Meet your Taos tribal resident guide and explore the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. Later, arrive at the hotel, ideally located two short blocks from Santa Fe’s Historic Plaza.

Day 9: Explore the Unique Culture of Santa Fe Make Travel Matter

Loretto Inn, Santa Fe
New skyline in Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico, downtown skyline
Loretto Inn, Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico, downtown skyline
New skyline in Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico

Location: Santa Fe

Accommodation Name: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, you'll have a full free day to explore Santa Fe at your leisure. Perhaps visit the iconic Georgia O'Keeffe Museum on your terms or explore one of the many chocolate shops and art galleries just steps away from your hotel. Lunch on your own, indulging in the culinary offerings of one of Santa Fe’s acclaimed restaurants, and later, savor a dinner back at your hotel.

Day 10: End Your Journey in Santa Fe

Loretto Inn, Santa Fe
New skyline in Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Loretto Inn, Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico, downtown skyline
New skyline in Santa Fe
Santa Fe, New Mexico, downtown skyline

Location: Santa Fe

Meals Included: Breakfast

Our journey through desert landscapes comes to an end.

What's Included

  • Expert Travel Director and Professional Driver

    The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.

  • Cherry-picked Hotels

    Accommodation is provided in carefully selected hotels that are tried and trusted.

  • Porterage and Restaurant Gratuities

    Porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.

  • Hotel Tips, Charges, and Local Taxes

    Hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour.

  • Must-see Sightseeing and Surprise Extras

    The tour features must-see sightseeing opportunities and surprise extras.

  • Audio Headsets for Flexible Sightseeing

    Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing experiences.

  • All Transport and Transfers

    All transport and transfers as shown in the itinerary are included.

  • Luxury Air-conditioned Coach with Wi-Fi

    Travel is provided in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.

  • Optional Experiences and Free Time

    The tour includes optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.

  • Alternative Hotels

    On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 9 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

Dive Into Culture

  • Grand Canyon National Park: The great outdoors is your classroom today when you meet geologist Canyon Tim for an enlightening talk about the Grand Canyon at the South Rim . Having over 30 years of geological experience, Tim’s fascinating talk reveals how this natural marvel was formed millions of years ago and how the different layers that make up the Colorado Plateau are still visible today.

Mode of Transport

Travel in luxury with a fully air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. All transport and transfers are included, providing seamless travel between destinations.

Accommodation

Experience a variety of accommodations including the Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch, National Park Lodges Grand Canyon, Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell, Hyatt Place Moab, Strater Hotel in Durango, and Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza, each offering unique charm and comfort.

Dive into Culture

  • Grand Canyon National Park: The great outdoors is your classroom today when you meet geologist Canyon Tim for an enlightening talk about the Grand Canyon at the South Rim . Having over 30 years of geological experience, Tim’s fascinating talk reveals how this natural marvel was formed millions of years ago and how the different layers that make up the Colorado Plateau are still visible today.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several unique cultural experiences such as a visit to the Desert Viewpoint Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage Site at the Grand Canyon, where you can learn about the 11 Grand Canyon tribal communities and enjoy traditional song and dance performances. In Monument Valley, you will have a cookout lunch with members of the Navajo Nation and explore the valley with a Navajo guide. Additionally, you will explore Taos Pueblo with local specialists who call it home, gaining insight into its history and current life.

  • What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?

    The tour offers a variety of dining experiences, including a traditional meal at Shash Dine Eco Retreat on the Navajo Nation, featuring mutton stew, frybread, vegetables, melon, coffee, and Navajo tea, accompanied by Navajo storytelling. You will also enjoy a cookout lunch in Monument Valley prepared by Diné tribe members, and a Be My Guest experience with a traditional meal hosted by Dine tribe locals.

  • What is the accommodation like during the tour?

    The tour features a variety of accommodations, including the Sonesta Suites Scottsdale Gainey Ranch, National Park Lodges Grand Canyon, Courtyard by Marriott Page at Lake Powell, Hyatt Place Moab, Strater Hotel in Durango, and Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza. Each hotel offers unique charm and comfort, with the Strater Hotel in Durango being a historic landmark showcasing stories of the old west.

  • Are there any special activities related to the local communities?

    Yes, the tour includes activities that engage with local communities, such as a visit to the Desert View Inter-tribal Cultural Heritage Site at the Grand Canyon, a cookout lunch with the Navajo Nation in Monument Valley, and a guided tour of Taos Pueblo by local specialists. These activities support the preservation of local cultures and contribute to sustainable development goals.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation during the tour is provided by a luxury air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Southwest. All transport and transfers are included, providing seamless travel between destinations.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$3638 $3274 (USD)

Operator discount: -$364 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$3262 $2936 (USD)

Operator discount: -$326 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Apr 19, 2026 - Apr 28, 2026
$3899 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 03, 2026 - May 12, 2026
$3899 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 17, 2026 - May 26, 2026
$3920 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

May 31, 2026 - Jun 09, 2026
$4038 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 06, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026
$4038 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 20, 2026 - Sep 29, 2026
$3582 (USD)

Sunday - Tuesday

Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 13, 2026
$3582 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar 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.

Similar Tours