Day 8: Las Cruces – Truth or Consequences

Drive to Truth or Consequences (T or C), formerly the town of Hot Springs, a mineral hot spring area known for many decades. It lies on the Rio Grande and is near the largest lake of New Mexico, the Elephant Butte Reservoir. Enjoy this lovely area with a variety of optional activities including hot spas, historically famous for the healing power, and a boat trip on Elephant Butte Lake. Or relax at the hotel and go for a nature walk.

Day 9: TorC – Fort Craig – Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Preserve – El Camino Real National Heritage Center – Sandia Peak – Gathering of Nations Powwow – Santa Fe

A short stop at the ruins of Fort Craig provides insight in 19th century history. At Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Preserve we get to see a successful wildlife re-introduction program. Then drive along the historic El Camino Real, the famous immigrant trail that brought the first colonists from Spain and Mexico to this region in 1598. In Albuquerque, we will take a scenic drive up Sandia Peak at 10,378 feet for a view over Albuquerque. Santa Fe stay there for the following two nights.

Day 10: Santa Fe

This day is open for independent exploration of Santa Fe, the beautiful capitol city of New Mexico. Many artists and retirees have been attracted to this fascinating city. Santa Fe is an artist’s heaven offering some of the best art galleries in the Southwest. The unique Adobe architecture of most buildings adds to the cultural richness of the area. Visit some of the museums, galleries and the famed Santa Fe Railroad. Alternatively, you can sign up for an optional whitewater rafting trip.

Day 11: Tent Rocks National Monument – Acoma Sky City Pueblo – Route 66 – Gallup, NM

In the morning we explore the country side of New Mexico and stop at the unique rock formation of Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument for a two hour hike among high towering strangely formed hoodoos. Then, we participate at a Native guided tour to the Acoma Sky City Pueblo, situated high upon a table rock. We drive along Route 66, the Mother Road and stay for the night in Gallup, New Mexico.

Day 12: Petrified Forest National Park – Flagstaff – Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument – Cameron, Arizona

This morning you will be amazed by the world’s largest concentration of colorful petrified wood at the Petrified Forest National Park. We explore this wondrous area oft multi-colored badlands on several walks and a sightseeing drive. After a coffee stop in Flagstaff we explore the nearby Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument, one of the younger volcanic landscapes where lava flows and cinders still look fresh and rugged. We choose an interpretive one-mile loop walk on the Lava Flow Trail. The next two nights we stay in Cameron, Arizona at an authentic Native American trading post and beautifully designed lodge on the edge of the Little Colorado River. The trading post offers a large selection of souvenirs and original Navajo and Hopi arts and crafts including beautiful Navajo rugs and blankets.

Day 13: Grand Canyon National Park – South Rim – Cameron

Today’s highlight is the Grand Canyon National Park. We spend the day at the Grand Canyon South Rim and soak up the overwhelming views over a gigantic landscape of deep canyons. We drive along Desert View Drive, explore Desert View Watchtower and other view points. We visit the visitor center and hike along the rim trail for special views all day. Optional helicopter ride is available at Tusayan. Second night in Cameron.

Day 14: Cameron – Oak Creek Canyon – Sedona – Phoenix

We drive south through scenic Oak Creek Canyon to Sedona, where we enjoy a variety of activities including a walk through the giant red cliffs, shopping, unique southwest cuisine, and art galleries. In the evening, we arrive back in Phoenix, Arizona where we spend our last night.

Day 15: End of tour

Today, the tour ends. Fly home or extend your stay. We will be happy to assist you with your travel plans.