Enchanted New Mexico with Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Welcome to Albuquerque! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink. Enjoy a special presentation from a [LOCAL FAVORITE] local balloonist who shares fascinating stories about the sport of ballooning. LOCAL FAVORITE Get into the spirit of the Balloon Fiesta with a presentation from a local balloonist. Learn the history and culture of the fiesta, and what special things to look for during the next day’s Mass Ascension.

Sunrise & Sunset Get ready for the world-famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Balloon Ascension. Discover more balloon history and behind-the-scenes stories at the International Balloon Museum and enjoy leisure time this afternoon. This evening, catch the popular Balloon Glow, where all balloons fire up their burners and light up at the same time, and the amazing After-Glow Fireworks show. (B) NOTE: Schedule of activities vary from year-to-year and can be impacted by weather. Your Tour Director will be able to confirm the exact schedule of activities on tour. TOUR HIGHLIGHT Look skyward, where balloon enthusiasts gather each year in Albuquerque as hundreds of hot air balloons lift off and turn the sky into a cavalcade of colors. What began with just 13 hot-air balloons more than 50 years ago has grown into the largest ballooning event in the world. Explore the balloon grounds, enjoy breakfast at the Chasers Club, and visit the International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, and spectacle of ballooning.

Ancient Arts & Modern Sciences This morning, learn about New Mexico’s legendary covert military projects, including the Manhattan Project, with a guided tour of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. The museum provides an objective, accessible window into the past, present, and future of nuclear science from the origins of atomic theory to modern-day advances in nuclear medicine. Celebrate the local cuisine with [LOCAL FAVORITE] lunch at a traditional New Mexican restaurant. Then, visit the fascinating museum and crafts market of the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Tonight is at leisure to explore Albuquerque at your own pace. (B,L) LOCAL FAVORITE Be treated to an authentic New Mexico experience with a traditional southwestern lunch served in a popular Albuquerque restaurant. New Mexican dishes, from enchiladas and chile rellenos to salsa and sopapillas, are served in a festive atmosphere in true local style. TOUR HIGHLIGHT Explore the inspiring crafts and museum exhibits collectively run by the 19 New Mexico pueblos (villages) with a visit to Albuquerque's Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. Learn about the history and heritage of the pueblos of New Mexico. As part of the Globus family of brands Lighthouse Project, this historic site is one example of our commitment to supporting the people and places we share with you.

Southwestern Jewels Journey along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway to Santa Fe, where mountain vistas, historic landmarks, and centuries of culture await. Arrive in Santa Fe and explore the oldest seat of government in the United States on a guided tour featuring the San Miguel Mission, Palace of the Governors, State Capitol, and Loretto Chapel, where the famed “Miraculous Staircase” continues to captivate visitors with its mysterious origins. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to explore Santa Fe. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT The Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway spans roughly 15,000 square miles between Albuquerque and Santa Fe in the heart of central New Mexico. Along the way, drive through historic mining towns of Golden, Madrid, and Cerrillos, where traces of the past remain woven into a landscape long known for its prized turquoise deposits.

Santa Fe Tastes and Sounds This morning, visit the ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and the museum at Bandelier National Monument. Return to Santa Fe Plaza for lunch at a celebrated local restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore the plaza. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner with live [LOCAL FAVORITE] entertainment. (B,L,D) LOCAL FAVORITE Enjoy a wonderful dinner to celebrate your Southwestern adventure along with the joyous sounds of traditional Mariachi music. Hear the voices of traditional singers and musicians who perform this beautifully rich music in the tradition of celebrating the joys, struggles, and triumphs of the Mexican people.

Safe travels until we meet again! Depart this morning after breakfast for Albuquerque and enjoy a seamless transfer to the airport. Please schedule your departure flight from the Albuquerque International Sunport for 11:00 a.m. or later. (B)