Up, up, and away! This bucket-list adventure in New Mexico explores the magical Balloon Fiesta where you’ll see hundreds of unique hot air balloons taking flight! This tour hits all the local stops from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, including the San Miguel Mission and Loretto Chapel—home of the miraculous staircase. In Santa Fe, we’ll dive into the local cuisine with a cooking demonstration at the Santa Fe School of Cooking before a visit to the local Farmers Market. This gem of the Southwest is a true sensory adventure.
DAY 1: WELCOME TO NEW MEXICO!
Fly into Albuquerque, host to the dazzling 2026 International Balloon Fiesta—the world’s premier balloon event. Meet your fellow travelers and Tour Director for an evening welcome reception. D
DAY 2: BALLOON FIESTA MASS ASCENSION
Start your morning with the exciting Dawn Patrol Show and the vibrant Mass Ascension, where you’ll witness hundreds of hot air balloons filling the sky. Watch it all unfold from exclusive seats on the launch field or stroll among the balloons and see them lift off right in front of you. Afterward, explore the history and art of New Mexico’s 19 Pueblos at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, followed by lunch at the museum. B, L
Day 3: ALBUQUERQUE/BALLOON GLOW
This morning, enjoy an optional hot air balloon ride (at your own expense) or relax at the hotel. Later, ride the Sandia Peak Aerial Tram on a stunning 2.7-mile ascent—the longest tramway in the world—soaring over the Cibola National Forest to breathtaking views at the summit. As night falls, stroll among hundreds of vibrant balloons and take in the enchanting glow illuminating the dark sky. B, D
Day 4: NEW MEXICO CAPITOL
Travel to Santa Fe, the nation’s oldest capital city, celebrated for its blend of Spanish and Native cultures and its stunning setting against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Enjoy lunch at the Santa Fe School of Cooking, where you’ll sample the unique flavors of New Mexico. With our expert guide, continue exploring the city’s many charms with a visit to the Loretto Chapel—home to the legendary Miraculous Staircase—and uncover the mystery behind its remarkable construction. B, L
Day 5: EXPLORE SANTA FE
Start your day at the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market, a lively hub that ranks among the oldest and most successful growers’ markets in the country. Next, visit the New Mexico Capitol Building, where beautiful works of art and rich state history await. This afternoon, take time to wander Santa Fe’s charming streets at your own pace, discovering the city’s unique blend of art, culture, and timeless character. B, D
Day 6: RETURN HOME
Travel home from Albuquerque with amazing photos to share and exciting stories to tell of your adventure out West. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 1-3: Hyatt Place Uptown, Albuquerque, NM
Nights 4-5: Hyatt Place, Santa Fe, NM
Dates:
Oct 2-7, 2026
Price Per Person:
Double $2,497
Single $3,235
Pre-/Post Tour Hotel:
$368/night
Depart/Return:
Albuquerque, NM
Inclusions:
Transfer included from Albuquerque International Sunport or free hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hyatt Place Uptown, Albuquerque, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.
Departure Time
You may schedule your flight home with flight departure times after 1:00 p.m. on Day 6 from the Albuquerque Airport. We will make a stop at the Albuquerque Airport followed by a stop at the Hyatt Place Uptown, Albuquerque for those who have post nights.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
We ask that you utilize Uber, Lyft or a taxi from the Albuquerque Airport to the Hyatt Place Uptown, Albuquerque on Day 1. On Day 6 we will make a stop at the Albuquerque Airport followed by a stop at the Hyatt Place Uptown, Albuquerque for those who have post nights. Please use Uber, Lyft or a Taxi to get to and from the Albuquerque Airport. Keep your receipts, and email or mail them to us following your tour, and we will reimburse you for your transfer expenses. We will only reimburse up to $75 per person. You may submit these either at: Reservations@CountryTravelDiscoveries.com, or by mail to our office within 30 days of the tour ending.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
High of 70°, low of 50°
Time Zone
Mountain
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has a hair dryer, iron, ironing boards, and a coffee maker. Both hotels offers complimentary Wi-Fi, exercise room, and swimming pools. The Hotel Sante Fe Hacienda & Spa offer a spa.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Temperatures can fluctuate in this region, so we recommend bringing a light jacket, gloves, and hat with you when out in the morning or evening.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
