Trail of the Ancients
The trip at a glance
- Duration
- 9 days
- Activity level
- Moderate
- Group size
- Small group, 2–14
- Departs from
- Several cities — ask us
- Next departure
- Oct 17, 2026
What guests said
- 5 out of 5
“Recently took our first trip with Southwest Adventure Tours to follow the Trail of the Ancients in the Four Corners area of the Southwest. Wow - what a fabulous trip! The guide Robin Luse, was not only a walking encyclopedia of knowledge, but his ability to cheerfully accommodate the needs of a diverse group of 10 guests was superb. The tour bus was luxurious, the hotels comfortable with good breakfasts. Our stops were amazing - the tour was set up to tell the story of the Ancient Peoples of this area and show you where they are today by taking you to meet and talk with them. Highlights were too many to mention but our favorites were Chaco Canyon, Mesa Verde, Monument Valley and Bandelier NP. A cozy private dinner hosted by a a native family in the Zuni pueblo was also a highlight. The cost of the tour was very reasonable as well. This first tour with SWAT will definitely be the first of MANY for us!”
Dawn
- 5 out of 5
“The Trail of the Ancients tour with Southwest Adventure Tours was unforgettable! This meticulously organized journey gave us the perfect balance of structured exploration and free time to immerse ourselves in the region’s rich history and culture. Every day was a new adventure, from discovering ancient pueblos to savoring local cuisines that brought the Southwest to life. Our tour leader, Robin, was phenomenal—friendly, knowledgeable, and incredibly organized. His coordination skills ensured that everything ran smoothly, and he went above and beyond to cater to everyone’s needs, arranging thoughtful alternatives for those with different interests or requirements. Robin’s enthusiasm and passion for the Southwest made the trip even more enjoyable, and Jason's support rounded out an excellent team. Thanks to their exceptional planning, we had ample time to explore and truly absorb the magic of the Southwest. I highly recommend this tour—don’t miss it!”
Kunal
From $3,799 / person
ModerateUp to six miles a day on maintained trails, with some real climbs.Is this trip right for you? ›
Overview
Come explore thousands of years of culture, history, and traditions of the Ancients who dwelt in the region of the Southwest prior to the creation of the United States. Starting with the Archaic Period (North America), which occurred about 6500 to 100 BC, followed by the Ancestral Puebloan people (also known as Anasazi) who lived here until about 1400 AD, and lastly the Pueblo (including both Hopi and Zuni people), as well as the Navajo people, who all still live on these lands today.
When you take our Trail of the Ancients tour, you’ll visit and experience a large collection of ruins and ancient cities once occupied by these historic people. Some of what remains are small structures, such as those found at Hovenweep, while others are large settlements and cities, such as the ruins at Mesa Verde or Chaco Canyon. Regardless of size, they all give us examples of how these ancient ones once lived. This seven-day adventure will immerse you into these ancient cultures and give you the opportunity to follow their trails around this magical corner of the Southwest.
This trip by season
The same trip. Very different weeks.
Spring
March to May
Rivers running high
Rivers full of snowmelt and the parks ahead of the summer rush. Some high roads and passes open later in the season.
1 spring departure ›Autumn
September to November
Fall color and wildlife
Aspen and cottonwood turning, wildlife on the move, and quieter trails once school is back.
4 autumn departures ›
Day by day
The whole trip at a glance
1 / 4 Day 1
Welcome to Albuquerque – The Gateway to the Ancients
Welcome to New Mexico! Your 9-day Trail of the Ancients guided tour begins today in the vibrant city of Albuquerque. Because we know travel schedules vary, today is fully flexible. Arrive at the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) at whatever time suits you best. From the airport, simply hop on the complimentary shuttle for a quick, stress-free transfer directly to your base hotel.
After checking in, the evening is yours to enjoy exactly as you please. Rest up for the journey ahead, or step out to experience a taste of local Southwestern cuisine and the famous New Mexico sunset on your own.
OvernightFairfield Inn & Suites Albuquerque Airport
Albuquerque Day 2
Indigenous Heritage at Acoma "Sky City" and Zuni Pueblo
This morning, we depart Albuquerque and journey into the heart of New Mexico’s rich Indigenous history. Our first stop is the Sky City Cultural Center and Haak'u Museum. After exploring the exhibits, you will embark on a guided tour of the historic Acoma Pueblo. Perched atop a sheer-walled sandstone bluff, you'll quickly experience firsthand why it is revered as "Sky City."
During our guided walk through the village, you will have the unique opportunity to interact with the residents who have called this mesa home for centuries. This provides a wonderful chance to purchase authentic, handcrafted artwork directly from the artists themselves.
Following lunch served at the Cultural Center, we will take a beautiful scenic drive to our next destination: the Zuni Pueblo. After exploring the deep traditions of the Zuni people, we will gather to recount the day over a group dinner before traveling to our hotel for the night.
OvernightHilton Garden Inn Gallup
1 / 5 
Day 3
Canyon De Chelly & Monument Valley
Your morning begins with an exploration of the breathtaking Canyon De Chelly. As we drive along the rim and stop at scenic overlooks, you will learn about the unique geological formations that made this lush canyon a desirable home for both the Ancestral Puebloans and the Navajo people. We will delve into the deep, layered history of the groups who have inhabited these canyon walls for centuries.
Afterward, we travel north into the heart of the Navajo Nation to experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of Monument Valley. You will enjoy a guided tour inside the valley itself, standing before iconic sandstone monoliths like "The Mittens" and other famous viewpoints recognized from countless classic Western films. Beyond the scenery, you will learn about the resilient history of the Navajo people, prospectors, and early settlers. To cap off the experience, we will enjoy authentic Navajo hospitality with a visit to a traditional Hogan, the historic dwelling style used by the Navajo for hundreds of years.
OvernightDesert Rose Inn Bluff
1 / 3 Day 4
Geological Wonders: Nartural Bridges & Hovenweep National Monuments
This morning kicks off with a breathtaking drive through the towering sandstone monoliths of the Valley of the Gods. From there, we will ascend the historic Moki Dugway, a staggering series of carved switchbacks offering sweeping, panoramic views of the Southwestern landscape. Our morning destination is Natural Bridges National Monument, which boasts three of the ten largest natural bridges in the world, all remarkably concentrated within one stunning area.
After marveling at these massive geological wonders, we will pause to enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch together. The afternoon takes us further back in time as we travel to Hovenweep National Monument. Here, you will have the opportunity to explore meticulously crafted stone towers and learn about the fascinating Ancestral Pueblo people who inhabited and thrived in this rugged region over 1,000 years ago.
OvernightHampton Inn Express Cortez
1 / 5 
Day 5
The Cliff Dwellings of Mesa Verde and the Great Kiva
Today is dedicated to some of the most spectacular architectural achievements of the Ancestral Puebloans. We begin our morning at Mesa Verde National Park. Here, you will have the unforgettable opportunity to explore fantastic cliff dwellings perfectly nestled into the alcoves of the canyon walls. Mesa Verde is also home to one of the largest collections of pit houses and row houses in the region, offering a comprehensive look into the culture, history, and daily lives of the people who inhabited these remarkable structures.
After our time in the park, we will travel south into Aztec, New Mexico, to finish the day at Aztec Ruins National Monument. This site offers a stunning look at fantastically preserved, freestanding Pueblo dwellings. A major highlight of the afternoon is stepping inside the Great Kiva—a massive ceremonial chamber that has been meticulously restored to give you an authentic sense of its original scale and purpose. As you explore the ruins, you will be able to observe the unique construction techniques and intricate masonry that allowed these large, multi-story pueblos to stand the test of time.
OvernightFairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Farmington
Day 6
The Great Houses of Chaco Canyon and Scenic Santa Fe
Today, we travel south into the heart of New Mexico to explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Often considered the cultural epicenter of the Ancestral Puebloans, Chaco Canyon offers a chance to see this civilization at the absolute height of its architectural and societal power.
We will explore the massive, multi-story "Great Houses" found within the canyon, including the famous Pueblo Bonito, Chetro Ketl, and the great kiva of Casa Rinconada. As you walk through these ancient cities, you will learn how sophisticated road networks connected this central hub to the surrounding communities you have visited throughout the week.
After a deeply historical afternoon, we will travel to the beautiful capital city of Santa Fe, NM. We will check into our lodgings right in the vibrant downtown area. The rest of the evening is completely free for you to explore Santa Fe's world-renowned art galleries, historic plazas, and incredible Southwestern dining at your own pace.
OvernightLa Fonda on the Plaza Santa Fe
1 / 2 
Santa Fe Day 7
The Historic Heart of Early Santa Fe
This morning, we dive into the rich, multicultural history of New Mexico’s capital with a guided walking and driving tour of Santa Fe. We will explore the vibrant downtown area, taking in centuries-old adobe buildings, the bustling central plaza, and beautifully preserved historic chapels. Santa Fe played a pivotal role in the influx of European settlers starting in the late 1500s, and you will have the opportunity to visit the exact locations and buildings that shaped the settlement of the American Southwest.
After wrapping up our morning of history, we will gather for a group lunch to recount the incredible sights we've seen throughout the week. The entire afternoon is then completely free for you to enjoy exactly as you see fit. You can continue exploring the renowned downtown art galleries and boutiques, embark on optional excursions around the Santa Fe area, or simply head back to the hotel for a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation.
OvernightLa Fonda on the Plaza Santa Fe
Albuquerque Day 8
The Carved Cliffs of Bandelier and the Heart of Albuquerque
As we make our way back toward Albuquerque today, we have one final, remarkable archaeological stop: Bandelier National Monument. This site offers a fascinating contrast to the freestanding great houses and alcove cliff dwellings we explored earlier in the week. Here, you will discover unique Ancestral Pueblo dwellings carved directly into the soft volcanic tuff of the canyon walls. It is an incredible opportunity to step inside these ancient spaces and experience an entirely different style of regional architecture.
After exploring the trails of Bandelier, we will continue our journey into Albuquerque. We will celebrate our week of exploration with a fantastic group lunch at El Pinto, a renowned local restaurant famous for its authentic, vibrant New Mexican cuisine and beautiful patios. To round out the day, you will enjoy a guided afternoon tour of Albuquerque's highlights before we drop you off at your hotel for a relaxing final evening.
OvernightAlbuquerque
Albuquerque Day 9
Journey Home from Albuquerque
Your 9-day journey through the deep history and breathtaking landscapes of the Southwest comes to a close today. Because departure schedules vary, this morning is completely flexible. Whenever you are ready, you can easily transfer to the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) on your own by simply utilizing the hotel's complimentary airport shuttle.
Thank you for choosing to explore the incredible Trail of the Ancients with us. We hope you carry home wonderful memories of the vibrant cultures, ancient ruins, and stunning canyons. Have a safe trip home!
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Is this trip right for you?
ModerateLevel 2 of 4
- Maintained trails with uneven footing, steps and sustained climbs. Up to six miles across a full day, usually in two or three separate walks.
- Full days out, often above 6,000ft, and canyon country runs over 100°F from June to August. Shade is not guaranteed.
- Not suitable for a wheelchair, a walker or anyone who cannot manage stairs without a rail. Comfortable if you walk regularly.
- Your guide may change or drop a stop for weather, road closures or time. What is walked on the day is their call.
Anything specific — a knee, a hip, a height worry, a wheelchair — is worth one phone call to 800-970-5864. We would rather move you to a different trip than have you on the wrong one.
Tour details
In the price10
- Services of a Southwest Adventure Tours tour director – a professional tour guide
- Comfortable transportation
- 8 nights hotel accommodations
- 8 breakfasts
- 6 lunches
- 1 Dinner
- Park entrance fees
- Water
- Gratuities for included meals and activities
- Applicable taxes and fees
Not in the price5
- Items of a personal nature (alcohol, room service, etc.)
- Meals (other than listed in the itinerary)
- Optional activities
- Airfare
- Gratuities for the tour director
Arrival & departure
- Arrival Location
- Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ)
- Arrival Time
- Any time on day 1
- Departure Location
- Albuquerque International Airport (ABQ)
- Departure Time
- Any time on day 9
Physical requirements
Guests should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for an average of 1 to 3 miles at a time.
Elevation gain and loss averages between 50 to 300 ft over the course of the areas visited during this tour.
Touring and overnight locations are above 4,3000 to 8,800 ft above sea level
Deboard and board van each time at a viewpoint – a portable step will be available
Please let us know if you have any other physical/health limitations or requirements
Gallery
More from Mesa Verde National Park and Colorado
Departures
Online booking is unavailable for a short while. Tap a date and send us your details, and someone from our office will call you to finish your booking. Nothing is charged until then.
One date on this trip has sold out as of Sep 24, 2026. Call us on 800-970-5864 about a date marked sold out — we keep a waiting list, and cancellations do happen.
Pick a season, then tap a date to book it.
Autumn: Mild days and cool nights. Bring layers.
Spring: Mild days and cool mornings, with snow lingering up high. Bring layers.
Autumn 2026
0 of 1 open
from $3,799
Autumn 2027
3 of 3 open
from $3,799
Spring 2027
1 of 1 open
from $3,799
Dates without a price of their own are from $3,799. The rate for the date you choose is confirmed when you book.
Pricing
2026 season
- Double occupancy
- $3,799
- Single occupancy
- $4,249
- Triple occupancy
- $3,449
- Quad occupancy
- $3,349
2027 season
- Double occupancy
- $3,899
- Single occupancy
- $4,349
- Triple occupancy
- $3,549
- Quad occupancy
- $3,449
15% off 2027 guaranteed departures with promo code BIRD27. Applies to guaranteed 2027 departures. Ask us which dates qualify.
Per person unless stated. Rates are those published by Southwest Adventure Tours and are confirmed at booking. A Travel Protection Plan is offered at checkout at 10% of your total: it refunds SWAT-collected tour costs if you cancel by the day before your first activity, and it can only be added at initial checkout. Full terms.
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We build tours to order — the same guides and the same itineraries, rearranged around your group and your dates.
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