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Explore the Southwest with Tierra Travel Tours
New Mexico
New Mexico is a land of stark contrasts with sweeping deserts, gorgeous forested mountains, deep canyons, breath-taking views, and endless turquoise skies. It is the 5 th largest state in the union, with a population of about 2.1 million. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, it is an arid state with four seasons and great biodiversity. New Mexico has a colorful history of people and traditions both past and present.
The region was first inhabited over 11,000 years ago by the Paleo-Indians, who were hunters and gatherers. The present-day Pueblo Indian tribes were descendants of the ancient Anasazi (ancient ones) people. The Spaniards arrived in New Mexico in the mid 1500’s seeking the fabled “Cities of Gold, also known as the “Seven Cities of Cibola.” The legendary myth brought the conquistadors seeking gold in the southwestern United States, primarily in what is now New Mexico. First a U.S. territory, it became the 47th state in 1912 and has retained it frontier image.
The Land of Enchantment, as it is sometimes referred to- for its stunning desert landscapes, sweeping mountain ranges and canyons, eclectic culture, and cuisine; uniquely blends Indian, Hispanic, and European cultures. Today, it is a present-day artists haven, a cultural powerhouse, playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and a scientific hub with several world-renowned national laboratories. Many great thinkers and scientists have lived in New Mexico, including Robert Oppenheimer, often referred to as the “father of the atomic bomb.”
Albuquerque Santa Fe and Taos
New Mexico’s largest city, Albuquerque, also known as the Duke City, is the state’s largest city with a population of over 500,000 and one million in the metro region. It is home to the world-famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta held in the city each October. Albuquerque, has a colorful history and located in the central part of the state with the Rio Grande River dissecting the city, and the Sandia Mountains embracing the city to the east. Old Town Albuquerque, established in 1706, remains a center for culture, architecture, shopping, art, and cuisine.
Santa Fe, our nation’s first capital city, is the oldest European community west of the
Mississippi. Founded as a Spanish Colony in the early 1600’s, today, the “City Different,” is a cultural melting pot with a European flair, unique pueblo-style adobe architecture and world-renowned hotels, restaurants, and cuisine. Besides being one of the U.S. largest art markets, it is also deemed the first UNESCO-designated creative city. The best way to see Santa Fe, is on foot. An extremely walkable city, Santa Fe invites you to explore its romance and splendor. It is an internationally famous city for fiestas and markets, including the Spanish Market, the International Folk Art Market, the famous Santa Fe Indian Market which has been a hallmark of the summer season for over 100 years, and the Santa Fe Wine & Chile Fiesta. The Santa Fe Opera, just north of the city, is consistently praised for its stunning outdoor setting and world-renowned performances. All of this, and more in the City Different, with exquisite natural beauty that permeates and surrounds the city.
Taos, located about 70 miles north of Santa Fe, is a small town in northern New Mexico’s high desert, cradled by the Sange de Cristo Mountains (Southern Rockies). Its rugged beauty, majestic mountains and the Rio Grande River Valley have attracted people to this region for centuries. It is the home to the historic Taos Pueblo, the only Native American community designated as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. The Spanish settlers came and settled in the area around 1640, bringing a unique cultural heritage. Later, the avant-garde, in the early to mid-1900’s discovered Taos as a place of great beauty and light. Georgia O’Keefe, Ansel Adams, and D.H. Lawrence are a few of the legendary people to have been inspired by the charm of Taos. Today, Taos is known for its outdoor adventures, world famous Taos Ski Valley and its eclectic arts and culture.
Quaint Villages
New Mexico has many picturesque villages and quaint towns with centuries-old buildings,
mission churches, unique restaurants, and galleries. Arroyo Seco, located north of Taos on the way to the famous Taos Ski Valley is a charming town that awaits exploration. Stop by the Arroyo Seco Mercantile Store for regional merchandise. Meander through its quiet streets and alleyways to discover hidden galleries and gift shops for one-of-a-kind gifts.
Chimayo, a small village located on the high road to Taos and is home to the famous Santuario de Chimayo-a place of healing and miracles. The Santuario is one of the most beautiful examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in New Mexico, is a place of pilgrimage and is revered among locals as a holy sight. This shrine, is a National Historic Landmark, and is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage centers in the United States, with over 60,000 pilgrims walking there during Holy Week each Easter. Chimayo is also well-known for its exquisite weavings dating back to the 1700’s. The weaving techniques and knowledge have been passed down through many generations. This sacred art form blends Spanish weaving techniques with indigenous designs creating one-of-a kind rugs, blankets, and clothing.
Learn more at: www.holychimayo.us www.ortegasweaving.com
Historic Inns & Famous Restaurants
Celebrate New Mexico’s cultural heritage by staying at choice hotels and visiting classic New Mexican restaurants. Breakfast is included daily and 4 lunches and 4 dinners at quintessential New Mexico venues. Savor local unique flavors, international cuisine, and farm fresh meals.
New Mexico’s Historic Inns and Hotels embody the culture, traditions, and spirit of the region. These classic hotels were built in the Spanish/pueblo style and are steps away from the Santa Fe Plaza, restaurants, shopping, galleries, and museums. Enjoy a walking tour of the unique architecture and history of Santa Fe’s historic district and inns, in our nation’s first capital city.
Wellness at World Class Spas
Stay and soak at one of the oldest health spas in the U.S. and breathe in the beauty of the High Desert and mountains. Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, located one hour northwest of Santa Fe, has a colorful history dating back to the ancestral Anasazi people, the original Spaniards, and modern-day people. These healing waters are one-of-a-kind geothermal springs that contain four pools with separate minerals: soda, lithia, iron, and arsenic. Each hot springs pool is naturally sulfur-free. These legendary waters became the country’s first health resort in 1868, and has been a place for people to heal and rejuvenate ever since. Enjoy soaking, yoga, exploring ruins, hiking, or treating yourself to a massage, facial, or spa treatment.
Learn more at: www.ojosparesorts.com
Our trip will include a two-night stay at the luxurious El Monte Sagradro in Taos, NM, a classic Heritage Hotel and Resorts company. The resort is located within walking distance of Taos's historic plaza. Known for its global design and exquisite grounds, it is designed with an eco-conscious, world-class spa and rejuvenation center, perfect for relaxation and wellness.
Learn more at: www.elmontesagrado.com
Wineries
New Mexico is the oldest wine making region in the country. The Spaniards bought the art of winemaking to the region originally in the late 1500s. in 1629, Franciscan monks smuggled the first vines into the area. By the time New Mexico became a U.S. territory in 1853, vineyards were planted across the entire state. In 1968, Jesuit priests settled in New Mexico, brought their Italian winemaking techniques to the state. New Mexico boasts over 60 wineries and has three distinct wine growing regions, with southern New Mexico the oldest. Today, the state is known for its wine.
Casa Rodena Winery located in the agricultural north valley of Albuquerque, was opened to the public in 1998. This winery replicates the Old-World charm of Spain, offers award-winning wines, and has become a center for the arts. Wine tasting hours are daily between 12-7pm.
Learn more at: www.casarodena.com
D.H. Lescombes Winery located in Deming, in the south, is the largest winery in the state, and has been in the family’s heritage for six generations. Also, located in Old Town, Albuquerque, is the D.H.Lescombes Winery and Bistro (AKA St. Clare Winery and Bistro). Offering the best wine, gourmet food and excellent service, this winery and bistro is sure to entice and satisfy.
Learn more at: www.lescombeswinery.com
Spanish Mission Churches
Steeped in a colorful history, New Mexico has an abundance of Spanish missions. Many
churches were established the late 1500s to 1600s. Historians refer to the 1600s as “the golden age of mission churches.” These missions are a classic example of Spanish Colonial architecture made with traditional adobe bricks, and are a treasure for Hispanic art. The churches have been a vital part of the people of New Mexico and continue to offer spiritual nourishment today. On the tour you will visit several historical churches, all unique and with their own story to tell.
Learn more at: www.newmexiconomad.org
Some of the historic churches on Tierra Tour will include the following:
San Francisco Church (Taos) – Painted by Georgia O’Keefe and photographed by Ansel Adams
San Geronimo (Taos Pueblo)—Built in 1850, this church is an integral spiritual home of the
Tiwa-speaking Puebloan Indians, the patron saint is St. Jerome.
Santurio de Chimayo (Chimayo) –“Loudes of America” the largest pilgrimage in the U.S.
San Miguel Chapel (Santa Fe)—The oldest church in the United States
Loretto Chapel (Santa Fe) – The home of the mysterious “flying staircase”
San Francisco Basilica (Santa Fe)- It is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe
Our Lady of Guadalupe (Santa Fe)-First church in America dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe
Indian Pueblos and Ruins
New Mexico is home to 19 pueblos whose indigenous descendants are believed to be Anasazi (“Ancient Ones”), who populated the Four Corners region of Utah, Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico. Primarily located north-south along the Rio Grande River, these people maintain traditions, celebrations, ceremonies, and language to the past and present, and to future generations of Native Americans to come.
The Puye Cliff Dwellings located on the Pajarito Plateau in the Jemez Mountains in northcentral New Mexico, are thought to be the winter dwellings of the Anasazi people. These fascinating ruins and cliff dwellings are sure to spark the imagination of life long ago. The Santa Clara Pueblo people are thought to be direct descendants of these people.
Step back in time at Taos Pueblo, the northern-most pueblo and considered to be one of the longest continuously inhabited villages in the U.S. The world-famous multi-storied pueblo sits in front of the sacred Taos Mountain. Taos Pueblo is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a National Historic Landmark. Located one mile north of the Town of Taos, this vibrant community has successfully preserved its traditions, language, and culture for over one thousand years.
Learn more at:
Museums and Galleries
With over 250 art galleries, Santa Fe is considered the “Art Capital of The West”. The City
Different is a hub for the performing and visual arts- from folk art, tribal art, landscapes,
contemporary and fine art. World famous Canyon Road, in Santa Fe, contains over 100 art
galleries in a half mile stretch. This charming district dates-back-to the 1750s and is nestled among gorgeous trees, flowers, and quaint adobes. Stroll the quaint pedestrian-friendly road with restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries is a must-see. Several New Mexico State Museums are located around the Plaza and are worth a visit for learning about in-depth history and colorful local characters. Tour Participants will also get a chance to explore Museum Hill, where four classic museums are located including the unrivaled International Folk Art Museum, along with panoramic stunning desert views.
Learn more at:
Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and Home
Georgia O'Keeffe was a 20th-century American painter and pioneer of American modernism best known for her canvases depicting flowers and New Mexican landscapes. Georgia O’Keeffe is perhaps the most famous American painter of the 20 th century, with a career spanning over seven decades. O’Keeffe began her art career in New York City and moved to the southwest in the 1940’s where she fell in love with the wide-open spaces, desert colors, endless blue sky and the local culture. Today, the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, located in Santa Fe, one block from the Plaza, houses an incredible collection of this iconic artist. Located 52 miles north of Santa Fe, O’Keeffe’s Home and Studio reflects a blend of Native American and Spanish Colonial building styles, regional architectural traditions dating back centuries. On this tour, we will visit her museum and home and studio located in Abiqui, NM. The Ghost Ranch, a geological wonder and today a thriving center for spirituality and art, was a seasonal home of O’Keeffe and the
inspiration for many of her most famous paintings.
Learn more at:
Flamenco Dance and Show
Flamenco is Spain’s national dance, it originated from the regions of Andalucía, in southern Spain. The roots of flamenco are from the Roma migration from Rajasthan (in northwest India) to Spain between the 9th and 14th centuries, with influences stemming from the Phoenicians and Roman eras. It has ancient origins and gestures that are reminiscent of classical Hindu dance. Flamenco originated in Spain with the arrival of the gypsies (Gitanos) on the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), in the 15th century. It is a dance of artistry, passion, and deep emotion, sprinkled with Moorish influences.
Spanish dance made its way to the United States in the mid-1800s. During the early 20th
century, New Mexico’s Spanish heritage began to be celebrated in local fiestas.
Today, Albuquerque is home to North America’s largest institute teaching nuevo Flamenco to generations interested in keeping this timeless folkloric tradition alive, and is home to the National Institute of Flamenco, which hosts the annual Festival Flamenco Albuquerque, the largest festival outside of Spain, attracting Flamenco dancers near and far. There are many venues in Albuquerque and Santa Fe to catch a show at a local cabaret celebrating this distinctive art form. Your soul will be delighted and enthralled.
Learn More at:
https://search.app/95aDDretpW23p9k89 (El Palacio Magazine)