Bring special meaning to your holiday season on a journey to a dramatic and beautiful part of the country. The winter solstice has great significance to Pueblo cultures, and both Albuquerque and Taos have special events to celebrate this festive time of year. Venturing to New Mexico off-season allows us affordable stays in Albuquerque and Taos at top-rate historic accommodations full of charm. Experience a wonderful blend of nature and culture and take care of your holiday shopping!

Discover outstanding geological and archeological sites, national monuments, historic trading posts, and modern galleries that feature some of the best Southwestern artists—past and present. By visiting the varied habitats of Bandelier National Monument and Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge at this time of year, we avoid the crowds typical of other seasons.

Bosque del Apache, in fact the entire Middle Rio Grande valley, is one of the richest wintering areas for cranes and waterfowl in the Southwest. Each autumn and winter, tens of thousands of ducks (17 species!), geese, and cranes pour into the extensive fields, wetlands, and marshes of the valley.

In Albuquerque, we explore the birds and forested habitats of the surrounding mountains, and drive to the crest of the Sandia Mountains (over 10,000 ft) to seek out the three species of Rosy Finches at probably the most reliable place in the country to see them. While there, we enjoy the scenic bird’s eye view of the Rio Grande valley. This is a Naturalist Journeys sampler trip, with a blend of birding, travel photography, cultural attractions, and fun!

  • "Bryan is wonderful. He is an amazing bird expert. And he dealt with everything with such patience and good humor. I hope to go on another NJ adventure with him as a
  • guide." — 2023 New Mexico Client

Tour Highlights

  • Travel through scenic and historically rich New Mexican villages and landscapes
  • Search for three species of Rosy Finches
  • Witness one of the most population-dense wintering areas for waterfowl and cranes in the Southwest
  • Explore an authentic pueblo and meet local artisans
  • Gaze upon the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains—the southernmost subrange of the Rockies
  • Drive the fascinating High Road between Taos and Santa Fe, stop at Chimayo and other historic sites including the Santa Fe plaza with its many colorful vendors and wares.
  • Take your taste buds on an adventure with New Mexico’s famous green chili (and learn the answer to the state question)!

Trip Itinerary

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.

Thurs., Dec. 5             Arrive in Albuquerque

Early arrivers may choose to visit Albuquerque’s delightful Rio Grande Nature Center, where we look out over the fields and wetlands with the Sandia Mountains as a backdrop and we take a short walk on trails through beautiful riverside bosque (what locals call riparian cottonwood forest). Behind the large windows of the Antoine Predock-designed Nature Center building, we watch Wood Duck, Gadwall, American Wigeon, coots, and other wintering birds at a beautiful, willow-lined pond.

 After birding and exploring the nature center, we settle into our lodgings, then if you wish, explore a bit of nearby Old Town decorated in holiday garb, and gather for a welcome dinner at one of our favorite restaurants.
Accommodations in Albuquerque (D)

Fri., Dec. 6      Sandia Mountains | Old Town Albuquerque

Today we explore the Sandia Mountains (Spanish for watermelon) on our drive up to the Sandia Crest at over 10,000 feet! We travel up the east side through a variety of oak, pine, and mixed conifer forests. This is a popular recreation area for residents. We stop to bird en-route, with a chance to see Northern Pygmy Owl, Williamson’s Sapsucker, Steller’s Jay, Mountain Chickadee, Pygmy Nuthatch, and Clark’s Nutcracker. A portion of the drive is heavily forested, and at stops such as Cienega Canyon and Capulin Spring, we may find more typically northern species such as Townsend’s Solitaire, Pine Grosbeak, Cassin’s Finch, Red Crossbill, or (if we are really lucky) American Three-toed Woodpecker. Views are spectacular and eventually we reach the tree line and the open, often snowy and wind-swept crest. Here, feeders have been set up that ALL THREE North American species of Rosy Finches (Brown-capped, Gray-crowned, and Black) are attracted to in most winters. We view the feeders from below, in the parking lot, or above from the side of the shop, depending on the wind and weather conditions. 

The joy of a Sandia Crest birding day is that atop the world, the birds come to us! We also may have some good raptor viewing, with Merlin and Northern Goshawk both possible. We have lunch in nearby Sandia Park or Cedar Crest.

 After our first half of the day in the Sandias with the Rosy Finches, we make our way south to Socorro. Time permitting, we make a quick visit to Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge for sunset and the evening fly-in. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant in Socorro.
Accommodations in Socorro (B,L,D)

 Sat., Dec. 7           Bernardo | Bosque del Apache | Cranes & Geese

The Middle Rio Grande, including Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in central New Mexico, is one of the richest wintering areas for waterfowl and cranes in the Southwest. Each autumn, tens of thousands of ducks and geese converge in the extensive wetlands and marshes of the valley. Some years, this area harbors over 25,000 Snow and Ross’s Geese, as well as tens of thousands of Sandhill Cranes! In the morning, the noise is deafening as birds fly out of safe roosting areas to neighboring farm fields where they feed. Eagles and marauding Coyotes create quite a stir among the flocks—most often signaled by an explosion of thousands of geese. This is truly an experience not to be missed!

Our first stop during the day is the Bernardo Wildlife Management Area. This area has become a must-stop for any birding trip in the Middle Rio Grande. Managers plant extensive fields of corn, sorghum, and other crops to attract the cranes and geese. We admire the spectacle from the viewing platforms and wildlife drive, and walk a short distance to some viewing ponds.

We then continue further south to the legendary Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, where we enjoy a picnic lunch filled with a continual chorus of cranes and geese. One admirable feature of this refuge is the layout of the road system, which provides excellent proximity to many species. During the day, we drive the roads of the refuge looking for birds and other wildlife such as Mule Deer, Coyote, and Porcupine. Don’t be surprised if Wild Turkey or a herd of Javelina strut out from the brush! Bosque del Apache is legendary for the rarities that have occurred here over the years, such as the US’s only record of Rufous-necked Wood-Rail! The refuge, too, is at the northern edge of the range of some desert species such as Verdin and Pyrrhuloxia, which sometimes show themselves at the feeders. The refuge and surrounding areas are also excellent wintering sites for many raptors. Bald Eagle, American Kestrel, Northern Harrier, and Red-tailed Hawk are all fairly common. Ferruginous Hawk and Golden Eagle may also be seen in the area. 

After sunset at the refuge, we enjoy a bit of local flavor for dinner in Socorro before returning to our lodging.
Accommodations in Socorro (B,L,D)

Sun., Dec. 8    Crane Rise | Explore Santa Fe

We start the morning with an early option to join the cranes and geese for sunrise. This offers a spectacular opportunity for photographers wanting dramatic sunrise lighting. For those who just want to experience morning blast-off, it’s truly something not to be missed. Sometimes thousands of birds taking to the air all at once is a true spectacle. Sunrise at Bosque del Apache, with its stunning backdrops and dynamic birds, is easily one of our favorite birding experiences. 

 Once we get our fill of the morning show, we head back to the hotel for breakfast. We then depart for Santa Fe, taking some of the back roads to look for more birds and wildlife and to see more of the varied landscapes that make up New Mexico. We head up the Rio Grande Valley from Socorro and then turn east at Bernardo, crossing the Rio Grande and climbing up the vast grasslands to the small towns of Abo and Mountainair at the southern end of the Manzano Mountains. Time permitting, we stop at the Abo unit of the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, containing the scenic ruins of an ancient pueblo and the San Gregorio Mission. We then continue north through the Estancia Valley at the western edge of the vast Great Plains. This agricultural area is excellent for finding raptors in the winter, especially Ferruginous Hawk and, with luck, Golden Eagle.

 We then continue our travel north, eventually meeting the Turquoise Trail, the old highway to Santa Fe which heads north on the east side of the Sandia Mountains. We stop for lunch in the historic mining town of Madrid at a local café; some may wish to spend a bit of free time enjoying this intriguing town. We conclude our travels by driving north into Santa Fe, passing through small towns such as Cerrillos (famous for its nearby ancient turquoise mines) and arrive at our hotel. Check in is followed by free time to explore Santa Fe; our hotel has a convenient shuttle service. For those who wish, our guides lead a birding trip to the nearby Santa Fe Canyon Preserve and Randall Davey Audubon Center this afternoon.

 Tonight, we enjoy dinner at a local Santa Fe restaurant.
Accommodations in Santa Fe (B,L,D)

Mon., Dec. 9   Abiquiu | Ghost Ranch

This morning, we embark on a journey to the Chama River Valley and the town of Abiquiu. Along the way, we visit the unexcavated Poshuouinge Pueblo ruin, perched high on a hill above the Chama River. This impressive ruin (believed to have had 700 rooms!) is unexcavated, but the outlines of the buildings are clearly visible from the overlooks higher up the trail at the site. It is thought that the site was occupied from about 1375 to 1475, and its inhabitants were the ancestors of the people living in the modern-day Santa Clara and Ohkay Owingeh (formerly San Juan) Pueblos.

 We then head to the nearby small town of Abiquiu (“wild chokeberry place” in the native Tewa language). In addition to being the town where Georgia O’Keeffe spent her winters, Abiquiu was the start of the Old Spanish Trail, the former trading route between Santa Fe and California. After lunch at the comfortable Abiquiu Inn, we proceed to the nearby Ghost Ranch where we tour the landscape that so inspired Georgia O’Keeffe, including some of the specific formations (and even trees!) that she painted. If time permits, there are lovely hikes and museums to explore here, and much to see. We return to Santa Fe for dinner.
Accommodations in Santa Fe (B,L,D)

 Tues., Dec. 10        Taos  | Pueblos & Museums

We leave Santa Fe early and stop in Española, first settled by Don Juan de Oñate in 1598, for breakfast en-route. We then continue driving north along the Rio Grande, soon entering the steep and scenic lower gorge. As we travel along the river, we look for Common Merganser, Common Goldeneye, and other waterbirds along the river. Toward the end of our trip to Taos, we climb out of the gorge and emerge onto the vast, sagebrush-covered plateau that surrounds the Taos area and extends north into Colorado.

 Our first stop for the morning is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, just west of Taos proper. This bridge, tenth highest in the US, spans the Rio Grande Gorge and we walk along the rim and on the bridge to gaze at the river some 600 feet below. On many occasions, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep can be spotted in the gorge or on the adjacent mesas, signs of a successful reintroduction effort on the part of Taos Pueblo and the State of New Mexico. We then head to Taos itself, stopping first at the Millicent Rogers Museum. The museum, named after its founder, an heiress of the Standard Oil fortune, has an amazing collection of fine art. It is particularly strong on Native American art, with a comprehensive collection of Pueblo pottery from all the current pueblos and many historical pieces. An entire room is devoted to the legendary potter Maria Martinez from San Ildefonso Pueblo, who almost single-handedly rediscovered the technique of black-on-black pottery and produced many superb pieces. Another fascinating part of the collection is several 19th Century Navajo blankets, which are extremely rare.

 After lunch in Taos at a favorite restaurant near the Plaza, we have a bit of free time to explore the center of this famous town. We travel to the stunning Taos Pueblo, or “Place of the Red Willows” in the native Tiwa language, framed by the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Probably the oldest continuously inhabited place in North America, built between 1000 and 1450, many Pueblo people still inhabit this village; it is a pleasure and a privilege to share time in their ancient home as they prepare for the family celebrations of Christmas and the winter solstice. After a guided tour, we take time to walk through some areas of the pueblo where we can visit with artists who live and work here. Many parts of the pueblo, including the Catholic Church, contain rock and adobe structures that date back a thousand years. Enjoy the mouth-watering smell of bread baking in the hornos (clay ovens), or the fragrance of juniper-log fires warming the artists’ homes.

 After our tour ends, we make the return trip to Santa Fe. Time permitting, we stop and visit the San Francisco de Asís Mission Church in Ranchos de Taos, made famous by Georgia O’Keeffe, Ansel Adams, and Paul Strand. The trip has nearly endless photo opportunities of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, which have inspired many artists and photographers, and where Robert Redford’s The Milagro Beanfield War was set.

 We enjoy dinner at one of our favorite restaurants in Santa Fe.
Accommodations in Santa Fe (B,L,D)

Wed., Dec. 11   Jemez Mountains | Bandelier National Monument

This morning we leave Santa Fe and travel an hour northwest through the Jemez Mountains to Bandelier National Monument, a gem of the National Park system. The monument boasts the highest density of archeological sites of any national park, all in numerous distinctive and beautiful canyons carved into the Pajarito (“Little Bird”) Plateau. The ancestors of modern pueblo tribes inhabited this site—which has an abundance of water—even after abandoning others in their region. We walk trails established in the 600-foot-deep Frijoles Canyon to examine the historic structures. The geology of the area is fascinating as well, with layers of pale ash and tuff encrusting darker, denser strata beneath, portraying the rocks’ volcanic origin. We also have the opportunity to look for some of the typical winter birds of the mountains of New Mexico, including Townsend’s Solitaire, Mountain Chickadee, Juniper Titmouse, three species of nuthatch, and, if we’re lucky, Pinyon Jay.

 After lunch at a favorite restaurant in White Rock, we travel to nearby Los Alamos to make a brief stop at the Bradbury Science Museum to explore the history of the Manhattan Project (another important aspect of New Mexico’s history) and then continue back to Santa Fe. If there is interest in more free time in Santa Fe, we can send one vehicle back early from Los Alamos.

Enjoy a final dinner tonight at one of our favorite local restaurants in Santa Fe with time to recount our adventures.
Accommodations in Santa Fe (B,L,D)

Thurs., Dec. 12    Departures from Albuquerque

After breakfast, we make the one-hour drive to take you directly from Santa Fe to the Albuquerque International Airport. You may want to stay on a few extra days to truly enjoy and explore the “City Different.” (B)

  • New Mexico, New Mexico Wildlife, Wildlife Tour, Photography, Birdwatching, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Bosque del Apache, Pueblos, Culture & Crafts

    Ferruginuous Hawk by Bryan Calk

  • New Mexico, New Mexico Wildlife, Wildlife Tour, Photography, Birdwatching, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Bosque del Apache, Pueblos, Culture & Crafts

    Cactus against Adobe home

  • New Mexico, New Mexico Wildlife, Wildlife Tour, Photography, Birdwatching, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Bosque del Apache, Pueblos, Culture & Crafts

    Bighorn Ram

  • New Mexico, New Mexico Wildlife, Wildlife Tour, Photography, Birdwatching, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Bosque del Apache, Pueblos, Culture & Crafts

    Group at Bandelier National Park by Bryan Calk

  • New Mexico, New Mexico Wildlife, Wildlife Tour, Photography, Birdwatching, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Bosque del Apache, Pueblos, Culture & Crafts

    Santa Fe Market

  • New Mexico, New Mexico Wildlife, Wildlife Tour, Photography, Birdwatching, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Bosque del Apache, Pueblos, Culture & Crafts

    Taos Scenic by Bryan Calk

  • New Mexico, New Mexico Wildlife, Wildlife Tour, Photography, Birdwatching, Santa Fe, Albuquerque, Taos, Bosque del Apache, Pueblos, Culture & Crafts

    Williamson's Sapsucker by Bryan Calk

  • New Mexico Nature tour, New Mexico Wildlife Tour, New Mexico Birding Tour, Naturalist Journeys
  • New Mexico Nature tour, New Mexico Wildlife Tour, New Mexico Birding Tour, Naturalist Journeys

    Juniper Titmouse by Bryan Calk

Cost of the Journey

Cost of the main journey is per person, based on occupancy: $3590 DBL / $4365 SGL, from Albuquerque, NM. This cost includes accommodations for seven nights, meals as specified in the itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), airport welcome and transfer or hotel shuttle, land transportation during the journey, professional guide services, park and other entrance fees, and miscellaneous program expenses. This cost does not include round-trip airfare to and from Albuquerque, NM or items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone, drinks from the bar, gratuities for luggage handling or personal services.

Travel Details

Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.

Arrival and Departure Airport: Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

Arrival Time and Instructions: December 5, no later than 2:00 PM if you want to go birding at the Rio Grande Nature Center, and by 5:00 PM if you plan to go directly to the hotel to meet up for the welcome dinner. If you plan on arriving later in the day, please take a taxi to the hotel in Old Town in time to join us for dinner. Meet in the lobby at 6:30 PM.

Departure Time and Instructions: December 12, after 11:00 AM. After breakfast on December 12, we have a 1-hour drive from Santa Fe back to Albuquerque and plan to arrive at the airport by 9:30 AM.

Travel Tip: If you want to arrive a day or two early, Albuquerque is a great city known for its culture, cuisine, and architecture. The Albuquerque Museum is located right in Old Town within easy walking distance from our hotel and is a great showcase of the art and history of Albuquerque. Adjacent to the Albuquerque Museum is the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science has exhibits depicting billions of years of history in the state. Trendy shops and restaurants abound. If you want to go farther afield, Petroglyph National Monument is a great place to spend part of a day and has thousands of petroglyphs that were carved between 400 and 700 years ago. It’s best to have a rental car if you want to visit Petroglyph National Monument, although it is possible to get there with a taxi or Uber/Lyft.

Hotel Recommendations:

TOP CHOICE: Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town; 866-505-7829. Adding a night to our first night tour hotel makes the best use of your added time in a wonderful hotel and setting. You will need to taxi/Uber/Lyft to get there. We will pick up there for the Rio Grande Nature Center birding. If this is your choice, please book this online and give us the confirmation number that we submit when we send our final room list, the goal being you don’t have to change rooms. If you want to stay near the airport we recommend you book (and we can pick you up at): Comfort Suites Albuquerque Airport (505) 705-6500 Best Western Airport Albuquerque Inn Suites Hotel & Suites (505) 242-7022

Travel Tip: If you wish to extend your stay in Santa Fe, there are plenty of attractions. In addition to the many museums, the Saint Francis Cathedral, built in the late 1800s in French Romanesque architecture, stands out among the traditional Santa Fe architecture and has a rich history. The nearby Canyon Road is home to over 100 art galleries, which is the highest density in the US. The galleries have a wide range of art created by artists from all over the world. If you pick up a rental car, Pecos National Historical Park is only a 30-minute drive from Santa Fe and holds 12,000 years of history. There are numerous hotels you can book, we suggest you first try to add extra nights for you at the Hotel Santa Fe from our tour.

Airport Shuttles There are several shuttle options to get from Santa Fe to the Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ): RoadRunneR Shuttle (505) 424-3367 Groome Transportation (505) 474-5696

Browse below for trip reports and species lists from past versions of this and other tours from this destination.

New Mexico

Map for New Mexico Nature & Culture

Essential Information +

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have Read more

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have the best experience possible. If you only read one section, this one is key!

Ahead of Your Tour

  • Please talk with your doctor about general health needs. It is a good idea to consult with your doctor about general vaccinations recommended for travel.
  • Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed. After you make travel reservations, please send a copy of your travel itinerary to the Naturalist Journeys office at clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com.
  • Travel insurance in case of serious medical emergency is recommended. Full health coverage and repatriation is available through Allianz Travel Insurance.
  • Soft sided luggage/duffel bags are easiest for packing the vans. Remember to pack essential medications in your carry-on luggage, as well as one day of clothing and optics in case of luggage delay.

Health Information

We will share a copy of your health and emergency contact information with your guide. This information will be kept confidential but is very important in case of a medical emergency. In addition to bringing any prescription medications with you, we recommend that you have a copy of the prescriptions in case of loss.

Pace of the Tour & What to Expect

You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of hotels (our eContact List) a few weeks before your departure. This will serve as an outline for each day and alert you to any recent changes made in the schedule or to our hotels, if needed.

Our journeys are set up to follow the rhythm of nature. Our focus is on birding and nature; we offer full, well-planned field days and often get up early for that magical time around dawn. We generally follow the published itinerary, but we stay flexible to the weather, wildlife opportunities and the interests of the group. Your guide will keep you apprised of the next day’s schedule at each evening meal, noting what to bring and what to prepare for. Questions and/or concerns are welcome.

The pace of our Naturalist Journeys tours is moderate; to fully participate you should be able to get in and out of vehicles several times a day, and walk 1-3 miles over uneven terrain. It is important to participate with a flexible attitude as adjustments may be made in our schedule to make the most of our time in the field or for other purposes at your guide's discretion. We are not a “listing” bird company that drills down on target species, but at times we do wait for those special species unique to the places we visit. During the day, we take time to stop for photos and for educational opportunities to learn about conservation projects, landscapes, and geology. We appreciate other taxa as well as birds, with mammals often the biggest draw but plants and butterflies are also very popular. Our clients often lend their own expertise to the mix.  

We like to make meals a fun and memorable part of the experience, too. Breakfasts are often at hotels, and we carry snacks, fruit, and water in the vans each day. Lunches are a mix of picnics in the field (weather dependent) and a chance to dine with locals at small cafes and restaurants. For dinner, we pride ourselves in our homework to keep up with the best choices for dining, choosing restaurants with atmosphere that specialize in local foods. On occasion we keep dinner simple to go back out in the field for sunset wildlife viewing or night walks. In some remote locations, our choices are limited. If you are tired, room service for dinner may be an option you can choose.

Food & Drink

We carry water and juices/cold drinks in the cooler each day, and sodas if people like them. Please also plan on bringing and filling your water bottle for hiking each day. We try to use as few plastics as possible!

Packing, Clothing & Laundry

Soft sided luggage/duffel bags are easiest for packing the vans. Please pack essential medications in your carry-on luggage, as well as one day of clothing and optics in case of luggage delay.

Dress is informal and is casual even at restaurants. Layering is a great way to stay comfortable. Protective clothing is essential, whether it be from sun, rain, cold, insects, or vegetation. You need closed toe shoes, and wear comfortable walking shoes with good tread. Hiking boots with good support for hiking and on rocky terrain can work well.

Spending Money

Many people ask how much to plan to bring as spending money. Part of that depends on how much you want to shop. Most shops will take VISA and MasterCard or American Express. Typical items people purchase include local souvenirs and T-shirts, caps, and natural history books.  You may want to bring cash for drinks with dinner (if available) or smaller local purchases.

Gratuities

Expect the normal tipping protocol to apply for hotel maids and bar service. If at the end of the tour, you would like to show your appreciation to your guides, tipping is entirely appropriate but at your discretion. We hope that you will be pleased with all professional services. Gratuities for group meals are included. For your birding tour guide, we suggest $10-$15 per day per guest. Note that if there is more than one guide, this amount can be split among them.

Cell Phones & Internet Service

Wi-Fi and cell phone service are available in most US destinations, although there are some exceptions in remote locations. Wi-Fi is generally provided in all hotels, lodges, and restaurants you visit, at least in public areas. Please refrain from taking or making cell phone calls in the vehicles when traveling with other passengers unless it appears to be an emergency as this disrupts other guests – please plan cell phone calls on your own time.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in any vehicle or in any situation where the group is participating in an activity together, such as a vehicle excursion or a guided walk. Please respect all designated smoking areas at hotels and restaurants.

Transportation

For this tour, your guides will drive travelers in either full-size or mini-vans or a combination of those two. We ask all attendees to please rotate your seating, so you ride with different drivers and alternate between front and back seats.

Photo Release & Sharing

We take many group photos and will share photos with the group. And after your tour, we will organize a chance to share photos via Dropbox or Google Photos. Please note that this is our policy and if you prefer to be excluded, we need to know ahead of your tour.

By registering for this tour, you agree to grant to Naturalist Journeys and its authorized representatives permission to record photos and/or video of your participation in the tour. You further agree that any or all of the material photographed may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochures, or other printed materials used to promote Naturalist Journeys, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.

Questions?

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com or telephone our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey.

 

Packing List +

Please Pack Light! Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid Read more

Please Pack Light!

Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid hard sided piece, so if you have the choice, please use your soft luggage. Be sure to have your name and address on the inside of the bag, as well as on the luggage tag on the handle. It is our hope that you can pack in one checked suitcase that does not exceed 45 pounds. Be sure to pack your personal medication, airline tickets, passport, binoculars, camera, and other essential items in your carry-on bag. You will want a day pack for field trips, so this is an ideal carry-on. Please reconfirm your airline’s baggage weight and size restrictions about a week or so before departure.

Early morning temperatures are generally in the low-50°s F and daytime temperatures should be in mid 60’s and the low 70’s. If a storm comes in those temperatures will go lower. Sun protection is essential. Bring a windbreaker that doubles as rain gear, but in general this is a good weather time of year. Do check the extended forecast as you pack.

Dress is comfortable and informal throughout the trip. Dressing in layers is the best way to be comfortable. Lightweight long sleeve shirts and long pants make ideal field clothing as they are more protective from sun and vegetation. But if you like to wear them, by all means bring some shorts. Also, choose clothing you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy and that is comfortable and easy to wear.

Note on clothing colors and insect repellent: We recommend muted colors of tan, brown, khaki, grey or green, as they are spotted less easily than white or bright colors, though camouflage clothing is not recommended, and in some countries, not legal to wear. It is possible to purchase field clothing permeated with insect repellent such as the Craghoppers Insect Shield collection. Another approach is to purchase Permethrin spray (online or from REI) to treat your field clothing and socks before your departure.

Clothing & Gear

  • Long pants, 2 pairs
  • Long sleeve shirts (2)
  • T-shirts or equivalent (remember you may be buying some there anyway)
  • Lightweight raincoat or poncho (rain not likely, but possible)
  • Windbreaker type jacket (can be same as above)
  • Hat with broad brim
  • Personal underclothing
  • Socks, long enough to tuck in your pants – warm, lightweight and easy to wash and dry
  • Comfortable walking shoes and lightweight hiking boots – good tread is essential!
  • Medium to heavy weight jacket
  • Warm fleece/sweater/sweatshirt
  • Gloves, warm hat, scarf for mornings and evenings
  • Comfortable clothes for evening (a cleaner version of your field cloths or a skirt, etc.)
  • Field vest (optional), a great source is Big Pockets

Equipment & Miscellaneous

  • Airline tickets or e-ticket verification
  • Photo identification
  • Money pouch, or someplace to carry your money and passport with you at all times
  • Small daypack or fanny pack for carrying your field gear
  • Umbrella – compact and not brightly colored
  • Walking stick – we find that many travelers appreciate a walking stick on trails, sporting goods stores carry collapsible models that pack easily in your suitcase (optional)
  • Small flashlight with fresh batteries
  • Alarm clock
  • Sunscreen/lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses with neck strap
  • Insect repellent (something containing DEET, and sulphur powder or other for chiggers – try a garden store)
  • Toiletry articles
  • Binoculars
  • Spotting scope and tripod (optional)
  • Camera and extra batteries, memory cards, lens cleaning supplies and your instruction manual (optional)
  • Water bottle (or plan to refill one bought on location)
  • Notebook or journal and pen (optional)
  • Field guides (optional)
  • Laundry soap if you plan to do hand washing
  • Earplugs – in urban and even rural areas barking dogs and traffic noise can be annoying
  • Rechargeable power bank (optional)

 

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TRAVELING WITH PRECIOUS OR VALUABLE JEWELRY – don’t tempt anyone and don’t bring things you’d regret losing - your mind will be at ease!

Medical & First Aid Items

  • Personal medications (and copy of vital prescriptions)
  • Motion sickness preventatives if likely to be needed on bus, van drives, etc.
  • Personal first aid kit and medications for general ailments
  • Copy of eyeglass prescription, copy of medical prescriptions, vaccination records, and any medical alerts
  • Insurance information
  • Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts
  • Band-aids, moleskin to protect against blisters
  • Antibacterial soap in small container for quick handwashing

 

Suggested Reading List +

There are many titles of interest for New Mexico; the following are a few that Read more

There are many titles of interest for New Mexico; the following are a few that we have enjoyed that can get you started.

General Reading

Moon New Mexico

Field Guides

New Mexico Nature Set: Field Guides to Wildlife, Birds, Trees & Wildflowers of New Mexico

Field Guide to the Birds of North America

Sibley Guide to Birds

Kaufman Field Guide to Butterflies of North America

Dragonflies and Damselflies of the Southwest

Please note that your guide will have a full set of local identification guides for plants, reptiles and amphibians, mammals and butterflies. For those that want further detail:

A Guide to the Identification and Natural History of the Sparrows of the United States and Canada

Hawks in Flight

A Field Guide to Warblers of North America

A Field Guide to Hummingbirds of North America (Peterson Field Guides)

Natural History

Mountain Islands and Desert Seas:  A Natural History of the U.S./Mexico Borderlands

Roadside Geology of New Mexico

The Geology of Northern New Mexico’s Parks, Monuments and Public Lands

 The Birder’s Handbook: A Field Guide to the Natural History of North American Birds

The Complete Birder: A Guide to Better Birding

Lives of North American Birds

Pete Dunne’s Essential Field Guide Companion: A Comprehensive Resource for Identifying North American Birds

History & Culture

Georgia O’Keeffe and New Mexico: A Sense of Place

Georgia O’Keeffe and her Houses: Ghost Ranch and Abiquiu

The Pueblo Revolt: The Secret Rebellion that Drove the Spaniards Out of the Southwest

There is a good selection of books available for sale at visitors’ centers, and your guide will also have a selection of reference books and materials for participants to share. As an Amazon Associate, Naturalist Journeys earns from qualifying purchases, and may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page at no added cost to you.

 

Useful Links +

Learn more about your destination at these external websites, carefully researched for you. Read more

General

New Mexico – Encyclopedic Overview

Albuquerque

Visit Taos

The High Road

Nature, Wildlife & Biology

New Mexico Audubon

New Mexico Birding Checklist

Birds of New Mexico – Audubon Southwest

Animals of New Mexico – Animalia.bio

New Mexico, Living Landscapes  - New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science

Conservation, Parks & Reserves

New Mexico Game & Fish – Wildlife Conservation

Bernardo Waterfowl Management Area

Rio Grande Nature Center State Park

Bandelier National Monument

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge

Geology & Geography

Geology of New Mexico

Geography of New Mexico – Encyclopedic Overview

New Mexico’s Geography – New Mexico Art Museum

Sandia Mountains

Sangria de Cristo Mountains

History & Culture

History of New Mexico

New Mexico: Our Diversity Is Our Strength

Taos Pueblo

Bradbury Science Museum

Ghost Ranch

El Santuario de Chimayo

Millicent Rogers Museum

Helpful Travel Websites

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)

Homeland Security Real ID Act

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Center for Disease Control (CDC)

ATM Locator


Photo credits: Banners: Sandhill Cranes, Hugh Simmons; Taos Mountains, by Kyle Pontius on Unsplash; Black Bison, by Eric Murray on Unsplash; Primary: Pygmy Nuthatch, Brian Calk; View from O'Keefe Home, Lynn Tennefoss; Gadwall, Northern Pygmy Owl; Brian Calk Secondary: Coyote, Greg Smith; Evening Grosbeak, Brian Calk; Sagebrush Sparrow, Brian Calk Gallery: Ferruginuous Hawk, Brian Calk; Bighorn Ram, Brian Calk; Group Photo, Brian Calk; Northern Harrier, Greg Smith; Scenic, Brian Calk; Williamson's Sapsucker, Brian Calk; Juniper Titmouse, by John Duncan on Unsplash Itinerary: American Wigeon, Tom Dove; Wood Duck, Sandy Sorkin; Red-tailed Hawk, Sandy Sorkin; Sandhill Cranes, Greg Smith; Bald Eagles, Sandy Sorkin; ; Sandhill Crane, Peg Abbott; Sunset, Naturalist Journeys Stock; Taos, by Leon Bublitz on Unsplash.

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