Taos Pueblo Travel Guide
Discover Taos Pueblo with our comprehensive guide that includes information on things to do, where to stay, local customs, and much more.
- Introduction to Taos Pueblo
- List of Places to Visit in Taos Pueblo
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Taos Pueblo
- Best Things to Do in Taos Pueblo: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Taos Pueblo
- Food and Drink Scene of Taos Pueblo
- Where to Stay in Taos Pueblo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Taos Pueblo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Taos Pueblo
- Best Time to Visit Taos Pueblo
- Do’s and Don’ts of Taos Pueblo
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Taos Pueblo: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Taos Pueblo
- Where to Go Next from Taos Pueblo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is an ancient Native American village located in North Central New Mexico, United States of America. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. This enchanting place is rich in both cultural heritage and natural beauty and makes for an unforgettable vacation spot.
List of Places to Visit in Taos Pueblo
Before you go, plan your visit by checking out these places:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Taos Pueblo Visitor Center - Get an overview of the history, culture, and traditions of Taos Pueblo.
- Lilac Lane Gift Shop - It’s the primary source for Pueblo crafts.
- San Geronimo Catholic Church - A beautiful old church with a mix of Catholic and Puebloan design elements.
- Taos Art Museum - Showcasing artwork from Taos Society of Artists.
- Martinez Hacienda - This beautifully preserved hacienda is part of a National Historic Site.
Natural Attractions of Taos Pueblo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Rio Grande Gorge Bridge - Soak in the stunning panoramic views of the Rio Grande and the gorge from this bridge.
- Taos Ski Valley - For those who love winter sports, this is the place to be.
- Kokopelli Rafting Adventures - Enjoy a thrilling river rafting trip along the Rio Grande.
- Cimarron Canyon State Park - Perfect for hiking and picnicking with amazing views.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Taos Pueblo
For hiking and biking enthusiasts, Taos Pueblo has a variety of routes to offer. Some of the popular ones include:
- The Williams Lake Trail: A steep hike with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
- The Rift Valley Trail: A moderate hike offering incredible views of the Rio Grande Gorge.
- The Borrego Trail: A challenging trail with stunning views of the Taos Plateau.
Best Things to Do in Taos Pueblo: Activities and Tours
Here are some of the must-try activities and tours in Taos Pueblo:
- Hot air balloon rides: Get a bird’s-eye view of Taos Pueblo and the surrounding mountains from a hot air balloon.
- Horseback riding tours: Explore the area on horseback with guided tours of the rugged terrain surrounding Taos Pueblo.
- Photography tours: Capture the magical, natural beauty of Taos Pueblo with a guided photography tour.
Week-Long Itinerary for Taos Pueblo
Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Taos Pueblo:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Taos Pueblo Visitor Center, San Geronimo Church, and the Lilac Lane Shop. |
| 2 | Head to the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, then go for a thrilling rafting trip. |
| 3 | Visit the Taos Ski Valley, enjoy skiing/snowboarding. |
| 4 | Check out the Kokopelli Rafting Adventures, book a horseback riding tour. |
| 5 | Spend a day exploring the Cimarron Canyon State Park. |
| 6 | Take a hot air balloon ride, do a photography tour. |
| 7 | End your trip with a visit to the Taos Art Museum and Martinez Hacienda. |
Food and Drink Scene of Taos Pueblo
Must-Try Dishes
- Red and Green Chile: A staple of Southwestern cuisine, taste some authentic chile in Taos Pueblo.
- Piki Bread: A traditional bread made with blue cornmeal and heated on a stone.
- Frito Pie: A delicious snack made with Fritos, chile, cheese, and sour cream.
Local Beverages
- Piñon Coffee: A specialty coffee made using piñon nuts, a popular nut in the Southwest.
- Kiva Juice: A refreshing beverage made with fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
- Navajo Tea: A tea made from wild herbs common in the Southwest.
Where to Stay in Taos Pueblo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Here’s a list of some top-rated accommodations in Taos Pueblo:
- El Monte Sagrado: A luxury resort featuring beautiful artwork and a tranquil spa.
- Kachina Lodge Resort and Meetings Center: An affordable resort offering comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
- Hotel Don Fernando de Taos: A historic hotel featuring adobe-style architecture and luxurious rooms.
- Taos Inn: A landmark inn known for its stunning architecture and vibrant nightlife.
What to Buy in Taos Pueblo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Here are some unique souvenirs and products to buy in Taos Pueblo:
- Pottery: Handcrafted pottery is a must-buy souvenir in Taos Pueblo.
- Jewelry: Native American jewelry is known worldwide for its unique designs and craftsmanship.
- Textiles: Beautifully woven textiles featuring intricate designs are a popular buy in Taos Pueblo.
Local Culture and Customs of Taos Pueblo
The Pueblo people have a rich history and culture, and it is important to respect their customs and traditions. Visitors are expected to follow some basic rules:
- Photography is not allowed within the village.
- Pueblo people prefer visitors to dress conservatively and respect the sacredness of the space.
- Visitors must not bring alcohol into the village.
Best Time to Visit Taos Pueblo
The best time to visit Taos Pueblo is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed.
Do’s and Don’ts of Taos Pueblo
Do:
- Respect the customs and traditions of the Pueblo people.
- Take guided tours to learn more about the history and culture of Taos Pueblo.
- Buy souvenirs and other locally made products in Taos Pueblo to support the local economy.
Don’t:
- Take photographs within the village area.
- Bring alcohol into the village.
- Interrupt or disturb any traditional ceremonies taking place in the village.
Safety and Health
Safety in Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is a safe place to visit but like any tourist destination, it is important to take necessary safety precautions.
- Keep an eye out for slick terrain while hiking since the trails can be steep.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and do not leave valuables unattended.
- Follow all instructions given by guides and local officials.
Health in Taos Pueblo
The high altitude of Taos Pueblo can cause altitude sickness in some visitors. Visitors are recommended to drink plenty of water and take it slow to help adjust to the altitude.
Getting to Taos Pueblo: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Taos Pueblo
The nearest airport is the Taos Regional Airport, located about six miles from Taos Pueblo. The Albuquerque International Sunport is the closest major airport, located approximately 135 miles away.
Bus Stations Near Taos Pueblo
The closest Greyhound bus station is located in Taos, about three miles from Taos Pueblo.
Other Options
The most common mode of transportation for tourists visiting Taos Pueblo is by car. There are rental car companies available near the airport and in the town of Taos.
How to Get Around in Taos Pueblo
Taos Pueblo is a small village, and most destinations are within walking distance. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car or bicycle is recommended.
Where to Go Next from Taos Pueblo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Taos Pueblo is located in the beautiful region of northern New Mexico, and there are plenty of nearby destinations worth visiting after your trip. Some of the popular ones include:
- Santa Fe: Known for its stunning landscape and rich culture, Santa Fe is located approximately 70 miles away from Taos Pueblo.
- Albuquerque: The largest city in New Mexico, Albuquerque is approximately 135 miles from Taos Pueblo and offers a range of cultural and outdoor activities.
- San Luis Valley: Located in Colorado, San Luis Valley is known for its stunning scenic landscapes and offers plenty of outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
Taos Pueblo is a magical destination that offers plenty of opportunities to explore the rich history and culture of the Pueblo people. With a stunning landscape and plenty of outdoor activities, this ancient Native American village should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Use our comprehensive guide and plan your unforgettable trip to Taos Pueblo.
