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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

New Mexico, USA

Accommodation Types

Full spectrum of lodging options from hostels to luxury hotels

  • Hostels

    Limited hostel options exist in Taos for budget travelers. They feature dormitory-style or private rooms at lower prices.

  • Motels

    Numerous budget-friendly and mid-range motels are available. Many are family-run, offering clean and straightforward lodging.

  • Hotels

    Taos features hotels, from standard chain hotels with consistent amenities to independent boutique hotels that display unique character and local charm.

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    High-end options are available, some with spas, fine dining restaurants, and extensive amenities for a pampered stay.

Unique local accommodation types

  • Historic Inns/Bed & Breakfasts

    Many charming, historic adobe properties are now Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs). These display an unique New Mexican experience with personalized service and often include breakfast.

  • Casitas/Guesthouses

    These are private, often traditionally built, small homes or apartments available for rent. They provide a more independent and authentic stay.

  • Vacation rentals and apartment options

    Platforms like Vrbo are popular for finding vacation rentals, apartments, and private homes. They offer more space, privacy, and amenities like kitchens, useful for longer stays or families.

  • Camping and outdoor accommodation

    Several campgrounds in the Carson National Forest surrounding Taos range from primitive sites to developed sites with amenities. Commercial RV parks with hookups for recreational vehicles are near Taos town.

Neighborhood Guide

You will not find tourist accommodation within Taos Pueblo itself; visitors stay in the nearby town of Taos.

Taos Plaza Downtown

Benefits
  • Central location, walkable to many attractions.
  • Lively atmosphere.
Drawbacks
  • Can be noisy, especially during events.
  • Parking might be challenging and expensive.
  • Accommodation prices can be higher.

Kit Carson Road/East Taos

Benefits
  • Good balance of accessibility to town center and tranquility.
  • Often good value hotels.
Drawbacks
  • Requires a short walk or drive to the Plaza.

Ranchos de Taos

Benefits
  • Provides an authentic New Mexican experience.
  • Accommodation is often more affordable.
  • Picturesque area for photography.
Drawbacks
  • A car is necessary to access Taos town and Taos Pueblo (15-20 minute drive).

Safety and Transportation

Safety Considerations

All listed areas in Taos are generally safe for tourists. Exercise standard precautions against petty crime. Lock car doors and secure valuables in all areas.

Proximity & Noise

Taos Plaza is best for walking to downtown attractions and for Blue Bus routes. Other areas are quieter and more serene. A rental car offers the most flexibility for exploring the wider Taos area.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies will help travelers secure accommodation at the right price.

Advance booking recommendations by season

  • High Season (Summer, Fall Foliage, Winter Ski Season): Book 2-4 months in advance. Popular B&Bs or unique properties fill quickly.
  • Shoulder Season (Spring, Late Fall): Book 1-2 months in advance. More availability exists during these times.
  • Low Season (Winter excluding holidays): Deals are often available a few weeks before your trip. Advance booking is still advisable for preferred places.
  • Holidays/Special Events: Book 6 or more months in advance for major holidays or Taos events. Demand is very high.

Trusted booking platforms and local reservation systems

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Use platforms like Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb, and Vrbo. These platforms display a wide selection and competitive prices.
  • Direct Booking: Many local B&Bs and independent hotels display the best rates when booking directly through their websites. Check their sites after searching OTAs. Travelers can also explore specific hotel chains like IHG Hotels for their properties in the region.
  • Budget-Focused: For budget options, Hostelworld lists economical stays.
  • Unique Stays: Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique house and pet sitting opportunities that can save on lodging.

Financial Considerations

Negotiation and Policies
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is not common or expected at most hotels or B&Bs in Taos, especially during peak season. Better last-minute deals might appear at larger chain motels during the low season.
  • Policies vary by property. Always check deposit and cancellation policies before booking. Many properties display free cancellation up to a certain date. Some require non-refundable deposits, especially for longer stays or peak season bookings.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are significantly higher during high season, which covers summer, fall, and the winter ski season. Prices also increase during holidays.
  • Prices are typically lowest in late fall (November) and early spring (March).

Note for Asian Travelers

Agoda

For those accustomed to booking via Agoda, this platform also features properties in Taos, offering familiar booking processes.

Cultural Fit

While Taos does not have specific Asian-focused accommodations, many local inns and B&Bs offer warm hospitality that can feel welcoming.

Language

English is the main language. Translation apps can be helpful for specific needs.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks in Taos, categorized by budget and travel style, including properties with special significance.

Top picks for different budget levels

Budget

A short drive to the Pueblo.

  • Motel 6 Taos: Basic, clean, and economical lodging.
Mid-Range

  • El Pueblo Lodge: Near the Plaza, this lodge features an adobe style and comfortable rooms.
  • Hotel La Fonda de Taos: A historic hotel on the Plaza. It boasts an unique art collection.
Luxury

  • Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa (day trip distance): This resort offers a relaxing spa experience, located south of Taos.
  • The Blake at Taos Ski Valley (seasonal): A luxury resort near the ski slopes, about a 30-minute drive from Taos Pueblo.
  • Palacio de Marquesa: A luxury boutique hotel with unique rooms and personalized service.

Traveler-Specific Recommendations

Family-friendly options

Search for hotels with pools, like Hotel Don Fernando. Vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms and kitchens are also good choices. Campgrounds in the national forest display an outdoor family experience.

  • Consider properties with amenities like pools.
  • Vacation rentals with kitchens can save costs.
Solo traveler recommendations

Consider hostels or welcoming B&Bs. Properties near Taos Plaza offer access to activities and dining, making it simple to connect with others or explore independently.

  • Look for B&Bs with communal areas.
  • Stay near Taos Plaza for easy access.
Long-stay accommodations

Vacation rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo) are ideal for longer stays. They feature more space and kitchen facilities. Some hotels feature extended stay rates; travelers can inquire about these.

  • Vacation rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo)
  • Hotels with extended stay rates.

Properties with exceptional cultural or historical significance

  • Hotel La Fonda de Taos

    This is a historic landmark on the Plaza. It features a collection of D.H. Lawrence's forbidden paintings, adding an unique cultural layer.

  • Many B&Bs

    Often situated in historic adobe buildings, these properties provide a strong sense of place and local charm, immersing visitors in the region's heritage.

Homestay and community-based tourism

  • Homestay Opportunities

    Formal, organized homestay opportunities for tourism are not widely available in the immediate Taos Pueblo area.

  • Community-Based Tourism

    Some vacation rentals might offer a similar experience to a homestay, but direct community-based tourism programs are uncommon in the Pueblo area.

Special Considerations for Pet Owners

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Many hotels and vacation rentals in Taos welcome pets, but policies and fees vary widely. Always confirm pet policies directly with the property before booking.

  • Look for specific "pet-friendly" filters on booking sites.
  • Expect additional fees or deposits for pets.
Pet Guidelines for Taos Pueblo

Pets are generally not permitted inside Taos Pueblo out of respect for the residents and their animals. Service animals are an exception, but it is best to check directly with the Pueblo for specific guidelines prior to a visit.

  • Pets are not allowed inside the Pueblo (service animals may be an exception).
  • Always check with the Pueblo directly for current rules.

Guest Review Insights

Hospitality

Many guests praise the warm and welcoming hospitality found in Taos B&Bs and family-run motels.

Uniqueness

Properties often embody the distinct adobe architecture and artistic spirit of Taos, offering memorable stays.