New Mexico, USA
Organize your journey with this chronological planning timeline.
Steps to take at various intervals before your trip.
Book international flights if arriving from abroad. Aim for Albuquerque (ABQ) or Santa Fe (SAF) as your arrival airport.
Apply for your US Visa or ESTA if required for your nationality. This process may take time.
Consider acquiring travel insurance for unforeseen events.
Book domestic flights to ABQ, SAF, or Taos Regional Airport (TAS). Reserve a rental car if driving is your plan. Book your accommodation in Taos. Popular places fill swiftly during peak season.
Confirm Taos Pueblo operating hours for your specific travel dates. Check their official website regularly.
Plan a rough itinerary. This aids in organizing your days. Check your routine vaccinations are current. Consult your doctor if needed.
Confirm all flight, accommodation, rental car, and tour reservations.
Pack your bags according to the Taos climate and your planned activities. Layering is advisable. Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans to avoid card issues.
Download offline maps for navigation and any essential apps you plan to use. Make copies of important documents. Keep both digital and physical copies separate from the originals. Purchase a Digital Luggage Scale to verify bag weight before heading to the airport.
Securing reservations ahead of time is important, especially during peak seasons.
Ensure your home is secure and cared for in your absence.
Consider travel insurance from providers like World Nomads to cover unforeseen events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
These steps support a smooth settling-in upon reaching Taos.
Clear immigration and customs if an international traveler.
Pick up your rental car or meet your pre-booked shuttle service.
Acquire cash from an ATM if needed, as some smaller vendors at the Pueblo may prefer cash. Check into your accommodation.
Utilize maps to familiarize yourself with Taos town and the route to Taos Pueblo. This clarifies the layout.
Visit the Taos Visitor Center. They present local maps, brochures, and current information.
Withdraw USD from an ATM, or exchange currency if not already done. Purchase a local SIM card if desired, for reliable phone service.
Pack souvenirs carefully, especially fragile pottery. Consider shipping larger items directly from Taos to your home, if needed.
The United States lacks a nationwide VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists.
Allow ample time for travel to Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) or Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF). Factor in rental car return procedures and airport check-in times. Refer to section 4.4 for specific timing recommendations.
Repack your luggage with care, verifying all belongings are accounted for. Ensure any restricted items are not in your carry-on.
Steps to take at home to ensure a worry-free trip.
Protect your home while you are away.
Keep digital copies of documents on a secure cloud service or email them to yourself.
Store physical copies separately from originals, perhaps in a different bag or with a travel companion.
