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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

USA

Air Travel

Major Airports

Choose between a closer, smaller airport or a larger regional hub.

Airport Options

  • Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF): About 10 miles (16 km) southwest of downtown. Has limited commercial flights, mainly connecting flights to major hubs. This convenience saves you a longer drive.
  • Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ): Approximately 65 miles (105 km) south of Santa Fe. This is the main airport for visitors, having a wider range of direct flights from across the U.S.
  • Neither SAF nor ABQ has direct international flights. International travelers typically fly into a major U.S. Hub (DFW, DEN, LAX, ORD) then connect.

Airlines & Transfers

Airlines and their routes vary by airport. Consider your preferred method of transport from the airport.

Travel Logistics

  • SAF Airlines: American Airlines (Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix), United Airlines (Denver).
  • ABQ Airlines: Southwest, American, Delta, United, Alaska, Frontier, Spirit. Direct flights from many U.S. Cities.
  • Transfers from ABQ: Shuttle services like Groome Transportation are popular. Rental cars are most convenient. NM Rail Runner Express train also an option.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

Prices increase during peak seasons: summer, fall foliage, holidays, ski season. Book several months in advance for better rates.

Airport Facilities

SAF is small with basic amenities. ABQ is larger with more dining, shops, free Wi-Fi, and a dedicated rental car center.

Affordable Transfer

Pre-book a shuttle with Groome Transportation from ABQ to Santa Fe. This avoids the cost of a long taxi ride.

Transfer Options from Airports

From SAF to Santa Fe

  • Taxi/Ride-share: Readily available for a short ride to downtown.
  • Hotel shuttles: Some hotels have this service; check with your accommodation.
  • Rental Cars: Available at the airport; good for exploring the region.
  • Location: SAF is about 10 miles (16 km) southwest of downtown Santa Fe.

From ABQ to Santa Fe

  • Shuttle Services: Affordable and popular, e.g., Groome Transportation.
  • Rental Cars: Most convenient for flexibility and day trips. Book in advance.
  • NM Rail Runner Express: Train service from ABQ's Downtown station to Santa Fe Depot (approx. 1h 15m).
  • Location: ABQ is approximately 65 miles (105 km) south of Santa Fe.

Booking Advice for Air Travel

Book in Advance

Booking flights several months in advance generally has better prices, especially for ABQ.

Use Comparison Sites

Use Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner to track price trends and set alerts.

Be Flexible

Flexibility with your travel dates often has savings.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Train travel has an unique way to see the landscape.

Rail Options

  • NM Rail Runner Express: Commuter rail connecting Santa Fe (Santa Fe Depot) south to Albuquerque. Good for travelers moving between cities, offering scenic views.
  • Amtrak: Closest station is in Lamy, NM (about 20 miles south of Santa Fe). The "Southwest Chief" route serves Lamy.
  • Shuttle services from Lamy to Santa Fe are available but must be pre-booked with Amtrak.

Bus Options

Bus services connect Santa Fe to a wider network.

Bus Companies

  • Greyhound: Connects Santa Fe to other major U.S. Cities. The station is a few miles from downtown.
  • FlixBus: Offers intercity bus services to and from Albuquerque and other regional cities, often with more comfortable buses.
  • You will need a taxi or local bus to reach the city center from the Greyhound station.

Self-Driving Considerations

Know the rules and logistics of driving in Santa Fe.

Requirements

  • Valid driver's license. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Carry proof of insurance, often included with rental car agreements.
  • Minimum age for rental cars is generally 21, though often 25 without a young driver surcharge.

Road Conditions & Safety

Roads are generally well-maintained, but environmental factors and wildlife demand caution.

Hazards

  • Roads in and around Santa Fe are generally good. Some older streets in the historic Plaza area can be narrow and winding.
  • In winter, snow tires or chains may be for mountain passes during heavy snowfall. Check NMDOT for conditions.
  • Wildlife, like deer and elk, can be a hazard, especially at dawn and dusk on rural roads.

Important Driving Precautions

  • Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are for all occupants.
  • Texting while driving is illegal. Obey all posted speed limits and traffic signs.
  • Be aware of the potential for flash flooding during monsoon season; never drive through flooded areas.
  • Sea/River Arrivals: Not applicable. Santa Fe is landlocked.
  • Focus transportation planning on air and land options.
  • No international border crossings apply.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Timing

Prepare for a smooth departure from Santa Fe and the United States.

Departure Logistics

  • Exit Fees: No specific exit fees or taxes for departing the U.S. beyond those already in your airline ticket prices.
  • Timing (Domestic Flights SAF/ABQ): Arrive 1.5-2 hours before scheduled departure. This gives time for check-in and security.
  • Timing (International Flights): If connecting from ABQ or SAF to an international flight, allow 2-3 hours before departure from the international hub.

Airport Facilities

Understand the amenities available as you depart from either airport.

Amenities

  • SAF: Small terminal with limited amenities. Basic vending options, restrooms.
  • ABQ: Larger airport with a range of facilities. Various restaurants, shops, gift stores, newsstands.
  • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout ABQ airport.

Factor in Rental Car Return

Allow extra time for rental car returns, especially at ABQ, where the rental car center has a shuttle ride to the terminal.

Account for Traffic

Factor in traffic conditions, especially during peak travel times or local events.

Check Flight Status

Before heading to the airport, check your flight status online. Confirm departure times and gate information.

Sea/River Arrivals

Landlocked Location

Santa Fe is a landlocked city in the high desert of New Mexico.

No Water Access

  • Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not applicable.
  • There are no ferry services, cruise ports, or river transportation options that connect to Santa Fe.
  • Focus your transportation planning on air and land options.

High-Desert Charm

Santa Fe's unique charm is in its high-desert setting, far from major waterways.

Embrace the Unique Geography

  • The high desert landscape defines Santa Fe's character.
  • Enjoy the abundant sunshine and dry air.
  • Experience the distinct climate patterns of the region.

No Border Crossings

Within U.S. Borders

This section is not applicable for Santa Fe, as it sits entirely within the United States.

No International Crossings

No international border crossings apply to travel directly to or from Santa Fe.

Domestic Travel Only

Travel to Santa Fe from within the U.S. Does not involve any border formalities.

Transportation Tip

If you fly into Albuquerque (ABQ), pre-book a shuttle with Groome Transportation to Santa Fe. This avoids the cost of a long taxi ride and the hassle of renting a car immediately if you plan to stay centrally in Santa Fe.

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