Editor’s Note: During this period of social distancing, Group Tour magazine will continue to provide group travel inspiration. Many attractions and destinations are closed at this time; please contact them directly for updated information.


From a secret Catholic brotherhood to 1,000-year-old adobe homes, Turquoise Tours in Taos entertains groups with thrilling stories of the Wild West.

“Taos is best understood through its stories while visiting stunning sites for eyes and hearts to feast on,” said Lindsay Mapes, chief adventure officer at Turquoise Tours. “Turquoise Tours has the expert storytellers.”

Turquoise Tours started in 2016 with the intent to employ Native American tour guides and show off the history and beauty of the city. Now, the local tour company — the No. 1 Taos tour on Tripadvisor for the last two years — has 10 different experiences, from walking tours to mountain biking.

The Taos Highlights Tour is the most popular excursion. In shuttle buses, groups visit Taos’ top destinations, including the Taos Pueblo UNESCO World Heritage Site and Living Native American Village and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.

“Spot bighorn sheep, the funky Earthship community with dozens of houses totally off the grid and made of recycled materials and, of course, the heart of our downtown,” Mapes said.

In addition, Turquoise Tours offers the Taos Walking Tour, Taos Winery Tours, Private Tours and Taos Pueblo Experiences.   

Credit: Turquoise Tours

Learn about the past red-light district, hear stories on the Crypto-Jewish community, visit the oldest winery in New Mexico and dine on a traditional Pueblo meal inside a Pueblo home.

For the experienced adrenaline junky, the Mountain Bike Shuttle takes groups to the South Boundary Trail to experience rides along towering peaks and gorgeous views. No matter the group’s desire, Turquoise Tours provides an exciting and educational experience.

“We have the most experienced guides that are a hoot in front of groups,” Mapes said. “We also know the logistics of locations, like hours of operations at sites and museums, parking, handicap accessibility options, etc. Since we’ve been catering to large groups as step-on guides for four seasons, we know what their needs are.” Tours are public, but private tours are available. Tours range from a half hour to three hours, dependent on the tour.

For more information call 575-776-8687 or go to turquoisetours.us.