AMERICAN SOUTHWEST CULTURAL JOURNEY
March 28 – April 7, 2027
A Women-Only Journey Through
Indigenous Heritage and Desert Wonder
More than a tour — a journey into meaning, memory, and sisterhood
There is a quiet power in the desert — a rhythm that pulses through red rock canyons, ancient dwellings, and starlit skies. On this women-only journey through the American Southwest, we invite you to slow down, listen deeply, and connect — not only with the land, the people, and the stories that have shaped this region for thousands of years, but also with the women who will walk beside you.
This is not a typical sightseeing tour. It is a cultural journey: intentional, respectful, and rooted in connection. We honor the people who have cared for these lands long before borders were drawn, and we walk with humility as guests on their homelands. Our time in the Navajo Nation is guided by those who live here, who share their stories not as performances, but as living history, offered with grace and truth.
But what makes this journey truly unforgettable is who you’ll share it with.
There is something deeply powerful about traveling with other women: the way walls come down, laughter flows freely, and silence feels safe. Whether you’re hiking to ancient cliff dwellings, reflecting in a quiet Sedona vortex, or sharing stories over dinner beneath a desert sky, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a community that understands the joy of being seen, heard, and supported. The Sisterhood we create on this journey is not just part of the experience — it is the experience.
The American Southwest is a place of deep contrasts and deeper meaning. Our journey invites you not just to witness it, but to feel it — in your bones, in your breath, and in the stories that will stay with you long after you return home.
Come with us. Let the land move you. Let the Sisterhood hold you.
Trip Highlights
- Stand in awe at Canyon de Chelly as Navajo guides share generations of heartfelt stories
- Feel the silence and sacred scale of Monument Valley, a place that stays with you
- Let the art, flavors, and spirit of Santa Fe welcome you to the Southwest
- Wander Sedona’s red rocks or journal in the sun as you slow down and reconnect
- Travel with women who get you, ready to listen, laugh, reflect, and create something lasting together
OUR ITINERARY
March 28, 2027
Your journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes and vibrant cultures of the American Southwest begins today in Santa Fe, New Mexico, famously known as the Land of Enchantment. Our historic hotel, housed in a 350-year-old hacienda, is in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, is just a five-minute walk from Santa Fe Plaza, the Georgia O’Keefe Museum, and the New Mexico Museum of Art. From the scent of pinon wood to the vibrant textures of handmade textiles, every corner of this multicultural capital city tells a story. (No meals are included today)
Hotel: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
March 29, 2027
There are no scheduled activities today, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore on your own with your new Sisters. Wander through Santa Fe’s adobe-lined streets, admire colorful local art, or enjoy your first taste of New Mexican cuisine. With its rich tapestry of Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican heritage, Santa Fe invites you to slow down, breathe in the desert air, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
March 30, 2027
Today, we’ll dive deeper into the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Santa Fe with a locally guided walking tour of the iconic Santa Fe Plaza, the city’s historic heartbeat and a vibrant gathering place for over four centuries. As we stroll the charming adobe-lined streets, we’ll pass by legendary landmarks such as the Santa Fe Indian Market, the Palace of the Governors, and the boutique-lined Palace Avenue, where every corner tells a story steeped in Indigenous, Spanish, and American history.
Our journey continues with a visit to the enchanting Loretto Chapel, home to the mysterious “miraculous staircase”, a spiral staircase shrouded in legend and admired for its architectural beauty and unexplained craftsmanship. This afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace with your new best friends before we come together this evening for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant, where delicious regional flavors and new friendships set the tone for our adventures ahead. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
March 31, 2027
Get ready for a day of discovery as we venture beyond Santa Fe to the breathtaking Bandelier National Monument — a dramatic landscape of canyons, mesas, and volcanic formations that holds deep historical and cultural significance. This stunning natural area was once home to Ancestral Puebloans, who lived here between 1150 and 1550 CE. Today, the site preserves an incredible collection of cliff dwellings, petroglyphs, and village ruins that tell the story of a resilient and innovative people.
It’s your choice how you want to experience Bandelier! Choose a guided hike through Frijoles Canyon, where you’ll walk among towering canyon walls and climb into ancient dwellings carved right into the rock. Or, you might opt for a more leisurely guided walk along a paved trail that still brings you up close to the cliff homes and archaeological sites, perfect for those who want a gentler pace without missing any of the wonder. Whichever you choose, the rest of the day is yours to explore independently with your Sisters when we return to Santa Fe this afternoon. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza
April 1, 2027
This morning, we’ll leave Santa Fe behind as we travel through New Mexico’s stunning high desert landscapes enroute to one of the most remarkable cultural sites in the Southwest: the Acoma Pueblo, also known as Sky City. Recognized as the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America, Acoma Pueblo has been home to the Acoma people for over 1,000 years.
Perched atop a towering mesa, this remote and resilient village offers a window into centuries of Indigenous history, tradition, and daily life. Upon arrival at the Sky City Cultural Center, we’ll take a scenic shuttle ride up to the pueblo, where a local Acoma guide will lead our exploration. We’ll also visit San Esteban del Rey Mission, the oldest standing Spanish mission church in New Mexico, a powerful symbol of endurance and cultural intersection. After the tour, enjoy time at the Cultural Center before we journey to Chinle, Arizona, gateway to Canyon de Chelly. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Holiday Inn Canyon de Chelly, Chinle
April 2, 2027
Wake up in Chinle, nestled within the heart of the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American reservation in the United States. Today promises an unforgettable journey through landscapes that are not only visually breathtaking but deeply woven with Navajo culture and ancestral history. We’ll begin our day with a guided Jeep tour through Canyon de Chelly National Monument, one of the most spiritually and historically significant places in the Southwest. Led by a local Navajo guide, you’ll travel deep into the canyon, where soaring red sandstone cliffs, ancient cliff dwellings, and modern-day Navajo homesteads exist side by side. As we ride beneath canyon walls etched by time, your guide will share personal stories, oral traditions, and the powerful legacy of a place that’s been continuously inhabited for over 5,000 years.
After this immersive experience, our journey continues through the dramatic desert landscapes of the Navajo Nation as we make our way to Monument Valley, an iconic and sacred land known for its towering sandstone buttes, cinematic vistas, and profound cultural meaning. (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included)
Hotel: Goulding’s Lodge, Monument Valley, Utah
April 3, 2027
Rise early today for an unforgettable optional** experience: a sunrise hike led by a local guide. As the first rays of light stretch across the desert, watch Monument Valley come alive in a stunning display of color — a quiet, spiritual moment you won’t soon forget.
Later this morning, we’ll venture into the heart of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park for a guided tour of one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Known for its dramatic red rock buttes and towering sandstone spires, Monument Valley has served as the backdrop for countless films and photographs, but nothing compares to seeing it in person. Our local Navajo guide will share the cultural and spiritual significance of this ancient land, which continues to be inhabited and cherished by the Navajo people.
This evening, we’ll gather for a Southwest BBQ dinner surrounded by the glowing red cliffs of the valley. As the sun dips below the horizon, enjoy the soulful sounds of traditional Navajo music, creating the perfect end to a day filled with natural beauty, cultural connection, and unforgettable memories. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Goulding’s Lodge, Monument Valley, Utah
April 4, 2027
This morning we’ll travel south toward the mystical red rock landscapes of Sedona, Arizona. But before leaving the Navajo Nation, we’ll make a meaningful stop at the Navajo Code Talkers Museum, a small but powerful tribute to the Navajo Marines whose unbreakable code played a vital role in securing victory during World War II. Their bravery and ingenuity remain an incredible chapter in American history.
As the scenery shifts, we’ll arrive in Sedona, a vibrant and artsy town cradled by stunning red sandstone formations. Known for its spectacular views, vortex energy sites, and strong spiritual vibe, Sedona is more than just beautiful: it’s a place where many come for renewal and reflection. After checking in, enjoy a free evening to explore independently with your Sisters. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Courtyard Sedona
April 5, 2027
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace in the stunning desert oasis of Sedona. Whether you’re drawn to the spiritual energy of the vortex sites, the vibrant local art galleries, or the area’s scenic hiking trails, Sedona offers the perfect mix of relaxation, inspiration, and adventure.
Want to venture farther? You can choose to join an optional** full-day excursion to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. We’ll travel by comfortable sprinter van through changing landscapes, arriving at the canyon’s edge to witness its vastness and multi-colored rock layers that have been shaped over millions of years. Your local guide will lead you to scenic overlooks, where you’ll take in sweeping views and learn about the canyon’s geological and cultural history. Savor a picnic lunch with a view, a peaceful moment amid one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. Later, return to Sedona for a free evening to explore, dine, or simply reflect on the day’s beauty beneath the setting sun. (Breakfast included)
Hotel: Courtyard Sedona
April 6, 2027
This morning, we’ll travel south to Scottsdale, Arizona, a chic desert city where art, culture, and natural beauty come together. Known for its vibrant arts scene, stylish boutiques, and stunning Sonoran Desert scenery, Scottsdale offers a perfect blend of modern flair and Southwestern charm.
Our cultural journey continues with a visit to the world-renowned Musical Instrument Museum (MIM). Step into a global celebration of sound, where over 7,000 instruments from across the globe come to life through immersive exhibits and interactive displays. From African drums to Asian stringed instruments, you’ll explore the diverse traditions and rhythms that connect us all through music. This evening, we’ll join for a Farewell Dinner, where we’ll raise a glass to new friendships, unforgettable memories, and the spirit of the Southwest that brought our Sisterhood together. (Breakfast and Dinner included)
Hotel: Scottsdale Marriott at McDowell Mountains
April 7, 2027
As we make our way to the Phoenix airport today, it’s time to say goodbye—not just to the beautiful Southwest, but to a journey filled with unforgettable moments, shared laughter, and new friendships that feel like they’ve always been there. (Breakfast included)
Trip Inclusions
- 10 nights/11 days accommodations
- 15 meals (10 breakfasts, 1 Lunch, and 4 Dinners)
- Round-trip transfers between airport and hotels
- Hotel porterage
- All sightseeing tours, exclusive experiences and excursions as listed within this itinerary
- Deluxe, private transportation throughout the itinerary
- Private Tour Director
- Sisterhood Travels Group Leader
- Sisterhood Travels Swag
The Art of Staying Flexible
DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS
- Non-refundable deposit due at time of booking: $1000 per person
- 2nd Non-refundable payment due on or before May 15, 2026: $1000 per person
- 3rd Non-refundable payment due on or before August 15, 2026: $1500 per person
- Final payment due on or before November 15, 2026
important information
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION CAREFULLY
The maximum number of Sisters on this tour will be 30, including your Group Leader. Roommate matching is available.
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
- Airfare is not included in your pricing. You will fly into Albuquerque (ABQ) and depart from Phoenix (PHX).
- You can arrive at any time on March 28, 2027, and depart at any time on April 7, 2027.
- Check-in time at our arrival hotel is at 3:00 pm.
- All flight arrangements must be submitted to Sisterhood Travels on or before January 28, 2027. If you need help making flight arrangements, or to submit your independent flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Information.
- Arrival transfers are provided only on March 28th from the Albuquerque airport to our hotel. Departure transfers are only provided on April 7th from our hotel in Scottsdale to the Phoenix airport. If you arrive or depart outside these days and times, or you’re needing transfers or hotels elsewhere, you are responsible for making your own arrangements at your own expense.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- The REAL ID Act standards for identification while travelling is now in effect. This means a standard issued driver’s license used as a form of identification will no longer be accepted for domestic air travel within the United States. Instead, a Real ID compliant form of identification must be presented both at the time of booking air travel and upon checking in at the airport to board any flight. For more information on Real ID, please visit the Department of Homeland Security website.
GRATUITIES, TRAVEL INSURANCE & OPTIONAL EXPENSES
- Gratuities for your Tour Director, local guides and drivers are not included in your pricing. We will provide you with tipping guidelines for your trip.
- Travel Insurance is strongly recommended and is not included in your pricing. We will send you a quote via email.
- Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.
- Please don’t schedule any optional excursions on your own for this trip as we cannot promise that you will arrive in time at any location to make your independent excursion. Sisterhood Travels won’t be liable for any expense you incur because of this.
- There are no refunds for unused portions of this tour.
GENERAL
- As we journey through the Navajo Nation, it is important to understand the challenges many communities face today. Expect to see visible poverty and communities with limited access to utilities. Roads may be unimproved, cell service can be spotty, and services are limited. Please be culturally sensitive by acknowledging that photography may be limited in some areas and to ask before taking photos of people or private property.
- This tour spends one night in the remote town of Chinle to enable easy access to Canyon de Chelly National Monument. Chinle is not a walkable town and there are limited services like restaurants and convenience stores.
- Dates and times of itinerary as well as hotels listed are subject to change without notice due to operational or logistical reasons, and while sailing, are under the complete control of the Captain.
- Rates are guaranteed once your deposit has been received and your reservation has been confirmed by Sisterhood Travels. Until that point, pricing may change, and any increases in government taxes or fees may still apply.
- We cannot accommodate wheelchairs, assistive devices, scooters, walkers or rollators, or Zimmer-frames. You must be able to ambulate independently with no assistance from devices or others on the trip. It is imperative that you read the activity level description below.
- You will receive an invitation soon after you book your trip for our travel app, “Trip Plans”. You will need to download this app to your smartphone as this is where you will find the most up-to-date, accurate information regarding your itinerary in addition to all of the critical information you need to know.
Need a Roommate?
Cancellation & Refunds
Activity Level:
Moderate
Activity Level: 3 Moderate
This thoughtfully paced Southwest journey blends cultural exploration, scenic drives, and meaningful encounters with Indigenous history and landscapes. While there is ample free time and flexibility built into the itinerary, travelers should be comfortable with a mix of walking, uneven terrain, high-desert elevations, and several longer travel days through remote regions.
Walking & Standing
This tour includes guided walking tours in Santa Fe and at cultural and historic sites throughout the Southwest. Walking distances are generally moderate and often take place on uneven surfaces such as adobe-lined streets, dirt paths, stone walkways, and desert terrain. Walking and standing may last one to three hours at a time, with breaks included.
Terrain & Physical Considerations
Terrain throughout the tour varies and includes paved city streets, dirt trails, rocky paths, canyon floors, mesas, and desert landscapes. Open-air Jeep tours in Canyon de Chelly and Monument Valley involve traveling over rough terrain with frequent stops that require getting in and out of the vehicle multiple times. These Jeep tours can be physically jarring and may not be suitable for travelers with neck, back, or joint issues. Guests with related concerns should consult their physician prior to travel.
Transportation & Travel Time
This itinerary covers large distances through remote areas of the American Southwest. Several transfers are longer in duration, including the journey from Santa Fe to Canyon de Chelly and from Monument Valley to Sedona, each lasting over four hours. These drives are broken up with comfort stops when available, though services can be limited in remote regions.
Altitude Considerations
This tour includes travel to higher elevations, with Santa Fe and surrounding areas reaching approximately 7,200 feet above sea level. Sedona and other high-desert regions may also sit at elevations higher than many travelers are accustomed to. Some guests may experience mild altitude effects such as shortness of breath or fatigue. Staying hydrated, pacing yourself, and allowing time to acclimate are important. Travelers with medical concerns related to altitude should consult their physician before departure.
Weather & Climate
Desert weather can vary significantly, even within a single day. March and April can bring cool mornings, warm afternoons, and cold evenings, particularly at higher elevations. Temperatures may drop below freezing at night in Santa Fe and Sedona during this time of year. Layered clothing and preparedness for changing conditions are essential.
Accommodations
Hotels on this tour range from historic city-center properties to rustic, remote lodges chosen for their location and access to iconic landscapes. Goulding’s Lodge in Monument Valley is remote, with dining and amenities located on-site and limited alternatives nearby. While accommodations are comfortable and well-selected, this is not a luxury resort-style itinerary.