16 Of The Best Tours In New Mexico

Why New Mexico is a fantastic place for tours

New Mexico offers a mix of wild landscapes, intriguing history, and vibrant art scenes that make it a perfect destination for all kinds of tours. Whether you’re interested in exploring underground caves, floating down the Rio Grande, or hunting for aliens in Roswell, the state delivers unique experiences that are often both affordable and memorable. For example, PistachioLand in Alamogordo is a delightful stop for anyone curious about pistachios, boasting the world’s largest pistachio and a fun small-group tour that includes free samples and a visit to rolling vineyards. Or consider the full-day rafting adventure through the Rio Grande Gorge, which combines adrenaline, wildlife sightings, and a hearty riverside lunch—perfect for families or first-timers.

In this guide, we’ve gathered the top-rated tours in New Mexico that showcase its natural wonders, quirky attractions, and cultural treasures. From scenic drives to hands-on art workshops, there’s something for all—so let’s get started.

Quick Overview

New Mexico’s most popular tours span scenic landscapes, adventure activities, and artistic experiences. You can float past dramatic canyon walls on the Rio Grande Gorge Full Day, learn about pistachio production at PistachioLand Farm, or discover hidden art in private studios on the Artist Studio Tour & Tea Party. For history lovers, the Carlsbad Caverns self-guided audio tour provides an immersive underground journey, while scavenger hunts in Roswell and Los Alamos turn exploration into a fun challenge.

Below, we’ll walk through each experience, highlighting what makes it special and who might enjoy it most.

1. PistachioLand Farm Tour

At number 1, the PistachioLand Farm Tour offers a quick yet surprisingly rich 30-minute ride through a 90-acre orchard home to the world’s tallest pistachio at 30 feet. For just $5.30, you’ll hop on a small open-air shuttle to explore more than 12,000 pistachio trees and nearby vineyards. The tour includes fun facts about pistachio cultivation, from harvest to nut, and ends with free samples and a chance to browse souvenirs. The guide Emilio makes the experience lively and informative, and the small group size guarantees personal attention. Perfect for families, outdoor lovers, or anyone curious about food production, this tour is a delightful mix of education and fun.

Bottom line: Affordable, engaging, and hands-on, the PistachioLand Farm Tour is an ideal quick stop that deepens your appreciation for this American-grown nut.

2. Rio Grande Gorge Full Day

Taking second place, the Rio Grande Gorge Full Day is a six-and-a-half-hour adventure designed for families and first-time rafters. It combines gentle floating through the scenic Orilla Verde with a tasty hot fajita lunch on the riverbank, followed by exciting class 2-3 rapids over a 6-mile stretch. The trip is guided, with all gear provided, and you can choose to relax or get in the paddling action. The reviews highlight the personable guides like Hannah and Jack who make the day enjoyable for all ages. Wildlife sightings—mule deer, birds of prey—add to the experience, making this a well-rounded outdoor outing.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for beginners and families, this guided rafting trip offers a balanced mix of serenity and adventure, with plenty of local ecology insights.

3. Artist Studio Tour & Private Tea Party on the Turquoise Trail

At number 3, this art-focused experience takes you into the studios of local artists just south of Santa Fe. Hosted in a 150-year-old adobe compound, the Artist Studio Tour & Tea Party allows your group to meet talented creators, see their workspaces, and enjoy a private high tea in a magical setting. The tour is led by an international artist who shares insights into the creative process. For $300 per group, up to 6 people, it’s a special way to connect with New Mexico’s vibrant art scene and create your own masterpiece or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Bottom line: Ideal for art lovers and those seeking a relaxing, intimate cultural experience, this tour offers a genuine peek into New Mexico’s creative community.

4. Las Cruces El Paso Weekend Wine Shuttle

Number 4 on our list, the Las Cruces El Paso Weekend Wine Shuttle is perfect for wine enthusiasts wanting a stress-free day exploring local vineyards. Over five hours, you’ll visit Zin Valle Vineyards, La Vina Winery, Sombra Antigua Winery, Rio Grande Vineyards, and NM Vintage Wines. All tastings are included, with plenty of time at each stop to savor the wines and chat with vintners. The tour includes live music, making it a lively, relaxed experience. Reviewers mention how the different wineries offer unique flavors, from rich reds to crisp whites.

Bottom line: For a laid-back, wine-focused day in New Mexico, this tour offers good value with enough time to appreciate the region’s diverse wineries.

5. Carlsbad Caverns National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

Ranked fifth, the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Audio Tour immerses you in the underground marvels of the cave system. The tour includes detailed stories about formations, discovery, and geology, which you listen to on your phone while exploring at your own pace. It covers the Walnut Canyon Nature Trail and the main cavern, with the option to extend your visit with additional paid tours. Priced at just under $15, this tour is a budget-friendly way to experience one of America’s most spectacular caverns, especially for those who prefer to explore independently.

Bottom line: Affordable and flexible, this audio tour lets you tailor your adventure while gaining in-depth knowledge of Carlsbad’s stunning chambers.

6. Carlsbad Crusade Scavenger Hunt

The Carlsbad Crusade Scavenger Hunt is a unique, interactive adventure that turns exploration into a game. With a live remote host guiding you via your phone, you’ll solve puzzles and discover hidden corners of Carlsbad over two hours. It’s perfect for families, teams, or curious travelers who enjoy a little mystery and competition. The hunt combines travel, problem-solving, and a bit of playful detective work, making it a memorable way to see the town beyond the usual tourist spots.

Bottom line: For a fun, engaging, and social experience, this scavenger hunt offers a fresh way to learn about Carlsbad’s sights and stories.

7. Los Alamos Scavenger Hunt

Number 7, the Los Alamos Scavenger Hunt offers an interactive, digitally guided experience. With a remote host, you explore this historic town’s key sites while completing creative challenges. The two-hour hunt is suitable for families or groups interested in science, history, and problem-solving. It’s a great way to see Los Alamos’s landmarks, like the national lab and related sites, without the typical tour bus.

Bottom line: Perfect for curious travelers and puzzle lovers, this hunt makes history fun and interactive.

8. New Mexico: Carlsbad, Santa Fe & White Sands Audio Tour

This comprehensive bundle, New Mexico: Carlsbad, Santa Fe & White Sands Audio Tour, combines self-guided explorations across three of the state’s highlights. Starting in Santa Fe’s art-filled streets, then descending into Carlsbad Caverns, and ending with White Sands’ surreal dunes, it offers flexibility and depth. For about 7-8 hours, you’ll use engaging audio guides that bring each site alive. The tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy learning at their own pace and want a broad overview of New Mexico’s diverse attractions.

Bottom line: A perfect multi-site experience for independent explorers who want to maximize their sightseeing time with in-depth stories.

9. Roswell Raid Scavenger Hunt

The Roswell Raid Scavenger Hunt combines fun and curiosity in this alien-themed adventure. In just two hours, you’ll uncover oddities, local history, and art while completing challenges that involve solving clues related to Roswell’s UFO lore. Using a remote, live-guided app, you explore the town’s mysteries and attractions, making it ideal for families or UFO fans. The online leaderboard adds a competitive twist, encouraging everyone to participate actively.

Bottom line: If you’re into science fiction or want a humorous way to explore Roswell, this scavenger hunt keeps the atmosphere light and engaging.

10. Pancho Villa’s Legendary Border Crossing Raid in Columbus NM

History buffs and thrill-seekers will find Pancho Villa’s Raid fascinating. This 2-3 hour tour revisits Villa’s infamous 1916 raid on Columbus, visiting key sites like the Cemetery, historic downtown, and the railroad depot. The tour includes stories about the event and visits to the U.S. Army Camp Furlong site, with a final stop at Pancho Villa State Park. The guided commentary, delivered in an engaging manner, provides a vivid picture of this pivotal moment in border history.

Bottom line: Well-suited for history lovers and those interested in early 20th-century border conflicts, this tour offers an immersive experience into a dramatic chapter.

11. White Sands National Park Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour

This White Sands Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour combines scenic drives and short hikes through one of the most striking landscapes in the U.S. With a focus on the famous Alkali Flat trail, the tour features a 5-mile hike and expert commentary on the dunes’ geology and history. The route includes the Dune Life Nature Trail and the Interdune Boardwalk, providing easy access to the dunes’ beauty. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and wanting to experience the dunes up close.

Bottom line: A great choice for active travelers eager to explore White Sands on foot and by car, with plenty of educational stops along the way.

12. White Sands National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

The White Sands Self-Guided Audio Tour immerses you in the magic of the dunes for a full 6-7 hours. It covers the visitor center, the Playa Trail, and the Dune Life Nature Trail, explaining the park’s geology, flora, fauna, and cultural stories. The tour is ideal for those who want to spend a leisurely day exploring the dunes at their own pace, with detailed audio that enriches the experience. It’s particularly suited for families and nature enthusiasts.

Bottom line: Price-conscious and educational, this tour maximizes your time in White Sands while providing in-depth background.

13. Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Walking Tour (Not a ticket)

For a flexible, self-directed exploration, the Carlsbad Caverns Self-Guided Walking Tour offers an affordable way to learn more about this natural wonder. Priced at $16.99, it includes detailed storytelling and offline maps to help you navigate the caverns. You can explore at your own pace, focusing on formations and spots that interest you most. Reviewers mention how the detailed stories add depth to the experience without the need for a guided group.

Bottom line: An economical, flexible option for independent explorers who want to enhance their visit without extra costs.

14. Amazing Alamogordo Scavenger Hunt

The Amazing Alamogordo Scavenger Hunt brings a playful twist to exploring this town. With remote hosting and interactive challenges, you’ll uncover local sights and hidden spots over two hours. As it’s a brand-new experience, reviews are pending, but the format promises an engaging way to combine sightseeing with interactive problem-solving.

Bottom line: An innovative way to discover Alamogordo, especially for puzzle lovers and families looking for a fun, social activity.

15. Amazing Artesia Scavenger Hunt

In Artesia, the Amazing Artesia Scavenger Hunt offers a similar remote-guided adventure. Spanning two hours, it takes you through the city’s lesser-known attractions and hidden corners, perfect for curious travelers interested in local culture and quirky stories. No reviews are posted yet, but the format encourages discovery and interaction.

Bottom line: A fun, inexpensive way to see Artesia’s unique side, great for families or groups wanting a playful city tour.

16. Full Day El Morro Hike & Zuni Jewelry Buying Tour

Our final entry, the Full Day El Morro Hike & Zuni Jewelry combines light hiking with cultural shopping. Starting at El Morro National Monument, you’ll explore ancient carvings and scenic overlooks, then visit a Zuni trading post to buy authentic Native American jewelry. The tour includes transportation, a packed lunch, and a chance to photograph incredible canyon vistas. It’s suited for travelers who want an active day with cultural depth, and reviews highlight the stunning views and meaningful artifacts.

Bottom line: Perfect for active, curious travelers eager to blend outdoor exploration with cultural shopping.

How to Choose the Best Tour in New Mexico

When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interests and physical comfort. If you love food and small-group experiences, the PistachioLand Farm Tour offers a tasty, educational visit. For outdoor adventurers, the Rio Grande Gorge Full Day promises scenic float trips and wildlife sightings. Art lovers will appreciate the Studio Tour & Tea Party, while history buffs might prefer the Pancho Villa Raid or El Morro Hike & Jewelry. Budget-conscious travelers should note that self-guided options like the Carlsbad Caverns audio tours provide flexibility at low prices.

Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, so secure your spot for popular activities like whitewater rafting or cave tours well in advance. Matching your trip style with the right experience will ensure your time in New Mexico is memorable.

To sum it up, New Mexico offers an impressive array of tours that cater to all interests—from adrenaline rushes and scenic drives to cultural insights and artistic pursuits. Two standout options are the Rio Grande Gorge Full Day for thrill-seekers and families, and the PistachioLand Farm Tour for a fun, educational snack break. For those wanting to explore art in a relaxed setting, the Artist Studio Tour & Tea Party is a hidden treasure. Whichever you choose, book early and enjoy discovering the best of the Land of Enchantment.