Private Tour of Mesa Verde With an Archeologist-Trained Guide
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience some of the most notable and best-preserved archaeological sites in the United States. Mesa Verde encompasses over 80 square miles and protects over 5,000 archaeological sites, including the famous Cliff Palace and nearly 600 cliff dwellings, some of which are more than 800 years old. Tickets for Cliff Palace are an additional purchase.
When you book this tour you’ll sit back and relax while our experienced, knowledgeable archaeologist-trained guide takes you around the National Park. With your guide’s knowledge, you will be able to ask questions, read literature, and listen to your own customized tour of the park.
PLEASE NOTE: We are NOW OFFERING CLIFF PALACE with the tickets. All guides have been trained extensively by our in-house archeologists.
This tour requires a 2-person minimum. If minimums are not met a full refund will be given. *Gratuity not included*.
Available options
Private Tour of Mesa Verde With an Archeologist-Trained Guide
What's included
Local guide
Professional guide
Bottled water
National Park fees
Driver/guide
Lunch
Round-trip shared transfer
Detailed itinerary
1
We will tour the National Park.
What's not included
Gratuities
Sales Tax
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
29 reviews
5★
27
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Dress in layers, temperature and weather can change quickly!
Wear sturdy footwear.
Bring sunscreen and a hat.
About Durango
Durango is a charming city in southwestern Colorado known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Nestled in the Animas Valley and surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, it offers a unique blend of Wild West heritage and modern amenities.
Top Attractions
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
A historic steam train ride through the stunning San Juan Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the past.
Historical/Adventure
5-6 hours (round trip)
Moderate to Expensive ($50-$150 depending on class)
Mesa Verde National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings and archaeological sites.
Historical/Cultural
Full day
Moderate ($25 per vehicle entry fee, additional fees for guided tours)
Purgatory Resort
A year-round resort offering skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Adventure/Entertainment
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive (varies by activity and season)
Animas Museum
A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Animas Valley and Durango region.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget ($5 admission)
Bear Creek Falls
A beautiful waterfall and hiking trail located in the San Juan National Forest.
Nature/Adventure
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Green Chile Stew
A hearty stew made with pork, green chiles, potatoes, and spices, often served with tortillas.
Dinner
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian
Navajo Tacos
Fried bread topped with ground beef, beans, cheese, lettuce, and other toppings.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Breakfast Burrito
A large flour tortilla filled with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and sometimes meat or green chiles.
Breakfast
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Pecan Pie
A sweet pie made with pecans, sugar, and butter, often served with ice cream or whipped cream.
Dessert
Contains nuts, can be made gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Skiing and snowboarding
Rafting
ATV tours
Spa and wellness
Hot springs
Scenic train rides
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, clear skies, and perfect conditions for hiking, biking, and exploring the great outdoors. It's also festival season with events like the Durango Blues Festival.
15-30°C (59-86°F)
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (Standard Time), UTC-6 (Daylight Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Durango is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use ATMs located inside banks or reputable businesses
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Durango-La Plata County Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from city center
By train
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
By bus
Durango Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
The city operates a public bus system with several routes covering key areas. Buses are reliable and affordable but may have limited schedules outside peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Durango
North Durango
South Durango
East Durango
Day trips
Silverton
30 miles (48 km) • Half day to full day
A historic mining town with a charming downtown, scenic views, and a rich history. Accessible by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or by car.
Mancos
35 miles (56 km) • Half day to full day
A charming small town with a rich history, beautiful landscapes, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Known for its proximity to Mesa Verde National Park.
Ouray
60 miles (97 km) • Full day
A picturesque mountain town known as the 'Switzerland of America' for its stunning scenery and hot springs. Accessible by car via the scenic Million Dollar Highway.
Festivals
Durango Blues Festival • Mid-September
Durango Cowboy Gathering • October
Snowdown Festival • February
Pro tips
- Visit the Animas Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region
- Take a scenic train ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Explore the stunning natural beauty of Mesa Verde National Park
- Ski or snowboard at Purgatory Resort during the winter months
- Hike to Bear Creek Falls for a beautiful and scenic adventure
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
