Three landscapes, one self-guided app: walk historic Santa Fe, drive the ribbon of White Sands, and descend into Carlsbad Caverns. Download the audio once and explore at your own pace across a year.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A wind-stung plaza in Santa Fe wakes before you do: cool thin air at 7,000+ feet, adobe facades catching first light, and the hush of an Old Santa Fe Trail that the tour’s narrator begins to fill with history.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: expect 1–3 hours of walking per site, stairs in the cavern, and short hikes in sandy terrain.
Wildlife
History
Santa Fe’s streets reflect centuries of Pueblo and Spanish colonial history, including the 1680 Pueblo Revolt; Carlsbad Caverns formed through sulfuric-acid dissolution that sculpted vast underground chambers.
Conservation
White Sands’ gypsum dunes are fragile—stay on designated routes and avoid disturbing cryptobiotic crusts; follow Leave No Trace in caves to protect bat colonies and delicate formations.
Reserve your spot on the New Mexico: Carlsbad, Santa Fe & White Sands Audio Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Download before you go
Use strong Wi‑Fi to download the Action Tour Guide tour and map—the audio works offline after that.
Bring ample water
White Sands and walking sections have limited shade—carry 1–2 liters per person for shorter outings and more if you’ll drive between sites.
Check park hours and tickets
This package doesn’t include entrance fees—confirm Carlsbad and White Sands hours and obtain any needed permits before arrival.
Layer for changing conditions
Santa Fe’s high elevation can be cool in the morning and warm by afternoon; caves are cool and damp—pack a light jacket.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good traction for city sidewalks, cave stairs, and sandy ridges.
Hydration system or 1–2L water bottle
Desert heat and dry air increase dehydration risk, especially at White Sands.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)
Gypsum reflects sunlight; shade is scarce on the dunes.
summer
Light insulating layer
Caves are cool year-round and high-elevation mornings in Santa Fe can be brisk.
spring