General Tour Information
Note: The information presented here is an abbreviated version of our formal General Information for Tours to New Mexico. Its purpose is solely to give readers a sense of what might be involved if they take this tour. Although we do our best to make sure what follows here is completely accurate, it should not be used as a replacement for the formal document which will be sent to all tour registrants, and whose contents supersedes any information contained here.
ENTERING THE UNITED STATES: Non-United States citizens will need a valid passport and may need a tourist visa. Consult your nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for details. Canadian citizens should carry proof of citizenship in the form of a passport or birth certificate.
HEALTH: New Mexico presents no real hazards to the visiting birdwatcher, but certain factors must be considered. Storms and occasionally intense cold are possible in winter. Suitable winter clothing, especially a warm hat, parka, a sturdy pair of gloves, and good foot wear are essential. The key to remaining comfortable is to bring many layers of clothing, and to adjust though the day as needed. On our days in the mountains we will likely encounter snow, so waterproof boots with good tread will come in very handy. Insects will not be a problem at this time of year.
CLIMATE: January temperatures can vary from the 20s F (occasionally the upper 10s or even lower on the mountains) to the upper 40s or even 50s during the day. Wind, snow, and rain are possible anywhere.
PACE OF THE TOUR: This is a relatively relaxed tour. Days will be full, with departures usually around 6 AM and returns to the hotel usually by 5 PM. Although we spend some time on foot, our walks are at a leisurely pace and on flat terrain. We’ll encounter a wide range of altitudes on this trip, as the Sandia Crest House is at 10,678 ft. above sea level. Any activities at higher altitudes will be paced in accordance with the rarefied air.
ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay at standard hotels throughout. Single occupancy is available throughout the tour, with private bathroom facilities.
DRESS: Informal throughout.
TRANSPORTATION: We will be traveling by 15-passenger window van or minivan, depending on the group size. Participants should be able to ride in any seat in tour vehicles.
SMOKING: Smoking is prohibited in the vehicles or when the group is gathered for meals, checklists, etc. If you are sharing a room with a non-smoker, please do not smoke in the room. If you smoke in the field, we ask that you do so well away and downwind from the group. If any lodge, accommodation, or location where the group is staying or is gathered has a more restrictive smoking policy than the WINGS policy, the more restrictive policy will prevail.
GENERAL INFORMATION & CONDITIONS OF WINGS TOURS: Please take a moment to read the WINGS General Information & Conditions. This section contains important information about how we conduct tours, e.g., what is included in the tour price, refund and cancellation policies, pace of the tours, and other information that will help you prepare for the tour.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: A more complete General Information for Tours to New Mexico will be sent to each registrant on receipt of their booking. Final information with instructions for meeting the group, hotel addresses, etc., will be mailed about three weeks before trip departure. Other news will be communicated as necessary. If you have any questions, please let us know.
Updated: February 2008