The Colorado Rockies
Colorado
The Colorado Rockies
featuring National Parks and Historic Trains
Dates
Jul 17 – 25, 2026
Activity Level
2 - Moderate
Price Per Person
From $3,999
Contact
Faith Reese

About This Tour
Duration: 9 days | Meals: 12 | Travel Style: Classic
Experience the majesty of the Colorado Rockies with three national parks and two historic trains that celebrate the can-do spirit of the Old West. From towering peaks to deep canyons and Old West towns to dynamic cities, a region of contrasting beauty and charm awaits.

Essential Experiences
✓ Spend two nights in Durango, a fun-filled cowboy town where you can relive the excitement of the Old West.
✓ Journey aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Highlights
- Rocky Mountain National Park
- Colorado National Monument
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Durango & Silverton
Activity Level

You like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can partake in a two-hour leisurely walking tour, covering up to two miles (with included breaks). You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. There may be 1 to 2...
Jul 17, 2026
Denver, Colorado
Grand Hyatt Denver — Dinner
Adventure awaits as you explore the towering peaks and rolling meadows of Colorado. As traveler’s arrival times vary greatly, we have no group activities planned during the day. This tour (which features four national parks) opens in the “Mile High City” of Denver where you will gather for a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.
Jul 18, 2026
Denver - Rocky Mountain National Park - Denver
Grand Hyatt Denver — Breakfast
Travel through Boulder, a scenic university town known for its iconic landmark... the striking, reddish-brown foothills known as the Flatirons. Stop in Estes Park, a mountain resort town and home of the Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. Your adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park starts on the Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved, continuous highway in North America. It’s a drive that should be on everybody’s bucket list. At Rainbow Curve, marvel at the majestic mountains that stand in contrast to deep, rugged canyons. Later, return to Denver for a free evening in this dynamic city.
Jul 19, 2026
Denver - Colorado National Monument - Grand Junction
Doubletree Hotel Grand Junction — Breakfast & Dinner
The spectacular Rocky Mountains are your traveling companion. Make a scenic drive from Denver to Grand Junction, passing through many of Colorado’s famous ski resorts. This journey also takes you to one of the grand landscapes of the American West – Colorado National Monument. Continue along the monument's historic Rim Rock Drive to see a colorful panorama of deep, sheer-sided canyons and high rock towers. Gather for dinner at a favorite local hangout in Grand Junction, a town that attracts outdoorsmen, foodies and all manner of free spirits.
Jul 20, 2026
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park - Grand Junction
Doubletree Hotel Grand Junction — Breakfast & Lunch
Today, venture to another amazing national park – Colorado’s own “Grand Canyon!" Marvel at the steep-walled gorge and dramatic views of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park while travelling along its South Rim. Pause at one of the scenic viewpoints to soak in this stunning wilderness of rock, water, and sky. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking some of the steepest and oldest rock walls in North America, carved over 2 million years by the Gunnison River. Perhaps you’ll even spot a peregrine falcon. Then, immerse yourself in the stories of the American west during a tour of the Museum of the Mountain West, a preserved and re-created pioneer town that captures life as it was over a century ago. Return to Grand Junction for an evening at leisure.
Jul 21, 2026
Grand Junction - Silverton - Durango
Durango Strater Hotel — Breakfast
Head south to Silverton, a former silver mining town and now a National Historic Landmark. Hidden high in the San Juan Mountains, this town blends spectacular scenery, Victorian charm and historic architecture. Then it's “all aboard” the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This 1881 coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive made its name hauling silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains, but you will soon realize it is the view that is its most precious asset.
Jul 22, 2026
Durango - Mesa Verde National Park - Durango
Durango Strater Hotel — Breakfast & Dinner
An incredible day awaits in Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO), home of the ancient Ancestral Puebloan civilization. Join a local guide on a drive through the park making several photo stops including views of the famous Spruce Tree House, one of Mesa Verde’s best preserved cliff dwellings and Cliff Palace, the largest in the park. This evening, experience a farm-to-table dinner on a family-owned ranch surrounded by red mountain peaks and lush green pastures.
Jul 23, 2026
Durango - Colorado Springs
Embassy Suites Colorado Springs — Breakfast
Sit back and relax during a scenic ride to Colorado Springs. En route, marvel at the landscape as you make your way from the San Juan National Forest and across Wolf Creek Pass, a section of the Continental Divide that would take pioneers two to three weeks to cross. Continue on through the Rio Grande National Forest, a vast expanse of wilderness named for the 1,800 miles of Rio Grande River that cuts through the forest. Your day concludes in Colorado Springs, an artistic and cultural hub.
Jul 24, 2026
Colorado Springs - Manitou Springs - Colorado Springs
Embassy Suites Colorado Springs — Breakfast & Dinner
Depart for Manitou Springs, home of Pikes Peak – the legendary symbol of the 1859 Gold Rush. Embark on a journey aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the world’s highest cog railroad, for an 8.9 mile trip to the top of Pikes Peak. During the journey you will see magnificent views and perhaps animals in their native habitat. Later, travel to the Garden of the Gods to take in the view of towering sandstone formations that dot the landscape set in the backdrop of majestic Pikes Peak. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner and celebrate your adventure.
Jul 25, 2026
Colorado Springs - Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close in Colorado Springs.
Pre Tour Extension

Grand Hyatt Denver Pre-Night
1 Night
Jul 16, 2026
from
$380
per room
Pricing


Single Traveler
Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size.
Price per person
$4,999
$5,099

Double Traveler
A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you're travelling with a companion and wish to share a room.
Price per person
$3,999
$4,099

Triple Traveler
A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited.
Price per person
$3,949
$4,049
What we've included in this price
✓ Round Trip Air from Newark Intl Airport
✓ Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges
✓ Hotel Transfers
Not included in price
X Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $429 per person
Add cancellation waiver and insurance
The travel protection program provides comprehensive coverage to safeguard your travel investment - from trip cancellation and interruption, to medical emergencies and baggage protection. For a small additional cost, you can have the invaluable peace of mind knowing you're covered if the unexpected occurs during your travels.
per passenger
+$429
Please Note
Book Now rates valid until Jan 17, 2026, valid on air inclusive packages only.
Economy air rate and schedule are applicable for groups of 10 or more traveling on the same flights and dates.
The overall activity level of this tour is a level 2. This means you like a balanced approach to travel. Walking two to three miles over the course of a day is no problem for you. You can handle a variety of terrains, from cobblestone streets to moderate hills with relative ease and without assistance. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease. Expect some full days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. You can handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet. While this level is appropriate for travelers that require mobility assistance devices, there could be times when you may have to sit out on some of the included activities.
Travel with an average of 37 people (maximum of 44).
If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.
This tour includes traveling to high altitudes (approximately 14,110 ft/4300 m) and may not be suitable for some clients. We suggest that you consult your physician if you have any concerns.
When reserving a triple room, it will have two double beds. Due to fire safety regulations, a rollaway bed cannot be brought into the room.
Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Single rate subject to change based on availability.
Our air travelers will depart from Denver, Colorado.
For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties.
Please be advised, many airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until check-in at the airport. Advance seating will be subject to the airline's terms and conditions.
Due to tour scheduling, return flights should not be booked prior to 9:30 a.m.
IDENTIFICATION
Travel within USA
A Real ID compliant form of identification must be presented both at the time of booking air travel with Collette and upon checking in at the airport to board any flight. State-issued driver’s licenses and IDs that are not REAL ID compliant are no longer accepted as valid forms of identification at airports. Any fees associated with changing a reservation resulting from a non-compliant identification will be the responsibility of the traveler. For more information on Real ID, please visit the Department of Homeland Security website: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id
Collette will provide all necessary information, updates and supporting documents for your travel requirements, including visa and Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) (if required), approximately 60-90 days prior to your departure.
CST#2006766-20 UBN#601220855 Nevada Sellers of Travel Registration No. 2003-0279
What's Included on Your Tour
Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for servers of included meals as outlined in your itinerary, bellmen, and door attendants.
Booking Your Own Flights
If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home. In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:
1) Please make sure your round-trip flights work with your tour itinerary. There may be scheduled activities on these days.
2) You must provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour upon final payment. This ensures that we can arrange any other services you may have purchased from us, including hotel transfers, and that your Tour Manager will know when to expect your arrival. This also allows us to maintain contact with you in case of an emergency.
Booking Flights with Us
If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. This also includes any inter-flights from city to city within the tour package if applicable. We ask that you keep the following in mind:
1) In order to comply with Homeland Security’s “Secure Flight” mandate, you must provide full name (including middle name or middle initial, if applicable), as it appears on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID that you will show at the airport. The name on your airline ticket must be an exact match to this ID, or you may be prevented from boarding the aircraft.
2) If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, make sure to provide the number when you book your trip and retain the copy of your ticket and boarding pass so you will receive proper credit for your mileage. Please note that some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual.
3) Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you during the tour in the local currency.
On Tour Transportation
Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature-controlled.
While some coaches may have a toilet facility, it is for emergency use since local laws require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons. Rest assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience.
Please note, outlets for charging devices may not be available on the coach. Therefore, if you anticipate using electronic devices, we recommend bringing portable power banks.
Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all travelers to change seats. This ensures that every traveler has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. Depending on availability, single travelers may be seated next to another traveler. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.
Our planet affords us so many awe-inspiring natural wonders. To ensure that stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed for generations to come, we’ve been making several changes to the ways we live, work and travel. In our offices and on our tours, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics. On our USA tours, bottles of water are not distributed or sold on our motorcoaches. However, we encourage you to bring your own reusable water bottle and your Tour Manager will provide details on where you can fill it up each day!
Accommodations
At the time of booking, you will be asked what type of room you would like.
A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you’re travelling with a companion and wish to share a room. There are plenty of double rooms available on our tours.
A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size. These rooms are first come, first-served, as most properties have only a certain amount of these available.
A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.
We will forward your request to the hotel and do our best to accommodate your needs; however, please know that we cannot make any guarantees. In certain countries, the hotel rooms may not be as large as standard hotel rooms in North America.
Here are a few details to keep in mind:
Check-in times are set by individual hotels and can vary, but most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Depending on your arrival time, you may have to wait before you can get into your room. Some hotels may be willing to store your luggage in a secure location until your room is ready. In these instances, the hotel will not be responsible for lost or stolen items and there may be a charge for this service.
Please observe check out times at all properties. Hotels designate these as well.
Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check-in to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. You will be responsible for all incidental fees occurred during your stay, and these must be paid at time of check out.
Hotel membership programs are not applicable.
Tour Manager
Peace of mind for our travelers is our number one priority. When you’re on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination expert on the people, places, history, and culture and ensures that you will have the best experience with us. Please utilize your Tour Manager’s expertise for any concerns or questions you may have while on tour.
Wi-Fi on Tour
Wi-Fi access has improved, with free or cheap internet available in many public spaces. Some restaurants, cafes, and hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, though at times it may not reach rooms in hotels. Wi-Fi may not be available onboard motorcoaches or other modes of transportation used during your tour.
Access to Water on Tour
The natural wonders of our planet are awe-inspiring. To ensure their beauty can be enjoyed for generations, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics on our tours and in our offices. On tours in this region, where the tap water is safe to drink, we encourage you to bring a reusable filter water bottle. Your Tour Manager will direct you to bottle refill stations throughout each day. By bringing your own bottle, you will reduce plastic waste and help to preserve the environment.
Thank you for helping us make the world a better place through travel and supporting sustainability!
Culinary Experiences
The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors.
For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.
The average price for meals in this region ranges from 10 to 15 US Dollars for lunch and 10 to 30 US Dollars for dinner.
Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning or your tour.
You're in for a treat as you enjoy the comforting taste of typical American cuisine throughout your tour through the Colorado Rockies and the wild, wild West! Enjoy the unique, farm-to-table dinner experience on tour at an authentic, family-owned ranch just outside the town of Durango!
As you travel through ranch country, meat lovers will be delighted with the menu, as this area is known for its tasty meats.
If you're feeling adventurous during meals on your own, perhaps try the elk, buffalo or venison.
Colorado is also known for its Mexican cuisine, Midwestern American cuisine, Rocky Mountain oysters, green chile and bison.
Shopping & Souvenirs
One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been.
While shopping in Colorado, you'll find many Native souvenirs that capture the long history of the Anasazi Indians.
As you make your way through the "American West," keep an eye out for authentic cowboy wear like the famous hat, boots and shirt -- as well as other cowboy memorabilia. Return home and show your friends and family the essence of your "wild, wild West" adventure.
Cultural Insights
Americans value punctuality, so being on time is important. If you are running late, letting the other party know is respectful.
For non-included meals, leaving a tip of 15% for your server is customary.
Americans usually shake hands when they first meet. A hello, handshake, and smile are all appreciated when being introduced to someone.
Maintaining appropriate eye contact and respecting personal space while speaking to someone is considered important for respectful communication.
Americans value their privacy. Avoid personal topics such as salary, weight, religion, politics, and other sensitive subjects.
Staying to the right on sidewalks, escalators, and while walking in cities is the norm in America.
The Western United States is immersed in Native American culture. Be respectful and willing to learn about Indigenous ways of life in this part of America.
Respect nature. National Parks have a “leave it as you found it” policy. Do not approach the wildlife and observe from a distance.
Free Time Suggestions
Should you have some extra time to explore Denver before your tour begins, your hotel is located in the heart of downtown Denver, just steps away from the 16th Street Pedestrian Mall, a beautiful property lined with outdoor cafes, renovated historic buildings, boutiques and plenty of shops. The city's Visitor’s Center is located at the corner of 16th Street and California at the Mall.
Try the unique and diverse food at Coors Field, located in the lower downtown area. With over 300 breweries in the state, Colorado has become a burgeoning haven for beer lovers. Check out local brewery tours to get a behind-the-scenes look and see the innovative ways they are reinventing craft brews.
Free tours at the State Capitol building are conducted Monday through Friday from 10am to 3pm. The Denver Art Museum, located downtown, houses the world’s largest collection of Native American art plus 68,000 diverse art objects; it is a must see attraction for visitors. Ask your concierge for other recommendations for dining and sightseeing.
Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our travelers, there are no scheduled activities prior to dinner on arrival day. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration.
If you are staying post tour, your Tour Manager will be available to offer suggestions for your additional time in the area.
Elevation
The highest elevation encountered on this tour is 14,115 feet (4302 meters), Pikes Peak.
Smoking Restrictions
Our tours are non-smoking throughout: This includes all transportation exclusively provided by Collette, dining venues, and any other designated non-smoking areas on tour. Smoking of any kind including traditional tobacco products, e-cigarettes, e-cigars, vaporizers, and any other smoking devices—is strictly prohibited during group travel.
Hotel policies: Most hotels worldwide are entirely non-smoking, including guest rooms and public areas. Smoking rooms are generally no longer offered, and we cannot accommodate requests for them.
Local laws and regulations: Smoking laws vary widely by country and region. Travelers are responsible for understanding and complying with local regulations during their free time. Your Tour Manager may be able to assist in identifying permitted smoking areas when available.
Name Badges
Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.
Getting Ready to Travel
Get Ready
Get excited – and get ready for your upcoming tour! As you look ahead to your tour, you’ll probably have some questions. Our team of travel experts assembled this booklet packed with answers so you can feel ready for your upcoming journey. Before you go, take time to review and get familiar with what to expect throughout your tour, and keep this information on hand during your travels.
By booking a guided tour, all the details of your trip are covered so you can make the most of every moment. You’ll join your tour group (a maximum of 44 people) to experience an expertly planned itinerary. Being part of a group tour is a great opportunity to meet new people and to share the adventure. You’ll also be accompanied by your Tour Manager, an expert guide who can answer questions and offer advice along the way. Get ready to see the sights, taste the cuisine, and explore the world – with all the logistics handled and in good company.
Pre & Post Night Stays
If your schedule allows, you may have selected to give yourself the advantage of an additional day or more in the starting or ending destination of your tour by booking a Pre-Night or Post-Night and arranging your flights accordingly. (Please note: A Tour Manager is not present during Pre-Night or Post-Night Stays.)
Transfers
We offer full-service transfers from start to finish. So, when you arrive at the airport of your destination, arrangements will have been made to transfer you to your first hotel on the tour.
If you purchased our air-inclusive tour package, you will enjoy this service free of charge.
If you purchased your air ticket on your own (our land-only tour package), you may purchase a round-trip transfer for a fee.
Meeting locations and times will be set up to accommodate your transfer arrival and departure schedules, which will be provided to you in your documents packet. If you decide to arrange your own transportation to the hotel, please make sure to check in with your Tour Manager once you arrive.
Luggage Guidelines
Before you begin to think about what to pack for your upcoming trip, you must check with your airline for any luggage fees or restrictions. These can vary widely depending on your carrier and destination.
The first thing to consider is how many bags to bring. Your tour package includes luggage handling for one checked bag per person. You will be responsible for your backpack or tote bag as you travel between destinations. It’s very important you keep this in mind. We have limited space on our buses, so limiting the bags ensures there’s room for everyone’s luggage.
Your larger bag can’t be more than 62 in/157 cm in length, height and width and cannot weigh more than 50lb/23kg. Your carry-on should be a size that you can carry comfortably. You will use this bag to hold your personal items during sightseeing trips.
Please note that if you bring more than one checked bag and one carry-on, we cannot guarantee there will be room for them on the bus. You’ll need to store or ship any additional luggage at your own expense. If there is room for your additional luggage, we will charge a fee of 10 USD per bag per hotel.
We recommend you consider using a TSA-approved lock, as a theft prevention measure during transit and during your tour.
It’s also very important that all your bags be labeled clearly. In your packet you will find a luggage tag. Please attach it to the bag you plan to check.
The name on this tag should match the information on your reservation exactly, so the Tour Manager and all baggage handlers can properly identify the bag as yours. This will ensure the bag is delivered to you quickly and efficiently.
Finally, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to ensure peace of mind while you’re on tour. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. But we offer comprehensive “No Worries Travel Protection” for your convenience. With insurance, you’ll be able to focus on creating wonderful memories, not worrying about your luggage.
Please note, some attractions do not allow large backpacks into their sites, so you may need a smaller bag for sightseeing.
Travelers flying to the United States from all international destinations will require extra screening when carrying powdered products weighing 12 oz/ 350 ml or more in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This added security measure will apply to all powders, with the exception of baby formula and medications. For your convenience, please consider packing any non-essential powders in your checked bag. Items that cannot be verified by a TSA officer risk being confiscated. Please visit www.tsa.gov for more information.
Packing Tips
When you’re deciding what to bring on your trip, we have a few suggestions for you.
In regards to clothing, think layers. It’s much easier to maintain a level of comfort if you can add or remove a layer at a time, especially if you’re traveling to a destination where the temperature can vary widely. So always bring a light jacket or sweater. Fleece or wool is best. We recommend staying away from cotton sweaters or jackets as they won’t keep you warm if they get wet.
Comfortable footwear is crucial. Make sure you bring a pair of shoes that fit well and give you the necessary support. If you decide to purchase new shoes for your trip, we suggest you wear them a number of times before you leave to break them in. Your feet will thank you.
Be prepared for all types of weather. For warm, sunny weather, pack sunscreen, a hat or a bandana/scarf to protect your neck from sunburn. For cool, rainy weather, pack a light raincoat, travel umbrella, waterproof shoes and a thin pair of gloves.
For your toiletries, pack anything that could leak in plastic bags or a waterproof case. In addition, you might want to bring a washcloth or two. Not all hotels provide them.
If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire tour plus a few additional days in the original prescription containers.
Medication should be packed in your carry-on bag, never your checked luggage; this is in case your luggage is delayed. You don’t want to be without your medication. You could also bring extra medication in a separate bag in case any gets lost.
In general, we recommend not packing anything of value in your checked bag.
You’ll want to take pictures of everything, so make sure to bring a camera as well as extra memory cards and batteries for your entire trip. If you decide to bring a video camera, don’t forget an extra battery for it plus a charger. Be sure to pack chargers and cords for all your electronic equipment.
It’s also a good idea to bring a travel alarm clock, a travel sewing kit, a portable scale to weigh luggage, and some hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren’t readily available.
If you are travelling with a companion, we suggest dividing the contents of your suitcase with them, that way if one bag is delayed, some of your belongings are still available to you both.
If that is not an option for you, you could put a change of clothing in your carry-on if there’s room. That will give you something to wear if your checked luggage is delayed as well.
Last but certainly not least, leave room! You’ll need it to fit all the souvenirs you want to bring home.
As you prepare to explore the Colorado Rockies, enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.
During the spring and fall the weather tends to get cooler. It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers and can be added or removed as the temperature changes.
Gratuity Recommendations
Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. Tipping is discretionary and should be on an individual basis.
Gratuities for hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, on-tour motor coach drivers, and your Tour Manager are not included in the price of your tour.
The suggestions below are provided in US Dollars to help you budget for your trip. Plan to convert the total US Dollar amounts into the equivalent local currency, which is generally the preferred option when giving. Personal checks should not be used.
Tour Manager: equivalent of $10 US Dollars per person for each travel day, given at the end of your tour. For this 9-day tour, this would amount to $90 US Dollars total per person.
Local Guide: equivalent of $2-3 US Dollars per person, given at the end of your day or time with them. There is 1 local guide on this tour.
On-Tour Motor Coach Driver: equivalent of $5 US Dollars per person for each travel day, provided at the end of your tour or time with your driver.
Hotel Housekeeping: equivalent of $1 US Dollar per day, per room, left each morning.
Airport Transfer Driver: If your airport transfer is included in your package or purchased from Collette, gratuities might already be included. Please reference the transfer information section for confirmation. If gratuities are not mentioned, the suggested amount is typically $3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person.
Travel Savvy Tips
Here is a list of entities we recommend you contact before you depart on your tour:
1.) Your cell phone/mobile carrier if you are planning on using your device. You will want to confirm you will have access in the area(s) you will visit and inquire about any charges you may incur.
2.) Your credit card company for any card(s) you plan to use. Make sure the card company knows when and where you will be traveling to avoid any charges being declined.
3.) Your bank, so you can use your ATM/debit card worry-free. If you are travelling to another country, your bank will be able to tell you if your card will work at the ATM machines to dispense local currency, including if your PIN will be accepted. Also, indicate if you plan to use your debit card as a credit card if your card has that option. Your bank will advise you of any charges for each transaction as well.
Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel list (included in your tour documents bundle) and a contact number with a designated person in case an emergency comes up while you’re away and someone needs to reach you.
We recommend you leave a copy of your passport at home in a secure location and bring an additional copy with you as a precaution.
During your flight, make sure to stand up and walk around as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. These simple suggestions will help you stay comfortable, particularly during long flights.
Read, Watch, & Be Inspired
Check out the following book and movie recommendations that will immerse you into the destination long before your arrival. Let this set the scene for you as you prepare for the trip of a lifetime and get excited about all that is to come!
Books:
Plainsong by Kent Haruf - Explore the lives of a handful of diverse characters in a small Colorado town, as their paths intersect and intertwine in unexpected ways.
The Magnificent Mountain Women: Adventures in the Colorado Rockies by Janet Robertson - A collection of true stories that celebrate the inspiring and adventurous lives of women who have explored, climbed, and contributed to the history of the Colorado Rockies.
A Colorado History by Carl Ubbelohde - Provides a comprehensive and engaging overview of Colorado's past, covering its Native American origins, exploration, settlement, and development into a vibrant and diverse state.
Movies:
The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964) - A spirited woman from a small Colorado mining town sets out on a journey to find wealth, love, and adventure.
The Shining (1980) - A film adaptation of Stephen King's novel, which follows a family's disturbing experiences while caring for a haunted hotel in the Colorado Rockies during the winter, delving into themes of isolation, supernatural terror, and psychological unraveling.
Cliffhanger (1993) - An action thriller starring Sylvester Stallone set in the Colorado Rockies, where a skilled mountain climber must navigate treacherous terrain and confront dangerous criminals after a heist goes wrong.
Aspen Extreme (1993) - A drama that follows two friends turned ski instructors as they pursue their dreams and navigate life's challenges in the glamorous ski resort town of Aspen, Colorado.
Tell Us About Your Tour
We Want to Hear From You!
• A few days after you return home, you’ll receive an email from us with a survey asking you about your experience. Your feedback is important to us and we use it to continually refine our tours to bring you more of what you want when you travel.
• Be on the lookout for our email when you get home.
• We look forward to seeing you on tour soon!
Download the Collette Compass smartphone app and enhance your tour with this easy-to-use digital companion that never leaves your side.
Find Your Way Around
• Easily navigate your destination like a local with detailed maps and offline turn-by-turn directions, all without using Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Plan Your Free Time
• Discover exciting activities, dining options, and local attractions during your free time, ensuring you make the most of every moment.
Stay Informed
• Review your daily itinerary, on-tour inclusions, as well as information on your hotels and transfer services.
Record the Fun
• Create your own trip journal as you travel, including text and photos. Share it with friends and loved ones back home!
Live Flight Tracking
• Check in online* for your flights and stay up to date on your schedule with real-time** tracking of your flight status, gate changes, and delays.
*Online check-in subject to availability
**Requires Wi-Fi or Cellular Data
