Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the institute cost?
$900 registration fee
$350 guest option
A guest registration option is available for $350 if one does not wish to enroll in a course but is accompanying a registered class participant.
This registration type allows the guest to attend Thursday’s midday dedication and evening reception, Friday and Saturday breakfasts and lunches at El Monte Sagrado, Saturday evening’s concert followed by dinner and dancing, and the Sunday breakfast.
What is the cancellation policy?
For cancellations before June 9, 2025, a handling fee of $100 will be withheld from your registration fee and the balance will be refunded to you. Refunds will not be permitted after June 9, 2025. If you need to cancel after this date, we will be unable to hold or transfer your registration to a future year. SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute reserves the right to cancel a course should fewer than the recommended number of participants register. In that case, registrants would be given the opportunity to participate in their second choice or receive a refund.
Where are the recommended accommodations?
Participants in the Taos Cultural Institute are responsible for making their own arrangements for lodging during the weekend. Because July is one of the busiest times in Taos, you are encouraged to make these arrangements sooner rather than later. Review a list of lodging options that we highly recommend.
How do I get there?
Dallas to Santa Fe: American Airlines has a direct flight from DFW to Santa Fe Municipal Airport. From Santa Fe you will need to rent a car and drive to Taos (about a 1 1/2 hour drive).
Dallas to Albuquerque: Fly American from DFW or Southwest from Love Field into Albuquerque International Sunport, where you may rent a car or take a shuttle into Taos (about a three-hour drive).
Dallas to Taos, New Mexico: Direct flights will soon be available from Dallas to Taos, New Mexico. More information to come.
Driving: If you choose to drive from Dallas to Taos, plan on approximately 11–12 hours.
Download maps of the drive from Albuquerque to Taos or Dallas to Taos, including driving directions and landmarks along the way.
How is the Taos weather in July?
The weather in Taos in July is (typically) delightful. While daytime highs are usually in the mid- to high-80s, evenings and early mornings are cool, with lows in the low- to mid-50s. Days are mostly sunny, although late afternoon showers are common.
What should I bring to wear?
Dress is very casual during the day and “nice casual” at night. Dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes. Comfortable walking shoes are suggested. And because the sun is more intense at higher altitudes, sunscreen and a hat are highly recommended.
Please note
The Taos area is at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level. Some field trips will include walking trails and climbing moderate inclines at this altitude.
For more information
Contact SMU-in-Taos Cultural Institute or call 214-768-TAOS (8267).