Durango

Located in the picturesque state of Colorado, Durango attracts travellers with its Wild West atmosphere and proximity to natural wonders. This cosy city, renowned for its historic railway, is accessible by various means, making the journey here the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. Whether you choose a flight or a scenic drive through the mountains, travelling to Durango will be an excellent start to exploring the United States.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach your destination is to take a flight to Durango-La Plata Airport (DRO), which serves about half a million passengers annually. This air hub is well-connected to the city, allowing tourists to quickly find themselves in the centre of events immediately after landing.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities, for example, to Cortez, located just 63 km away, or to the scenic Telluride, situated 74 km from the destination. An option to fly via Mountain Village is also available, giving travellers flexibility when planning a route through this region of the USA.

There is no direct rail service to the city itself, as Durango does not have an active passenger station for long-distance trains. Travellers preferring this mode of transport will need to combine the trip with a bus or car rental to cover the final leg of the journey.

Nearby settlements through which you can plan a route include Cortez and Telluride. You can also consider travelling via Mountain Village, however, it is worth checking the schedule and ground transport connections in advance for a comfortable arrival at your final point.

Bus services allow you to enjoy the views of the region, although the journey takes some time. A popular route is the trip from the town of Telluride: the distance is about 196 km, and the travel time will take approximately 3.7 hours. This is a great option for those who want to save money and see the landscapes of Colorado from the window.

Another available option is departing from Mountain Village. In this case, you will have to cover about 202 km, which will take around 4.7 hours. Bus trips to Durango are usually comfortable, but it is recommended to check the current schedule before departure.

Travelling by car is one of the most scenic ways to get to the city, especially if you are driving from neighbouring Cortez. The distance of 73 km can be covered in just 50 minutes, enjoying the freedom of movement and the opportunity to make stops in beautiful places.

If your route starts in Mountain Village or the town of Telluride, the drive will take about 2 hours, as the distance is approximately 173–178 km. Renting a car or booking a taxi in this region of the USA ensures maximum comfort and schedule flexibility for tourists.

When planning a trip to this colourful corner of Colorado, it is worth considering the features of the mountain climate and the local lifestyle. Here are some useful recommendations that will make your holiday in Durango as comfortable and safe as possible.

1. Clothing and Gear. The weather in the mountains is changeable, so the best principle is layering. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so be sure to bring warm clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
2. Transport. The historic city centre is compact and convenient for walking, but for trips around the surrounding areas, it is better to rent a vehicle. Also, do not miss the chance to ride the famous narrow-gauge railway.
3. Finances and Tipping. US dollars and major credit cards are accepted everywhere. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% of the bill amount, as this is an important part of the staff's earnings.
4. Health and Altitude. The city is located at a significant altitude, so drink plenty of water and use sunscreen to avoid dehydration and sunburn. The areas here are safe, but standard vigilance is always advisable.
5. Language. The main language is English. Locals are friendly and willing to help tourists, making communication easy and convenient for international visitors.
6. Etiquette. Politeness and personal space are valued here. It is customary to greet staff in shops, and loud behaviour in public places may cause disapproval.
7. What to Avoid. Do not underestimate wildlife: do not feed animals and do not stray from marked trails during hiking.
8. Special Tip. Be sure to try local cuisine dishes influenced by Southwestern traditions, including green chili, which is very popular in this region (please check ingredients if you have specific dietary requirements).

Following these simple tips will help you avoid minor troubles and focus on the main thing — enjoying the unique atmosphere and natural beauty of this amazing American city.