Visitor Etiquette

Visitor Etiquette

Some attractions on tribal lands, especially those located along major highways, are intended for tourists. Tribal communities, on the other hand, are home to living people and cultures and should be respected as such. When visiting a tribal community, behave as if you are a guest in someone's home and abide by the etiquette.

Here are some general rules of etiquette to review before planning your visit to our pueblos and reservations:

  • Contact tribal offices or visitor centers to determine if the community, its dances and events are open to the public. Please note that tribal offices and visitor centers are closed on Feast Days.
  • Inquire about rules on photography, sketching and recording. These activities are sometimes prohibited and sometimes allowed for a fee.
  • Direct all visitor inquiries to visitor centers and tribal offices, not private homes or unmarked buildings.
  • Remember Feast Days, dances and ceremonies are expressions of religious beliefs, not shows or performances. As such, they do not begin and end at precise times and should be observed with attention and respect. Actions such as pushing to the front of a crowd, blocking others' views and approaching dancers are considered inappropriate.
  • Drive slowly and watch for children and animals.
  • Obey all signs and refrain from entering off-limit areas.
  • Keep your children with you at all times.
  • Limit your questions about religion and culture, as some subject matter is not for public knowledge.
  • Remember that entering private homes requires an invitation.
  • Do not disturb or remove animals, plants, rocks or artifacts.
  • For your own safety and to preserve historic structures, do not climb on walls or other structures.
  • Do not bring pets, alcohol, drugs or firearms into tribal communities.
  • Keep tribal lands clean and do not litter. Burn debris or bury trash. Place refuse in trash containers or take it with you.
  • If you are invited to eat in someone's home at a Pueblo Feast Day, wait your turn and avoid lingering at the table.
  • Teepees are used for religious purposes on the Navajo Nation and should not be approached by visitors.

During tribal ceremonies:

  • Refrain from walking across the dance plaza, climbing on walls, or entering the ceremonial rooms. Please be silent and do not applaud afterwards.
  • Be patient. Attention to schedules can be rather casual.
  • Do not approach or talk to ceremonial dancers as they are entering, leaving or resting near the kiva.
  • Do not interrupt non-dance participants' concentration by asking questions, talking or waving to friends.
  • Please control your children and see that they are respectful.


New Mexico Video and Photos

Visit our archive

New Mexico Video
Calendar of Events

View Complete Calendar

New Mexico Business Links

Visit the Directory

Regions & Cities

click on map

New Mexico Maps Online and interactive

Press Kits and Media

News & Releases

Coop Marketing Grants

'09 Applications Available

New Mexico Magazine

Magazine website