Native Communities

New Mexico is home to 19 Pueblos, the Jicarilla and Mescalero Apache
reservations, and the eastern section of the Navajo Nation. Many people
who visit New Mexico are curious about the diverse Native American peoples
who thrive here. You can make the most of your visit to Native communities if
you take the time to learn something about them in advance and be respectful
of the fact that you are visiting a tribe's home, not a museum.

Within close range of the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture are the eight
northern Pueblos, located between Santa Fe and Taos, and the southern
Pueblos, located around Albuquerque. Somewhat further from Santa Fe are
Acoma, Laguna and Zuni Pueblos, as well as the Apache and Navajo
reservations.

Perhaps the best time to visit the Pueblos is when they are holding public
"dances," particularly on Feast Days. However, practicing "Pueblo etiquette" is
essential: it is important to remember that these dances are ceremonies, and
are not being performed for tourists. If you visit a Pueblo during a dance or
other ceremony, you should be quiet, refrain from asking questions, and
remember that all Pueblos restrict photography. It is best to check with the
main office at each Pueblo, or call ahead, to learn about rules for visitors and
photography that are specific to that Pueblo.