How to Respectfully Visit the Zuni Pueblo

 

Great Seal of the Zuni Tribe

 

You are welcome to visit the Zuni Pueblo as a "respectful guest." Be aware that there are many aspects of the Zuni life that you may not understand - or even recognize - but these important practices enable them to continue their way of life. Your respect for their cultural traditions and cooperation in following these guidelines will ensure your continued privilege of visiting their very special community.

PLEASE -
Remember, you are visiting an active community and viewing the residents' daily lives and homes
This is not a museum or theme park!

  1. Use common sense, etiquette, and respect all rules and regulations of the Zuni Pueblo.   
  2. Consider capturing visual memories instead of photographs!   
  3. To photograph or video, you must obtain a photo permit at the Zuni Visitor Center or at the Tribal Cashier's Office.
  4. Assume that ALL CULTURAL ACTIVITIES (Kiva or traditional dancing) within the Pueblo are OFF LIMITS to photography, video/audio record or sketch - unless specifically informed otherwise.
  5. No photography is permitted of images inside the Old Zuni Mission.
  6. Scenery, buildings, and outdoor traditional ovens are okay to photograph.
  7. Always inquire first and seek permission before photographing any activities involving Zuni people.
  8. Request permission from the Zuni Tribe before publishing any photographs or information depicting Zuni Pueblo activities.
  9. Observe with quiet respect any traditional dances and events that you may encounter on the Zuni Pueblo. Asking questions or speaking loudly interrupts the participants' concentration. Watch such activities from a distance without blocking any Zuni participant's views. Applause is as inappropriate as in a church setting.
  10. Exercise common sense by not climbing around fragile archaeological structures or adobe walls. Removal of artifacts or objects from these areas is a Federal offense.
  11. Respect the Zuni Pueblo community by not using alcohol or drugs and not bringing weapons.
  12. Hike only in designated areas (check at Visitor Center) and not around archaeological ruin sites.
  13. Do no bring pets into the historical "Middle Village" and make sure your children are controlled and respectful.
  14. Be aware that the Zuni Tribe cannot be responsible for injuries, theft or damage incurred by visitors.

Violators of these rules are subject to penalties in accordance with the Zuni Tribal and Federal Laws.

Pueblo of Zuni is located

The Zuni Pueblo is nestled in a scenic valley, surrounded by the enchanting mesas, located about 150 miles west of Albuquerque. The main reservation, is located in the McKinley and Cibola counties in the western part of New Mexico. The estimated number of acres encompasses about 450,000 acres. The tribe has land holdings in Catron County, New Mexico and Apache County, Arizona, which are not adjoining to the main reservation. With elevations that range from nearly 8,000 feet on the western slope of the Continental Divide to about 6,000 feet in other areas, Zuni lands encompass a great variety of habitats and natural resources.