Photography/Videography...
is a particularly sensitive issue for many Pueblo tribes, including Zuni. Fees and restrictions--as well as penalities--vary greatly. Some Pueblos don't allow cameras at all. All visitors to Zuni are required to purchase a camera permit for any still and video cameras to be used during your visit. However, it is imperative for all visitors to be aware of the fact that photography or video recording of ANY religious ceremonial or dance is NOT allowed under ANY circumstances. To photograph/videotape any religious deity or activity is considered an act of sacrilege. If caught, you will have your camera equipment confiscated, and in some cases, you may be asked to leave. So, before taking your camera out, acquaint yourself with all local policies. Again, a camera permit does NOT give you permission to disrupt a religious ceremony. DO NOT attempt to take photographs or videos if it is not allowed. Please show the proper respect for our religious ceremonies by obeying all rules and regulations.

Zuni Pueblo today...
It is also important for visitors to note that many of today's Pueblo communities live and thrive in modern settings while maintaining their centuries-old traditional practices. On occasion, visitors come to Zuni with the mistaken assumption that it looks the same as it did centuries ago. In addition, some visitors expect to see and visit a separate "old" Pueblo--much like Sky City at Acoma. To avoid disappointment, we want to emphasize that while Zuni has changed in many ways, we still practice the ancient traditions and customs of our ancestors. The Zuni Pueblo of today is not a theme park or a "living museum," but a modern-day community with its own government, tribal constitution, police force, school district, radio station, and a number of tribally-owned and operated businesses. While it may be disappointing to some that Zuni Pueblo no longer looks as it did in the past, there was no way of avoiding the modernization that took place in the years following the California Gold Rush and the coming of the railroads.

Religious Activities...
Many types of religious events take place throughout the year, and include various masked dances. These dances are highly religious in nature, and are NOT public performances. While you may not understand the religious significance of these dances, to disrupt them in any way would be extremely disrespectful. If allowed to view a masked dance, please remember that it is a privilege. Some Pueblo tribes don't allow outside visitors---even members from other tribes---to watch their dances. Many religious activities do not follow the clock. A bothersome question for many tribes is: "What time are the dances going to start?" Acts of nature, as well as the sequence of events that must occur usually determine starting/finishing times. The proper protocol for non-Indian visitors is to watch the dances from the rooftops. Only Zuni tribal members and religious personnel are allowed to be in the main dance plaza. While the dances are going on, observe with quiet reverence and do not attempt to sing or dance along. Do not applaud or interact with the dancers. Most importantly, do not follow the dancers into the kiva after the dances are over.

Who, what, where, when, why?
When asking questions, do not push for an answer. Many aspects of Zuni cultural life are not meant to be known by non-Zunis. Be especially careful when addressing the topic of religion. Many Zuni tribal members take great pride in their religion and may be greatly offended when confronted with questions or comments that challenge it. For example, most Zuni people are not active in Christianity, Catholicism or the Native American Church. Avoid questions or comments that stereotype Native Americans. For example, the A:shiwi don't say 'How' and raise their hand when greeting one another, they don't live in teepees, they don't smoke peace pipes, they don't hunt buffalo on horseback with bows and arrows, they don't utilize sweat lodges, they don't wear feather headdresses "like the Indians you see on movies and TV..." and last, but perhaps most importantly, the A:shiwi do not scalp white people (at least not since the 1880s...). The best protocol is to use common sense.

Places to Visit...
Certain areas in Zuni are off limits to visitors. Many of these areas are not marked. Some commonly restricted areas in Pueblo communities include: cemeteries, kivas, ceremonial areas and private homes. Do not enter these areas without permission. Do not climb ladders or other structures. When driving, please use caution. Nearly all Pueblo communities have narrow, winding, often unpaved roads with no visible street signs. Local children and their pets often play near these areas. Local dogs also love to lie close to these roads. PLEASE NOTE: If you happen to bring your dog(s) along during your visit, leave him/her/them in your vehicle whenever possible. This is a safety precaution since Pueblo dogs are allowed to roam freely and are usually not as tolerant of other dogs as their owners are. In general, however, Pueblo dogs are very friendly and affectionate towards non-Zuni visitors and often serve as the "unofficial" welcoming committee.