American Indian Cultural Tour

(4-6 hours, 40-60 miles/ 64.4-96.6 kilometers)

Follow the development of American Indian culture in the Rio Grande Valley from prehistory to present-a history some trace back to 8000 B.C. The living traditions of New Mexico’s Pueblos and Reservations add a particularly vibrant tone to our state’s cultural mosaic. No visit is complete without a trip through local American Indian history, culture, cuisine and art. Follow the tour on map below.

New Mexico's Pueblos and Reservations map (PDF)

Petroglyph National Monument Over thousands of years, hunting parties chipped an estimated 17,000 petroglyphs into a dramatic lava rock escarpment. Three walking trails wind through the petroglyphs.

Drive through Corrales to Coronado State Monument, and the remains of Kuaua Pueblo, where Spanish explorer Coronado is thought to have spent the winter of 1540-41. Explore extensive ruins, an interpretive trail and a restored kiva.

El Camino Real ("The Royal Road," which linked New Mexico to Old Mexico) leads back to Albuquerque through the Rio Grande Valley, beneath which some 15 pueblos lie unexcavated.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center Discover arts and crafts from New Mexico’s 19 pueblos; dances are held on weekends year-round. The center has a restaurant, museum and gift shop.

Acoma (AH-koh-mah) Pueblo An hour west of Albuquerque is the entrance to "Sky City" or Acoma Pueblo. One of the state’s most dramatic landmarks, Acoma sits atop a 376-foot-tall mesa overlooking the desert. Take a walking tour through the pueblo, the plaza and 17th-century mission church. Hour-long tours are available.

Jemez (HAY-mez) Pueblo One hour northwest of Albuquerque, amidst dramatic red rocks, lies the Pueblo Village of Walatowa (native for Jemez). A visitors center provides information about the pueblo and Jemez Mountain Trail attractions. There's a gift shop, a small museum and interpretive tours. Please arrange tours in advance.

Before Touring the Pueblos see Native American Cultural Etiquette