How to Explore the Acoma Pueblo
A visit to Acoma Pueblo near Albuquerque, New Mexico is a special privilege. The Native Americans of Acoma open their doors to allow visitors to explore their history, their culture and their crafts. Only a few families still live in the pueblo, which is said to be the oldest continuously occupied community in America. The pueblo is atop a high mesa and has no electricity, water or sewage.
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Instructions
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Check to be sure the pueblo will be open to visitors when you plan to visit. Visitors are welcome on most--but not all--feast days. Be familiar with the pueblo's rules of etiquette; they will be posted in the pueblo's Cultural Center. Video cameras are not allowed, but you can take still pictures.
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Drive through the scenic desert and look for the 367-foot mesa that the Acoma people still call their home. You will board a bus to get to the top of the mesa via a steep, winding road. Look at the high, rugged walls of the mesa to see how they would have protected the people from attackers. Listen as your guide tells you about the history of the "People of the White Rock," and the legend of Fray Ramirez and how he saved a baby that fell off the cliff.
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Walk the top of the mesa with your guide. Meet some of the people who live there full-time. Inspect the fine pottery with black, white and red geometric designs that the Acomas display outside their homes. Buy a piece of pottery, jewelry or other crafts that the Acomas display. Walk past the ancient cemetery with its brightly decorated graves and go inside the San Esteban Mission. Listen for Native American music and see a traditional dance if you visit on a feast day.
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Explore the Cultural Center on your way out. Learn more about Acoma Pueblo history and the famous Acoma pottery. Be sure to try the traditional bread and tamales you can buy at the cafe.
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Tips & Warnings
Be respectful at all times. Remember you are a guest and must observe the practices of your host.
Acoma can be very cold in winter and very hot in summer. Dress appropriately.
Visit the restroom at the Visitors' Center before you board your bus. Remember there is no electricity, water, or sewage at the top of the mesa.
Carry water with you when you board the bus, especially in summer.
