Protocol

While traveling on the Navajo Nation, remember that you are on a sovereign, self-governing nation, and just as you would abroad, please obey all tribal laws and regulations.  We as Navajo people view our land as a spiritual entity & as such PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE CREMATED REMAINS IN CANYONS, MOUNTAINS, WATER, OR ON ANY PARTS OF NAVAJOLAND.

• You do not need a passport to travel on Navajo Nation land.  
• IMPORTANT – From the Navajo Nation Police Department: Do not rely on your vehicle and/or cell "GPS" when traveling on the reservation roads. They are not reliable. Before heading out to your destination, ask for directions and stay on the paved roads. Paved roads lead to all places of interest on the Navajo Nation.
• Navajo law enforcement have jurisdiction within the boundaries of Navajo land and roads, but also have jurisdiction on certain areas of the State of New Mexico, Arizona & County highways & roads. In turn, State & County Law Enforcement also have cross jurisdiction in certain areas of the Navajo Nation.
• Please keep in mind that the use of alcoholic beverages and firearms are both strictly prohibited on the Navajo Nation.
• Please do not enter any areas that are marked off-limits, or that have been told are off-limits. If in doubt, ask.
• Please stay on the designated trails and established routes unless accompanied by a tour guide.
• Rock climbing and off-trail hiking are prohibited. Off-road travel by all terrain vehicles, dune buggies, jeeps and motorcycles is prohibited on back country roads.
• Please do not disturb or remove animals, plants, rocks or artifacts.
• Please keep Navajo land clean. Do not litter, burn debris, or bury trash. Please place refuse in trash containers.
• Please observe and follow the appropriate state traffic laws on all roadways on the reservation in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado.
• PLEASE NOTICE, the entire Navajo Nation reservation is currently (06/2018) under STAGE 2 FIRE RESTRICTION per Executive Order No. 11-2008, you can read its entirety: click here. Violations of this order will result in a fine of up to $5,000.

On the Navajo Nation, you’ll find many vibrant, working communities. Respect the privacy and customs of the residents and the integrity of the structures at all times.

• Please don’t enter a home uninvited.
• Please don’t knock on a door and asked to be shown around.
• Please don’t yell or throw objects, especially in or near Navajo sacred sites.
• Please observe quiet hours from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. in all public areas.
• The use of teepees on the Navajo Nation is strictly for religious purposes. Please show respect and do not intrude.

As any tourist should, please be respectful when it comes to photography. Cameras are not always welcome, and you should secure permission before photographing, videotaping, sketching or audiotape recording any event.

• Ask permission first before you take any photos, keep in mind that a gratuity is always appreciated.
• Special permits are required when photographing for commercial use. If photographing on Navajo Tribal Park, contact the Navajo Parks & Recreation for a permit & the Navajo Broadcast Services for all other photos.
• Pow-wows and dances are sometimes exhibited for the benefit of the tourists in public forums. However there are dances such as the Squaw Dance, Fire Dance and others that are mostly held for Navajos by Navajos. Many of these events are of a religious nature, and should be accorded the same deference as a church or prayer service, even if tribal members behave informally.
• Before attending an event or dance confirm that visitors are welcome.

Visitors are welcomed with open arms in Navajoland, but don’t forget that residents here – just like people in your hometown or any community – like to be treated with respect.

• Try to be unobtrusive when visiting a Navajo performance or event. Be patient and considerate – don’t push to the front of a crowd or block anyone’s view.
• Do not applaud – unless its absolutely apparent that it is okay.
• Remember that religious matters are very private and personal; probing questions are not appropriate.
• Some traditional ceremonies are not open to the public, so if you are asked to leave, please do so quickly and quietly.

When you are on Navajoland, you’ll quickly notice how many people speak Navajo. But English is also spoken by the vast majority of Navajos, so do not hesitate to communicate.

• If you encounter a Navajo who does not speak English, you should have no problem finding someone eager to interpret.