Santa Fe USA Travel Guide
Santa Fe National Forest and Bandelier National Monument are protected. Adhere to all rules and stay on marked trails.
Recycling is available; look for public blue bins. Minimize waste by using reusable items and avoiding single-use plastics.
New Mexico is an arid state. Practice water-saving habits: take shorter showers and reuse towels. Water is a precious resource.
Interact with local cultures with respect and awareness.
Santa Fe strongly focuses on preserving traditional adobe architecture. Strict building codes maintain the city's historic aesthetic.
Treat Native American Pueblos as living communities. Visitors are guests on sovereign land.
Always ask permission before taking photos of people, especially children. Respect privacy in residential areas.
When visiting churches, missions, or other religious sites, dress modestly. This generally means covering shoulders and knees.
Look for hotels with "green" certifications or stated sustainability practices. Energy efficiency and water conservation programs are examples. Find eco-friendly stays here.
Choose tour operators that emphasize responsible tourism and environmental stewardship. They often educate travelers on local ecology. Explore ethical tours here.
Before visiting a Native American Pueblo, check their official website for visitor guidelines and any specific rules about photography or ceremonies. Each Pueblo has different regulations.
Your travel choices positively impact Santa Fe's local economy.
Supporting local artisans at the Palace of the Governors portal directly benefits Native American artists. They operate under a specific permit system.
Buy directly from local artists or at reputable galleries and markets that support fair wages and ethical practices.
Dine at locally owned restaurants instead of large chain eateries. This supports local entrepreneurs and keeps money within the community.
Be wary of items falsely marketed as "authentic Native American" if not sold by or clearly attributed to Native artists.
If you wish to contribute, donate to reputable local charities or non-profits that support community development, education, cultural preservation, or environmental causes.
Research organizations before giving money directly to beggars, as direct handouts can sometimes perpetuate cycles of poverty.
Support efforts like The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood) which contribute to conservation. Visit here.
When purchasing souvenirs, ask about the origin of the materials and who made the item.
