Pascua Yaqui Tribe

Explore the scenic lands and culture of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe near Tucson.

Best known for their deer dances and cultural paintings, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe descends from the Uto-Aztecan people who occupied a large area of the Southwest and Mexico. Today the tribe has eight communities in southern Arizona spanning across richly vegetated and scenic desert lands.

History & Nature

The Yaqui culture and spirituality is an important element within the community. Their deer dances symbolize the connection between the Yaqui people and nature and are an example of the community’s spirituality. Throughout the years, the Tribe has successfully preserved its culture through oral tradition while also being able to politically integrate into American society.

Things to Do

You won’t run out of things to do on the reservation. Try your luck at slots, bingo, or video roulettes at Casino Del Sol, which is open all day and includes a resort, multiple restaurants, and the outdoor concert venue AVA Amphitheater. The property also houses the Troon-managed Sewailo Golf Club, a desert-style course designed by PGA circuit golfer Notah Begay III that's sure to challenge your skills.

When in Tucson, visit the Old Pascua Museum & Yaqui Cultural Center in the Old Pascua community or the Yoemem Tekia Cultural Center and Museum to learn more about Yoeme culture and history.

If you’re more interested in exploring the Sonoran Desert, the nearby Santa Catalina, Tucson, and Rincon Mountains are popular hiking destinations, or the Mount Lemmon ski area and the Saguaro National Monument is only a few miles north of Tucson. Other favorite places include San Xavier del Bac Mission, Old Tucson Studios and Kitt Peak Observatory.

Where to Stay

For elegant rooms, a luxurious spa, delicious restaurants, and your favorite slot machines, you can't go wrong with the Casino Del Sol Resort, Arizona's only Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star casino resort. And you'll find a variety of other lodging options in nearby Tucson ranging from budget-friendly hotels to premier resorts with stunning views of the Sonoran Desert.