Nine Ways to Support Indigenous Tourism on National Indigenous Peoples Day

Now that B.C.’s travel restrictions have been lifted, Indigenous businesses across the province are preparing to re-open (safely and responsibly), once again sharing their transformational cultural experiences with visitors. Today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day — part of National Indigenous History Month, which encourages Canadians to reflect on the storied history of the country’s Indigenous communities — we’re planning trips for summer and beyond to Indigenous resorts, wineries, wilderness tours and retail stores. Here are nine of our top picks:

1 — Klahoose Wilderness Resort | Desolation Sound

Owned and operated by the Klahoose First Nation, this newly opened eco-resort is ideal for bubble travel with an intimate space hosting up to 26 guests. Completely off-grid ‚— including water-only access — the resort is situated along the leisurely flowing waters of Homfray Channel, bookended by dramatic mountains and lush rainforest. Whether you’re glimpsing grizzly bears, practicing yoga in the forest or searching for glaciers on a helicopter tour, you’ll fall in love with the resort’s isolation, serenity and respect for the land.

2 — Kwa’lilas Hotel | Port Hardy

Kwa’lilas (or “a place to sleep” in the language of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw people) was christened by a group of Elders who chose the word in hopes that travellers would find peaceful rest after long days of exploring Northern Vancouver Island. The striking hotel was built using local materials, including fragrant cedar, and designed to mirror a traditional big house complete with a smoke hole to welcome visitors. Here, and throughout Port Hardy, visitors will find many expressions of Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw culture, including drum-making and cedar weaving classes. 

3 — Haida House at Tllaal | Tllaal

Sitting on the banks of the serene Tlell River in Haida Gwaii, Haida House at Tllaal recently opened new oceanfront cabins inviting guests into a wilderness-inspired cultural escape. Here, guests can tour the mystical landscapes of Haida Gwaii’s Graham and Moresby Islands, where centuries-old villages, windswept beaches and untouched nature speak of traditions observed by the Haida since time immemorial.

4 — Nk’Mip Cellars | Osoyoos

The first Indigenous-owned winery in North America, Nk’Mip Cellars is located in the centuries-old home of the Osoyoos Indian Reserve — 32,000 acres of desert landscape surrounded by time-weathered mountains and dotted with shimmering lakes. Here in the hottest and driest part of Canada, the winery produces award-winning varietals that express the irresistible lure of the land.



5 — Soulfood Farm to Table | Cranbrook

Owned by MasterChef Canada competitor Danielle Eaton, in collaboration with Executive Chef Aaron Day, Soulfood comprises a carefully orchestrated team that cultivates hyper-local dining. The restaurant supports more than 40 nearby suppliers, serving comfort fare and Kootenay-inspired cocktails to diners seeking an exceptional culinary experience.

6 — West Coast Wildflowers & Co.  | Campbell River

This gorgeous e-commerce shop is owned and operated by Indigenous women. With a mission to support female entrepreneurs and small business owners, the shop sells a curated collection of products for women and children, including apparel, jewelry, home décor and artwork.

7 — Skwachàys Lodge | Vancouver

Skwachàys Lodge is a social enterprise housing a boutique hotel, urban Indigenous artist residence and fair trade art gallery. On the rooftop, guests will find an authentic sweat lodge and smudge room used for spiritual cleansing; there’s also studio space for live-in artists.

8 — Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours | Campbell River

Bute Inlet is home to an incredible range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, whales, eagles and salmon – and it’s also the traditional territory of the Homalco First Nation. Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours have been stewards of the local grizzly bear population for over a decade, though the site’s cultural and historical significance spans thousands of years. Today, guests can bear-watch and tour the Salish Sea while learning about the First Nation’s spiritual connection to the land and wildlife.

9 — Haida Style Expeditions | Skidegate

Owned and operated by the Haida First Nation, this adventure storytelling and fishing expedition company shares the culture, stories and history of magical Haida Gwaii. Guests tour ancient sites like Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site, or learn how to catch salmon, lingcod and halibut, while learning about the fascinating heritage of the Haida First Nations.

These nine experiences are only a snapshot of the incredible array of Indigenous experiences offered across B.C. Keep in mind as we move through B.C.’s Restart Plan that some communities choose to remain closed for now. Whenever and wherever you travel, respect residents’ wishes and ensure you’re traveling responsibly and respectfully. To see what Indigenous businesses are currently open, refer to Indigenous BC’s regularly updated list and download the new Trip Planner App.