Indigenous tourism is increasingly recognized as a vital component in the cultural preservation and economic development of Vancouver Island’s (Canada) 50 First Nations communities.
By providing authentic experiences that celebrate and respect the traditions and history of the Indigenous peoples, these initiatives are also instrumental in advancing reconciliation efforts across the region.
Visitors to Vancouver Island can engage in a variety of activities that facilitate a deeper understanding of the First Nations’ connection to the land. These include guided tours, cultural workshops, and interactive experiences which are designed to foster respect for the cultural practices that define the Island’s Indigenous communities.
In Campbell River, Aboriginal Journeys provides an opportunity for visitors to engage with the area’s marine life through its Whale Watching, Marine Wildlife Viewing, and Adventure Tours. Operating from April 1 to October 30, these tours are conducted on a 27-foot covered high-speed tour boat, complete with an open viewing deck and onboard washroom, allowing guests daily adventures with potential sightings of orcas, humpback whales, dolphins, black bears, seals, and more.
Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours also operate in Campbell River, guiding tourists through the Salish Sea to Bute Inlet and along the Orford River. These tours are unique as they occur during the salmon run, a critical time for the local grizzly bear populations. Indigenous guides share insights into the ecological significance of these areas, emphasizing an Indigenous perspective on sustainable resource management and conservation.
Accommodation options are also part of the Indigenous tourism experience on Vancouver Island, with several lodges owned and operated by local First Nations. Among them is Knight Inlet Lodge in Mid Island, Black Creek. This fly-in floating lodge offers guests an immersive wildlife experience in the heart of nature. The lodge specializes in grizzly bear tours and provides on-site dining that features fresh local seafood.
As per a Black Press’ travel magazine Island Visitor via Vernon Morning Star report, further west, Himwitsa Lodge in Tofino stands out not only for its proximity to outdoor adventures but also for its cultural offerings. Since 1991, the lodge has been a base from where tourists can explore the natural beauty of the area and engage with local Indigenous art and cuisine. The lodge features an art gallery that showcases the works of esteemed local Indigenous artists and operates a fish store offering the freshest catches to visitors.
For those interested in a more direct connection with nature, Vancouver Island’s Indigenous communities offer various camping sites. These sites provide a rustic yet enriching way to learn more about Indigenous stewardship of the land.
One notable site is Pachena Bay Campground, operated by the Huu-ay-aht First Nations on the south end of the Island. This campground is renowned for its long stretch of natural sand beach and proximity to the West Coast Trail, making it ideal for a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, whale watching, paddling, and diving.
Another unique camping experience can be found on Newcastle Island, or Saysutshun, accessible only by walk-on ferry from East Island, Nanaimo. This family-friendly park offers a myriad of outdoor activities, including kayak rentals, hiking trails, and exploration of tidal pools. The park also features a concession stand and begins its Saysutshun Interpretive Walking Tour at the Totem Pole near the ferry dock, leading to sacred village sites.
These efforts by Vancouver Island’s Indigenous communities not only enhance the visitor experience but also play a crucial role in the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote their rich cultural heritage and traditions. Through these endeavors, both visitors and locals gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the Indigenous peoples’ enduring connection to the land.