Unforgettable travel experiences have the power to spark curiosity, offer fresh perspectives, and establish meaningful connections with places and their inhabitants. These enriching encounters can resonate long after returning home and unpacking your bags.
Indigenous-owned retreats across Canada focus on fostering connections to the land and its enduring inhabitants, such as First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. These retreats aim to benefit both visitors and the Indigenous communities they represent.
Jason Johnston, Ontario director for the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, notes the growing interest in experiencing Indigenous history. He emphasizes the importance of genuine cultural experiences, cautioning against the misuse of terms like “authentic” by non-Indigenous tour operators. Johnston stresses the significance of learning about Indigenous cultures directly from those who live and preserve them.
Ashley Smith, the owner-operator of Turtle Village in Manitoba, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for Indigenous communities to reclaim their narratives and share their stories authentically.
Keith Henry, president and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, underscores the essential role of Indigenous experiences in presenting an honest and authentic portrayal of Canada’s history and lands to the world.
Embark on a transformative journey by immersing yourself in Indigenous-owned retreats. While each destination offers unique landscapes and traditions, the common thread is warm hospitality that welcomes visitors to Turtle Island, as highlighted by Métis owner Keith Henry.
Indigenous communities have a longstanding tradition of trade and cooperation, recognizing the mutual need for connection and support throughout history.
Turtle Village
Situated within Treaty 2 territory in Manitoba’s Riding Mountain National Park, Turtle Village offers upscale camping experiences in eco-friendly tiny homes known as “Turtle Shell” cabins. These solar-powered retreats are designed for year-round nature immersion, featuring queen beds and private fire pits.
Owner Ashley Smith, a member of Gambler First Nation, collaborates with the local community to provide diverse activities such as beading workshops, storytelling sessions, and ice-fishing excursions.
Smith emphasizes the importance of showcasing Indigenous identity and cultural practices to enhance Canada’s tourism landscape, offering guests a firsthand experience of traditional ways of life with minimal impact on the environment.
Métis Crossing
Located on over 200 hectares along the North Saskatchewan River in Alberta, Métis Crossing stands as a prominent Métis cultural destination. This site, managed by the Métis Nation of Alberta, features a luxury lodge, a campground, and sky-watching domes for stargazing.
The hallmark of Métis Crossing is its immersive cultural experiences and traditional workshops, inviting visitors to partake in activities like voyageur canoe trips and craft-making sessions.
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