FIRST NATIONS TOURISM
Everything is connected Indigenous peoples of Vancouver Island maintain connections to the lands, waters, animals and supernatural realms of their unique territories
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here are three main First Nations groups on Vancouver Island — the Kwakwaka’wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth and Coast Salish — and all base their ways of life on the rhythms of nature and the measured bounties of land and sea. Within the groups are various First Nations with unique cultures, governments and businesses, many of which cater to tourism in their traditional territories. They share their deep, respectful relationship with the bountiful ocean and temperate rainforests. There are hotels, whale and wildlife watching tours, cultural exhibits, totems and carving displays. Enjoy salmon cooked on an open cedar fire or dine in one of the many First Nations restaurants. Set out by boat to meet resident grizzly bears, see whales and experience the fastest navigable tidal rapids on earth. Raise your eyes to big houses and lift your spirit to the tallest of totem poles. Indigenous culture, sacred regalia and modern art are shared here. Old-growth rainforests and destination luxury on the lifesustaining waters of the Pacific Ocean and the lands of the Kwakwa̱ ka̱ ʼwakw people await on the North Island.
PLANNING A VISIT TO BRITISH COLUMBIA AND VANCOUVER ISLAND? The Indigenous BC Trip Planner App is a must-have tool for planning an unforgettable trip. Find authentic Indigenous experiences and businesses, learn common Indigenous words and phrases and hear traditional songs, stories and legends. Use the Indigenous BC Trip Planner App to search for experiences, accommodations and businesses. Save your favourites to create your own custom itinerary, then use the interactive map to find attractions and experiences close to you once you’ve arrived. View the most up-todate business reopening information, including hours of operation.
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For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples have passed on their stories, songs, languages, and histories through oral traditions. The app connects users to a growing library of songs, legends and languages showcasing diverse and unique Indigenous cultures across B.C. It also features Indigenous language translations, where you can learn common words and phrases Download the app for free at the Apple Store or Google Play.
DISCOVER 2022
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KWAKWAKA’WAKW TRIBAL REGION
THE FIRST NATIONS OF VANCOUVER ISLAND ARE WITHIN THREE DISTINCT TRIBAL REGIONS — KWAKWAKA’WAKW, NUU-CHAHNULTH AND COAST SALISH.
MAP: VANCOUVER ISLAND ECONOMIC ALLIANCE
COAST SALISH TRIBAL REGION
NUU-CHAH-NULTH TRIBAL REGION
ADOBE STOCK
EVERYTHING INDIGENOUS at your fingertips
Camp beachside or recline in ocean-front luxury with Huu-ay-aht hosts on the west coast. Explore windswept Ucluelet or sightsee through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to Tofino and Long Beach’s legendary surfing and whale watching. The Nuu-chahnulth people share the sandy white beaches and deep waters of the 100-plus pristine islands off of the west coast of Vancouver Island. On southern Vancouver Island, share the beauty of the ocean, camas meadows and forests with the Lekwungen and WSÁNEĆ peoples and several Coast Salish and Nuu-Chah-Nulth Nations, who operate a variety of tourism businesses. Travel is an opportunity to discover differences and learn from them, rather than bringing your day-to-day life on tour. Responsible travellers respect the guidelines set by Indigenous communities and seek to understand more about historical and cultural differences. Indigenous Tourism B.C. continues to update the list of Indigenous tourism operators open for business. We remind travellers to respect the wishes of Indigenous communities.
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