Indigenous tourism experiences are part of British Columbia’s international appeal and a core element of the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand.
Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands) | Grant Harder
Indigenous tourism is a valued and integral part of BC’s tourism network, providing a distinctive identity to the province and a deeper connection for travelers
What is Indigenous Cultural Tourism?
Trends in tourism indicate a strong and increasing demand for cultural tourism experiences. Put simply, more and more visitors are looking for meaningful experiences that immerse them in a culture different to theirs, allowing them to experience customs and traditions in an authentic way. The Indigenous cultural tourism industry in British Columbia has some of the most diverse and best developed operators in the world.
How is Indigenous Culture Revitalizing Tourism?
The growing interest in cultural tourism products has given Indigenous peoples in British Columbia an unprecedented opportunity to develop businesses that share some of their traditions, histories, and cultures.
Tourism creates new opportunities for economic development in Indigenous communities and provides opportunities for Elders, youth and community members to share their stories, dances and songs.
Indigenous Tourism by the Numbers:
In 2016 there were approximately 401 Indigenous tourism related businesses operating in BC, generating $705 million in direct gross domestic output and creating 7,400 direct full-time jobs
1 in 4 visitors to BC actively seek authentic Indigenous experiences
Destination BC and Indigenous Tourism British Columbia
Destination BC partners with Indigenous Tourism British Columbia (ITBC) to grow and promote a sustainable, culturally rich Indigenous tourism industry.
ITBC is dedicated to raising awareness of the diverse and enriching Indigenous tourism experiences available in BC. The non-profit organization communicates directly with consumers, travel trade, and travel media creating interest in Indigenous tourism experiences, activities, and products.
Destination BC Works With ITBC to:
Assist long-term growth
Promote Indigenous cultural tourism within BC’s destination brand and marketing activities, including travel trade, travel media, and familiarization trips
Ensure the destination development programs support Indigenous tourism development throughout the province
Engage with Indigenous communities that have made tourism development a priority, identifying ways to support Indigenous cultural heritage and future aspirations for tourism
Include Indigenous tourism in all areas of Destination BC’s program delivery
About Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC)
The Indigenous Tourism Association of British Columbia (ITBC) is a non-profit, stakeholder-based organization that is committed to growing and promoting a sustainable, culturally rich Indigenous tourism industry. Through training, information resources, networking opportunities, and co-operative marketing programs, ITBC is an important resource for Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities in British Columbia who are operating or looking to start a tourism business. ITBC works closely with industry, business, education, and government organizations to help BC’s Indigenous tourism businesses and communities in BC in the development and promotion of quality tourism experiences.
