Indigenous Tourism
Haida Heritage Centre, Haida Gwaii | Grant Harder
About Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC)
The Indigenous Tourism Association of British Columbia (ITBC) is an Indigenous-led, non-profit, stakeholder-based organization that is committed to growing and promoting a sustainable and inspiring Indigenous tourism industry. They are mandated by the First Nations Leadership Council to lead the growth of Indigenous tourism across the province.
Through training initiatives, information resources, networking opportunities, and co-operative marketing programs, ITBC is an important resource for Indigenous entrepreneurs and First Nations 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 support Indigenous tourism businesses and First Nations communities in BC in the development and promotion of authentic Indigenous tourism experiences.
Indigenous Tourism BC and
Destination BC
Destination BC and Indigenous Tourism BC have a longstanding partnership of more than 25 years. We work together to grow and promote a sustainable, authentic Indigenous tourism industry.
Our two organizations have a shared commitment to create a unified tourism industry in BC—one that enriches the experiences and connections that tourism provides, and that respects and provides benefits for Indigenous Peoples, cultures, and lands, for generations to come.
At Destination BC, we are dedicated to contributing to the Respectful Growth of Indigenous Tourism. We work with ITBC to:
Destination BC Works With ITBC to:
- Assist the long-term, sustainable growth of Indigenous tourism
- 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 First Nations communities that are interested in tourism development
- Include Indigenous tourism in all areas of Destination BC’s program delivery
Download the Indigenous Tourism Sector Profile
The Indigenous Tourism Sector Profile was produced in partnership with Indigenous Tourism BC and highlights the strength and significance of Indigenous tourism.
This profile provides valuable insights for planning, marketing, and development by showcasing visitor trends, traveller interests, and sector-wide opportunities.
Download the full Indigenous Tourism Sector Profile to learn how Indigenous tourism is helping shape a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable visitor economy across the province.
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.
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 experiences has provided First Nations communities and Indigenous Peoples in British Columbia an opportunity to develop businesses that share some of their traditions, histories, and cultures.
Tourism creates new opportunities for economic development in First Nations communities and provides opportunities for Elders, youth and community members to share their stories, dances and songs.
To find out more, contact:
Indigenous Tourism BC
Tel: 604 921-1070
Fax: 604 921-1072
T-Free Fax: 1-877-533-7773
[email protected]
Destination BC
Karen Tunkara
Director, Indigenous & Regional Partnerships
Tel: 250.419.8777
[email protected]
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