Regional Spotlight: British Columbia

When you journey through the province of British Columbia, local license plates proudly proclaim, “Beautiful British Columbia.” This inscription serves as a constant reminder of the breathtaking landscapes and natural beauty this region has to offer. Yet, beyond its geographical features and diverse wildlife, this western Canadian province beckons tourists for another compelling reason – the enduring Indigenous cultures that have thrived on these lands since time immemorial. You can transport yourself back in time with an interpretive paddle in an authentic Indigenous canoe, find accommodation at a resort decorated with captivating cultural artwork, or tee off on golf courses where fascinating stories are shared on each of the 18 holes. However you choose to spend your time exploring the Indigenous side of British Columbia, you will undoubtedly depart with a profound appreciation for the rich cultures that have indelibly shaped this extraordinary region. Here are just a few of the remarkable Indigenous experiences found in this region of Canada.

Great River Fishing Adventures
Landing a giant prehistoric white sturgeon on the Fraser River near Chilliwack is a “bucket-list” fishing trip for avid fishers as well as beginners. The Indigenous guides at Great River Fishing Adventures are experts. They have been fishing these waters for years and their ancestors have fished the area for generations. The charter experience emphasizes the importance of conservation and preserving this species that has survived and thrived for millions of years. Respect for these creatures is deep rooted in culture and it makes a fishing trip memorable and impactful.

Kwa’lilas Hotel
On northern Vancouver Island near Port Hardy, the Kwa’lilas hotel is owned by the Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw First Nation. The word “kwa’lilas’’ means “a place to sleep’’ in the kwak’wala language. A group of Elders chose the name for the hotel in the hope that guests at the hotel would find a peaceful rest after a day of exploration on Northern Vancouver Island. But the hotel is more than just a place to sleep. It is a luxurious retreat that celebrates Indigenous culture with a vast collection of artwork, traditional dining at the Nax’id’ Pub, and guidance on authentic cultural experiences and tours.

Moccasin Trails
Paddle along the tranquil waters of the South Thompson River, meandering through the sacred lands of the Secwepemc (Shuswap) Nation, under the guidance of an Indigenous Knowledge Keeper as you experience the land in the way that Indigenous Peoples have since time immemorial. Or delve into the world of traditional and medicinal plants and herbs on a guided walking tour through traditional lands. Moccasin Trails presents these enriching experiences in Kamloops and Kelowna, where you can unearth the cultural heritage and wisdom embedded in the Shuswap Nation.

Ocean House

Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off the west coast of British Columbia, boasts a robust cultural heritage alongside a thriving wildlife population rendering it an exceptional tourist destination. The boutique waterfront hotel, Ocean House, gives guests the opportunity to admire the natural beauty of the islands through its ideal waterfront location on Graham Island. Indulge in authentic Haida tide-to-table cuisine, venture into ancient rainforests and captivating wildlife habitats, partake in cultural tours, and afterwards unwind and relax at Ocean House.

Siwash Lake Resort
Located on 300-acres of rugged wilderness in the Cariboo region of British Columbia, this luxury lodge and dude ranch is an all-inclusive retreat into the beautiful Canadian wilderness. The resort is family owned and takes inspiration from the family’s Indigenous and European ancestry by sharing a reverence for the land while fostering the spirit of exploration. Certified platinum in sustainability and
committed to preserving and sharing the Secwepemc (Shuswap) Nations culture, the resort immerses guests in unique and unforgettable experiences such as horseback riding, fishing, canoeing, and so much more.

Talaysay Tours
Experiencing a profound spiritual connection with the land is something that Indigenous people have practiced for generations and Talaysay Tours gives guests the unique opportunity to walk alongside Indigenous Knowledge Keepers for informative and impactful walking tours in and around Vancouver. Venture through Stanley Park and learn about Indigenous artwork as you gaze upon the iconic Totem Poles located in the park or learn to practice “forest bathing,” an Indigenous way of making deeper connections with the land.

Tsa-Kwa-Luten, The Ocean Resort at Cape Mudge
Long before European settlers arrived, Cape Mudge on Quadra Island was known as “Tsa-Kwa-Luten“ in the Kwak’wala language, signifying its role as a “gathering place.“ This picturesque island, situated off the east coast of Vancouver Island, holds profound cultural and spiritual significance for the Laichwiltach people, whose ancestors once fished, hunted, and nurtured the land. Today, the lodge offers private oceanfront cottages, where guests can find solace in serene, unspoiled surroundings and cultivate a deep connection to the rich cultural heritage of this land.

Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort
Experience the timeless allure of Kootenay’s rejuvenating hot springs, where the soothing waters have quenched the spirits of Ktunaxa First Nations for generations. For centuries, the Ktunaxa have revered these therapeutic hot springs as ‘nupika wu’u,’ or spirit water. The springs have both an outdoor pool and a unique pool located in a cave where stalactites surround you and the geothermal heat envelopes
you with steam. Guests can stay at the resort on-site to gain a full understanding of the history and cultural ties to these hot springs.

Salmon n’ Bannock
Branding itself, “Vancouver’s only Indigenous restaurant,” Salmon n’ Bannock, is a great place to experience Indigenous culture through cuisine. Start your meal with a taste of warm, golden bannock baked to perfection with butter and jam then treat yourself to an Indigenous comfort food, such as bison pot roast, that melts in your mouth. The menu at Salmon n’ Bannock showcases a variety of Indigenous food traditions from across Canada, highlighting ingredients from the land like wild salmon, foraged berries, and locally sourced game meats.

St Eugene Golf Resort Casino
A championship golf course, a cozy mountain resort, restaurants, an RV park, an onsite cultural centre and a lively casino are all features of this Cranbrook area resort that is owned by four Ktunaxa communities and the Shuswap Band. Guests get a language lesson while they golf, because each hole has a Ktunaxa name and a story. Guests can also visit the Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre to learn more about the
history and culture of the Ktunaxa Nation. St Eugene Resort is a perfect blend of Indigenous culture, golf, cuisine, and relaxation.

Stikine Valley Inn
Stikine Valley Inn is located on the Tahltan Nation in the small town of Telegraph Creek. It provides guests with an escape into the pristine natural wilderness that surrounds the quaint town without sacrificing comfortable amenities. Guests are greeted with small town hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals or they can cook for themselves in the shared kitchen. Rooms are equipped with comfortable beds, satellite television, soaker tubs, complimentary WiFi and more.

Takaya Tours
For thousands of years, the Coast Salish Peoples have been navigating the coastal waters and lands of the Burrard Inlet and Indian Arm regions. Takaya Tours takes guests on a journey back in time as they board replica ocean-going canoes led by experienced guides from the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. On these unique tours, they learn about ancient village sites along the coast, hear legends, and listen to traditional Indigenous songs as they paddle through the protected waters of the Burrard Inlet.

Tla’amin Resorts and Accommodations/Historic Lund Hotel
Immerse yourself in the history and living culture of the Tla’amin People at this resort on the shores of the Salish Sea. Completely refurbished rooms take inspiration from Tla’amin art and culture and there are also luxury beachfront tents for more intrepid travellers. Salish Sea Nature Packages offer wilderness hikes, cultural experiences and island cruise opportunities. Stargazing is spectacular in this remote locale. North of Powell River, the resort is an unforgettable west coast retreat for those seeking both natural serenity and cultural immersion.

Westbank First Nation: Sncewips Heritage Museum
What began as a repository in West Kelowna for the Westbank First Nation and Syilx communities, turned into a fascinating display of items with cultural and historical importance. Each artifact tells a story of resilience, heritage, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Experience a tour with a knowledgeable guide to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the enduring legacy that the Syilx people have preserved over the centuries.

Quaaout Lodge & Talking Rock Golf Course
The Shuswap region of British Columbia was at one time covered in pictographs from the Indigenous people inhabiting the area. At Talking Rock Golf Course, each of the 18 holes depicts a replica of an ancient pictograph along with its perceived meaning. Quaaout Lodge, named by a former Squilax Chief and Elder in the Secwepemctsin language translates to “When the sun’s rays first hit the water.” The phrase beautifully encapsulates the profound significance of the region’s natural beauty as seen through the lens of the Secwepemctsin language.

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